In the realm of security and surveillance, the ongoing discussion surrounding IP cameras versus analog cameras holds significant importance for both businesses and homeowners. The choice between an IP camera system and a traditional analog setup can have a profound impact on the effectiveness and scalability of your security measures. This article aims to explore the distinctions between these two prevalent camera types, empowering you to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific surveillance requirements.

Understanding IP Cameras and Analog Cameras

Internet Protocol (IP) cameras refer to all the digital video cameras that can send and receive data via an IP network. They are widely used as video surveillance cameras, and they come in varying designs and capabilities. Some IP cameras need the support of a network video recorder (NVR) for recording and video/alarm management. However, others operate without an NVR, meaning they can record directly to a remote or local storage media. To read more: Technical Guide to IP Cameras - Overview, Types, Applications.

IP cameras encompass all digital video cameras capable of transmitting and receiving data through an IP network. They are widely employed as video surveillance cameras, available in various designs and functionalities. Some IP cameras necessitate the support of a network video recorder (NVR) for recording and managing video and alarms. However, others can operate independently without an NVR, enabling direct recording to local or remote storage media. For further information, please refer to the "Technical Guide to IP Cameras - Overview, Types, Applications."

On the contrary, analog cameras capture images, convert them into analog signals, and transmit them over a coaxial cable to a digital video recorder (DVR). The DVR then converts the analog signals into digital format, compresses the files, and stores them on a hard drive. Below, you will find a comprehensive comparison between an IP camera and an analog camera.

Advantages of IP Cameras

IP cameras provide superior resolutions and scalability, making them ideal for environments that demand comprehensive surveillance coverage over large areas. The transition towards IP-based surveillance has been predominantly influenced by the following factors:

IP Cameras vs. Analog Cameras: Which is ideal for your business?

Deciding between IP cameras and analog cameras for your business depends on finding the right balance between quality, cost, and ease of use. IP cameras may be the preferred choice if you require high-resolution footage, scalability, and integration with cutting-edge technology. However, if budget constraints are a significant factor and your current infrastructure supports it, analog cameras offer reliability without the need for an extensive overhaul. Ultimately, aligning your selection with your operational needs and financial capacity will ensure a secure and efficient surveillance environment for your business.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) switches have gained significant popularity as a practical solution for businesses seeking to conveniently deliver power and data through a single connection. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the various types of PoE switches, highlight their advantages and applications, and provide insights on selecting the most suitable PoE switch to meet your specific requirements.

What is a PoE Switch?

A PoE switch combines the functionalities of a switch and a power source into a single device. Equipped with multiple Ethernet ports, these switches facilitate seamless connections with various devices such as VoIP phones, wireless access points, and IP cameras. By integrating power delivery capabilities, PoE switches eliminate the need for separate power cables, streamlining installations. These switches prove particularly beneficial in network deployments where power outlets are limited or in scenarios where devices are situated in challenging-to-access locations.

PoE switches leverage the power over Ethernet (PoE) technology, enabling the simultaneous transmission of data and electrical power through Ethernet cables. This innovative technology employs a combination of power sources and power injectors to deliver power to connected devices. Acting as intermediaries between the power source and the devices, power injectors handle the transmission of both data and power, ensuring efficient operation. Also Check- PoE switch

 

Types of PoE Switches

When selecting a PoE switch, it is vital to familiarize yourself with the various types available. There exist two primary categories of PoE network switches:

The Unmanaged PoE Switch

Designed for simplicity and ease of use, the unmanaged PoE switch offers a plug-and-play solution that suits smaller setups. It requires minimal configuration and is user-friendly. However, it lacks extensive customization options, management features, and advanced security capabilities. Consequently, it is best suited for applications with uncomplicated network requirements, such as home networks or small-scale environments comprising fewer than 5-10 computers.

