PoE vs Wi-Fi Video Intercom: MDU Cost Analysis

PoE (Power over Ethernet) video intercoms receive both power and data over a single Cat5e/Cat6 cable from a PoE switch, requiring no separate power supply at the door station. Wi-Fi intercoms connect wirelessly to the building's network and require a separate 12V DC or PoE power source. PoE offers more stable connectivity and easier troubleshooting; Wi-Fi offers simpler installation where Cat6 cabling to the entrance is not available. For new MDU construction, PoE is the preferred specification; for retrofit scenarios without existing Cat6 runs, Wi-Fi is often more cost-effective.

It depends on existing infrastructure. If Cat6 cabling already runs to the lobby entrance, PoE total installed cost for a 100-unit building with one lobby entry point is typically €2,000–4,000 (door station, PoE switch port, indoor app-based monitors). If new Cat6 cabling must be run, add €500–1,500 for cabling labour. Wi-Fi installation avoids cabling cost but requires a stable Wi-Fi access point within range of the entrance (typically already present in modern buildings). Wi-Fi hardware cost is similar to PoE; the cost difference is primarily in cabling labour.

Wi-Fi reliability for lobby door stations depends on signal strength and network stability at the entrance location. Lobbies with thick concrete or metal-framed walls, or distant from the nearest access point, may experience intermittent connectivity causing missed calls or video dropouts. A dedicated Wi-Fi access point within 10 metres of the door station, on a 5GHz band with low interference, provides acceptable reliability for most MDU deployments. For high-traffic buildings or where missed door calls are unacceptable, PoE is the lower-risk choice. Always perform a Wi-Fi site survey at the entrance location before specifying Wi-Fi intercom.

Yes, if both support ONVIF Profile S. The NVR or VMS does not differentiate between PoE and Wi-Fi cameras — both appear as IP devices on the network. The integration process is identical: add by IP address or ONVIF discovery, configure RTSP stream, set up door release via HTTP API or ONVIF Profile A. Mixed PoE and Wi-Fi deployments are common in MDU buildings with multiple entry points where some have Cat6 infrastructure and others do not.

Most video intercom door stations require IEEE 802.3af (PoE, 15.4W maximum) or IEEE 802.3at (PoE+, 30W maximum). Standard 1080P door stations with IR night vision typically draw 7–12W and are compatible with 802.3af switches. Door stations with built-in heating elements for extreme cold environments (-40°C operation) may draw 15–25W and require 802.3at or 802.3bt ports. Verify the door station's power draw specification against your switch's per-port PoE budget before purchasing — undersized PoE supply causes intermittent reboots and video dropouts.

Modern MDU video intercoms support three call delivery methods: dedicated indoor monitor (a wall-mounted screen in each apartment, wired or Wi-Fi), smartphone app (push notification with live video and remote door release, works outside the building), and SIP softphone (call delivered to any SIP-compatible device including desk phones). App-based delivery is the most cost-effective for new installations as it eliminates indoor monitor hardware cost. SIP delivery suits buildings with existing IP phone infrastructure. Many systems support all three simultaneously — residents choose their preferred method.

Hardware lifespan is similar — 7–10 years for quality door stations in protected lobby environments, shorter for exposed outdoor installations. Maintenance differences are primarily in troubleshooting: PoE faults are easier to diagnose (check cable continuity, PoE switch port status, power draw) and typically have a single point of failure per door station. Wi-Fi faults involve more variables (signal strength, channel interference, DHCP lease, AP firmware) and can be intermittent and harder to reproduce. For property managers without dedicated IT staff, PoE's simpler fault diagnosis is a significant operational advantage.