At first glance, a generic PoE switch and an AETEK switch dedicated to video surveillance cost about the same. The difference shows up after installation: generic switches are not certified for the sustained load and start-up peaks of IP cameras, which leads to intermittent reboots, overheating in poorly ventilated equipment cabinets and, in practice, loss of warranty cover when the problem is reported to the manufacturer.
What dedicated certification guarantees
The AETEK range has been designed specifically for CCTV: PoE ports with a power budget calculated for cameras (not for generic network equipment), more robust surge protection - relevant in outdoor installations - and, on several models, redundant power supply for critical infrastructure.
The cost of choosing on price
A cheaper switch that fails after 18 months, in an installation where replacing it means a technician call-out and a service outage, ends up costing more than the initial price difference. For installers, it also means fewer service calls and fewer customer complaints.
AVPRO has recently begun distributing the AETEK range in Portugal, with stock available. If you install CCTV regularly, it is worth comparing the total cost of ownership, not just the list price.