The Managed PoE Switch

Engineered to deliver enhanced control and comprehensive network management, managed PoE switches excel in scenarios that demand advanced functionality. With their robust security features and extensive configuration options, they prove ideal for applications like enterprise networks, data centers, and large-scale surveillance systems. These switches offer features such as VLANs (Virtual Local Area Networks), QoS (Quality of Service), port mirroring, and heightened port security, catering to complex networking requirements.

Advantages of PoE Switches

Given how PoE switches work, the benefits of PoE switches are obvious.

Simplified Installation: PoE network switches are known for their user-friendly installation and configuration. With plug-and-play functionality, these switches eliminate the need for complex wiring or intricate setup procedures. Built-in features like port mirroring, VLANs, and QoS further simplify network management tasks, enhancing overall operational convenience.

Cost Efficiency: PoE switches exhibit remarkable energy efficiency. By intelligently delivering the precise power required for each connected device, they eliminate the need for oversized power supplies. This efficient power allocation not only reduces energy consumption but also contributes to long-term cost savings, making PoE switches a financially advantageous choice.

Enhanced Flexibility: The ability to power devices through PoE enables easy relocation to areas without available power outlets. This flexibility allows PoE switches to be conveniently placed in challenging-to-reach locations or areas distant from power sources. Security cameras, for instance, can be strategically installed in optimal positions, regardless of the availability of nearby power outlets.

Future-Proofing: With the rapid growth of the Internet of Things (IoT) industry, PoE switches provide future-ready infrastructure. By incorporating PoE switches into your network, you can seamlessly accommodate the increasing number of devices designed to leverage this technology. This scalability ensures long-term compatibility and positions your network for seamless integration with emerging IoT devices.

 

PoE Switch Applications

This rapid expansion of network-connected devices means that PoE technology and PoE switches will grow in importance to most networking infrastructures. While PoE switches have numerous applications, we mainly discuss the three most common application scenarios.

• VoIP Phones: VoIP phones are PoE devices, with PoE allowing for a single connection to the wall socket and the ability for remote powering down

• IP Cameras: Security cameras can be connected to PoE switches to enable fast deployment and simple repositioning.

• Wireless: Many wireless access points are PoE compatible. Thus, PoE switches allow for easy relocation and remote positioning.

• Smart Home Automation: LED lighting, heating and cooling systems, appliances, voice assistants, and electric car charging stations.

How to Select the Right PoE Switch

When selecting a PoE switch, it is important to consider your application requirements, the features and limitations of the PoE network switch. Of course, the power requirements of connected devices are also important. Some PoE network switches are designed to power devices that require up to 30 watts, and some are even designed for power devices that require up to 60 watts.

Features of PoE Switches to Consider

In addition to the type of switch and power requirements, there are a number of features to consider when selecting a PoE switch. These features include port speed, port count, port types, PoE budget, power savings, and port security.

• Port speed: Maximum speed a port can achieve. It is important to choose a switch with a port speed that can support the connected devices. The port count is the number of ports available on the switch. It is important to choose a switch with enough ports to accommodate all of the connected devices.

• Port type: Common port types include RJ45, SFP, and SFP+. It is important to choose a switch with the right port type for connected devices.

• PoE budget: Maximum amount of power that can be allocated to connected devices. It is important to choose a switch with a PoE budget that can accommodate all of the connected devices.

• Power savings: Designed to conserve energy by automatically turning off unused ports. This can help to reduce energy costs. 

• Port security: Designed to protect connected devices from unauthorized access.

Limitations of PoE Switches

Nonetheless, there are some limitations to PoE variation that you should be aware of:

• Restrictions on distance: Typically, PoE switches can transmit over Ethernet up to a distance of up to 100 meters. The 100-meter distance restriction presents a challenge for large campuses, restaurants, and businesses implementing PoE. However, there are still devices like power extenders and powered fiber cables that can be used to extend the PoE range.

• Power: If you require high power over poe networks, you must ensure that the power capacity of your PoE switches meets your requirements due to the power limitation imposed by PoE standards and Wattage.

