Altronix LINQ2 Network Communication Module with Battery Backup
The Altronix LINQ2 is a network communication module that combines power supply functionality with integrated network connectivity for IP security deployments. Unlike conventional power supplies, the LINQ2 consolidates power delivery and network communication into a single unit—reducing wiring complexity and simplifying system architecture in access control and camera installations. UL Listed certification confirms this module meets safety standards for life-safety critical installations.
Key Features
- Integrated Network Communication: Network adapter functionality built into the power supply eliminates the need for separate communication hardware. This reduces physical footprint and panel clutter—important when space in electrical enclosures is already constrained.
- Battery Backup Capability: Maintains power during utility outages, ensuring cameras, access control readers, and network devices remain operational. Essential for sites where brief power loss could compromise security continuity.
- Fire Alarm Disconnect Function: Hardwired fire alarm protocol compliance means the LINQ2 can be integrated into building fire safety systems. When a fire alarm triggers, the disconnect function isolates the module—a regulatory requirement in many jurisdictions for life-safety compliance.
- UL Listed: Third-party safety certification reduces deployment risk and simplifies code inspection sign-offs. Required by many building authorities and insurance underwriters for commercial installations.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the product. Typical for Altronix infrastructure devices, this warranty signals confidence in reliability and simplifies long-term total cost of ownership calculations.
Integration & Compatibility
The LINQ2 is designed for multi-device deployments where power and network management must work in concert. Common use cases include access control systems with distributed readers, IP camera installations requiring centralized power feeds, and hybrid deployments combining both. Because it integrates communication directly, the LINQ2 reduces dependency on separate network interface cards or external communication modules. This modularity also makes it easier to upgrade or expand systems without redesigning the entire power architecture.
For system integrators planning mid-to-large deployments, the LINQ2's network communication capability means fewer separate components to inventory, test, and troubleshoot. Network video recorders and access control panels communicate with the module over standard Ethernet, simplifying both commissioning and future maintenance.
Power Infrastructure Context
The LINQ2 fits into the broader power infrastructure family at Altronix. Its battery backup and integrated communication make it a step above basic 12VDC power supplies, positioning it for sites that demand both redundancy and coordinated power/network control. Evaluate total system requirements before selecting the LINQ2—if your deployment needs only simple 12VDC distribution without battery backup or fire alarm integration, a standard supply may suffice. Conversely, if you require multi-channel power with complex emergency response logic, consult the full power supply catalog to compare channel counts and feature depth.
Battery backup runtime depends on connected load and battery capacity (both specified in the datasheet). In practice, most deployments using the LINQ2 pair it with a small battery bank sized for 15–30 minutes of camera and reader operation—enough time for graceful shutdown or failover to backup power. Fire alarm disconnect wiring must be coordinated with your building management system and local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), so engage a qualified electrician early in design.
Deployment Considerations
The LINQ2 is specified for controlled environments (indoors, in electrical panels or cabinets). Do not deploy outdoors without an enclosure. Network connectivity is standard Ethernet—confirm your installation uses standard IP networking practices and switches that support the LINQ2's data requirements. Because the module includes battery backup, maintenance procedures include periodic battery testing; manufacturer documentation covers this routine.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the battery backup runtime on the LINQ2?
A: Runtime depends on the connected load and the capacity of the battery paired with the module. Consult the datasheet for load current specifications and size your battery accordingly. Typical deployments use a 12V 7–20Ah battery for 15–30 minutes of continuous operation.
Q: Is the LINQ2 compatible with third-party access control panels?
A: The LINQ2 provides power and network communication. Compatibility with specific panels depends on your panel's power input voltage and Ethernet connectivity. Verify power specifications and network protocol requirements with your panel manufacturer before purchase.
Q: Does the LINQ2 require a separate uninterruptible power supply (UPS)?
A: The LINQ2 includes integrated battery backup, which covers brief outages. For extended outage protection or more critical applications, consult a systems engineer about pairing the LINQ2 with a facility-wide UPS.
Q: How is the fire alarm disconnect function wired?
A: Fire alarm disconnect is hardwired to allow integration with your building's fire alarm system. Installation and wiring must follow local electrical code and your building authority's requirements. A licensed electrician and your fire alarm contractor should coordinate this integration.
Q: What certifications does the LINQ2 carry?
A: The LINQ2 is UL Listed, confirming safety compliance for use in life-safety applications. Verify certification scope against your project requirements before purchase.
Q: Can I use the LINQ2 outdoors?
A: The LINQ2 is rated for indoor use in controlled environments, typically mounted inside electrical enclosures or equipment panels. Outdoor deployment requires additional weatherproof enclosure and is not recommended without consulting the manufacturer.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix LINQ2 solves a real panel-design problem: consolidating power and network management into one device. Most traditional deployments stack a 12VDC power supply, a network switch, and a relay module side-by-side—three boxes, three sets of wiring, three points of failure. The LINQ2 reduces that footprint while baking in battery backup and fire alarm disconnect, two features that otherwise require external hardware. If your project touches fire-safety code or requires continuity during power loss, the LINQ2 becomes a smart engineering choice rather than just a cost reduction.
Technical Highlights:
- Integrated Network and Power: Eliminates the need for separate communication modules and reduces panel clutter. One cable to the main power feed, one connection to the switch or control panel—fewer failure modes than multi-box designs.
- UL Listed for Life-Safety: Third-party certification removes ambiguity during code review and shortens permit approval cycles. Building inspectors recognize UL listed equipment and move forward without technical challenge.
- Battery Backup with Fire Alarm Disconnect: Keeps cameras and readers alive through brief outages; fire alarm wiring ensures emergency shutdown compliance. A single module handles both, simplifying the electrical design and reducing integration complexity on the installer's side.
Deployment Considerations:
- Battery capacity is not fixed—you select the battery to match your load and desired runtime. A 12V 10Ah battery, for example, delivers roughly 10–15 minutes of full power. Size it conservatively; undersizing forces graceful shutdown before you're ready.
- Fire alarm disconnect wiring is not trivial. It must be hardwired to your building's fire alarm control panel. Coordinate early with your fire alarm contractor and local AHJ to avoid redesign late in installation.
- The LINQ2 is indoor-only. Mounting in an electrical enclosure or cabinet is standard; mounting on a pole or in an outdoor junction box requires additional weatherproofing and changes the warranty posture.
Deploy the LINQ2 in mid-to-large access control or integrated security installations where you're already running distributed power and expect utility outages to be brief (under an hour). It shines in buildings with fire-code audits and integrators who spec systems to reduce panel complexity. If your site has a facility UPS and doesn't touch fire safety code, a simpler power supply may suffice—but the LINQ2's modularity and certification make it worth the marginal cost in most commercial deployments.
