PoE Budget Calculator
Use this calculator to compare planned access points, cameras and other PoE devices with a switch’s total available PoE budget.
PoE Budget Calculator
Check planned PoE load against switch budget with a safety reserve.
Total budget and per-port capability are different
A switch may have enough total wattage while an individual port cannot provide the standard or maximum power required by a specific device. Always confirm the device requirement and the port’s supported PoE standard.
Why keep a reserve?
Designing to 100% of the published switch budget leaves little room for transient load, device replacement, firmware behavior or expansion. The reserve setting lets you keep intentional headroom.
Use maximum draw for conservative design
Access points and cameras frequently draw less than their maximum rating during normal operation. For initial design, using the manufacturer maximum or a measured worst-case load reduces surprises.
Do not forget non-obvious PoE devices
Include phones, access-control components, intercoms, bridges, sensors and PoE-powered switches if they draw from the same budget.
Frequently asked questions
Can I exceed the PoE budget if devices usually draw less?
It is poor planning to rely on typical draw when the switch may need to support higher simultaneous loads.
What reserve should I use?
Choose a reserve based on how critical the deployment is and how likely it is to expand. The calculator default is a planning aid, not a standard.
Does PoE++ require special cabling?
Power capability depends on the full channel, device standards and installation quality. Follow manufacturer and cabling-standard requirements.