Altronix RB30 Single-Pole Relay Module 30A
The Altronix RB30 is a single-pole electromechanical relay module engineered for security and access control system integration. Rated for 30A maximum switching capacity, the RB30 accepts 12VDC or 24VDC control inputs and supports multiple output voltage options—28VDC, 120VAC, and 277VAC—making it flexible across diverse panel architectures and load types. This is a workhorse module for centralizing relay-based switching logic in integrated installations without requiring separate external relays.
Key Features
- 30A maximum current rating: Handles substantial loads like electric strikes, magnetic locks, gate operators, and solenoid-controlled devices without derating for typical duty cycles. Sized for the most demanding access control and automation circuits in mid-to-large installations.
- Dual input voltage support (12VDC or 24VDC): Eliminates the need for separate control relay modules across mixed-voltage panel designs. A single RB30 can bridge 12V logic outputs (from low-voltage control boards) into 24V panels or vice versa, reducing spare parts inventory.
- Three output voltage options (28VDC, 120VAC, 277VAC): Configurable at order time to match your facility's primary distribution voltage. 277VAC is critical for high-voltage lighting or HVAC circuits common in large commercial buildings; 120VAC suits standard North American electrical infrastructure; 28VDC supports legacy or low-voltage automation.
- 115VA capacity for AC switching: Allows the RB30 to control substantial AC loads—enough for lighting circuits, transformer coils, or contactor triggering without requiring a step-up module.
- Enclosure-mountable form factor: DIN-rail or panel-mount compatible, designed to stack efficiently in central relay racks. No separate wiring chassis needed; reduces panel real estate and assembly labor.
- Standard electromechanical relay construction: No firmware, no software licensing, no network dependencies. Proven switching reliability with minimal troubleshooting when hardwired correctly. Ideal for life-safety circuits where simplicity and predictability matter.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship, standard for Altronix infrastructure modules. Aligns with long-term security system lifecycle expectations.
Integration & Compatibility
The RB30 integrates into any power infrastructure architecture where isolated switching is required. Common deployments include access control systems (triggering door locks and alarm notification circuits), security control panels with auxiliary output modules, and integrated HVAC/lighting automation tied to security events. Wire the 12/24VDC control input to a digital output card or microcontroller relay terminal; connect the output poles to your 28VDC, 120VAC, or 277VAC distribution. No special programming or ONVIF configuration—purely hardwired logic.
For multi-zone or high-density relay requirements, consult Altronix's product family to determine if additional relay modules or power distribution units improve panel efficiency and maintainability.
When to Choose a Different Model
If you require multiple independent relay outputs (e.g., controlling five separate door locks from one module), a higher-channel relay distribution module or a dedicated relay output card may reduce footprint and wiring density. If your load exceeds 30A or requires three-phase switching, a step-up contactor or industrial switching module is necessary. For low-power logic switching (sub-5A) with many outputs, a solid-state relay array may offer faster switching and reduced wear, though at a higher cost.
Typical Applications
- Access control door lock circuits with isolated relay switching to prevent ground loops and noise coupling into control logic.
- Security system auxiliary outputs driving alarm notification devices, strobes, or siren circuits at building-standard voltages.
- HVAC or lighting circuit integration, where a security event (e.g., alarm trigger or after-hours mode) commands zone isolation or emergency shutdown.
- Centralized control panels for multi-zone installations requiring relay-based logic consolidation in a single enclosure.
- Gate and barrier control circuits operating at 120VAC or 277VAC, isolated from access control microcontroller supply rails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute a different output voltage after installation?
A: No. The RB30 output voltage is factory-configured at the time of order. You must specify 28VDC, 120VAC, or 277VAC before purchase. Changing output voltage requires returning the module to the manufacturer or purchasing a replacement.
Q: What control logic voltage should I order—12VDC or 24VDC input?
A: Order based on the voltage supplied to your panel's digital output or relay terminal card. If your control board outputs 24VDC logic, order the 24VDC input version. If you have 12VDC control circuits, order the 12VDC input version. Do not apply the wrong control voltage to the input terminals—it may cause the relay to fail to energize or become stuck.
Q: Is the RB30 suitable for life-safety or fire alarm circuits?
A: Check local fire code and your system integrator's UL listing. The RB30 is a general-purpose relay module and may require additional certification or redundancy (e.g., dual-channel switching) to meet life-safety panel requirements. Verify compatibility with your panel's listing before specifying the RB30 for critical life-safety outputs.
Q: How often can the RB30 switch before maintenance is needed?
A: Electromechanical relay contact life depends on load type (resistive vs. inductive) and switching frequency. Under normal access control duty cycles (a few dozen operations per day), the RB30 should deliver years of service without contact wear. High-frequency switching (hundreds of cycles per hour) or inductive loads (solenoids, motors) will accelerate contact erosion; monitor and replace the module if switching becomes erratic.
Q: What is the maximum wire gauge for input and output terminals?
A: Refer to the RB30 datasheet for terminal specifications. Typical screw terminals accept 12–16 AWG copper wire. Use appropriately rated wire for the circuit voltage and current. Oversizing wire on control inputs is acceptable; undersizing output wires risks voltage drop and overheating.
Q: Does the RB30 require a separate fused supply?
A: Yes. Install a fuse or breaker rated for the output voltage and load current on the power rail supplying the RB30's output terminals. A 30A fuse is appropriate for the maximum 30A load; size lower if your typical load is much smaller. The control input should also be fused (typically 2–5A) to protect the relay coil and panel logic.
Jerry TildsenPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix RB30 is a straightforward relay workhorse—no surprises, no firmware dependencies, and exactly what you need when you must isolate a high-current load from low-voltage control logic. The 30A rating is genuinely useful for electric strikes, solenoid-driven gates, and multi-zone lighting circuits without overloading the relay coil. The choice of output voltage (28VDC, 120VAC, 277VAC) at order time is the RB30's main inflexibility; nail it down early in your design phase or you'll be ordering again.
Technical Highlights:
- 30A maximum switching capacity: Sufficient for heavy-duty access control loads (electric strikes rated 12A, magnetic locks rated 20–24A, solenoid operators, and gate motors) without derating or parallel modules. Typical duty cycles in security systems—a few dozen on/off cycles per day—impose negligible contact wear.
- Dual input voltage (12VDC or 24VDC) with three output options: Bridges the gap between legacy 12V control panels and modern 24V infrastructure. The configurable output voltage simplifies spare parts management if you standardize on 120VAC or 277VAC facilities and don't maintain separate 28VDC rails.
- 115VA AC capacity: Allows the RB30 to handle transformer primary windings, contactor coils, and lighting circuits without undersizing. This spec matters when you're driving high-inrush loads; an undersized relay will chatter or fail to pull in under transient load spikes.
Deployment Considerations:
- Output voltage is factory-set; you cannot change it in the field. Specify correctly before procurement, or budget for a return and replacement if you miscalculate facility voltage distribution.
- Electromechanical relays require proper fusing on both input and output sides. Omit fuses or oversize them, and contact failure or fire risk increases. This is not a smart relay—it assumes correct hardwiring discipline.
- Inductive loads (solenoids, motors, transformer coils) generate back-EMF spikes on relay de-energization. Install a transient suppression diode (for DC) or varistor (for AC) across the load coil if you're not already doing so. The RB30 contacts alone won't protect downstream logic from voltage spikes.
The RB30 fits cleanly into access control and security system installations where you need proven, maintenance-free relay isolation without network configuration overhead. Not ideal for frequent dynamic switching or high-frequency pulsing, but perfect for life-cycle security and backup circuits in centralized control panel architectures.
