Rockwell Automation 1606-XL480EP 24-28VDC 20A Switched Mode Power Supply

Product Overview

The 1606-XL480EP is a high-performance, 480W switched-mode power supply module from Rockwell Automation’s Allen-Bradley Bulletin 1606-XL series. Engineered specifically for demanding industrial automation environments, this DIN-rail mountable power supply converts standard 115/230V AC input into a stable and adjustable 24-28V DC output, delivering up to 20A of continuous current. The 1606-XL480EP is a core component in modern control systems, providing reliable and clean power to PLCs, distributed I/O stations, sensors, actuators, and other critical automation devices. Its design reflects a commitment to robustness and longevity, featuring a high mean time between failures of 519,000 hours and the use of only five long-life electrolytic capacitors rated at 105°C -1-2.

As a versatile member of the 1606-XL family, the 1606-XL480EP distinguishes itself through its adjustable overload behavior, allowing engineers to tailor the power supply’s response to specific load conditions. Whether configured for continuous current output to handle high inrush loads like DC-DC converters and motors, or set to hiccup mode for enhanced protection against severe short circuits, this module offers unparalleled flexibility. The 1606-XL480EP also supports parallel operation with up to ten units, facilitating system redundancy or power expansion to meet growing application demands -2-4. With a typical efficiency of 90%, it minimizes energy loss and heat generation, contributing to a cooler, more reliable control cabinet. This power supply is fully approved to global industrial standards, ensuring safe and compliant integration into systems worldwide.

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Description

 

Technical Specifications

Parameter Name Value
Product Model 1606-XL480EP
Manufacturer Allen-Bradley / Rockwell Automation
Product Type Switched Mode Power Supply Module
Input Voltage (AC) 100…120V / 200…240V, 47…63Hz Auto Select
Input Voltage Continuous Range 85…132V / 184…264V AC
Input Current (Nominal) <10A (115V range) / <5A (230V range)
Output Voltage 24…28V DC, Adjustable via Front Panel Potentiometer
Output Current (24V) 20A Continuous (Ambient <60°C)
Output Power 480W (Ambient <60°C)
Efficiency (Typical) 90% at 230V AC, 24V/20A
Hold-up Time 30ms at 120/230V AC, 24V/20A
Ripple and Noise <20mVpp (Single Operation) / <40mVpp (Parallel Operation)
Overvoltage Protection 33V ±10% (Hiccup Mode Trigger)
Overload Behavior Selectable: Continuous Current or Hiccup Mode
Parallel Operation Yes, up to 10 Units
Operating Temperature 0°C to +70°C (>60°C requires derating)
MTBF 519,000 hours (Siemens SN29500, 40°C)
Dimensions (W x H x D) 220mm x 124mm x 102mm
Weight 2.5 kg
Installation DIN-Rail Mounting (TS-35/7.5 or 15)
Wire Size (Input/Output) 20…10 AWG (0.5…6mm²)
Tightening Torque 7 lbs-in (0.8 Nm) recommended

 

Main Features and Advantages

High Efficiency and Power Density: The 1606-XL480EP achieves a remarkable typical efficiency of 90%, converting AC power to usable DC with minimal loss. This high efficiency reduces the thermal load inside the control cabinet, potentially lowering cooling requirements and extending the lifespan of nearby components. The efficient design is complemented by active inrush current limiting, which prevents nuisance tripping of upstream circuit breakers and protects the internal circuitry from damage during startup.

Selectable Overload Behavior for Ultimate Flexibility: A standout feature of the 1606-XL480EP is its user-selectable overload response, configurable via a jumper on the bottom of the unit without opening the housing. In “Continuous Current” mode, the power supply provides a sustained high current during overloads, which is ideal for applications with high inrush currents, such as starting motors or charging large capacitors. This mode also simplifies parallel operation. Alternatively, the “Hiccup” mode is designed for maximum protection; during a severe overload or short circuit, the 1606-XL480EP will periodically shut down and attempt to restart, minimizing stress on the system and the power supply itself -2.

Exceptional Reliability and Long Service Life: Reliability is paramount in industrial control, and the 1606-XL480EP is built to last. It exclusively uses long-life aluminum electrolytic capacitors specified for +105°C, and only five are used in the entire design. This, combined with its high MTBF of 519,000 hours, ensures a long operational life and reduces the risk of unplanned downtime -1. Its broad operating temperature range of 0°C to +70°C, with a defined derating curve, guarantees stable performance even in harsh environments.

Parallel Operation and System Redundancy: For applications requiring higher power or critical redundancy, the 1606-XL480EP can be easily connected in parallel with up to nine other units of the same model. The output characteristic can be “softened” to ensure even current sharing among the parallel units. This capability allows for building “N+1” redundant power systems, ensuring that the control system remains operational even if one power supply fails, a crucial requirement for process-critical applications.

Advanced Power Factor Correction and Safety: The 1606-XL480EP includes active power factor correction, which improves the quality of the power drawn from the mains and reduces harmonic currents, helping to comply with EN 61000-3-2 standards -2. Additionally, it features comprehensive protection against overvoltage, overload, and short circuits. The unit also offers immunity against back-feeding loads up to 30V, protecting the power supply from external voltage sources.

 

Application Field

Discrete Manufacturing and Assembly Lines: The 1606-XL480EP is an ideal power source for a wide array of equipment in discrete manufacturing, including automotive assembly lines, packaging machinery, and material handling systems. It reliably powers PLCs, programmable automation controllers, and extensive networks of sensors and actuators. Its ability to deliver a stable 24V DC output, even in environments with fluctuating mains power, ensures consistent operation of critical control loops, reducing production stoppages caused by power-related issues. The continuous current overload mode is particularly beneficial for starting conveyor motors or pneumatic solenoids.

Process Industries: In continuous process industries such as oil and gas, chemical processing, and water/wastewater treatment, system availability is paramount. The 1606-XL480EP supports the creation of redundant power systems through parallel operation, guaranteeing that critical distributed control systems (DCS), Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), and safety instrumented systems receive uninterrupted power. The rugged construction and wide temperature tolerance of the 1606-XL480EP make it well-suited for outdoor or semi-outdoor installations common in these sectors, providing a reliable power backbone for essential monitoring and control instrumentation.

Infrastructure and Energy Applications: The 1606-XL480EP is also widely utilized in infrastructure projects like intelligent transportation systems, power generation, and renewable energy facilities. It provides dependable power to substation controllers, data loggers, and communication gateways in solar and wind farms. The module’s high efficiency and clean output (low ripple and noise) are critical for sensitive measurement devices and communication equipment, ensuring accurate data acquisition and reliable signal transmission. Its compliance with international standards also simplifies the certification process for global projects.

Contact Us WhatsApp / Wechat:+86 18150087953
Phone:+86 18150087953
Email:sales@cxplcmro.com