Product Overview

The Allen-Bradley 1606-XLP50E Power Supply is a compact industrial switching power supply designed to provide regulated DC power for automation and electrical control systems. Manufactured by Rockwell Automation, this unit belongs to the Bulletin 1606 XLP Compact Power Supply family.

Industrial automation equipment requires a stable power source to operate PLCs, sensors, relays, control circuits, and other electronic devices. The 1606-XLP50E converts an incoming AC or DC supply into a regulated DC output suitable for compatible control loads. Its compact dimensions and DIN rail mounting capability make it suitable for installation in control cabinets where available panel space is limited.

The 1606-XLP50E provides a nominal 24 V DC output with an adjustment range of 24–28 V DC. It has a rated output power of 50 W and a nominal output current of 2.1 A at 24.5 V. The output voltage can be adjusted to accommodate the requirements of compatible control equipment, provided the maximum output power and current limits are respected.

The unit accepts a wide input range of 100–240 V AC or 85–375 V DC. This input flexibility allows it to be used in different industrial electrical environments without requiring a manually selected AC input-voltage range.

With a typical efficiency of approximately 89%, the power supply helps limit energy losses and heat generation during normal operation. It also features stabilized output voltage, spring-clamp electrical connections, and an IP20 protection rating.

The Allen-Bradley 1606-XLP50E is intended for applications requiring a compact 50 W DC power source. Before installation, engineers should calculate the total connected load and verify that the required current remains within the unit’s rated output capacity.

Technical Specifications

Function and Working Principle

The 1606-XLP50E converts incoming electrical energy into a regulated DC output for industrial control equipment. It uses switching power supply technology to provide the required output voltage while maintaining compact dimensions and efficient operation.

1. AC/DC Input Conversion

The power supply accepts a single-phase AC input between 100 and 240 V AC. It also supports a DC input range of 85–375 V DC.

The input stage conditions the incoming electrical supply before it reaches the switching conversion circuit. This wide input capability allows the same model to be used in different installations, provided the actual supply voltage falls within the specified operating range.

Correct input wiring and protective-device selection are essential. The power supply should be connected only to a supply compatible with its electrical specifications.

2. High-Frequency Switching Conversion

Unlike traditional linear power supplies, a switching power supply uses electronic switching components to regulate energy transfer.

The internal conversion circuit operates at high frequency, allowing the unit to provide a controlled DC output through a relatively compact design. This approach helps reduce the size and weight of the power supply while maintaining suitable electrical performance for industrial control applications.

3. Regulated 24 V DC Output

The 1606-XLP50E provides a nominal 24 V DC output, adjustable from 24 to 28 V DC.

A stable DC supply is important for electronic control equipment. PLC input and output circuits, sensors, relays, and other automation devices may depend on a consistent supply voltage for reliable operation.

The rated output current is 2.1 A at 24.5 V. At an adjusted output voltage of 28 V, the rated current decreases to 1.8 A. The total output power must remain within the 50 W rating.

4. Voltage Adjustment

The output voltage adjustment function allows engineers to set the DC output within the permitted range.

This can be useful when accounting for voltage drops in longer wiring runs or matching the supply voltage to compatible equipment requirements. Any adjustment should remain within the power supply’s specified limits and the voltage requirements of connected devices.

5. Electrical Stability and Protection

The power supply provides stabilized output voltage and a maximum ripple and noise specification of 50 mV. These characteristics help support electronic equipment that requires a regulated DC source.

The unit also has a specified hold-up time of more than 171 ms at 230 V AC. Hold-up time describes how long the output can be maintained after a brief interruption of the input supply under specified test conditions.

The power supply should still be installed with suitable upstream protection and an appropriate grounding arrangement.

Role in Industrial Automation Systems

The 1606-XLP50E is commonly used as a DC power source within industrial electrical cabinets. It provides power to compatible control devices that require a regulated 24 V DC supply.