 

FAQs about PoE Switch

Q: Non-PoE vs. PoE Switch: How do they differ?

A: Non-PoE switches cannot deliver power to connected devices, necessitating the use of midspan power sourcing equipment (PSE), such as a PoE injector. This setup adds power while transmitting data to powered devices (PDs). In contrast, PoE switches offer a simpler solution, directly delivering power and data to PDs with just a network cable and a power cable.

Also Check- PoE vs PoE+ vs PoE++ Switch: How to Choose?

 

Q: Do PoE Switches Require Special Cables?

A: No. The Ethernet cables that should be used for PoE network switches primarily depend on the data rate of the PoE port; for instance, Cat3 or better cables can be used for 10/100M; Cat5/Cat5e/Cat6 cables are required for 1000M. In the future, Cat6a or higher cables may be required for the installation of 2.5G/5G/10G PoE devices.

 

Q: Active vs Passive PoE Switch: Should I Choose Active or Passive PoE Switches?

A: Active PoE network switch complies with standard PoE. On the contrary, passive PoE network switch does not adhere to any IEEE standard. There are many ways that active and passive PoE switches differ from one another, like how the PoE power supply pinout looks and whether or not they support Ethernet.

 Also Check- Active vs. Passive PoE Switch: Which Should We Choose?

 

Q: Can the PoE Switch be used with a computer or other non-PoE devices? And will a PoE switch harm devices that do not use PoE?

A: Yes, a PoE switch can be used with non-PoE devices like computers. The switch automatically detects whether a connected device is PoE-compatible and will only supply power to PoE-enabled devices. So, it won't harm non-PoE devices; they just won't receive power through the switch.

 

Q: Is it possible to connect two PoE switches?

A: You could, yes. The PSE only supplies PD with power when it determines that the device can handle it. As PSEs, the two PoE switches will only be used for data communications.

 

Q: What is the maximum transmission distance of PoE? How to extend the transmission distance of PoE?

A: Whether using IEEE 802.3af (PoE) or 802.3at (PoE+), data and power transmission are limited to a distance of 100 meters over Ethernet cables in standard PoE. Media converters and PoE extenders, for example, can extend the range to up to 300 meters if you want to increase the maximum distance.

Conclusion

PoE switches are an effective solution for businesses looking to provide power and data over a single connection. They can simplify installation, reduce clutter, and improve energy efficiency. When selecting a PoE network switch, it is important to consider your application requirements, the power requirements of the connected devices, and the features of the switch. It is also important to consider the cost and long-term cost savings of using a PoE network switch.

If you are looking for a reliable and cost-effective PoE switch, check out Linovision PoE Switches.

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology enabling power source equipment (PSE) to provide electrical power and data simultaneously to powered devices (PDs) via a network cable. PoE network brings many advantages such as flexibility, cost-saving, reliability to installations where there is no power sources near the PDs. When it comes to PoE PSE devices, PoE splitter is supposed to be on the list. This post aims at helping you to understand what PoE splitter is, how PoE splitter works, how to choose and use it, and some FAQs about it.

What Is a PoE Splitter

PoE splitters are the devices that are used together with PoE switches and PoE injectors. Instead of taking both data input and power input and turning them into a singular output, they supply power by splitting the power from the data and feeding it to a separate input that a non-PoE compliant device can use. As shown in figure 1, there are two output cables on one side of PoE splitter: one supplies data and the other supplies power. In general, PoE splitters are often used in the scenario when there are remote non-PoE devices with no nearby AC outlets.

How Does a PoE Splitter Work

There are two situations when PoE splitter is used in a network: One is the network in which PoE switch and non-PoE devices to get powered requires a connection; another is the network in which data is sent through non-PoE network switch or router connecting with PoE compliant or non-PoE compliant end devices.

