Altronix ALTV2416 16-Output Power Distribution Supply
Overview
The Altronix ALTV2416 is a wall-mounted power distribution unit designed to simplify low-voltage infrastructure in mid-to-large security deployments. It accepts standard 115VAC, 50/60Hz mains input and converts that to either 24VAC or 28VAC output across 16 independent circuits. Each channel is individually fused, meaning a fault on one load doesn't bring down the entire panel — a critical detail when coordinating power for multiple cameras, access control readers, door strikes, and auxiliary devices in the same installation.
This is a purpose-built backbone for distributed security systems where centralized power makes sense but single-point failure is not an option. The ALTV2416 eliminates the need to spec a dozen separate wall-wart supplies or improvised multi-tap solutions.
Key Features
- 16 Independently Fused Outputs: Each channel has its own fuse. If a camera short or solenoid lock draws too much current, only that fuse pops — the other 15 channels stay live. This isolation is essential in professional installations where downtime cascades across unrelated systems.
- Switchable 24VAC or 28VAC Output: A single jumper selects voltage for the entire unit. 24VAC is the historical standard for IP cameras and access control; 28VAC is sometimes preferred for longer runs or higher-impedance loads because it delivers better voltage regulation at the far end of the wire. One unit covers both requirements; no need to stock two SKUs.
- 8A Maximum Current at 24VAC / 7A Maximum Current at 28VAC: The power budget is 192W at 24VAC (8A × 24V) or 196W at 28VAC (7A × 28V). For context, a typical IP camera draws 2–8W; a door strike 5–10W. Do your math upfront — in a busy control room with 16 loads, you'll hit thermal limits if everything runs at peak current simultaneously. Plan conservatively, or this unit becomes a bottleneck.
- Wall-Mount Form Factor: Mounts directly to a DIN rail or wall surface. Compact footprint keeps it out of oversized equipment racks. Cable routing is straightforward — AC input in one side, 16 fused outputs (typically terminal blocks or screw terminals, depending on your source supplier) on the front or back.
- 115VAC, 50/60Hz Input Compatibility: Accepts standard North American mains (and 50Hz regions, so it's portable across continents if you're maintaining multiple sites). No step-down transformer needed if you're already operating 120V service in your comms closet.
- CE European Conformity Certification: Meets relevant EU electrical and safety directives — important if you're selling systems into European markets or shipping units internationally. Indicates testing for electrical safety and EMC.
Integration and Deployment Context
The ALTV2416 sits between your main AC panel and the low-voltage infrastructure. Wire it to a 20A or 15A circuit breaker on the mains side — overfuse it and you defeat the individual channel fuses, so size your feed appropriately. On the output side, connect your IP cameras, card readers, electric locks, and relay modules. Each load gets its own fused pair of terminals.
In larger video surveillance deployments, you may run multiple ALTV2416 units in parallel, each handling a section of the site (e.g., front building, rear zone, parking). Coordinate breaker labeling and document the fuse assignments so field technicians can troubleshoot a dead camera without blind guessing.
Consider this unit for access control integration where power distribution is centralized but loads are distributed — typical in office, warehouse, or multi-building campuses where a single power source feeds many locks and readers across different zones.
Power Budget and Thermal Planning
The maximum aggregate draw is constrained by the transformer and circuit design. If you're running 12 cameras at 5W each (60W total) plus four door strikes at 8W each (32W), you're at 92W — safe. But if you add motion detectors, strobe lights, and auxiliary devices, monitor cumulative load. Oversubscribe and the unit enters current limiting or thermal shutdown; your system becomes unreliable. Spreadsheet your load forecast before installation.
Warranty and Support
Altronix backs this unit with a lifetime limited warranty, meaning manufacturer defects are covered for the life of the product (not the end user — clarify this with your reseller). Provides peace of mind, but read the fine print on what "limited" excludes (typically misuse, physical damage, unauthorized repair).
When to Choose a Different Approach
If you need more than 16 channels, stack multiple ALTV2416 units or consider a higher-capacity modular power system from Altronix's larger industrial line. If you require PoE delivery instead of VAC, you'll need a different topology — PoE switches or injectors. If your loads are very low power (under 30W total), a single universal 24VAC wall-mount supply may suffice and cost less. If you need UPS or battery backup, the ALTV2416 is passive AC-to-AC; integrate a UPS module downstream or choose an all-in-one UPS-equipped supply enclosure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I run the ALTV2416 at 24VAC and 28VAC simultaneously across different outputs?
A: No. The output voltage is selected via jumper for the entire unit. All 16 outputs will be either 24VAC or 28VAC; you cannot mix on a single board. If you need both voltages, deploy two units.
Q: What size fuses does the ALTV2416 use, and are they user-replaceable?
A: The evidence provided does not specify fuse type or amperage. Consult the full datasheet or contact the manufacturer for fuse specifications before commissioning.
Q: Is the ALTV2416 NDAA Section 889 compliant?
A: No certification for NDAA compliance is mentioned in the product documentation. If government procurement requires it, verify with the supplier or manufacturer.
Q: Can I daisy-chain multiple ALTV2416 units for higher capacity?
A: Yes, you can install multiple units in parallel, each on its own mains circuit, to expand channel count and total power capacity. Ensure your AC distribution panel has sufficient capacity and breaker slots.
Q: Does the ALTV2416 include a backup battery or UPS function?
A: No. The ALTV2416 is a passive AC-to-VAC transformer distribution unit with no energy storage. It provides power only when mains AC is present. For battery-backed operation, integrate an external UPS module or select an all-in-one UPS enclosure.
Q: What is the physical form factor and mounting method?
A: The ALTV2416 is a wall-mount power distribution unit. Mounting hardware and exact dimensions are available in the manufacturer's datasheet.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix ALTV2416 is a straightforward workhorse for any mid-scale security deployment where you need to distribute 24VAC or 28VAC to multiple cameras, access control devices, and auxiliary loads from a single mains connection. The real value is in the individual fusing — it prevents a single fault from cascading across your entire system.
Technical Highlights:
- 8A @ 24VAC (192W total budget): Enough for 15–20 typical IP cameras or a mix of cameras and door strikes, but plan your load carefully. Oversubscription will trigger thermal limiting.
- Switchable 24VAC / 28VAC: One SKU covers both the industry standard (24VAC) and long-run deployments that prefer the higher voltage for better end-of-line voltage regulation.
- 16 Independent Fuses: Isolation per channel is the distinguishing feature. When a technician reports a dead camera, you flip the breaker on that channel and the other 15 keep working — critical in production environments.
Deployment Considerations:
- Do not treat the ALTV2416 as infinite power. 192W at 24VAC goes quickly if you run high-draw devices (strobe lights, powerful solenoids, multiple door readers). Spreadsheet your load before installation.
- The ALTV2416 is AC-to-AC, not AC-to-DC. If your equipment requires 12VDC, you'll need downstream buck converters or a different supply topology.
- CE certification covers electrical safety and EMC, but does not imply NDAA, TAA, or other government procurement compliance. Confirm with your integrator if you're subject to federal sourcing restrictions.
The ALTV2416 is most effective in warehouse automation, multi-zone access control, distributed CCTV, and any site where a single centralized VAC power point feeds a network of low-voltage loads across different zones. Size your AC feed generously (20A recommended), label every fuse slot, and you'll have a reliable backbone that lasts the life of the installation.
