TP-Link TL-SF1006P 6-port PoE switch: features, specs and who it suits

The TP-Link TL-SF1006P is a small desktop switch with six Ethernet ports, four of which can power devices through Power over Ethernet. It needs no setup: you plug it in and connect your devices. It is aimed at someone who wants to run a camera, an access point or a phone from a single cable without managing a network.

Ports and speed

There are six ports in total, and they run at Fast Ethernet speed, which is 10/100 Mbps. That is slower than Gigabit, but it is more than enough for most IP cameras, VoIP phones and many wireless access points, which rarely need more than 100 Mbps per device. If you plan to move large files between computers through this switch, though, Gigabit is a better match. The listing gives the dimensions as 6.2 x 4.0 x 1.0 inches and the weight as 0.7 lb, and TP-Link describes the case as sturdy metal with shielded ports.

What the PoE figures mean

Four ports are PoE+ (802.3at/af). TP-Link rates them at up to 30W per port, with a total PoE power of 67W. The two figures work together: no single port gives more than 30W, and all four together can't give more than 67W. Four devices that each draw 20W would total 80W and exceed the 67W total, while four that draw 12W each would fit. Check the power draw of each device you plan to connect.

The remaining two ports are standard Ethernet ports without PoE, which can connect a computer, a router or another switch.

Plug and play

TP-Link says that no software installation or configuration is needed. This kind of switch is unmanaged: it works out for itself how to pass traffic between devices, and there is no web interface to set up. The benefit is simplicity. The trade-off is that it has no VLANs or other management features that bigger networks may need.

Extend mode

TP-Link says Extend mode allows data and power over a distance of up to 250 m, which it describes as ideal for surveillance systems. The speed drops to 10 Mbps in this mode. Standard Ethernet cable runs are usually limited to about 100 m, so Extend mode matters for a camera at the far end of a car park, a yard or an outbuilding. A 10 Mbps link is enough for most single cameras, but it is worth checking the bitrate of yours.

Priority mode

Priority mode applies to ports 1 and 2. TP-Link says it guarantees high-quality video or voice traffic on those ports. In general, this means data from those ports is handled first when the switch is busy, so a camera or a phone plugged into them is less likely to stutter. It is handy for a small number of important devices.

Who it suits

It suits a home office, a small studio or a workshop that needs a few PoE devices. It also works as a desk-side switch for a camera system. TP-Link backs it with a 3-year warranty and technical support during stated weekday hours.

What to check before you buy

• PoE power: add up what your PoE devices draw, and stay under 67W in total and 30W per port.
• Speed: confirm that 10/100 Mbps is enough for your devices and the traffic you expect.
• Cable length: if you need more than about 100 m, remember that Extend mode drops the speed to 10 Mbps.
• PoE standard: check that your devices support 802.3af or 802.3at.
• Power supply: check that the switch comes with an adapter and a socket is nearby.
• Placement: it is a desktop unit, so check whether you need a shelf or a wall mount.

The short version

• Six-port Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) desktop switch with a metal case.
• Four PoE+ ports, up to 30W each, 67W in total.
• Plug and play, with no software or configuration.
• Extend mode for up to 250 m at 10 Mbps; Priority mode on ports 1-2.
• 3-year warranty, per TP-Link.

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