As shown in the following figure, the power sourcing equipment—the PoE switch provides power source via the Ethernet cable. In this situation, the input cable of PoE splitter can connect with the switch directly. One output line supplies data and the other power. When a splitter receives a unified PoE signal, it then separates the data and power into the two different lines to the non-PoE end devices such as IP cameras and wireless access points.

If there happens to be a mixture of compatible and non-compatible PoE devices, the PoE splitter should never be connected with the non-PoE switch directly but seek the aid from a PoE injector to provide power. For example, in the figure below, a PoE splitter is connected with a PoE injector so that the power and data can be sent to the camera in the end.

How to Install a PoE Splitter

Generally, PoE splitters are needed when the devices you'd like to power such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, WiFi radios, and IP door readers are not PoE compliant. Here using PoE splitter to install a non-PoE IP camera in a network including PoE switch is taken as an example.

Installations can be easily completed in minutes. Before the installation, a PoE splitter, a PoE network switch, an IP camera, UTP cables are prepared. The PoE splitter used in this example is Linovision PoE splitter cable with DC 12V output.

Step 1: Connect the two output cables of FS PoE splitter to the interfaces of IP camera, one for power transfer and the other for data.

Step 2: Connect one end of UTP cable to the input interface of PoE splitter and another end of UTP cable to the Gigabit RJ45 port of the switch.

After all of this, the data and power will be transferred to the IP camera.

PoE Splitter Buying Guide

If you are stuck in choosing a PoE splitter, here is a PoE splitter buying guide to help you out.

First and foremost, you should make sure the PoE splitter you want to buy can co-work well with the powered devices in your network. Generally, the PoE splitters on the market conform to IEEE 802.3af/802.3at standards. PoE splitters can be powered by an 802.3af PoE input if the total output is less than 15.4W, or they can be powered by an 802.3at input if the total output required is less than 30W. The input voltage of powered devices should match these specifications and not exceed the output of PoE splitter. What's more, make sure the PoE standard compatibility of PoE splitter with other 802.3af/at PoE-compliant network switch or injector.

PoE Splitter FAQ

PoE splitter vs injector: What’s the difference?

Both PoE splitter and PoE injector are frequently used power device, however, they go in the opposite direction. A PoE injector, also commonly known as midspan, adds power to data that is coming from a non-PoE switch or “endspan”. It supplies power through the network cable to PoE equipment such as wireless AP. A PoE splitter also supplies power to the device however the main difference is that it splits the power from the data to a separate input that the device can use. For more information, please refer to PoE PSE Comparison: PoE Switch vs. PoE Injector vs. PoE NVR vs. PoE Media Converter.

With the wide application of VoIP phones, IP cameras, and wireless access points, Power over Ethernet (PoE) has made great strides in recent years. And PoE network is expected to expand rapidly in the future due to the increasing number of IoT applications and smart device deployments and newly ratified standards designed to support more smart devices. In this article, we will provide an introduction covering various aspects of PoE such as PoE wiki, PoE standards, PoE types, PoE classes, and PoE applications.

What Is Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

PoE is a networking technology that can transmit both data and power over one single standard Ethernet cable. It allows us to use network cables such as Cat5/Cat5e/Cat6/Cat6a cables to provide data connections and electric power to wireless access points, IP cameras, VoIP phones, PoE lighting and other powered devices (PDs). With the use of PoE technology, we can easily deliver power to indoor or outdoor PDs without the need to install additional electrical infrastructure or to deploy power outlets at every endpoint.

Benefits of PoE Network—Why Use Power over Ethernet?

Besides the above-mentioned benefits, there are several more appealing reasons for adopting PoE in networking.

Time & Cost Saving: By using PoE in the network, we do not need to deploy electrical wiring and outlets for terminal PDs. This will help to save much power cabling cost especially when there are lots of PDs in the network. Furthermore, there is no need to hire a qualified electrician for the PoE network, so you may also save both time and money on electrical installations.

