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A Guide to Portable PoE Testing
Power over Ethernet (PoE) has revolutionized how we deploy network devices, allowing us to power IP cameras, VoIP phones, and WiFi access points with a single cable. But when a device fails to power up, troubleshooting can be a guessing game. Is it the switch? The cable? Or the device itself?
In this guide, based on the PoE Texas Gen 2 PoE Tester, we’ll walk you through how to stop guessing and start diagnosing PoE problems instantly using a portable inline tester.
Why You Need a PoE Tester
Most network technicians have a cable tester, but standard cable testers can't tell you how much power is actually reaching your device. A dedicated PoE tester is essential because it allows you to:
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Verify Voltage: Ensure the switch is delivering the correct voltage (e.g., 48V-56V for standard PoE).
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Measure Power Draw: See exactly how many watts your camera or phone is consuming.
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Identify PoE Standards: Distinguish between passive 24V, 802.3af/at/bt, and check polarity (Mode A vs. Mode B).
The Tool: PoE Texas Gen 2 Tester
The video highlights the PoE Texas Gen 2 Tester, a pocket-sized tool that requires no batteries. It draws the tiny amount of power it needs directly from the PoE line you are testing. It features a bright scrolling LCD display that shows Volts, Amps, and Watts in real-time.
Key Features
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Inline Testing: Pass data and power through the tester to see what's happening while the device is running.
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PoE Simulation: A switch on the side can "simulate" a device to trigger a PoE switch port to turn on.
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Universal Support: Works with standard PoE (802.3af/at/bt) and passive PoE.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here is how to use the tester to troubleshoot three common scenarios.
Scenario 1: The "Inline" Test (Active Device Troubleshooting)
This is the most common way to use the tool. You have a camera that isn't working, or you want to know how much power it uses.
1. Unplug the Device: Disconnect the Ethernet cable from your IP camera or VoIP phone.
2. Connect "Power In": Plug the Ethernet cable coming from the wall (switch/injector) into the "Power In" port on the tester.
3. Connect "Power Out": Use a short patch cable to connect the "Power Out" port on the tester to your device (camera/phone).
4. Read the Display:
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Voltage: Confirm you have roughly 48V–56V for standard PoE. If you see 24V, you have a passive system.
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Amps/Watts: Watch the power draw as the device boots up. If the wattage spikes and then drops to zero repeatedly, your device might be boot-looping due to insufficient power.
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Scenario 2: Testing a Switch Port (No Device Connected)
Sometimes you just want to know if a specific Ethernet jack in the wall is "live" with PoE, but you don't have a camera handy to plug in.
1. Locate the Simulation Switch: Find the switch on the top or side of the tester labeled "Simulate PoE Device."
2. Set to "ON": Flip the switch to the ON position.
3. Connect to Network: Plug the Ethernet cable from the wall into the "Power In" port.
4. Observe: The tester will now "negotiate" with the switch (just like a camera would) and ask for power. If the switch is working, the display will light up and show you the voltage available on that port.
Note: Always turn the simulation switch back to OFF when you are done.
Scenario 3: Identifying Mode A vs. Mode B
PoE can be delivered over different pairs of wires.
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Mode A: Power and data are on the same pairs (Pins 1,2 and 3,6).
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Mode B: Power is on the "spare" pairs (Pins 4,5 and 7,8).
The Gen 2 Tester will automatically detect and display which mode is in use. This is critical if you are installing older equipment that might only support one specific mode. If your device requires Mode A but your injector is sending Mode B, the device won't power up.
Ready to simplify your wireless deployment?
Using the right converter ensures your high-capacity backhauls stay powered and protected. For more technical details, you can visit the PoE Texas website for the full manual.
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