Altronix TP1620 16VAC 20VA Plugin Transformer
The Altronix TP1620 is a compact plugin transformer that steps down standard 120VAC input to 16VAC output at 20VA capacity. This power supply is purpose-built for security integrators deploying access control panels, alarm system sensors, and low-voltage notification devices that require isolated AC power without dedicated conduit or hard-wired installation.
Key Features
- 16VAC Output Voltage: Matches the AC supply requirement for most access control readers, alarm keypads, and auxiliary security circuits — no voltage conversion or step-down regulator needed on the receiving device.
- 20VA Power Capacity: Sufficient to power a single access control reader (typically 3–8VA) plus an alarm siren driver or multiple sensor circuits simultaneously, depending on load profile. For multi-reader or high-draw installations, plan for separate transformers per zone or upgrade to a higher-capacity model in the Altronix power infrastructure lineup.
- 120VAC Input Compatibility: Connects directly to any standard North American wall outlet — no special wiring or circuit breaker capacity planning required beyond the outlet's existing 15A or 20A rating.
- Plugin Design: Mounts directly into a wall outlet with no hardwired connection, making it ideal for temporary installations, retrofit deployments, or rented spaces where running new power drops is impractical or prohibited.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the transformer, reducing long-term replacement risk in stable, indoor environments.
- Compact Form Factor: Small footprint minimizes visual clutter and does not block adjacent outlets on standard duplex receptacles, important in cleanroom or reception-area security designs.
Integration & Compatibility
The TP1620 outputs standard 16VAC, making it compatible with any legacy or modern access control panel, alarm siren driver, or auxiliary relay that specifies 16VAC input. Verify your receiving device's rated input voltage and power draw before installation — most standard North American keypads and readers accept 16VAC at draw rates under 20VA. If your panel or reader requires a different voltage (12VAC, 24VAC), select the appropriate Altronix model for that spec.
Because the transformer is isolated (secondary winding isolated from mains), it introduces a small impedance and voltage drop under full 20VA load. Confirm that your access control or alarm device tolerates ±10% voltage swing (14.4–17.6VAC). If your system requires tighter voltage regulation or backup battery charging, consider a regulated power supply from the Altronix power infrastructure range instead.
Typical Deployment Scenarios
- Small Single-Door Access Control: One TP1620 powers a magnetic lock release driver and an access reader in a small office or utility closet, eliminating the need for a separate transformer enclosure.
- Alarm System Auxiliary Power: Provides isolated 16VAC to a siren driver or strobe notification module in a low-voltage alarm circuit.
- Temporary or Portable Installations: Event venues, pop-up facilities, or temporary security checkpoints where moving the transformer between outlets is faster than installing hardwired power.
Limitation & Consideration
The 20VA rating is a hard ceiling — do not attempt to power multiple readers, solenoid-driven locks, or high-current auxiliary loads without a load calculation. In multi-reader deployments or where backup battery charging is required, a larger transformer or a regulated power supply with secondary battery charging is necessary.
FAQ
Q: Can the TP1620 power more than one access control reader?
A: Possibly, but only if the combined current draw of both readers is under 20VA (approximately 1.25 amps at 16VAC). Most standalone readers draw 3–8VA. If combined load exceeds 20VA, the transformer will overheat and may shut down or reduce output voltage. Always calculate total load before installation.
Q: Is the TP1620 suitable for outdoor or wet locations?
A: No. The TP1620 is an unrated plugin transformer without an enclosure. It is designed for dry indoor wall outlets only. For outdoor or wet-location installations, use an Altronix transformer enclosed in an IP65-rated power supply cabinet.
Q: What is the output voltage tolerance of the TP1620?
A: Standard transformer tolerance is approximately ±10%, meaning output ranges from 14.4 to 17.6VAC under nominal load. Verify that your access control or alarm device accepts this voltage range before deployment.
Q: Can I use the TP1620 with a battery backup system?
A: The TP1620 is designed for AC output only and does not include battery charging circuitry. If your system requires battery backup, select a regulated power supply with integrated battery charger from the Altronix lineup.
Q: What does the Lifetime Limited Warranty cover?
A: The warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover damage from misuse, overvoltage input, exceeding the 20VA load rating, environmental damage, or normal wear. Contact the manufacturer for warranty claim procedures.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix TP1620 solves a common deployment problem: you need 16VAC for an access control reader or alarm device, but running new hardwired power is either impractical or not permitted. The plugin form factor means you can energize auxiliary security circuits from any standard wall outlet in under five minutes, no electrician required. That simplicity comes with a strict 20VA ceiling, so load planning is non-negotiable.
Technical Highlights:
- 20VA Capacity at 16VAC Output: This translates to a maximum of approximately 1.25 amps on the secondary side — enough for one reader (3–8VA) plus a siren driver (5–12VA), but not a magnetic lock or multi-reader configuration. Exceeding 20VA will cause transformer saturation, voltage sag, and potential thermal shutdown.
- ±10% Voltage Tolerance Under Load: Output will drift from 14.4 to 17.6VAC depending on load. Most access control equipment tolerates this range, but verify your specific reader or panel datasheet before committing to the TP1620 — some legacy or precision systems demand tighter regulation.
- 120VAC Input with No Special Wiring: Any standard 15A or 20A wall circuit supports the TP1620. You avoid the cost and delay of new conduit runs and dedicated breakers, a real advantage in retrofit or temporary installations.
Deployment Considerations:
- The TP1620 is unenclosed and unrated for environmental stress. Mount it indoors, in a dry location, away from moisture, dust, or direct sunlight. Outdoor access control installations require a weatherproof power supply cabinet, not a plugin transformer.
- This transformer has no battery charging capability. If your system architecture includes battery backup (UPS or local backup for door locks), you must select a regulated power supply with charger output, not a raw transformer.
- Load sharing across multiple outlets on one transformer is a common mistake. Each TP1620 serves one security subsystem (one reader + one driver, one siren + one control circuit). Do not daisy-chain power from one TP1620 to multiple devices in different zones.
The TP1620 is the right pick for simple, single-circuit auxiliary power in access control or alarm installations where hardwired power is unavailable and load requirements are modest. It is not suitable for expandable multi-door systems, outdoor deployments, or regulated power requirements — in those cases, specify a larger transformer or a power supply with secondary features like battery charging and voltage regulation.