Flexibility: Since Ethernet network cables are easier to deploy than electrical ones, PoE networking allows us to install PDs nearly anywhere rather than near the electrical outlets. This offers a ton of flexibility for setting up and repositioning terminal devices.

Reliability: PoE power comes from a central and universally compatible source rather than a collection of distributed wall adapters. It can be backed up by an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) or controlled to easily disable or reset devices. By doing so, the PDs will run as usual even though Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) breaks down.

Evolutionary Path of the Power over Ethernet (PoE)

Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), Cisco, and the HDBaseT Alliance have released several standards to define PoE. These standards include IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3at, IEEE 802.3bt, Cisco UPOE, and Power over HDBaseT (PoH).

PoE Types

Due to different classification standards, PoE can be divided into different types. Currently, there are 4 PoE types based on IEEE PoE Standard: Type 1(IEEE 802.3af), Type 2(IEEE 802.3at), Type 3(IEEE 802.3bt), and Type 4(IEEE 802.3bt), as shown in the following chart.

PoE vs. PoE+ vs. PoE++ (UPoE )vs. PoH

PoE (IEEE 802.3af), also known as PoE type 1, provides up to 15.4 watts of power per port and is used for devices like IP phones and cameras. PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at), PoE type 2, offers up to 30 watts and powers devices like PTZ cameras. PoE++ or UPoE (IEEE 802.3bt), also referred to as PoE type 3, delivers up to 60 watts and 100 watts, PoE type 4, per port for high-performance devices. Power over HDBaseT (PoH) enables power and data transmission for AV equipment over a single cable. The figure below illustrates the common applications of different PoE types for your reference.

PoE Classes

Power over Ethernet (PoE) classes define standardized power levels for different network devices. These classes ensure compatibility between Power Sourcing Equipment (PSE) and Powered Devices (PD).

The classes, ranging from Class 1 to Class 8 as the above chart shows, correspond to specific IEEE standards, indicating the maximum power output of the PSE and the maximum power input of the PD. Let’s delve into more details about each class:

Class 1 is suitable for low-power devices such as IP phones, voice-over-IP (VoIP) devices, and basic sensors.

Class 2 is intended for devices that require slightly higher power, including wireless access points, small IP cameras, and IP intercom systems.

Class 3 is commonly used for devices that require moderate power, such as larger IP cameras, point-of-sale systems, and access control devices.

Class 4 provides increased power delivery capabilities and is suitable for power-hungry devices like pan-tilt-zoom (PTZ) cameras, video phones, and thin clients.

Class 5 introduces the support for four pairs of Ethernet wires, enabling higher power transmission. It is designed for devices with more demanding power requirements, including advanced PTZ cameras, multi-channel wireless access points, and small LED lighting systems.

Class 6 provides increased power delivery capabilities beyond the previous classes. It can support devices like high-power pan-tilt-zoom cameras, multi-radio wireless access points, and small LCD displays.

Class 7 offers even higher power capabilities introduced with the IEEE 802.3bt standard. It is suitable for devices like high-performance access points, large displays, and thin clients requiring substantial power.

Class 8 represents the highest power class defined by current PoE standards. It is designed for power-hungry devices such as video conferencing systems, advanced lighting systems, and digital signage

It’s important to note that the power levels specified for each class represent the maximum allowable values, and the actual power delivered or consumed by the PD may vary based on its specific power requirements and negotiation with the PSE. Besides, understanding PoE classes allows network administrators to ensure that the power requirements of their devices align with the capabilities of their PoE infrastructure, ensuring proper operation and avoiding potential power supply issues.

Passive PoE vs. Active PoE

Power over Ethernet can also be divided into passive PoE and active PoE in general. Active PoE is the standard PoE which refers to any type of PoE that negotiates the proper voltage between the PSE and the PD device. Passive PoE is a non-standard PoE technology. It can also deliver power over the Ethernet line but without the negotiation process.

