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Most Yi Home Cameras do not natively support Power over Ethernet (PoE), as they are designed for standard Wi-Fi and USB power. However, you can use a PoE-to-USB adapter or injector to power select Yi models via Ethernet, offering a wired, stable connection—just verify compatibility with your specific camera model before setup.
Can a Yi Home Camera Work With Poe Power Over Ethernet Explained
Yes, a Yi Home camera can work with PoE (Power over Ethernet), but not out of the box. Most Yi Home cameras—like the Yi 1080p Home, Yi Dome, and Yi Outdoor—are designed to run on standard 5V DC power via a USB adapter and do not have a built-in Ethernet port. However, with the right accessories and configuration, you can successfully power and connect a Yi Home camera using PoE. This method combines data and power delivery over a single Ethernet cable, making installations cleaner and more reliable, especially in hard-to-reach areas. While it requires an extra step, PoE compatibility is achievable and offers long-term benefits for users seeking a stable, wired surveillance setup.
PoE is increasingly popular in home security systems due to its efficiency and reduced cable clutter. For Yi camera owners, leveraging PoE can eliminate the need for nearby power outlets and improve connection reliability compared to Wi-Fi. The key lies in using a PoE adapter or injector to convert the PoE signal into the 5V DC input the Yi camera requires. Below, we dive into the specifics of how to make this work, the equipment needed, and best practices to ensure a smooth, stable connection.
How Can I Connect My Yi Home Camera to a PoE Network?
To connect a Yi Home camera with PoE (Power over Ethernet), you’ll need a PoE-to-USB adapter or a PoE injector paired with a compatible power supply. Since Yi cameras don’t natively support PoE, the solution involves using an intermediary device that splits the PoE signal into data (Ethernet) and power (5V DC). Here’s how it works:
First, you’ll need a PoE switch or injector (802.3af or 802.3at standard) to send power and data over the Ethernet cable. At the camera end, use a PoE splitter that outputs 5V DC and an Ethernet connection. Connect the Ethernet port of the splitter to the Yi camera’s Wi-Fi-to-Ethernet converter (like the Yi Ethernet Adapter), and plug the 5V DC output into the camera’s micro-USB port. This setup effectively powers the camera and provides a wired network connection, bypassing Wi-Fi entirely.
Practical Example: Suppose you’re installing a Yi Outdoor Camera in your backyard. Instead of running two cables (one for power, one for Ethernet), you run a single Cat6 Ethernet cable from your PoE switch in the basement to the outdoor location. At the endpoint, connect the cable to a 5V PoE splitter. The splitter’s Ethernet port links to the Yi Ethernet Adapter, which plugs into the camera. The DC plug powers the camera—no wall outlet needed. This setup ensures uninterrupted power and a more stable video feed, especially in areas with weak Wi-Fi.
Key Tips for Success:
- Use a 5V PoE splitter—most standard splitters output 12V or 24V, which will damage your Yi camera. Look for models labeled “5V DC output” or “for USB devices.”
- Ensure your PoE switch or injector supports 802.3af (PoE) or 802.3at (PoE+) to deliver consistent power.
- Pair the Yi camera with the Yi Ethernet Adapter, which converts Wi-Fi to wired Ethernet. This is essential for data connectivity.
- Test the full setup indoors before permanent outdoor installation to confirm power and data transmission.
- Use shielded Ethernet cables (Cat6a recommended) for outdoor runs to prevent interference and power loss.
While this method adds cost and complexity, it’s ideal for users prioritizing reliability, security, and professional-grade installation. PoE also enables centralized power management—turning off all cameras by disabling the PoE switch—and reduces the risk of tampering.
Keep in mind that not all Yi models support Ethernet adapters. Always check compatibility on the Yi website or user manual before purchasing accessories. The Yi 1080p Home (2nd Gen), Yi Dome Guard, and Yi Outdoor are known to work with this setup.
In summary, while a Yi Home camera with PoE isn’t plug-and-play, the integration is both feasible and advantageous. With a PoE splitter, Ethernet adapter, and proper cabling, you can enjoy a wired, powered surveillance system that’s more dependable than Wi-Fi-only setups—perfect for homes, offices, or remote monitoring. This hybrid approach brings the best of both worlds: Yi’s affordable smart cameras and the robustness of PoE technology.