Match the camera’s documented power input before connecting it. For PoE, check the required standard, each port’s capacity and the shared power budget. For DC, match voltage, polarity, connector and current capacity. A working daylight preview does not prove enough power for lighting or motors at night.
Record these four power checks
| Check | Record before buying |
|---|---|
| Input type | Exact camera power input and compatible supply; passive PoE must be matched explicitly. |
| Per-port limit | Camera maximum demand and power available at the device for the selected PoE type. |
| Shared budget | All camera loads, cable loss and planned additions; port count is a separate limit. |
| DC route | Voltage, polarity, connector, current capacity and voltage drop on the planned conductor and length. |
Calculate load with units
As an illustrative supply-side budget, assume eight camera branches need 12 W each, already including cable loss: 8 × 12 W = 96 W. Adding an illustrative 20% planning allowance gives 115.2 W. An eight-port source with a 60 W total budget fails this example even if each port is rated for 15 W. The allowance is an example, not a PoE standard or a QuarkView measurement.
Use actual model maximums and the power source’s allocation rules. Include IR, white light, heaters and movement where fitted. Axis explains typical versus maximum camera power and cable losses; those model values do not describe QuarkView equipment.
Commission the night load and backup path
- Verify supply labels and intended cable routes before connection.
- Enable the intended lighting and camera functions; inspect power allocation and recording for restarts.
- For UPS planning, include the recorder, PoE source and network devices required by the recording path. Add the router when internet access must continue.
- Agree an outage test window. Check recording continuity, restart, timestamps and playback after power returns.
UPS runtime depends on load and the backup unit’s discharge curve. Do not infer runtime from its VA rating. Have qualified personnel handle mains wiring and outdoor electrical protection.
Use the switch selection guide for network limits and the installation guide for handover. Request a matched power configuration with camera models, cable lengths, maximum loads and required backup time.