Altronix HUBWAY16DI 16-Channel UTP Passive Transceiver Hub
Overview
The Altronix HUBWAY16DI is a 1U rack-mounted passive transceiver hub designed for professional security system integrators who require centralized video distribution across long-distance UTP cabling runs. This 16-channel unit terminates video signals transmitted over standard unshielded twisted-pair wiring and regenerates them at the hub, extending video reach up to 750 feet per channel. The integrated 24/28VAC isolated power supply supports dual input voltage (115/220VAC), delivering regulated power to field-mounted transceivers and cameras without ground-loop interference. The HUBWAY16DI accommodates mixed 24VAC and 28VAC camera systems and integrates seamlessly into existing analog and hybrid security infrastructures.
Key Features
- 16 Passive UTP Channels: Dedicated transceiver input/output pairs for simultaneous video reception and distribution across 16 independent camera feeds
- 750-Foot Video Extension: Transmits video signals over standard Category 5e/6 UTP cabling, eliminating the cost and installation complexity of legacy coax runs over long distances
- Integrated 24/28VAC Isolated Power Supply: Isolated power output prevents ground-loop hum and interference in analog video chains; field-replaceable isolated supply design
- Dual Input Voltage Support: Accepts 115VAC or 220VAC primary power, enabling deployment in international facilities and sites with variable mains availability
- 1U Compact Form Factor: Mounts in standard 19-inch rack enclosures, consolidating transceiver and power functions in a single chassis for efficient control room integration
- UL Listed & CE Certified: Meets North American and European safety and electromagnetic compatibility standards for professional security installations
Integration & Compatibility
The HUBWAY16DI operates as a passive transceiver hub, receiving video signals from UTP-based transmitters and regenerating them for distribution to analog video inputs on DVRs, matrix switchers, or multiplexers. The unit does not require configuration or IP addressing; installation is plug-and-play. Each of the 16 channels operates independently, allowing mixed camera types (standard definition, 960H, HD-over-analog) to coexist on the same hub. The isolated 24/28VAC power supply feeds field-mounted passive transceivers, eliminating the need for separate power supplies at each remote location. Integrators can combine HUBWAY16DI units to support systems requiring more than 16 channels, with each hub drawing independent mains power.
Electrical & Physical Specifications
Input voltage: 115/220VAC selectable via rear terminal block. Output voltage: 24/28VAC isolated (field-selectable between 24VAC and 28VAC operation to match camera requirements). The isolated power supply design provides independent ground reference, critical for long-distance analog video installations prone to ground-loop hum. The unit ships as a single integrated chassis with no field-replaceable modules beyond the power supply fuse. All 16 channels are live simultaneously with no port prioritization or switching logic.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix HUBWAY16DI addresses a specific and persistent pain point in analog security deployments: extending video over unshielded twisted-pair cabling without massive infrastructure retrofit. During site planning for a 16-camera retail installation spread across 400–600 feet of building spine, the HUBWAY16DI eliminated the need for coax pulling or hybrid fiber solutions, compressing both budget and timeline.
Technical Highlights:
- 750-Foot Reach per Channel: Standard UTP infrastructure becomes a viable video backbone when paired with field-mounted passive transmitters, deferring expensive re-cabling projects.
- Isolated 24/28VAC Power: The integrated isolated supply is non-negotiable in long-run analog chains; ground-loop hum from shared earth reference typically requires external isolation transformers or power conditioning. The HUBWAY16DI includes this factory.
- Dual Voltage Input: 115/220VAC flexibility simplifies procurement in facilities with non-standard mains configurations and supports international deployment without transformer inventory.
Deployment Considerations:
- Pair each hub with passive transmitters rated for 750-foot UTP runs; active transmitters or powered hubs may oversaturate the return path and degrade image quality on longer runs.
- Verify that field camera power supplies and the HUBWAY16DI isolated output are rated for the same voltage (24VAC or 28VAC); mixing voltages at the camera end introduces compatibility risk.
- For systems exceeding 16 channels, cascade multiple HUBWAY16DI units on the same DVR matrix input or use separate DVR inputs and a video switcher; avoid daisy-chaining the isolated power supplies to prevent ground-loop re-introduction.
The HUBWAY16DI is a straightforward, field-proven solution for analog extension. It demands discipline in transceiver pairing and voltage matching but eliminates layers of complexity and cost when deploying multi-camera sites across existing UTP infrastructure. For integrators supporting legacy systems or mixed analog/IP environments, it remains essential.
