• Teleswagz@alien.topB
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    11 months ago

    The splitter you linked says that the connections can be used simultaneously. Is it any different than a switch?

    I use actual switches but am curious of the difference with this product

    • JuicyCoala@alien.topB
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      11 months ago

      It can work simultaneously, by limiting the link speed to 100 mbps each (2 pairs each port). It literally “splits” the RJ45 input into 2 pairs to power both ports. So if you are good with 100 mbps link speeds for 2 devices (i.e., a smart TV that usually has a 100 mbps NIC and an old Apple TV HD which also has a 100 mbps NIC), then you can buy/use this product.

      • Complex_Solutions_20@alien.topB
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        11 months ago

        Nah look closer - its a switch. USB power supply and normal switch LED indicators on the ports.

        Idk why they are marketing it as a “splitter” making it sound inferior…that should make for more painful searches next time I need an actual splitter. Which can be handy for like 2x PoE cameras over 1 existing drop…and even 4K cameras will never saturate 100Mbps so its fine.

        • JuicyCoala@alien.topB
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          11 months ago

          There are 3 types of ethernet splitter - passive, active (requires power to amplify signals) and PoE splitters. This one seems to be an active ethernet splitter, thus it is powered. The LED indicators can exist in either a splitter or an ethernet switch. They can’t call a switch a splitter and vice-versa, because each device works differently than the other. Just because it is powered and has LED lights doesn’t mean it’s a switch. The old ethernet hub has LED lights and is powered, but it is not a switch.

        • megared17@alien.topB
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          11 months ago

          On amazon even normal switches have that term “splitter” in the description.

          Even the TP-link switch that /u/1sh0t1b33r posted.

          https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00A128S24

          TP-Link TL-SG105, 5 Port Gigabit Unmanaged Ethernet Switch, Network Hub, Ethernet Splitter, Plug & Play, Fanless Metal Design

          They include it because its a term many naive users search for.

  • Ryokurin@alien.topB
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    11 months ago

    Reminds me of things like straight 50-Foot HDMI cables, chances are they aren’t going to work because they are out of spec, but because so many people who don’t know any better ask for them some company out there is willing to make it.

    I used to go through this so much at work. Even if you tell them it won’t work, chances are they’ll order it anyways because “they wouldn’t make it if it didn’t work!” :rolleyes: