Altronix PDS16 16-Output Fused Power Distribution Module
The Altronix PDS16 is a 16-output fused power distribution module that consolidates regulated 24VDC power across 16 independently fused circuits. In multi-camera or multi-device security deployments, this eliminates the need for scattered individual power supplies and reduces wiring clutter — a meaningful simplification when integrating access control readers, alarm relays, and networked cameras across a facility.
Key Features
- 16 independent fused outputs: Each circuit is protected by its own fuse. If one load shorts or draws excessive current, the fused output fails in isolation — the remaining 15 circuits stay online. This prevents a single bad device from cascading power loss across your entire security system.
- 24VDC regulated output: Matches the voltage standard for most security peripherals (access control strikes, alarm panels, camera aux power). No voltage translation required downstream.
- Dual-input power connections: Supports either single-feed operation or dual-input configuration for load sharing or N+1 redundancy. If one input power source fails, the second can sustain the load — critical in facilities where security downtime is unacceptable.
- Compact form factor: Mounts directly in equipment racks or security cabinets without consuming significant depth. Fits alongside your NVR, switch, and UPS in a standard 19-inch rack layout.
- Fused circuit design: Prevents cascade failures. Unlike a single master breaker, individual output fuses protect each connected device independently, isolating faults to the affected circuit only.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Covers manufacturing defects for the life of the product, reducing total cost of ownership on a long-lived infrastructure component.
Integration and Deployment Context
The PDS16 sits at the power distribution layer in larger security installations. It accepts input from your primary AC-to-24VDC power supply (or redundant supplies), regulates and distributes that 24VDC across up to 16 circuits, and provides fused outputs to cameras, readers, relay modules, and door strikes. This centralization improves troubleshooting — a blown output fuse points directly to the failing device — and eliminates the cost and cable run complexity of 16 separate tiny power supplies scattered around your facility.
Common use cases include multi-door access control systems (where each door strike or reader draws from a dedicated PDS16 output), distributed video surveillance where multiple cameras cluster near a cabinet, and alarm system layouts where relay modules, siren drivers, and backup batteries all plug into the same distribution point. The independent fusing means you can confidently overload a single output without risking the entire system.
Redundancy and Reliability
The dual-input design is a practical safety feature for critical deployments. Pair the PDS16 with two independent AC-to-24VDC supplies (for example, one from your main facility power, one from a UPS or generator line), and the module will distribute power from both. Should one supply fail, the remaining supply continues to feed all connected loads — provided the single remaining supply has sufficient capacity. This is not automatic failover; it's load sharing and graceful degradation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the maximum total current the PDS16 can deliver across all 16 outputs?
A: That specification is not provided in the available documentation. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for total amperage capacity and per-circuit current limits to confirm the PDS16 suits your load profile.
Q: Can I install the PDS16 in a standard 19-inch equipment rack?
A: Yes. The compact form factor is designed for cabinet and rack mounting, making it suitable for co-location with NVRs, switches, and other security infrastructure.
Q: What happens if I exceed the current rating on one output?
A: The fuse on that output will open, disconnecting only that circuit. The remaining 15 outputs continue to operate, isolating the fault to the overloaded device.
Q: Does the PDS16 work with both AC and DC input power sources?
A: The PDS16 accepts 24VDC input. It is not suitable for AC input; you must supply regulated 24VDC from an AC-to-24VDC power supply upstream.
Q: Is the PDS16 suitable for outdoor mounting?
A: The PDS16 is designed for cabinet or indoor rack mounting. For outdoor environments, it would typically be mounted inside a weatherproof enclosure and powered via conduit runs from the remote location.
Q: Can I use the PDS16 with a 24VDC power supply from any manufacturer?
A: Yes, provided the external supply outputs regulated 24VDC and is sized appropriately for your total load. Confirm input voltage and maximum output current against your expected circuit loads.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix PDS16 solves a real problem in multi-device security installations: power distribution complexity. Instead of running individual 24VDC supplies to scattered devices across a facility, the PDS16 centralizes that distribution in one cabinet-mount module and isolates each circuit with independent fusing. That isolation is the key differentiator — a shorted door strike on one output doesn't kill power to your access control readers on the other 15.
Technical Highlights:
- 16 independently fused outputs: Each circuit has its own protection, preventing a single fault from collapsing the entire power rail. You lose one circuit; you keep 15 others running.
- 24VDC regulated output: Standard voltage for security devices (access control, alarm relays, camera auxiliary power). No additional voltage regulation or translation needed at the device level.
- Dual-input connections: Enables N+1 redundancy or load sharing. Pair with two independent 24VDC supplies for graceful degradation if one fails.
Deployment Considerations:
- Size your upstream 24VDC power supply(ies) for the total current demand across all connected loads. The PDS16 itself does not limit total current — only per-output fusing. If you sum 16 circuits drawing near-maximum current each, your supply must have sufficient capacity.
- In dual-input configurations, load sharing is passive. Both supplies must regulate to the same voltage (24VDC nominal) to avoid one supply fighting the other. Confirm your power supply compatibility before paralleling inputs.
The PDS16 fits well in medium to large multi-door access control setups, distributed camera power consolidation, and alarm system architectures where 10–16 separate circuits need individual protection. It's not a power supply — it's a distribution and protection layer that assumes you've already sized and deployed your 24VDC source upstream. Deploy it in a climate-controlled cabinet or rack, pair it with correctly sized input supplies, and it becomes a transparent, reliable backbone for your security power infrastructure.
