TRENDnet TPE-LG80 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch: features, specs, uses

The TRENDnet TPE-LG80 is an eight-port gigabit Ethernet switch that also supplies power to connected devices. Power over Ethernet (PoE) sends data and electricity down one cable, so devices such as wireless access points, VoIP phones and IP cameras need no separate power adapter at the device. It is a plug-and-play switch for small installations.

What PoE and PoE+ mean

PoE follows the IEEE 802.3af standard and PoE+ follows 802.3at. In general, PoE+ can deliver more power per port than basic PoE, which matters for devices such as pan-tilt cameras or some access points. TRENDnet says the switch supports both PoE and PoE+ devices.

The 65W power limit

The switch lists a 65W PoE allowance, meaning the total it can supply. That is the total shared across all ports, not per port. TRENDnet says it supports up to eight PoE devices, so with all eight ports in use, each device must draw only a few watts on average. A single PoE+ device can draw considerably more than that, which leaves less for the other ports. Adding up the rated power of your devices is the best way to check whether the allowance is enough.

Gigabit ports and switching capacity

All eight ports are gigabit. TRENDnet lists a 16Gbps switching capacity, which is the total traffic the switch can handle internally with all ports running at full speed in both directions (8 ports x 1Gbps x 2). TRENDnet positions it for edge network installations, where the switch sits at the outer edge connecting devices.

Long range mode and port isolation

Standard Ethernet cable runs are limited to about 100 metres. TRENDnet says that by enabling the DIP switch, the PoE+ signal can be extended up to 200m (656 ft) at 10Mbps. That reduced speed suits devices such as cameras that need little bandwidth, but not heavy data use.

The same DIP switch enables port isolation, which TRENDnet describes as ideal for surveillance applications. In general, isolation stops ports from talking to each other while each can still reach the uplink.

Quiet, fanless design

The metal case has no fan, which TRENDnet says lowers energy use and removes operating noise. That suits offices, shops and homes. The unit measures about 9.4 x 4.1 x 1.1 inches and weighs 1.2 lb.

Warranty and compliance

TRENDnet lists lifetime manufacturer protection (U.S. and Canada only), and NDAA and TAA compliance for government buyers, also U.S. and Canada only. English-language support during business hours is listed. The box includes the switch, a quick installation guide, a power brick (55V DC, 1.3A) and a 1.8m (6 ft) power cord.

Who it suits

It suits home and small business networks adding cameras or access points, and installations where one cable must reach a device without a nearby outlet. It is an unmanaged switch, so it lacks VLAN and detailed configuration tools.

What to check before you buy

• Power needs: total the wattage of your PoE devices against 65W.
• Device standard: confirm each device uses PoE or PoE+.
• Cable length: know your longest run, and check the speed limits in long-range mode.
• Mounting space: check where the switch will sit and how you plan to fix it.
• Features: if you need VLANs or monitoring, look at managed switches.

The short version

• Eight gigabit PoE/PoE+ ports and 16Gbps switching capacity.
• A shared 65W PoE power allowance.
• A DIP-switch long-range mode to 200m at 10Mbps, plus port isolation.
• Fanless metal case; plug-and-play setup.
• Match your devices' power draw to the 65W limit first.

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