If PoE cable length surpasses ___, data signals will degrade.

• A. 100 meters
• B. 25 meters
• C. 50 meters
• D. 120 meters

Answer: (A)

The key idea is the 100-meter limit for Ethernet cabling used with PoE. Ethernet standards specify that the distance from the power sourcing equipment to the powered device should not exceed 100 meters to maintain reliable data signaling and adequate power delivery. As cable length increases, signal attenuation and timing issues rise, leading to higher chances of data errors. The longer the run, the more voltage drop can occur, potentially reducing PoE power at the device. Keeping runs at or under 100 meters ensures the data signal stays within the designed performance, and if longer distances are needed, use extenders or switch to fiber for the data path.