Altronix AL600ULM 5-Output Power Distribution Module
The Altronix AL600ULM is a compact regulated power distribution module designed to supply multiple security devices from a single AC input. It accepts standard 115VAC and converts it to selectable 12VDC or 24VDC output, delivering stable power across five independent circuits. Each output is individually PTC (positive temperature coefficient) protected — a critical feature that prevents nuisance device shutdowns when a short circuit or overcurrent condition occurs on a single output. This matters because in a multi-reader access control system or distributed alarm installation, one shorted door reader shouldn't kill power to the entire panel.
Key Features
- 5 Independent PTC-Protected Outputs: Each output has its own overcurrent limiting circuit. Unlike traditional fuses, PTC protection automatically resets when the fault clears — no field swap-outs required. Reduces downtime on multi-device deployments.
- Field-Selectable 12VDC or 24VDC Output: Configure voltage at installation time to match your device requirements. Eliminates the need for separate modules when mixed voltage systems are deployed.
- Battery Backup Capability: Integrated battery backup function maintains power during AC mains loss. Critical for access control continuity and alarm system functionality during power events. Extends hold-up time for emergency egress and alarm reporting.
- Regulated DC Conversion: 115VAC to 12/24VDC regulated conversion ensures stable voltage despite AC input fluctuations. Prevents nuisance resets on PoE cameras, card readers, and alarm transmitters.
- Class 2 Certification: All five outputs are Class 2 rated, confirming safety isolation and compliance with fire and electrical codes in North American installations.
- UL Listed Enclosure: The AL600ULM carries full UL listing for North American fire and electrical safety standards — required for most commercial security installations and insurance compliance.
- BC300 Form Factor: Compact design integrates into standard security control enclosures without consuming excessive rack or panel space.
Current and Power Budget
Output current limits depend on voltage selection: at 12VDC the module delivers up to 6A total capacity; at 24VDC, you get 4A (or 3A depending on thermal conditions and load distribution). Plan load carefully — a multi-reader access system with five readers drawing 800mA each at 12VDC (4A total) leaves headroom for transient spikes without nuisance PTC shutdowns. At 24VDC, the same five readers (proportionally lower current) fit within the 3–4A envelope with margin.
Typical Deployments
Access Control: Distribute regulated 12VDC to five door readers, a relay module, and an intercom. Each device sees stable voltage; a shorted reader output doesn't cascade to others.
Distributed Surveillance with Backup: Supply IP cameras or wireless transmitters at multiple locations. Battery backup keeps alarm reporting or PoE devices alive during a local power blip, giving you time to respond.
Alarm Panel Auxiliary Power: Feed regulated power to a bank of sensors, transmitters, or relay modules. PTC protection on each channel prevents one faulty device from disabling the entire alarm infrastructure.
Integration Notes
The AL600ULM requires standard 115VAC mains input and operates within industrial temperature ranges typical of enclosure-mounted security equipment. Connect a 12V or 24V backup battery (sold separately) to the battery terminals for hold-up capability. No software configuration needed — this is a hardware-only power distribution device with no network interface or cloud dependency.
Mounting is straightforward: DIN rail installation inside a control enclosure. Screw terminals accept 12–14 AWG field wiring. No licensing, firmware, or ONVIF/RTSP setup required — just AC in, DC out to your devices.
When to Choose a Different Approach
If you need higher output current (above 6A at 12VDC), consider larger Altronix power distribution models in the same family. If your devices are PoE-powered cameras, a PoE switch may reduce enclosure complexity. If you need intelligent power management (load shedding, remote monitoring, SNMP), investigate managed PDU solutions designed for data center or network rack applications — the AL600ULM is a simple, passive distribution device.
Warranty
Altronix backs the AL600ULM with a lifetime limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Standard industrial warranty terms apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the AL600ULM to power 24VDC cameras and 12VDC door readers at the same time?
A: No. The output voltage is field-selectable at installation — you configure it for either 12VDC or 24VDC, not both simultaneously. All five outputs deliver the same voltage. If you need mixed voltages, you would require separate distribution modules.
Q: What happens if one output shorts and triggers the PTC protection?
A: The PTC on that output will limit current and the device will shut down. Once the short is cleared (e.g., you replace the faulty device), the PTC will automatically reset without manual intervention, and power will restore to that output. The other four outputs remain unaffected.
Q: Do I need a battery to use the AL600ULM?
A: No. The battery backup function is optional. Without a battery, the module operates as a regulated 115VAC-to-DC converter with no hold-up time. If AC mains fail, output power stops immediately. Battery backup is recommended for access control and alarm systems that require continuity during power events.
Q: Is the AL600ULM UL Listed?
A: Yes. It carries full UL listing for North American installation standards, confirming compliance with fire and electrical codes required for most commercial security deployments.
Q: What is the maximum current available at each output?
A: Total capacity is 6A at 12VDC or 4–3A at 24VDC (depending on thermal load). There is no per-output limiter — all five outputs share the total budget. Plan your load distribution so no single output branch exceeds reasonable current, or the module's thermal protection may engage.
Q: Can I rack-mount or wall-mount the AL600ULM?
A: The AL600ULM is designed for DIN rail mounting inside a control enclosure (BC300 form factor). It is not intended for standalone wall or rack mounting. Install it within your security panel or equipment cabinet.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
I spec the AL600ULM in multi-reader access control environments where distributed power delivery and fault isolation are non-negotiable. The five independent PTC-protected outputs on this module eliminate a common pain point: one shorted card reader no longer cascades to disable your entire door system. That automatic PTC reset saves you a service call.
Technical Highlights:
- Independent PTC Per Output: Each of the five outputs has its own overcurrent limiting circuit. At 12VDC you can draw up to 6A total; at 24VDC, 4A or 3A depending on thermal headroom. Unlike fused designs, PTC resets automatically when the fault clears — no field replacement needed.
- Regulated 115VAC-to-DC Conversion: Input voltage swings don't translate to output sag. Your card readers, PoE cameras, and alarm transmitters see stable 12 or 24VDC regardless of mains fluctuation. Eliminates nuisance resets on sensitive edge devices.
- Field-Selectable Output Voltage: Configure for 12VDC or 24VDC at install time. No need to stock two different SKUs; one AL600ULM covers both voltage families in your deployment mix.
- Class 2 Certification on All Five Outputs: Each output is Class 2 rated — critical for fire code compliance and insurance requirements in commercial security installations. Simplifies wiring and eliminates secondary protective devices in many jurisdictions.
Deployment Considerations:
- All five outputs share the total current budget — there is no per-output current limiter. At 12VDC, if you load four outputs at 1.2A each, you've used 4.8A of your 6A total. The fifth output has only 1.2A headroom. Plan load distribution carefully on multi-device systems.
- Battery backup is optional but necessary for access control continuity. Factor in battery sizing and charging circuit design — the AL600ULM provides the connection points, but you source the 12V or 24V battery separately. This is a deliberate design choice: you specify battery capacity based on your hold-up time requirement, not a fixed module limitation.
- This module requires DIN rail space inside an enclosure. It is not a standalone wall-mounted or rack-mounted device. Include it in your control panel design, not as an afterthought external supply.
The AL600ULM is the right choice for distributed multi-device access or alarm systems where you need reliable, fault-isolated power and battery hold-up capability. It is not the right choice for simple single-device power, or for systems requiring mixed 12VDC and 24VDC on the same module. For higher current budgets (above 6A at 12VDC), check larger Altronix distribution modules in the same family.
