Introduction

Often, in home and office setups, there is a need to connect multiple devices to a single network, such as a TV to a network. The question frequently arises, can an Ethernet cable be used to connect a TV to a power supply? This article addresses this query, dissects the feasibility, and provides practical alternatives.

Myth Busting: Can an Ethernet Cable be used as a Power Source?

Short Answer: No, it is highly inadvisable to try to power a TV using an Ethernet cable. Let us explore why this approach is unadvisable and what options exist for powering a TV.

Technical Considerations:

Safety Concerns

One of the primary reasons why attempting to power a TV via an Ethernet cable is unsafe is because of potential electrical hazards. Ethernet cables, by design, are not meant to carry significant electrical current. If a TV requires more power than the Ethernet cable can safely transfer, there is a high risk of overheating, leading to potential fires or electrical shorts.

Power over Ethernet (PoE)

PoE or Power over Ethernet is a technology that allows devices to receive both data and power over a single Ethernet cable. However, PoE is not suitable for powering a TV as most TVs require a higher power output.

PoE is commonly used to power wireless access points (WAPs) and IP cameras, which typically require much lower power levels. The maximum power PoE can supply is typically around 12 to 13 watts, which is far from enough (25 watts or more for most TVs) to power a typical television.

In addition, PoE is generally used in places where mains power would be inconvenient or risky, such as outdoor settings or remote locations. TVs, on the other hand, are usually in well-lit rooms close to an electrical outlet where supplying power through a separate cable is more practical.

Cost-Effectiveness

If you are considering PoE as a solution, it is crucial to assess the cost-effectiveness of the required components, particularly PSE (Power Sourcing Equipment) and PD (Power Delivered) devices. These components can be pricey, and for most TVs, the cost of implementing PoE might outweigh the benefits.

Practical Alternatives

The Right Power Supply: The simplest and safest solution to power your TV is by using a standard power supply that matches your TV's specifications.

Using an RJ45 for Data Only: While an RJ45 jack can transfer data, it is not designed to carry power. Using an Ethernet cable solely for data transmission is advisable to avoid electrical risks.

Smart Solutions: Modern TVs often come with built-in networking capabilities. If your TV is relatively new, it may have an Ethernet port designed specifically to connect to a network for various purposes such as streaming content or connecting to smart home systems. However, this port is not intended for power supply.

Consideration for Small LCDs: If your television is a small LCD, the power requirements might be lower, making PoE a slightly more viable option. However, the cost-effectiveness still needs to be carefully evaluated.

Conclusion

In summary, it is not advisable to attempt to power a TV using an Ethernet cable. Not only is it unsafe, but it is also not cost-effective or practical. The best approach is to use a standard power supply for your TV and leverage Ethernet cables for data transfer only. If you require network capabilities like streaming or smart home integration, consider the specific ports on your TV and ensure they are being used as intended.