How to configure Extend Mode on a PoE switch for long-distance connections

Contents

Introduction

Requirements

Configuration

The configuration steps differ for unmanaged and managed PoE switches.

Configuration for Unmanaged PoE switches

Configuration for Managed PoE Switches in Controller Mode

Configuration for Managed PoE Switches in Standalone Mode

Conclusion

Introduction

Some PoE switches feature an “Extend Mode”, which allows the PoE transmission distance to be increased—typically up to 250 meters. This function is ideal for deploying IP cameras across large areas.

Extend Mode is a special operational setting on a Power over Ethernet (PoE) switch that increases the maximum Ethernet cable length while still delivering PoE power to connected devices.

Requirements

• POE switch
• PC

Configuration

The configuration steps differ for unmanaged and managed PoE switches.

Configuration for Unmanaged PoE switches

Take the TL-SG1005P as an example. Please refer to the following:

Step 1. Power on the POE switch.

Step 2. Locate the Extend Mode toggle and switch it to the ON position. The label on the device will indicate which ports support this mode. For TL-SG1005P, Extend Mode applies to ports 1–2.

Port Behavior:

• OFF – Ports operate at 10/100/1000 Mbps, with PoE support up to 100 m.
• ON – Ports operate at 10 Mbps, with PoE support up to 250 m.

Note: Actual transmission distance may vary depending on the PoE-powered device’s power consumption, cable quality, and cable type.

Step 3. Configuration complete. In Extend Mode, you can connect up to two powered devices (e.g., IP cameras) to the switch.

Configuration for Managed PoE Switches in Controller Mode

Step 1. Log in to the controller’s interface through Web broswer.

Step 2. Go to Site > Home > Quick Config, enable the Extend Mode and select the switch you want to configure.

Note: This feature is available only for controllers with version v5.15.22.40 and above.

For controllers below v5.15.22.40, Manually set the switch port speed to 10 Mbps. This also accomplishes the purpose of Extend Mode.

Go to Devices > Switch > Ports > enable Profile Overrides > Link Speed > enable Manual to configure the link speed of the switch port to 10Mbps/Auto.

Step 3. Click Apply to save the settings.

Configuration for Managed PoE Switches in Standalone Mode

Step 1. Log in to the switch web management page via its IP address.

Step 2. Go to L2 FEATURES > Switching > Port > Port Config and configure the desired ports.

Step 3. Click Apply and Save button to save the settings.

Conclusion

You have now learned how to configure Extend Mode on a PoE switch, whether it’s unmanaged or managed.

Get to know more details of each function and configuration please go to Download Center to download the manual of your product.