How to Add PoE to Your Network？

The PoE supplied in the network generally comes from three different sources: PoE switch, PoE injector, and PoE splitter. The PoE switch is the easiest way to power up the PDs. You only need to run Ethernet cables from a PoE network switch port to the terminal PoE device. A PoE injector is used when there is no PoE switch in the network. It has an external power supply and is responsible to add power to data that is coming from a network switch that is not PoE-capable. PoE splitters also supply power, but they do so by splitting the power from the data and feeding it to a separate input that a non-PoE-compliant device can use. It is commonly used for deploying remote non-PoE devices with no nearby AC outlets in the network.

Common FAQs on PoE Network

Q: What is the voltage of Power over Ethernet?

A: Power over Ethernet is injected onto the Ethernet cable at a voltage between 44v and 57v DC, and typically 48v is used. This relatively high voltage allows efficient power transfer along the cable, while still being low enough to be regarded as safe.

Q: What data speed does PoE offer?

A: Generally, PoE can deliver data rates at 10/100/1000Mbps over Cat5, Cat5e and Cat6 cables. Now thanks to the widespread IEEE 802.3bt PoE standard and PoE++ technology, PoE is able to deliver speeds of 2.5 Gbps to 5 Gbps over 100m and reaches 10 Gbps in recent times.

Q: Are there any limitations of PoE network?

A: Yes, PoE network does have some pesky limitations. First, it has a restricted reach of 328 feet (100 meters) which limits the viable locations where users can operate a remote IP-enabled device. Second, a single PSE such as a PoE switch usually connects to multiple PDs. If the PSE broke down, all the PDs will stop working. Therefore, it is important to buy qualified switches from a reliable supplier. In addition, you may also consider connecting the PSE to an uninterruptible power supply system.

Q: What are PoE midspan and PoE endspan?

A: The PoE midspan is usually a PoE injector that serves as an intermediary device between a non-PoE switch and the terminal PoE-capable powered device. A PoE endspan, which is commonly called the PoE network switch, directly connects and supplies both PoE power and data to a PD. PoE endspan provides power over the data pairs, also known as PoE Mode A. PoE midspan provides power using the pins 4-5 and 7-8, also known as PoE Mode B.

Description

When working as embedded network server, Linovision LoRaWAN gateways support both sending data packets to third party MQTT/HTTP/HTTPS server or receiving the downlink commands to transfer to LoRaWAN end devices.

Requirement

• Linovision LoRaWAN Gateway: IOT-G56, IOT-G63 V1, IOT-G65, IOT-G67, IOT-G8x (Firmware version 80.0.0.64 or later)
• MQTT Server/Broker
• MQTT Client tool: take MQTT Explorer as example

Configuration

Step1. Connect gateway to MQTT broker.

Refer article How to Connect LoRaWAN Gateway to MQTT Broker？to connect gateway to MQTT broker and ensure the broker and MQTT client can receive uplinks from devices.

Step2. Send Downlink Command from Gateway

Set the gateway to send downlink commands to device directly to check if the device can receive the downlink commands and take actions.

Device EUI: the device EUI to send downlink commands

Type: downlink command type. For Linovision devices, please select hex type.

Payload: downlink command content (get from device manufacturer). For Linovision devices, please refer to downlink command contents on corresponding user guides

Port: application port of device. It is 85 by default for Linovision devices.

Confirmed: after enabled, the device will send confirmed packet back to gateway if it receives the command. If not receive, the gateway will resend the downlink command 3 times at most.

Note: for class A type devices, the gateway will add the command to queue and send it when the class A device send uplinks.

Step3. Publish Topic on MQTT Explorer to send downlink data to device. 

Set a Downlink Data topic. If you need to send MQTT downlink to specific device, please add “$deveui” on the topic.

