GS 1350 26HP and POE connexion for outdoor access point (BrosTrend AC1200)

Fabi1

I just bought the GS1350 switch to set up video surveillance soon.

For now, I haven't connected the cameras yet, only an access point antenna to extend the Wi-Fi signal in my garden.

The antenna is connected via a 61-meter Ethernet cable.

My problem is that my antenna isn't receiving a proper signal from the GS1350 switch (the control LED flashes orange, whereas a solid green LED indicates proper operation).
So I enabled the "PoE extend" function on the relevant port, but there's no change, the antenna still doesn't receive a better signal.

I'm disappointed because with the GS1350, I thought PoE would be able to properly provide both signal and power to a device more than 61 meters away, but I see that it's not working.
What would be the solution to my problem?

Zyxel_Barry

Hi @Fabi1,

It sounds like you're encountering a common challenge when deploying PoE devices over longer distances. Let's break down the situation with your GS1350 switch and BrosTrend AC1200 access point.

Here's an initial solution based on the capabilities of your Zyxel GS1350 switch:

• Understand PoE Extend Mode: The Zyxel GS1350 series switches have a "PoE Extend" or "Extended Range Mode" feature designed to deliver power and data beyond the traditional 100-meter Ethernet limitation, up to 250 meters. However, when this mode is enabled, the link speed for the port is fixed to 10 Mbps. The amber (orange) LED on the switch port when PoE Extend is active indicates a 10 Mbps link speed, which is normal for this mode, not necessarily a signal problem.

  • To confirm, please check if your BrosTrend AC1200 access point is capable of operating at a 10 Mbps link speed. If your access point requires a higher link speed, it might not function correctly even with PoE Extend enabled.

• Verify Power Requirements: While the GS1350 in extended range mode can provide up to 33 watts to compensate for cable loss, ensure your BrosTrend AC1200 access point's power requirements (wattage) are within this limit and that the 10 Mbps speed is sufficient for its operation.

• Cable Quality: Even with PoE Extend, a high-quality Ethernet cable is crucial for reliable operation over extended distances. Since you're at 61 meters, which is within the 100-meter standard, but pushing the limits for optimal PoE without "PoE Extend," the quality of your 61-meter Ethernet cable could still be a factor. If the cable is not of sufficient quality, especially for PoE, it can lead to signal degradation and power loss.

To help us further diagnose the issue, please provide the following information:

• BrosTrend AC1200 Power Specifications: What are the exact power requirements (voltage and wattage) of your BrosTrend AC1200 outdoor access point? (This information can usually be found in the product's datasheet or user manual).
• LED Status on the Access Point: What are the LED indicators on your BrosTrend AC1200 access point showing when connected to the GS1350 with PoE Extend enabled? Please describe the color and blinking pattern.
• Firmware Version: What is the current firmware version of your Zyxel GS1350 switch?
• Network Topology: A simple diagram or description of how your access point is connected to the GS1350 switch and any other devices in between.

Zyxel_Melen

Hi @Fabi1

Since the AP's information that you shared is limited, I want to check if this is the model you have.

BrosTrend AC1200 Outdoor WiFi Access Point Long Range, IP65 Weatherproof Gigabit PoE Wireless Access Point, Dual Band 5GHz + 2.4G, with Passive PoE Injector, Compatible Starlink for Yard Farm Campsite : Amazon.com.au: Computers

If this is the model you have, please note this AP is only support passive PoE. Please note that GS1350 doesn't support passive PoE, you will need to use the PoE injector to connect the switch and AP.

If this is not your model, please follow this steps first:

1. Upgrade your GS1350 to the latest firmware version.
2. Change the PoE power-up mode to "force 802.3AT". Path: PORT > PoE Setup > PoE Setup

If this not help, please share:

1. Your AP's model.
2. Collect the tech support file.