A practical overview of extending Ethernet, IP video, and PoE beyond the standard 100 m / 328 ft copper limit using Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP).

Use extended-distance UTP when:

• The endpoint is more than 100 m (328 ft) away
• Existing UTP cable can be reused
• The endpoint needs both data and PoE power
• Local power is unavailable or undesirable
• Installing fiber or local power adds cost or complexity

A long-distance UTP link carries:

Ethernet data:

• IP Video
• Network timing and negotiation
• Camera-specific traffic (RTSP, ONVIF, multicast)

PoE power (802.3af/at/bt)

• Lower AWG means a larger conductor and better PoE delivery over distance.
• Use solid copper cable; avoid CCA for long-distance PoE.
• Verify extender distance, bandwidth, and PoE performance for the cable used.
• Cable bandwidth in MHz is not the same as Ethernet speed in Mbps or Gbps.

An Ethernet extender operates as a point-to-point link, with two endpoint units working together to carry Ethernet and PoE over extended UTP.

• Headend Unit: Connects to the network switch/PSE and sends the extended Ethernet signal and power over the long-distance UTP link.
• Remote Unit: Connects to the IP camera or network device, restores standard Ethernet, and provides PoE to the endpoint.

Distance + Data rate
Does the extender maintain a rate at a specified distance, or does the rate decrease linearly with distance?

Cable Length
What is the maximum extender reach at a reasonable data rate?

PoE Architecture
Does it use standard PD/PSE conversion or a pass-through PoE architecture?

Delivered PoE Power
Does it provide the required power at the remote device?

Flexible Configurations
Are there multiport models available?

Environmental Requirements
Is it rated for operation in the remote environment?

Maximum distance alone does not define system performance. Review bandwidth and delivered PoE at the required cable length.

• Some extenders maintain a fixed data rate within a rated distance; others may trade rate for longer reach
• PD/PSE and pass-through PoE designs can behave differently at long distance
• Delivered PoE depends on cable resistance, extender power design, and camera load
• Depending on the manufacturer, the link may use two identical transceivers or dedicated transmitter and receiver models

Actual performance is shaped by the cable path, device load, and installation environment.

• Cable category, conductor gauge, and overall condition
• Connectors, splices, patch panels, and terminations
• Required camera power, including heaters and IR illuminators
• Grounding, surge protection, and outdoor exposure
• Temperature range and enclosure requirements

• Up to 3,000 ft / 914 m over UTP
• Patented Pass-Through PoE
• 802.3af/at/bt and UPoE compatibility
• Selected models up to 90 W PoE
• Flexible Power; PoE or Local Power
• Fixed data rate at specified distances
• Single-port, multiport, and rack-mount models
• IP67 weatherproof option
• -40°C to +75°C operating temperature