Need to Add Another CCTV Camera but Only Have One Ethernet Cable?
One of the most common challenges CCTV installers face is arriving on-site, completing most of the cabling work, and then discovering that an additional camera is required. In many situations, running another Ethernet cable is difficult, expensive, or simply not practical.
Fortunately, there is a simple solution.
The PE-031 PoE Extender Switch allows you to split one Ethernet cable into two PoE camera connections, making it possible to add another camera without running a second cable.
For installers, this can save significant labour time. For homeowners and businesses, it can avoid the cost and disruption of installing additional cabling.
What Is the PE-031 PoE Extender Switch?
The PE-031 is a compact PoE extender switch designed for CCTV installations. It receives PoE and network data through a single Ethernet cable and provides multiple PoE outputs for additional devices.
Key specifications include:
- Maximum transmission distance: up to 500 metres
- PoE input power: up to 60W
- Input voltage: 48V–55V DC
- Network speed: 100Mbps
- PoE outputs: 100Mbps PoE ports
- AI Watchdog function for improved camera reliability
- Suitable for CCTV camera expansion projects
How Does It Work?
Imagine you've already installed a single Ethernet cable to a location.
Later, you decide you need a second camera covering another angle.
Instead of running another cable all the way back to the NVR or switch, you can:
- Connect the existing cable to the PE-031.
- Connect the other end of the cable back to a PoE switch.
- Use the PE-031 outputs to connect two PoE CCTV cameras.
The result is that a single Ethernet cable can effectively support two camera connections from the installation point.
Simple Example
Before:
PoE Switch → Ethernet Cable → Camera 1
After:
PoE Switch → Ethernet Cable → PE-031 → Camera 1 + Camera 2
This makes the PE-031 an excellent tool for retrofit installations where additional cameras are needed after cabling has already been completed.
Extend Even Further with Additional PE-031 Units
One of the most useful features for professional installers is the ability to expand further down the line.
For example:
PoE Switch → PE-031 → Camera
or
PoE Switch → PE-031 → PE-031 → Multiple Cameras
By strategically placing additional PE-031 units, installers can expand a single cable run to support up to four cameras in suitable applications.
This flexibility can be extremely valuable in:
- Warehouses
- Factories
- Schools
- Shopping centres
- Car parks
- Large residential properties
- Rural and long-distance CCTV installations
Long-Distance CCTV Installations up to 500 Metres
Standard Ethernet installations are typically limited to around 100 metres before requiring additional network equipment.
The PE-031 helps overcome this limitation by extending PoE and data transmission significantly further.
With a maximum transmission distance of up to 500 metres, installers can reach remote camera locations without needing complex network redesigns.
This makes it particularly useful for:
- Farm security systems
- Long driveways
- Industrial sites
- Boundary fence monitoring
- Storage yards
- Large commercial properties
AI Watchdog Function Improves Reliability
The PE-031 includes an AI Watchdog feature designed to monitor connected cameras.
If a camera becomes unresponsive, the watchdog function can automatically attempt recovery, helping reduce downtime and minimising site call-backs.
For installers managing multiple camera systems, this added reliability can save valuable maintenance time.
Why Installers Like the PE-031
From an installer's perspective, the PE-031 solves several common problems:
Save Time
Running additional Ethernet cabling can be labour-intensive and costly. The PE-031 can often eliminate the need for another cable run.
Reduce Installation Costs
Less cabling means lower labour costs and fewer materials.
Expand Existing Systems
Ideal when clients request extra cameras after the original installation is complete.
Handle Long-Distance Projects
Support for up to 500 metres makes the unit useful in large-scale installations.
Simple Deployment
The compact design allows quick installation in junction boxes, ceilings, roof spaces, cabinets, and other CCTV mounting locations.
Real-World Installer Scenario
An installer has already run a single Ethernet cable to monitor a warehouse loading dock.
After reviewing camera coverage, the customer decides they also want coverage of a side entrance.
Instead of running another cable across the warehouse, the installer installs a PE-031 at the camera location.
The existing cable now supports two cameras, reducing installation time while providing the additional coverage the customer needs.
This is exactly the type of situation where the PE-031 becomes an essential tool in an installer's vehicle.
Where to Buy the PE-031 PoE Extender Switch
The PE-031 PoE Extender Switch is available from CCTV Importers and CCTV Tradie.
We recommend keeping a few units on hand for installation projects because they can quickly solve unexpected cabling challenges and help avoid costly rework on-site.
Whether you're a professional CCTV installer, security integrator, electrician, or homeowner looking to add another camera to an existing cable run, the PE-031 offers a practical and cost-effective solution.
Final Verdict
The PE-031 PoE Extender Switch is one of those products that can save an installation.
If you've already run one Ethernet cable and need to add another CCTV camera, the PE-031 allows you to expand your system without the hassle of running additional cabling.
With support for up to 500 metres transmission distance, 60W PoE input, AI Watchdog functionality, and the ability to expand multiple cameras from a single cable path, it's a valuable addition to any installer's toolkit.
For CCTV professionals and DIY users alike, it's a simple solution to a very common problem.
Why Buy from CCTV Tradie?
- Competitive pricing
- Australian distributor-sourced stock
- Fast shipping Australia-wide
- Practical advice from security industry professionals
- Suitable solutions for installers and DIY users
- Large range of CCTV cameras, NVRs, switches, PoE accessories, and networking products
If you're planning your next CCTV installation, the PE-031 PoE Extender Switch is worth considering when extra cameras are needed but additional cabling isn't practical.
FAQs
Can one Ethernet cable run two CCTV cameras?
Yes. Using a PoE extender switch such as the PE-031, a single Ethernet cable can be expanded to support multiple PoE CCTV cameras.
Does the PE-031 require a PoE switch?
Yes. The source end of the cable should be connected to a compatible PoE switch capable of supplying sufficient power.
What is the maximum distance supported by the PE-031?
The PE-031 supports transmission distances of up to 500 metres under suitable installation conditions.
Can I connect more than two cameras?
Yes. Additional PE-031 units can be used to further expand the network, allowing multiple cameras to be connected from a single cable path.
What network speed does the PE-031 support?
The PE-031 operates at 100Mbps and provides 100Mbps PoE outputs.
Is the PE-031 suitable for homeowners?
Absolutely. While particularly useful for professional installers, homeowners can also use the PE-031 to add cameras where running new cabling is difficult.
Last Updated: June 2026