Example: /linovision/downlink/$deveui

Publish Topic Format :

/linovision/downlink/[devEUI]

Example :

From the gateway, we can get the device EUI about the device we want to control:

So we can publish a topic on the MQTT Explorer like below:

Topic: /linovision/downlink/24e124126a148401

Format: json

Content: 

send as below format and replace the data content as downlink command

{"confirmed": true, "fport": 85, "data": "CQEA/w=="}

JavaScript

After click Publish, we can go to Network Server > Packets to check. If the gateway have subscribe corresponding downlink topic data successfully, there will be at least one grayed message packet record.

Linovision Device Command Examples

The MQTT downlink command format is fixed as below:

{
"confirmed": true,       //Set as true or false
"fport": 85,            //application port of device
"data": "BwAA/w=="    //base64 format downlink command
}

----END---

Description

When working as embedded network server, Linovision LoRaWAN gateways support sending data packets to third party MQTT/HTTP/HTTPS server. We can create a new application on gateway, which can define the method of decoding the data sent from LoRaWAN end-device and choosing MQTT data transport protocol to send data to MQTT server.

Requirement

•  LoRaWAN Gateway: IOT-G8x (Firmware version 80.0.0.64 or later), IOT-G65, IOT-G67, IOT-G56, IOT-G63 V1
• MQTT Server/Broker
• MQTT client tool: take MQTT Explorer as example

Configuration

Step1. Enable the gateway built-in network server.

Go to Packet Forwarder > General to enable the localhost server address.

Enable the Network server on Network Server > General page.

Step2. Add an Application

Go to Network Server>Applications to add a new application, click save.

Name: user-defined, arbitrary value

Description: user-defined, arbitrary value

Step3. Connect gateway to MQTT broker.

Go to Network Server > Applications to add a “data transmission” for the application. One application can add only one MQTT integration.

Fill in the MQTT broker information and create topic to store different data type, click save.

Broker Address: IP address/domain of MQTT broker

Broker Port: communication port of MQTT broker

Client ID: user-defined, a unique ID identity of the client to the server.

User Credentials and TLS should be enabled and configured as required.

Note: if MQTT broker is HiveMQ, please do enable TLS and set the option as CA signed server certificate.

After MQTT configuration complete, you can check connection status here:

Step4. Add LoRaWAN nodes to the gateway.

Go to Network Server>Profiles to add a new profile, then click save. You can also use pre-defined profiles.

Name: user-defined, arbitrary value

Max TXPower: default value

Other parameters can be checked from LoRaWAN nodes user guide or you can keep all settings by default.

Go to Network Server>Device to add a new device, click Save&Apply.

Device Name: user-defined, arbitrary value

Description: user-defined, arbitrary value

Device-Profile: choose one of corresponding profiles added before.

Application: choose one of corresponding applications added before.

Other parameters can be confirmed with the LoRaWAN node manufacturers.

When the status shows as below, that’s mean above steps are done correctly.

Step5. Add uplink data topic.

Customize the uplink data to publish to MQTT broker and save the settings. If you add “$deveui” on your topic, you can replace it as real device EUI when subscribing topics. 

Example: /linovision/uplink/$deveui

Step6. Subscribe topic from MQTT client to get uplinks.

MQTT explorer is a comprehensive MQTT client and it can be replaced to other kinds of MQTT client tools(MQTT.fx, MQTT Box, etc.)

Open the MQTT Explorer, and fill in related MQTT server information in the popup window.

Name: user-defined

Protocol: mqtt://

Host: MQTT broker address

Port: broker port

User name/Password: if there is user credentials, please fill in it. If not, keep them blank.

Click ADVANCED,copy the Uplink data topic on the gateway, and paste it on the MQTT explorer, click +ADD.

Keep MQTT client ID by default,then click BACK and click CONNECT.

After while, the data will be forwarded to MQTT broker and the MQTT Exploerer can receive the data from MQTT server.

The uplink format is fixed as json and the content is as below.

