Use IEEE PoE for Ubiquiti Wave Radios

If you are deploying Ubiquiti Wave or other high-performance wireless bridges, you’ve likely run into a common frustration: most modern network switches use Active PoE (802.3at), while many high-end outdoor radios require 48V Passive PoE.

Plugging a passive device directly into an active switch often results in no power at all, or worse, hardware damage. In this guide, we’ll show you how to use a PoE+ to Passive 48V converter to make these systems play nice together.

The Problem: Active vs. Passive PoE

• Active PoE (802.3af/at/bt): The switch "talks" to the device to confirm it needs power before sending it.

• Passive PoE: The power is "always on." Ubiquiti Wave devices typically require this "always-on" 48V power, which standard managed switches don't provide out of the box.

The Solution: The GPOE-48V25W Converter

The GPOE-48V25W acts as a translator. It takes the "Active" handshake from your switch and converts it into a steady "Passive" 48V stream suitable for Ubiquiti Wave hardware.

Key Specifications:

• Input: IEEE 802.3at (PoE+)

• Output: 48V Passive (Up to 25 Watts)

• Data Speed: 10/100/1000 Gigabit passthrough

• Form Factor: Inline (small, dongle-style)

Step-by-Step Installation

1. Identify Your Power Source

Ensure your network switch supports the IEEE 802.3at (PoE+) standard. Since the converter outputs up to 25W, your switch must be able to provide at least that much per port.

2. Connect the "Input" Side

Plug the male RJ45 connector of the converter into your PoE+ switch.

• Pro Tip: If you are using a managed switch, you can now use the switch’s software interface to power-cycle the port, effectively rebooting your outdoor radio from your desk.

3. Connect the "Output" Side

Using a high-quality Cat5e or Cat6 ethernet cable, connect the female RJ45 port on the converter to your Ubiquiti Wave device (or other 48V passive device).

4. Verify Power and Data

Once connected:

• The LED indicators on the converter will light up to show power is flowing.

• The Ubiquiti device will begin its boot sequence.

• Check your switch management console to confirm a Gigabit data link has been established.

Why Use an Inline Converter Instead of an Injector?

While a traditional "wall-wart" PoE injector works, it has several downsides:

1. No Remote Management: You can’t reboot the device via the switch.

2. Clutter: You need an AC outlet near the switch.

3. Point of Failure: More cables and power bricks lead to a messier rack.

By using the GPOE-48V25W, you keep your installation clean, centralized, and fully manageable via your existing PoE+ switch infrastructure.

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.