Altronix AL600ULXPD16CB 16-Output Regulated Power Supply
The Altronix AL600ULXPD16CB is a 16-output regulated DC power supply built for distributed power delivery in access control, sensor networks, and exit device installations where space constraints and circuit consolidation are priorities. This unit eliminates the need for multiple single-output supplies by bundling 16 independent outputs into one compact panel-mounted chassis, reducing wiring complexity and footprint in crowded equipment racks.
Key Features
- Selectable 12VDC or 24VDC output: Choose voltage once during configuration—all 16 outputs operate at the selected voltage, matching the requirements of your access control readers, electronic locks, and solenoid devices without additional conversion equipment.
- 16 independent outputs: Each output is regulated separately, preventing voltage droop when one circuit draws heavily; critical when powering a mix of door readers, magnetic locks, and request-to-exit buttons on the same supply.
- 6A rated capacity: Total output of 6A across all 16 circuits means each individual output can safely handle 375mA average draw—sufficient for typical access control zone loads, but requires load calculation across multiple circuits to avoid exceeding total budget.
- Regulated DC output: Factory-set and maintained voltage output prevents lock chatter, reader instability, and false sensor triggers caused by unregulated or sagging power—important in installations with long cable runs or high-impedance circuits.
- Compact panel form factor: DIN-rail or wall-mount integration takes minimal cabinet space, freeing room for relays, terminal blocks, and expansion modules without requiring a separate power enclosure.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Manufacturer-backed coverage for internal component failure provides long-term cost protection in deployments where power supply replacement labor is expensive.
Typical Applications
Multi-zone access control and electronic lock systems benefit most from the AL600ULXPD16CB, because one supply replaces 16 individual units and eliminates bulk in the control cabinet. Distributed sensor and detector power circuits—motion sensors, door contact switches, and environmental monitors—can share outputs without cross-talk when each detector draws under 150mA. Exit device and door control circuits (request-to-exit buttons, electric strike solenoids, electric latch retraction) run reliably when wired to separate outputs, isolating load transients. Camera and auxiliary equipment power feeds can also use isolated outputs, though video equipment often requires higher current or dedicated supplies for noise isolation.
Integration & Compatibility
The AL600ULXPD16CB integrates into any access control or distributed power system that requires 12VDC or 24VDC regulated feeds. It does not include integral backup battery; separate UPS or battery backup systems must be specified separately if uptime during AC loss is required. Terminal block connections accept 14–2 AWG wire, standard in most security control installations. No software configuration or network connectivity is required—voltage selection and load balancing are manual design tasks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I mix 12VDC and 24VDC loads on the same AL600ULXPD16CB supply?
A: No. All 16 outputs are configured to the same voltage (12VDC or 24VDC) at installation. Mixing voltages requires two separate units or external DC-DC converters on specific circuits.
Q: What happens if I exceed 6A total across all 16 outputs?
A: The supply has internal current limiting; outputs will reduce voltage or shut down to protect the unit. Exceeding the rating risks nuisance shutdowns of your access control system. Always calculate total load per output and total system draw before deployment.
Q: Does the AL600ULXPD16CB require any network or software configuration?
A: No. It is a passive regulated power supply with no IP address, no web interface, and no firmware. Once wired and voltage selected, it requires no ongoing management.
Q: What is the warranty on the AL600ULXPD16CB?
A: Lifetime Limited Warranty covering manufacturing defects and component failure. This covers the power supply itself, not connected devices.
Q: Can the AL600ULXPD16CB be mounted outside a cabinet?
A: Yes. DIN-rail and surface-mount configurations are possible. However, the unit is not environmentally sealed; it must remain inside an enclosure or climate-controlled space to prevent moisture and dust ingress.
Q: Is battery backup available for the AL600ULXPD16CB?
A: The AL600ULXPD16CB itself has no integrated battery. Backup power requires a separate UPS system or dedicated battery module connected upstream to maintain output during AC mains failure.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix AL600ULXPD16CB solves a real installation problem: managing 16 separate DC power circuits without cabinet bloat or cabling chaos. At 6A total capacity, it's built for distributed sensor and access control loads, not high-drain equipment like camera arrays or industrial solenoids. Load budget math is the make-or-break detail here.
Technical Highlights:
- 16 independent regulated outputs: Each output is isolated from the others, so a door strike drawing 2A on one circuit won't cause voltage sag on a reader circuit—critical in large access control systems where simultaneous draws are unpredictable.
- Selectable 12VDC or 24VDC: Matches your legacy access control infrastructure (older systems often use 12V, newer ones 24V) without requiring external converters. Voltage is set once during installation.
- 6A total budget across all 16 outputs: This is a constraint, not a limitation—it's enough for roughly 16 devices at 375mA each, or a mix of light loads. A single solenoid door strike can draw 2–3A; magnetic locks can draw 0.6–1.5A depending on model. You must sum all loads before ordering.
Deployment Considerations:
- Load calculation is non-negotiable. If you have 16 door readers at 200mA each plus 8 solenoids at 1A each, you're at 10.4A total—you'll exceed the supply's capability and trigger current limiting. Measure your actual draws, don't guess.
- No backup power—if AC mains fail, all 16 outputs go dead immediately. Access control systems using the AL600ULXPD16CB need a separate UPS or battery module if any zone must remain powered during a power loss event (e.g., emergency exits, badge readers for personnel egress).
- The unit generates heat under sustained full load; ensure adequate ventilation in the cabinet. Mounting on a DIN rail in a cramped lockbox can cause thermal stress.
Position the AL600ULXPD16CB in mid-size access control installations (8–12 zones) where you need clean, regulated power for readers, solenoids, and sensors, but don't have high-current bursts or redundancy requirements. For larger systems (16+ zones with simultaneous draws), split loads across two units or specify a higher-capacity power supply family.
