Altronix AL168300CB 16VAC Power Supply with 8 PTC Outputs
Overview
The Altronix AL168300CB is a regulated 16VAC power supply delivering 18 amps of output current across eight individually protected PTC outputs. Housed in a BC300 metal enclosure, this unit is engineered for distributed power delivery in security and access control installations where multiple devices require reliable, supervised power from a single source. The AL168300CB accepts 115VAC input and provides the voltage regulation and overcurrent protection essential for modern IP-based and legacy analog systems.
Key Features
- 16VAC Output Voltage — Delivers regulated 16VAC suitable for a wide range of security devices and electromagnetic locks
- 18 Amp Total Current — Provides substantial aggregate power capacity for multi-device installations
- Eight PTC-Protected Outputs — Each output includes Positive Temperature Coefficient protection that automatically limits current if an overload condition occurs, eliminating the need for manual fuse replacement and reducing service calls
- 115VAC Input — Standard North American mains voltage compatibility
- BC300 Enclosure — Industrial-grade metal housing suitable for wall-mount or equipment-rack deployment in utility, telecommunications, and security control rooms
- CE Approval — Meets applicable European conformity standards
Integration & Compatibility
The AL168300CB integrates into distributed power architectures serving access control panels, card readers, magnetic locks, request-to-exit devices, and auxiliary security equipment. The PTC output protection scheme prevents nuisance shutdowns caused by transient load spikes, making it suitable for installations mixing legacy 16VAC loads with modern low-power electronics. Eight separate circuits allow technicians to isolate device groups logically, simplifying troubleshooting and maintenance. The regulated 16VAC output maintains stable voltage across the typical voltage drop of extended runs to remote devices.
Specification Summary
Input voltage is 115VAC. Output is 16VAC at a maximum of 18 amps total. The unit features eight individually PTC-protected outputs, each capable of delivering regulated power without fuse replacement upon transient overcurrent. The BC300 enclosure provides physical protection and a standardized form factor for installation in security control environments. CE approval confirms compliance with applicable electromagnetic compatibility and safety directives.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix AL168300CB represents a foundational choice for integrators deploying multi-device 16VAC systems in access control and security applications. During planning phases for distributed lock and reader networks, this supply delivers the current capacity and circuit isolation necessary to eliminate single points of failure in power delivery.
Technical Highlights:
- PTC Output Protection: Each of the eight outputs uses Positive Temperature Coefficient devices that self-limit current under fault conditions, eliminating the need for field-replaceable fuses and reducing unplanned downtime.
- Ample Current Headroom: The 18-amp total capacity supports simultaneous operation of multiple electromagnetic locks, card readers, and auxiliary devices without voltage sag across typical installation distances.
Deployment Considerations:
- Verify that all connected devices are rated for 16VAC operation; this supply is not suitable for 12VDC systems without a separate DC supply.
- Plan output circuit assignments early in the design phase to ensure balanced loading and to group logically related devices (e.g., main entrance locks on one output, secondary access points on another) for operational clarity.
The AL168300CB is a reliable workhorse for mid-scale installations. Its combination of adequate power delivery, automated overload protection, and modular output architecture makes it a practical selection when you need to power eight or fewer independently supervised device groups from a single, wall-mounted source.