{
  "applicationID": 1,                   // application ID
  "applicationName": "cloud",           // application name
  "deviceName": "24e1641092176759",     // device name
  "devEUI": "24e1641092176759",         // device EUI
  "time": "2020-0327T12:39:05.547336Z", // uplink receive time
  "rxInfo": [                           // lorawan gateway information related to lora
    {
      "mac": "24e124fffef021be",        // ID of the receiving gateway
      "rssi": -57,                      // signal strength (dBm)
      "loRaSNR": 10,                    // signal to noise ratio
      "name": "local_gateway",          // name of the receiving gateway
      "latitude": 0,                    // latitude of the receiving gateway
      "longitude": 0,                   // longitude of the receiving gateway
      "altitude": 0                     // altitude of the receiving gateway
    }
  ],
  "txInfo": {                           // lorawan node tx info
    "frequency": 868300000,             // frequency used for transmission
    "dataRate": {
      "modulation": "LORA",             // LORA module
      "bandwidth": 125,                 // bandwidth used for transmission
      "spreadFactor": 7                 // spreadFactor used for transmission
    },
    "adr": false,                       // device ADR status
    "codeRate": "4/5"                   // code rate
  },
  "fCnt": 0,                            // frame counter
  "fPort": 85,                          // application port
  "data": "AWcAAAJoAA=="                // base64 encoded payload (decrypted)
}

FAQ

Q1.How to send decoded or customize uplink content to MQTT broker?

A1:  Yes, this needs to use Payload Codec feature on the gateway. Reference articles:

IOT-G56/G65/G67: How to Use Payload Codec on Linovision Gateway

IOT-G63 V1/G8x: How to Use Payload Codec on Linovision Gateway (Old)

Q2.What’s the troubleshooting when the status of MQTT server connection is “Disconnected”.

A2: 

1) Go to Maintenance > Tools >Ping , check if the gateway can ping to the broker address successfully.

2) Check if your MQTT client tool can connect to MQTT broker well, then follow the settings of MQTT client tool to configure the gateway.
3) Check if the gateway MQTT client ID is conflict with other MQTT clients.
4) Check if CPU load is too high, and if there is little available RAM and eMMC.
5) Change the log severity to Debug and replicate the disconnection problem, then download all log files and send them to support@linovision.com.

Q3.Why the connection status shows “connected” but MQTT client does not receive any data?
A3:
1)Ensure the devices has been added to gateway and go to Network Server > Packets to check if there are uplink packets from devices regularly.
2) Ensure the devices has been added to the correct Application.
3) Ensure the gateway firmware is upgraded to latest version. 
4) Change the log severity to Debug and replicate the disconnection problem, then download all log files and send them to support@linovision.com.

To enhance comprehension of the PoE network system, it is essential to become acquainted with the PoE devices, as the initially published IEEE802.3af standard categorized Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology into two primary types of power devices: power sourcing equipment (PSE), which supplies power over the Ethernet cable, and powered devices (PD), which receive the power. Presented below is an introduction to power sourcing equipment and a selection of frequently asked questions.

• PoE PSE (Power Sourcing Equipment): PoE PSE denotes the equipment supplying power to PoE PDs. It can take the form of a PoE switch or a PoE injector. The PoE PSE injects power into the Ethernet cable, alongside data signals, enabling connected PoE PDs to receive both power and data through a single cable. It serves as the power source for PoE devices.

• PoE PD (Powered Device): PoE PD refers to the device that draws power from the PoE network infrastructure. It encompasses various device types, such as IP phones, wireless access points, IP cameras, and network switches. The PoE PD consumes power from the PoE PSE, allowing it to operate without the need for a separate power source. Typically, it features an Ethernet input for data communication and a power input to receive power from the PoE PSE.

IOT-S300WS7 is an ultimate all-in-one RS485 Modbus weather monitoring system for various and continuous atmospheric conditions including air temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, light intensity, rainfall(optical), wind speed, and wind direction (ultrasonic). It boasts high resolution and accuracy with rugged and aesthetic housing.