Why Use a Raspberry Pi PoE HAT?

Standard USB power supplies tether your device to the nearest wall socket. A Raspberry Pi PoE HAT (Hardware Attached on Top) liberates your setup by drawing power directly from your PoE-enabled router or switch up to 100 meters away. This is critical for installing security cameras, IoT gateways, or remote weather stations. SunFounder’s PoE HATs are designed with isolated switched-mode power supplies (SMPS) to ensure stable voltage without interference.

Applications for Power over Ethernet

○ IP Camera Clusters: Build a clean, cable-free surveillance system by powering multiple Pi 4 PoE camera nodes from a single PoE switch.
○ Network Attached Storage (NAS): Ensure your Raspberry Pi 5 NAS gets reliable power and high-speed Gigabit Ethernet connectivity simultaneously.
○ Digital Signage: Deploy displays in hard-to-reach locations like ceilings or hallways without hiring an electrician to install new outlets.

Frequently Asked Questions

○ Does the Raspberry Pi 5 support PoE?
Yes, the Raspberry Pi 5 retains the 4-pin PoE header. However, due to its new layout and power requirements, we recommend using our updated Raspberry Pi PoE HATs specifically optimized for the Pi 5's form factor and thermal needs.
○ Do I need a special router?
To use a PoE HAT, your Ethernet cable must be connected to a PoE-enabled switch or router (PSE). If you don't have one, you can use a simple PoE injector adapter.
○ Will the fan block other GPIO pins?
Our compact PoE HATs are designed to be stackable or leave GPIO pins accessible (via pass-through headers), allowing you to add sensors or displays even while using Power over Ethernet.