TP-Link 8-Port 10/100Mbps+2-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch with 8-Port PoE+ (LS1210P)

The TP-Link 8-Port 10/100Mbps + 2-Port Gigabit Desktop Switch with 8-Port PoE+ (LS1210P) is a highly practical and cost-effective solution for expanding wired networks, particularly in scenarios where Power over Ethernet (PoE) is needed for devices that primarily operate at Fast Ethernet speeds (10/100Mbps). It’s an unmanaged switch, emphasizing simplicity and plug-and-play functionality.

Overview of the TP-Link LS1210P

The LS1210P is a unique switch due to its mixed port speeds: it features 8 Fast Ethernet (10/100Mbps) RJ45 ports, all with PoE+ capability, and 2 Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000Mbps) RJ45 uplink ports. This configuration makes it ideal for powering common PoE devices like IP cameras (which often don’t require Gigabit speeds) while providing Gigabit uplinks to the core network or NVRs (Network Video Recorders) for smooth data transfer. As an unmanaged switch, it requires no configuration, offering instant connectivity right out of the box.

Key Features and Capabilities

• 8 x 10/100Mbps RJ45 Ports with PoE+ (802.3at/af):
  • These 8 ports provide Fast Ethernet speeds, which are perfectly adequate for most IP cameras, VoIP phones, and basic wireless access points.
  • Each of these 8 ports supports PoE+ (802.3at/af), delivering up to 30W of power per port. This allows for convenient power delivery to compliant PoE devices over the same Ethernet cable that carries data.
  • 96W Total PoE Power Budget: A solid power budget for its class, allowing you to power a significant number of PoE+ devices simultaneously, making it suitable for small to medium-sized surveillance systems or small office PoE needs.
• 2 x Gigabit (10/100/1000Mbps) RJ45 Uplink Ports:
  • These two dedicated Gigabit ports provide high-speed uplinks. This is crucial for connecting the switch to your main network router, a Network Video Recorder (NVR) for IP cameras, or a server, ensuring that the aggregated traffic from the Fast Ethernet PoE devices doesn’t bottleneck the overall network.
• Plug and Play: As an unmanaged switch, the LS1210P is incredibly easy to set up. Simply connect your devices and power it on; no software installation or configuration is required.
• Extend Mode (Up to 250m PoE Transmission):
  • A significant feature for surveillance applications. When activated, “Extend Mode” allows data and PoE power transmission over Ethernet cables for up to 250 meters (820 feet). This dramatically extends the reach of your PoE devices beyond the standard 100-meter limit, reducing the need for additional power outlets or repeaters for long cable runs, especially useful for distant IP cameras.
• Isolation Mode:
  • This feature allows for one-click client traffic separation. When enabled, ports within the isolation group (typically ports 1-8) cannot communicate with each other, but they can still communicate with the uplink ports. This enhances security and performance by preventing broadcast storms and improving overall network efficiency, particularly beneficial in surveillance systems where cameras shouldn’t communicate directly with each other.
• PoE Auto Recovery:
  • Ensures reliable operation of PoE-powered devices (PDs). If a PoE device drops its connection or becomes unresponsive, the switch can automatically detect this and reboot the device by cycling its power, guaranteeing continuous operation without manual intervention.
• Fanless Design:
  • The LS1210P features a fanless design, which means it operates silently. This makes it ideal for deployment in noise-sensitive environments such as homes, small offices, or recording studios.
• Durable Metal Casing:
  • Housed in a sturdy metal casing, the switch is built for durability and long-term reliability. Its compact desktop design also supports wall-mounting, offering flexible placement options.
• Basic QoS (802.1p/DSCP) and IGMP Snooping Support:
  • While unmanaged, it includes basic support for 802.1p/DSCP QoS, meaning it can recognize and respect QoS tags if present in the incoming traffic. Similarly, it supports IGMP Snooping to help optimize multicast traffic (like video streams) by forwarding them only to requesting devices, preventing network flooding. These are passive features and not configurable on the switch.

Ideal Use Cases

The TP-Link LS1210P is an excellent choice for:

• IP Surveillance Systems: Its 8 Fast Ethernet PoE+ ports with Extend Mode, Isolation Mode, and PoE Auto Recovery make it highly suitable for powering and managing up to 8 IP cameras, especially where longer cable runs are needed.
• Small Offices / Home Offices (SOHO): Providing PoE+ for VoIP phones, wireless access points, or other low-to-medium bandwidth PoE devices.
• Small Retail Stores: Powering security cameras, POS systems, and basic Wi-Fi access points.
• Expanding Wired Networks: Easily adding PoE functionality to an existing network without complex setup.
• Anyone needing a straightforward, reliable, and cost-effective PoE switch with specialized features for surveillance