TRENDnet TPE-TG82G 8-Port Gigabit PoE+ Switch: features, specs, who it suits

The TRENDnet TPE-TG82G is a compact 8-port Gigabit Ethernet switch that also supplies Power over Ethernet. It carries data and power on the same cable, so devices such as wireless access points and IP cameras can be placed where there is no nearby outlet. It is plug-and-play, with no software to install.

How PoE and PoE+ work here

Power over Ethernet sends electrical power along a network cable. TRENDnet says this switch supports both PoE and PoE+ devices, with 61W of PoE power shared across the ports. PoE+ (802.3at) devices can typically draw more power than basic PoE (802.3af) ones, so the total matters: a couple of power-hungry cameras or access points may use most of it, while several low-power devices fit more easily. The listing says the 61W supports up to eight PoE devices.

Gigabit ports and switching capacity

All eight ports are Gigabit Ethernet, with LED indicators for each. TRENDnet gives a switching capacity of 16 Gbps, which is the combined figure for eight ports running at full speed in both directions. The data rate table in the listing also covers 10 and 100 Mbps connections, so older devices can connect too.

Fanless metal housing

The switch has a compact, lightweight metal case, described as well suited to desktops. It is fanless, which TRENDnet says makes it suitable for quiet environments that need silent operation. It measures about 5.9 x 3.7 x 1.2 inches (15 x 9.4 x 3 cm) and weighs around 2 lb (0.9 kg). Fanless devices rely on airflow around the case, so leave room around it and follow the manual's placement advice.

Compliance and support

TRENDnet states the switch is NDAA and TAA compliant, which matters to some government and institutional buyers in the U.S. and Canada. A lifetime manufacturer protection is also listed for those two countries, along with English-language technical support during normal business hours.

What is in the box

The package contents are the TPE-TG82G switch, a quick installation guide, a 54V DC, 1.67A power brick and a power cord.

Who it suits

It suits a small office, workshop or home network that needs to power a few access points or cameras and does not need configuration options such as VLANs. It is an unmanaged switch, so there is no management interface to set up.

What to check before you buy

• Total PoE power: add up the wattage of every PoE device you plan to connect and make sure it fits within 61W.
• Device standards: check that your cameras or access points use standard PoE or PoE+, since some devices need passive or different PoE.
• Cable run: PoE over twisted-pair Ethernet is generally limited to about 100 metres per run.
• Features: if you need VLANs or remote management, confirm an unmanaged switch is enough.
• Placement: consider where it will sit, and whether there is outlet access for the power brick.

The short version

• An unmanaged 8-port Gigabit switch with PoE and PoE+ support.
• 61W of PoE power and 16 Gbps switching capacity.
• Fanless metal case for silent, desktop use.
• NDAA and TAA compliant, with lifetime protection in the U.S. and Canada.
• Includes a 54V DC power brick, power cord and quick installation guide.

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