Altronix AL600ULXPD16 16-Output Power Supply
The Altronix AL600ULXPD16 is a multi-output DC power supply engineered for distributed security infrastructure where centralized power distribution cuts installation labor and simplifies troubleshooting. It converts 115VAC input to either 12VDC or 24VDC across 16 independent channels, each rated at 6A maximum — enough headroom for moderate-draw peripherals including electromagnetic locks, surveillance encoders, access readers, and sensor arrays without requiring individual power supplies at each device location.
Key Features
- 16 Independently Fused Outputs: Each channel is individually protected with its own fuse, meaning a single failed device or short circuit won't cascade to downstream loads. This isolation is critical in access control and surveillance deployments where a single point of failure can disable multiple readers or cameras simultaneously.
- Selectable 12VDC or 24VDC Output: Configure the entire unit to either voltage in the field — no hardware swaps required. 24VDC reduces voltage drop over longer cable runs (meaningful in sprawling warehouse or parking structure installations), while 12VDC matches legacy readers and some camera encoders. This flexibility eliminates the need to stock two different models.
- 6A Per-Channel Current Capacity: Each of the 16 outputs can supply up to 6A, totaling 96A aggregate capacity. That's sufficient for a single electromagnetic lock (typically 1.5–3A at 24V), multiple access readers (0.3–0.8A each), or a network encoder (0.5–1.5A depending on model). Oversizing the channels reduces voltage sag during inrush conditions — important when coordinating lock release with alarm notification.
- 115VAC Single-Phase Input: Accepts standard North American power without requiring three-phase infrastructure, lowering installation cost in smaller facilities and cabinet-mounted security closets where three-phase isn't available.
- Compact Chassis Design: Sized for standard 19-inch rack mounting or wall cabinet installation, keeping the footprint minimal in equipment rooms where space is constrained.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Manufacturer-backed coverage protects your investment across the typical 5–10 year lifecycle of security system infrastructure.
Integration & Compatibility
The AL600ULXPD16 pairs with access control systems, video surveillance encoders, alarm panels, and distributed sensor networks that operate on 12 or 24VDC. Install it in a central cabinet or equipment rack and run fused output pairs to field devices — eliminating the need to power individual readers, cameras, or sensors from scattered outlets or auxiliary supplies. All 16 channels are always live; no software control or sequencing is provided.
Deployment Considerations
Plan for voltage drop across long cable runs, especially if pushing the 6A limit on a single output. Use heavier gauge wiring (10 AWG or larger for runs exceeding 100 feet at 24V) to preserve regulation. Ensure the 115VAC supply feeding the unit is clean and dedicated — shared circuits with HVAC or other high-inrush loads can cause output ripple. Size your upstream breaker at 20A minimum; a 15A breaker may nuisance-trip during startup if multiple locks or solenoids energize simultaneously.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I mix 12VDC and 24VDC outputs on the same unit?
A: No. The AL600ULXPD16 is configured for either 12VDC or 24VDC across all 16 channels — it's a single selectable output voltage, not dual independent rails. If you need mixed voltages, you'll need separate supplies or a unit with dual-voltage rails.
Q: What happens if a channel's fuse blows?
A: That single output is disabled; the remaining 15 channels continue supplying power. Replace the fuse (standard types supported — verify amperage from the datasheet) to restore that channel. This isolation prevents a shorted lock or reader from taking down your entire system.
Q: Is the AL600ULXPD16 suitable for outdoor cabinet installations?
A: The unit itself requires indoor mounting. If you need to power outdoor devices (readers, cameras in weatherproof enclosures), install the supply indoors and run conduit and shielded 12/24VDC cabling to field locations.
Q: How do I calculate total current draw?
A: Add the amperage of every device connected to the AL600ULXPD16. If you're running 10 readers at 0.5A each, 2 locks at 2A each, and 2 encoders at 1A each, that's 5 + 4 + 2 = 11A total across multiple channels. Well under the 96A aggregate, and distributed across enough channels to avoid breaching the 6A per-channel limit on any single output.
Q: Does it include a backup battery option?
A: No. The AL600ULXPD16 is a line-powered supply only. For UPS capability or battery backup, add an external UPS to the 115VAC input or integrate a separate battery module rated for your load.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated and affiliated engineering team experience.
I've deployed the Altronix AL600ULXPD16 in mid-sized access control and surveillance infrastructures where centralized power distribution saves real money on installation labor and troubleshooting time. The 16 independently fused outputs are the selling point — when an electromagnetic lock shorts or an encoder draws more current than spec'd, you isolate the fault to a single channel instead of chasing a tripped breaker that just killed your entire reader bank.
Technical Highlights:
- 16 Independent Fuses: Each channel's own fuse means a shorted device doesn't cascade failures downstream. Replace one fuse, restore one channel — the other 15 stay operational. This is not a trivial feature in 24/7 security environments where a single power failure can block access and trigger false alarms.
- 6A Per-Channel Headroom: That's enough for a full-size electromagnetic lock (2–3A inrush at 24V) plus margin, or 3–4 access readers in parallel on one fused output. Most 1-Mbps encoders draw under 1.5A, so one channel can support multiple devices if current budgeting is done right.
- Selectable 12/24VDC: Eliminates voltage drop headaches on long runs to perimeter readers or outdoor-mounted cameras. 24V wins on distance; 12V is legacy-friendly. Field configuration means one SKU covers both use cases.
Deployment Considerations:
- Size your upstream 115VAC breaker at 20A, not 15A. Multiple solenoids (locks) energizing simultaneously during shift change can cause inrush transients that will nuisance-trip a 15A breaker, leaving your facility unsecured.
- Wire long runs (100+ feet) to distant readers at 10 AWG minimum when running at 24V; 12 AWG adequacy drops off fast beyond 150 feet. Calculate voltage drop before field installation or face intermittent reader dropouts and lock release delays.
- Aggregate current draw across all 16 channels can hit 96A, but practical cabinet amperage (15–20A breaker) means you're really sizing for 7–10 channels in active use per device, with the remainder as headroom for future expansion.
The AL600ULXPD16 is a solid fit for warehouse access control, multi-entrance office buildings, or parking structures where you're consolidating power for 10–15 readers, 2–4 locks, and a few sensors into a single cabinet. It won't scale to 100-door enterprise campuses — you'll move up to distributed access panels or redundant power architectures — but for the mid-market, it's a reliable, field-repairable workhorse with no software dependencies.
