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1. Why are IEC/Edison cables so thick if Ethernet can carry the equivalent power?

2. How does PoE compare to Powerline Networking?

No Ethernet cable that I’m aware of is capable of carrying anywhere near 15A of current. Even type 4 (90W assuming 57V) is 1.5A.

And don't forget that, with ethernet, every device needs its own run of cable, its own port at the router, ect, ect. Normal power cables support multiple devices.

1. Assuming IEC refers to cables we plug a desktop PSU into mains/wall: IEC can carry up to 1800w vs 100w PoE++

2. Powerline networking is considerably slower and less reliable than CAT5/6. Additionally, building code for running power lines is much more strict than low voltage CAT5/6

Nerdsniped: You're describing a IEC 60320 C13 cable - they're technically only spec'd for 10A, which means you're looking at ~1200W, not 1800.

(However, UL will list them for the full 15A -> 1800W, and I'm sure plenty carry that. And for that matter, I suppose you can get twice that in Europe on 240v...)

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