Altronix PD16W Power Distribution Module
The Altronix PD16W is a UL Listed power distribution module engineered for centralized power management in security and access control installations. It accepts a single 120VAC 60Hz input and delivers regulated power through 4 independently controlled outputs rated up to 28VAC/VDC. This board-form design mounts directly into electrical enclosures, eliminating the need for external chassis and reducing panel real estate consumption—a measurable advantage in crowded equipment racks where every inch matters.
Key Features
- 4 Independent Power Outputs with Individual Control: Each output can be supervised and controlled separately. This means you can power different security subsystems (access readers, door strikes, sensors) from a single unit without cross-coupling—if one circuit fails or draws excess current, the others remain unaffected.
- Output Voltage Up to 28VAC/VDC: Covers the full range of standard security device requirements. Whether your access panel, card readers, or strike plates need AC or DC at 24V nominal, the PD16W adapts to the load without external converters.
- AC Fail Supervision: Built-in detection of input power loss triggers an immediate alarm condition. In a multi-door facility, this means you know within seconds if mains power is interrupted—critical for sites where power loss to locks or readers must be logged or acted upon.
- Battery Backup Capability: Supports connection of external backup batteries to maintain power to critical loads (like door strikes or emergency lighting circuits) during utility failure. This extends the security window while facilities transition to generator backup or manual overrides.
- Fire Alarm Disconnect Function: Integrates with fire alarm systems to de-energize security loads on alarm activation—a code compliance requirement in many jurisdictions that mandates all access control power must shut down when fire alarm sounds.
- Board Form Factor: No external enclosure required. Mounts directly onto DIN rail or panel backing, saving space and simplifying wiring pathways in tight electrical cabinets. This also reduces cost by eliminating redundant housing.
Deployment Scenarios
The PD16W suits mid-scale security infrastructure where centralized supervised power distribution is required but full UPS or redundant power systems are not justified. Typical applications include multi-door access control systems (5–20 doors), supervised emergency lighting circuits integrated with security panels, and facility-wide power distribution for IP cameras and networked readers drawing 28V nominal. The unit's supervised outputs and battery backup support also make it suitable for data center and critical facility security where power loss logging is mandatory.
Integration & Compatibility
The PD16W is designed to integrate with power distribution systems and is compatible with standard security control panels that accept 120VAC input and require supervised 28V output distribution. UL Listed status ensures code-compliant installation in commercial and institutional facilities. The fire alarm disconnect function requires hardwiring integration with the facility's fire alarm system or compatible control panel—verify pin-out and voltage isolation with your installer before commissioning.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the PD16W provide power to individual circuits or is it a single multi-output supply?
A: The PD16W provides 4 independently controlled outputs, each of which can be supervised and managed separately. You can assign different security loads (e.g., door readers, strikes, sensors) to different outputs and control or monitor each without affecting the others.
Q: What is the maximum current capacity per output?
A: Consult the detailed datasheet for per-output current ratings. The unit is rated for 28VAC/VDC output up to the maximum load supported by the input power budget (120VAC 60Hz input). Total draw across all four outputs must not exceed the input capacity—typical industrial security installations run 2–4 amps per output depending on load.
Q: Is battery backup included or must I supply my own backup batteries?
A: The PD16W provides the charging and supervision circuit for external batteries. You supply and wire the backup battery pack separately. This modular approach allows you to scale battery capacity to your facility's critical load hold-up time requirements.
Q: Can the PD16W be used in outdoor or wet locations?
A: The PD16W is a board-form component designed for mounting inside electrical enclosures. It is not rated for direct outdoor or wet exposure. Install it within a protective UL-rated cabinet, and ensure the cabinet itself meets the environmental requirements of the installation site.
Q: Is the PD16W compatible with legacy analog access control panels?
A: Yes. The PD16W accepts standard 120VAC 60Hz input and outputs regulated 28VAC/VDC, which are the industry-standard voltages for legacy and modern access control systems, card readers, and electromagnetic locks. Verify voltage and current compatibility with your specific panel before installation.
Q: What warranty does the Altronix PD16W include?
A: The PD16W comes with a Lifetime Limited Warranty from the manufacturer, covering defects in materials and workmanship. Review the warranty terms for coverage scope and exclusions.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix PD16W solves a specific and common integration problem: you need to power multiple access control devices from a single electrical input, but each device circuit must be independently monitored and fault-isolated. The PD16W's 4 independently controlled outputs mean that a short or overload on one circuit (say, a malfunctioning door strike) won't cascade and take down the entire access system. For multi-door facilities running dozens of card readers, strike plates, and request-to-exit buttons, this isolation is not a luxury—it's a resilience requirement.
Technical Highlights:
- AC Fail Supervision: The built-in AC failure detection triggers an alarm condition the moment mains power is lost. In a 20-door facility, this gives you real-time visibility into power events that would otherwise go unnoticed until a door fails to unlock or a camera goes dark. This is especially valuable if your facility lacks a dedicated SCADA or power monitoring system.
- Battery Backup Integration: Unlike all-in-one supplies that bundle a fixed battery inside, the PD16W's modular battery charging circuit lets you size backup capacity to your actual critical load. A small office might need 30 minutes of hold-up on two doors; a hospital security checkpoint might need 4 hours on eight circuits. You buy only what you need.
- Fire Alarm Disconnect: This feature is often mandated by code inspectors in commercial properties. The hardwired fire alarm disconnect de-energizes all outputs on alarm activation, preventing access control from interfering with life-safety evacuation. Saves argument with the fire marshal on commissioning day.
Deployment Considerations:
- The PD16W requires 120VAC 60Hz input—verify this is available at your enclosure location. If your facility runs 208V or 277V three-phase, you'll need a step-down transformer upstream. Plan for this cost and space early in the design phase.
- Battery backup is not included—you must provision and wire external batteries. This adds installation labor and requires coordination between your electrician and security integrator. Budget for battery testing and maintenance cycles post-install.
- The board form factor saves space but requires careful wiring discipline. All 120VAC connections must meet electrical code, and all low-voltage 28V outputs must be segregated from AC runs to avoid EMI coupling into access control circuits. Use shielded cable for output runs longer than 50 feet.
The PD16W is the right choice for facilities with 5–25 access control doors, mission-critical power logging requirements, and the budget to integrate supervised backup power. It's not suitable for single-door applications or sites without fire alarm systems (which needlessly complicate the design). For larger campuses (50+ doors), consider a higher-capacity supervised power distribution unit in the same Altronix family.
