PoE & Wi-Fi
PoE and structured cabling — what IT should specify
How higher PoE classes interact with category choice and bundling — cabling implications only, not a WLAN design guide.
PoE turns the copper plant into a power distribution layer. That has thermal and category implications — it does not make cabling firms into wireless designers.
Boundary
We advise on permanent links that carry power and data to APs, cameras and similar devices. RF survey, controller design and channel plans stay with IT/WLAN specialists.
What to specify
- Likely PoE class / device density (even if approximate)
- Category and shielding assumptions
- Pathway and bundling constraints (vendor application guides warn about heat in large bundles)
- Test method for the copper plant feeding powered devices
Cat6 vs Cat6A
Higher power and denser AP grids are one reason many commercial briefs move to Cat6A — not the only reason. See Cat6 vs Cat6A.
Engage
Structured Cabling · If Wi-Fi symptoms persist after good copper, read Wi-Fi vs cabling.