Hikvision DS-3E0105P-E/M(B) 5-Port PoE Switch

Hikvision DS-3E0105P-E/M(B) 5-Port PoE Switch: The Complete Guide

The Hikvision DS-3E0105P-E/M(B) is a compact, unmanaged 5-port Gigabit Ethernet switch designed specifically for small-scale IP surveillance and networking setups. With four of its ports delivering Power over Ethernet (PoE+), it eliminates the need for multiple power adapters, providing a clean and centralized power source for cameras, access points, and other devices.

Who Is This Switch For? (Ideal Use Cases)

This switch is a perfect fit for:

• Home & SMB Security Systems: Powering a small cluster of 2-4 Hikvision or other brand IP cameras.

• Small Office Networks: Connecting and powering a few VoIP phones and wireless access points.

• Edge/Remote Installations: Placing a switch right where needed (e.g., in a ceiling void) to power devices without running separate power lines.

• Network Expansion: Adding a group of PoE devices to a network where the main router lacks PoE ports.

Key Features & Benefits (Readability Focus)

1. Plug-and-Play Simplicity

• What it does: As an unmanaged switch, it requires zero configuration. Just connect your cables, and it works instantly.

• Why it matters: Perfect for installers and users who need a reliable, “set-it-and-forget-it” solution without the complexity of managed networks.

2. Robust PoE+ Power Budget

• What it does: The four PoE ports support the 802.3at (PoE+) standard, delivering up to 30W per port with a total power budget of 54W.

• Why it matters: This allows you to power demanding devices like PTZ cameras, heated outdoor cameras, or high-performance Wi-Fi 6 access points that require more than standard PoE.

3. Compact and Versatile Design

• What it is: Its small, lightweight form factor comes with multiple mounting options: desktop, wall-mount, or DIN-rail.

• Why it matters: This flexibility lets you install it neatly in electrical cabinets, on walls, or on shelves, making it ideal for discreet and space-constrained installations.

4. Gigabit Performance Across All Ports

• What it does: All five ports support 10/100/1000 Mbps speeds, including the uplink port.

• Why it matters: Ensures full-speed data transfer for high-resolution video streams and network traffic without becoming a bottleneck. You won’t lose video quality due to a slow switch.

Full Technical Specifications

How to Set Up the DS-3E0105P-E/M(B) (Step-by-Step)

Setup is incredibly simple, taking only a few minutes.

1. Mount the Switch: Choose your preferred location and mount the switch on a wall, DIN rail, or simply place it on a desktop.

2. Connect the Power: Plug the integrated power cord into a standard wall outlet. The switch will power on.

3. Connect to Your Network: Use an Ethernet cable to connect Port 5 (the Uplink port) to your main router or network switch.

4. Connect Your Devices: Plug your PoE devices (cameras, APs, etc.) into Ports 1 through 4. The switch will automatically detect and power compatible devices.

5. Verify Operation: Check the LED indicators next to each port. A solid green light indicates a link, and a yellow/orange light indicates PoE is being supplied.

Power Budget Planning (Crucial Consideration)

The 54W total budget is the most important spec to understand. You cannot run all four ports at a full 30W simultaneously.

Example Scenarios:

• 4x Standard IP Cameras: (e.g., each using 5-7W) = ~20-28W total. Well within the 54W budget.

• 2x Power-Hungry Devices: (e.g., one PTZ camera at 20W + one heated camera at 15W) = 35W total. Still within budget.

• 4x High-Power Devices: (e.g., four devices each needing 20W) = 80W total. This will exceed the budget and cause devices to power off randomly.

Always add up the max power consumption of all connected devices to ensure it’s under 54W.

Comparison: Who is it Better Than?

Verdict: The Hikvision switch wins on simplicity, cost, and versatile mounting for basic plug-and-play PoE applications, especially within a Hikvision ecosystem. It loses to managed switches like the Ubiquiti USW-Flex on features like VLANs, remote management, and power scheduling.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is this switch only for Hikvision cameras?
A: No. It uses standard 802.3af/at PoE+, making it compatible with any PoE-powered device from any brand, including Dahua, Axis, Reolink cameras, Ubiquiti Access Points, and VoIP phones.

Q: Can I use Port 5 for a PoE device?
A: No. Port 5 is a standard, non-PoE Gigabit port designed solely for connecting to your upstream network (router or main switch).

Q: What happens if I exceed the 54W power budget?
A: The switch has overload protection. It will typically stop powering one or more devices to prevent damage, causing them to reboot or go offline unpredictably.

Q: Is it fanless?
A: Yes. The switch has no moving parts, making it completely silent, which is ideal for office or residential environments.

Q: Can it be used outdoors?
A: No. This is an indoor-rated switch. For outdoor use, it must be placed in a sealed, waterproof, and ventilated enclosure.

Conclusion & Final Recommendation

The Hikvision DS-3E0105P-E/M(B) is an excellent, no-nonsense PoE switch that excels in its intended role: powering a small group of devices simply and reliably. Its plug-and-play operation, robust PoE+ support, and flexible mounting make it a top-tier choice for small security systems and office networks.