Will PoE splitters become obsolete with advancements in PoE-enabled devices?

PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology is rapidly advancing, with more PoE-enabled devices entering the market. This raises the question: Will PoE splitters become obsolete? While native PoE support is expanding, PoE splitters will remain relevant for many years due to compatibility needs, cost considerations, and the evolving landscape of IoT and smart technology.

1. Growth of Native PoE Devices

Modern smart devices, security cameras, IoT sensors, and networking equipment increasingly feature built-in PoE support, reducing reliance on PoE splitters. Some key advancements include:

--- PoE-Powered Smart Devices – Many IP cameras, Wi-Fi access points, and sensors now have native PoE functionality, eliminating the need for splitters.

--- Higher PoE Power (IEEE 802.3bt & Beyond) – The latest PoE standards provide up to 100W, allowing laptops, digital signage, and even smart TVs to be powered directly via Ethernet.

--- PoE to USB-C Innovations – Newer USB-C-powered PoE devices (like tablets, smart home hubs, and IoT controllers) reduce the need for splitters that convert PoE to traditional DC power.

Impact on PoE Splitters:

--- As PoE becomes standard in more devices, the need for legacy device adaptation via PoE splitters may decrease.

2. Why PoE Splitters Will Still Be Needed

Despite the rise in PoE-native devices, PoE splitters will remain relevant and useful in various situations:

1. Supporting Non-PoE Devices

Many devices still lack PoE support, including:

--- Raspberry Pi & Single-Board Computers

--- Smart home hubs (Amazon Echo, Google Nest, Home Assistant, etc.)

--- IoT sensors & legacy industrial equipment

--- Digital signage & LED lighting

PoE splitters allow these devices to be powered via Ethernet without hardware modifications.

2. Cost-Effective Upgrades for Existing Infrastructure

--- Many businesses and homeowners already own non-PoE devices but want to integrate them into a PoE-powered system. Instead of replacing devices, PoE splitters extend their lifespan, reducing upgrade costs.

--- Budget-friendly PoE deployments – It’s often cheaper to use a PoE splitter than to purchase a new PoE-native device.

3. Flexibility in Hybrid PoE & Non-PoE Networks

--- Some network environments require a mix of PoE and non-PoE devices. PoE splitters provide power conversion to non-PoE equipment while maintaining a unified PoE infrastructure.

--- Useful in smart homes, industrial automation, and surveillance systems where not all components support PoE.

4. PoE Standards Evolution & Device Compatibility Gaps

--- Higher power PoE (100W+) is not yet universal, and many devices still require traditional 5V, 9V, 12V, or 24V DC power.

--- Industrial & outdoor IoT applications often rely on specialized low-voltage devices, which will continue to require PoE splitters.

3. Future of PoE Splitters

Instead of becoming obsolete, PoE splitters will evolve with emerging PoE and IoT trends:

--- USB-C PoE Splitters for Next-Gen Devices – Supporting laptops, tablets, and AI-powered IoT hubs.

--- Intelligent PoE Splitters with Smart Power Management – AI-powered splitters will dynamically adjust voltage based on device needs.

--- Long-Range PoE Splitters – Extending PoE beyond 100m for outdoor IoT and smart city applications.

While native PoE support is increasing, PoE splitters will continue to serve as a bridge between older and newer technologies.

Conclusion: PoE Splitters Will Adapt, Not Become Obsolete

PoE splitters will remain relevant for many years due to:

--- Widespread non-PoE device usage

--- Cost-effective infrastructure upgrades

--- Hybrid PoE/non-PoE network compatibility

--- Industrial and IoT applications requiring different voltage outputs

While native PoE support will expand, PoE splitters will evolve to meet new power and connectivity demands.