TP-Link TL-SL1311MP 8-Port PoE+ Switch: features, specs and who it suits

The TP-Link TL-SL1311MP is a network switch that sends both data and power over Ethernet cables. It has eight PoE+ ports for devices such as IP cameras and wireless access points, plus Gigabit uplinks to connect it to the rest of the network. It is aimed at small surveillance and office setups where running a separate power cable to each device isn't practical.

What PoE+ does

Power over Ethernet (PoE) delivers electrical power through the same cable that carries data. That means a camera mounted on a wall or ceiling needs only one cable, with no nearby outlet. The switch's eight PoE+ ports follow 802.3at and 802.3af, and TP-Link says each port provides up to 30W. The older af standard gives roughly 15W per port at the switch, and the newer at standard gives more, which suits devices like pan-tilt cameras.

Understanding the 124W total

The total PoE output is 124W, shared among all eight ports. This matters more than the per-port limit. Eight devices each drawing 15W would use 120W, within the total, but eight devices drawing 30W would not all fit. Add up what your devices need, using their documentation, and check the total against 124W.

Ports and speeds

The eight PoE+ ports run at 10/100 Mbps, which is Fast Ethernet. That is enough for most IP cameras and access points that don't need more than 100 Mbps each. The switch also has two Gigabit RJ45 uplink ports and one Gigabit SFP slot. Uplinks are typically used to link to a router, a recording device or another switch. The SFP slot accepts a fibre or copper module, which helps when a link has to run farther than a copper cable allows.

Extend mode and isolation mode

TP-Link lists two special modes. Extend Mode supports data and PoE transmission of up to 250 metres, with the speed reduced to 10 Mbps. That is useful for outbuildings or distant cameras, though the speed drop limits it to lower-bandwidth devices. Isolation Mode keeps the PoE ports from communicating with one another, which TP-Link says isolates broadcast storms and improves LAN security and transmission. The listing also mentions PoE recovery, which restarts a stuck powered device. Check TP-Link's documentation for how these are switched on.

Setup

The switch is plug and play, with no software to install and nothing to configure. It's an unmanaged design, so it doesn't offer features like VLANs through a menu. That keeps setup simple, though people who need detailed control typically look at a managed model.

Size and warranty

The listing gives the size as 8.2 x 5.0 x 1.0 inches and the weight as 1.3 lb. It is compact enough for a shelf or a small wall-mounted spot. TP-Link lists a three-year warranty and technical support during stated weekday hours.

Who it suits

It suits a small camera system with several PoE cameras, a few ceiling-mounted access points, or a home office where devices are spread out. It is less suited to setups that need Gigabit speeds on every device port, or those needing managed features.

What to check before you buy

• Power needs: add up each device's PoE draw and compare it with the 124W total.
• PoE standard: confirm your devices use 802.3af or 802.3at, or are passive PoE, which is a different system.
• Port speed: the PoE ports are 10/100 Mbps, so check that your devices don't need Gigabit.
• Cable length: standard Ethernet runs reach about 100 metres; Extend Mode is for longer runs at lower speed.
• Mounting: check ventilation and whether you have a shelf, wall or rack location.
• Cabling: use proper network cable, as poor cable can limit PoE performance.

The short version

• An unmanaged switch with eight PoE+ ports at 10/100 Mbps, two Gigabit uplinks and one SFP slot.
• Up to 30W per port with a 124W total PoE output.
• Extend Mode reaches up to 250 metres at 10 Mbps; Isolation Mode separates the ports.
• Plug and play with a three-year warranty.

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