Altronix T16100C 16VAC 100VA Open Frame Transformer
The Altronix T16100C is a UL Listed step-down transformer engineered for distributed power delivery in access control, surveillance, and auxiliary security equipment installations. It converts 220VAC primary input to a regulated 16VAC secondary output with a 100VA capacity — enough to support multiple low-draw devices in the same circuit without requiring separate power taps at each endpoint. The open frame form factor allows direct mounting into panel cutouts or control enclosures, minimizing footprint and simplifying integration into existing cabinet layouts.
Key Features
- 100VA Output Capacity: Supports simultaneous powering of access control readers, card dispensers, door locks solenoids, and surveillance auxiliary devices. At 16VAC, a 100VA transformer can safely deliver approximately 6.25 amps — adequate for multiple low-current branches without parallel supply redundancy.
- 220VAC Primary Input: Accepts standard North American or international 220V mains, making it compatible with facility power distribution. Does not require 110V step-up transformer, saving cost and panel real estate in multi-voltage environments.
- 16VAC Secondary Output: A common voltage for legacy and modern access control panels, electric strike solenoids, and mag-lock auxiliary power circuits. Matches the input specification of most Class 2 security device modules without additional conditioning.
- Open Frame Design: No plastic or metal housing — the transformer coils and core mount directly into panel slots or use optional external mounting hardware. This reduces depth in shallow cabinets and allows air circulation for passive cooling in confined spaces.
- UL Listed Safety Certification: Meets UL 61558-2-6 (safety of transformers for Class 2 circuits). Ensures compliance with commercial building codes and insurance underwriting for security installations in offices, warehouses, and industrial facilities.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Covers manufacturing defects and workmanship for the operational life of the product, backed by Altronix support. Reduces total cost of ownership on a device that rarely fails under normal use.
Integration & Compatibility
The T16100C integrates into any enclosure or control panel that accepts DIN rail or screw-down transformer mounting. It does not include built-in circuit protection (breaker or fuse) — integrators must specify a 10A Class 2 secondary circuit breaker on the output side to protect downstream devices and meet electrical code. Primary-side protection is typically supplied by the facility's main electrical panel or a separate disconnect. For installations using multiple transformers in parallel (to increase total VA capacity), ensure adequate spacing between units and monitor combined current draw against the facility's branch circuit capacity.
What's in the Box
Altronix T16100C transformer unit only. Mounting hardware, external brackets, or output wiring are not included and must be sourced separately based on your cabinet form factor and circuit design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the T16100C to power both access control and surveillance cameras simultaneously?
A: Yes, provided the combined current draw of all connected devices does not exceed 100VA. Access control readers typically draw 1–2 amps at 16VAC; each 12VDC auxiliary camera power supply draws 0.5–1 amp. Verify the nameplate specs of each device before commissioning.
Q: What is the difference between open frame and enclosed transformer designs?
A: Open frame transformers (like the T16100C) save panel depth and cooling overhead but require installation inside a cabinet where the coils are protected from accidental contact. Enclosed designs add a protective shroud for outdoor or exposed mounting — choose based on your installation location.
Q: Do I need a fuse or breaker on the output of the T16100C?
A: Yes. Install a 10A Class 2 secondary circuit breaker immediately after the transformer output to protect the wiring and devices downstream. This is required by electrical code and prevents downstream short circuits from damaging the transformer.
Q: Is the T16100C suitable for outdoor or damp environments?
A: No. The open frame design assumes dry cabinet installation. For outdoor or high-humidity applications, use an enclosed, potted transformer rated IP65 or higher, or mount the T16100C inside a sealed control enclosure with ventilation.
Q: What is the warranty coverage on the Altronix T16100C?
A: Lifetime Limited Warranty covering manufacturing defects and workmanship. This does not cover damage from power surges, over-current, or improper installation.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix T16100C is a workhorse for any integrator building a modular access control or auxiliary security power plant. It's not glamorous, but 100VA at 16VAC is a realistic, repeatable power budget that maps cleanly to Class 2 circuit design — and the UL listing makes the AHJ paperwork painless.
Technical Highlights:
- 100VA Capacity: At 16VAC secondary, you're looking at roughly 6.25A continuous draw capacity. That's enough for 4–6 access control readers (2A combined), a solenoid strike (3–4A), and auxiliary camera power in the same branch. No oversubscription math required.
- UL Listed to UL 61558-2-6: Class 2 circuit compliance is built-in. Eliminates the need to source a second-tier transformer and justifies the cost on large multi-location rollouts where code inspection is tight.
- 220VAC Input: If your facility is already running 220V circuits for HVAC or lighting, this transformer plugs directly into that rail without requiring a step-up box. That's a real labor and material savings on retrofit jobs.
Deployment Considerations:
- Open frame means you need a cabinet or enclosure — there's no outdoor mount option here. Don't spec this for a weatherproof pedestal install.
- Secondary circuit protection (10A Class 2 breaker) is your responsibility. The transformer doesn't include it, and code requires it. Factor that into your BOM and panel design.
- If you're building a distributed power architecture across multiple access points, you can parallel transformers, but spacing and cooling matter — don't stack them tightly in a confined cabinet.
Best suited for: institutional and warehouse control rooms where you need proven, code-friendly 16VAC power for legacy and modern access control panels without the complexity of a distributed PoE or switched-mode architecture.
