Methods and systems of monitoring voltage input to network elements are provided. One method includes receiving an input voltage (Vin) for a line-powered network element, applying the input voltage across a primary winding (L1) of a flyback power converter (102) during an on-time of a primary switch (Q2), and transferring the input voltage from the primary winding to a secondary winding of the flyback power converter during an off-time of the primary switch. The method further includes sensing the voltage of the secondary winding during the on-time of the primary switch; and drawing minimal current from the flyback power converter. (FIG.1)