This article will show you different methods to power Reolink PoE cameras. Read and choose one way available for your camera.

Applies to: All Reolink PoE cameras.

You may power on Reolink PoE cameras via a PoE injector/switch or PoE NVR directly, or via a power adapter.

Method 1. Power via PoE Injector or PoE Switch

Different cameras require different specifications of PoE Injectors or PoE Switches. The compatible requirements are listed in the table below. Based on the number of connected cameras and the total power consumption, we recommend using a Reolink PoE Switch (RLA-PS1 or RLA-PS1E) for optimal performance. High-quality third-party PoE Injectors or PoE Switches can also be used, provided they meet the specifications listed in the table. However, do not use passive PoE Injectors, as they are not compatible with Reolink PoE cameras.

Camera Model PoE Injector/Switch Requirement
OMVI 3i PoE, Elite Pro Floodlight PoE, Duo Floodlight PoE, RLC-823 Series, RLC-423S, RLC-423 IEEE 802.3at compliant (48V), supports active mode
Other Reolink PoE cameras IEEE 802.3af compliant (48V), supports active mode

If you want to power the camera via a PoE Injector or PoE Switch, refer to How to Connect RLA-PS1 with Reolink Cameras and NVRs.

Method 2. Power via PoE NVR

Connect your IP camera to the PoE NVR using a single Ethernet cable. The PoE NVR provides both power and network connectivity to the camera through the same cable. To set up your camera with a PoE NVR, refer to How to Add Reolink Cameras to Reolink NVR (New UI).

Method 3. Power via Power Adapter

As an alternative, you can power the camera using a power adapter. To ensure proper and stable operation, the power adapter must meet the following requirements:

  • Power adapter rating must comply with the specifications listed in the table below.
  • Power adapter tip polarity: Inner positive (+), Outer negative (-).
  • Interface specification: φ5.5 mm × 2.1 mm × 10 mm.
Camera Model Power Adapter Rating
PTZ cameras
(e.g., OMVI 3i PoE, RLC-823 Series, Duo 2/3 PoE, Duo Floodlight PoE, TrackMix Series, RLC-830A, RLC-423, RLC-423S) 		DC 12V / 2A
Elite Pro Floodlight PoE camera Powered via PoE Only. No DC port available. Therefore, it cannot be used with a DC adapter.
Reolink Video Doorbell PoE 24V DC or 12–24V AC (50/60 Hz)
Other Reolink PoE cameras Cameras without spotlights:
DC 12V / 1A (regardless of long power extension cable usage)
Cameras with spotlights (e.g., Duo 2V/3V PoE, RLC-1212A, RLC-824A, RLC-812A):
DC 12V / 1A (without long power extension cable) ;
DC 12V / 2A (with long power extension cable)

When powering a PoE camera with a power adapter, the power adapter supplies only power. To provide network connectivity, you must also connect the camera to a network device (such as a router or switch) using an Ethernet cable.

For detailed information on powering the Reolink Video Doorbell PoE, refer to How to Power Video Doorbells Using Power Cables?

Important Notes

  1. To protect the junction from water, install the waterproof cap at the point where the Ethernet cable meets the camera.
  2. For reliable performance, we recommend using a Cat5 or higher Ethernet cable. 
  3. The distance between the camera and each network device (e.g., NVR, switch, injector, and router) depends on the Ethernet cable used. For optimal performance, keep the distance as short as practical. When using a Cat 5e or higher Ethernet cable, the maximum supported distance is 100 m (328 ft). Lower-category Ethernet cables may reduce the maximum supported distance.

Each method offers a different way to power your Reolink PoE camera, depending on your setup and available devices. After confirming the power method, you may also want to learn about device connectivity. Refer to How to Connect PoE Switch, Router and Reolink NVRs for correct connection guidance.

Related Articles

How to Initially Set up Reolink Devices

IP Cameras Stop Working

Reolink Camera Not Powering on

Reolink Cameras Connection Issues

PoE Cameras Cannot Be Powered on by PoE NVR or PoE Switch/PoE Injector

If you have any questions, click “Submit a request” below to contact the Reolink Support Team.