PLC Power Supply

Programmable logic controllers are central components in many automation systems. Depending on the PLC model and system architecture, a separate DC power supply may be used to energize the controller or its associated control circuits.

The 1606-XLP50E can serve as a 24 V DC source where the connected PLC equipment falls within its voltage and current limits.

Sensor and Transmitter Power

Industrial sensors and transmitters frequently use 24 V DC power. These devices detect conditions such as position, pressure, temperature, flow, and proximity.

A regulated supply helps provide consistent electrical power to these field devices. The total current demand of all connected sensors must be considered when calculating the required power supply capacity.

Relay and Contactor Control

Industrial control panels may contain relay coils, interface relays, and other low-voltage control components. A suitable 24 V DC power supply can provide the required operating voltage for these devices.

Engineers should account for coil current and inrush requirements, particularly when multiple devices may energize simultaneously.

HMI and Communication Equipment

Some operator interfaces, communication converters, and industrial network accessories require 24 V DC power. The 1606-XLP50E can support compatible devices when their combined consumption remains within the supply’s output rating.

Distributed Control Circuits

In larger control cabinets, separate power supplies may be assigned to different groups of devices. This arrangement can simplify load management and maintenance.

A 50 W supply is suitable for relatively small control loads. Larger systems may require a higher-capacity power supply or multiple appropriately engineered supplies.

Industrial Applications

The compact design and wide input range of the 1606-XLP50E make it suitable for a variety of low-power industrial control applications.

1. PLC Control Cabinets

PLC cabinets require stable DC power for controllers, sensors, interface relays, and other electronic components.

The 1606-XLP50E can provide a 24 V DC supply for compatible equipment in smaller control panels. Its DIN rail mounting design helps simplify cabinet installation.

2. Factory Automation Equipment

Automated production machines often contain sensors, relays, and control interfaces that operate on 24 V DC.

The power supply can provide the electrical energy required by these devices, supporting machine sequencing, status monitoring, and control functions.

3. Packaging Machinery

Packaging machines use electrical control circuits for product detection, material feeding, conveyor operation, and machine interlocking.

A compact DC power supply can support the low-voltage control equipment used in these systems. The actual load must be calculated before selecting the 1606-XLP50E.

4. Material Handling Systems

Conveyors, sorting equipment, and small material-handling machines often use 24 V DC sensors and control devices.

The 1606-XLP50E can supply compatible low-power circuits in these applications. Motor power circuits generally require separate, appropriately rated equipment.

5. Instrumentation and Monitoring Panels

Industrial monitoring panels may contain transmitters, signal conditioners, communication interfaces, and monitoring devices.

A regulated DC supply can provide power to these components, helping maintain consistent operation within the monitoring system.

6. Industrial Communication Equipment

Some communication converters, network accessories, and interface devices use 24 V DC input power.

The 1606-XLP50E can be used where the equipment’s electrical requirements match the power supply’s output characteristics and available current.

Installation and System Integration

Proper installation is important for electrical safety, reliable output, and long-term service life.

1. Verify the Input Supply

Before installation, check the available electrical supply and confirm that it falls within the power supply’s permitted input range.

The 1606-XLP50E supports:

• 100–240 V AC nominal input.
• 85–264 V AC operational range.
• 85–375 V DC input.
• Single-phase AC operation.

Do not connect the unit to an incompatible supply. Follow the manufacturer’s terminal identification and wiring instructions.

2. DIN Rail Mounting

The 1606-XLP50E supports DIN rail installation and is designed for compact industrial panels.

The supplied dimensions are 91 × 45 × 75 mm. Confirm the mounting arrangement and required clearances before designing the cabinet.

Allow sufficient space around the unit for ventilation and maintenance access. Avoid installing it next to equipment that produces excessive heat unless the panel’s thermal design accounts for the additional temperature rise.

3. Input and Output Wiring

Connect the input supply and DC output according to the terminal markings and manufacturer’s instructions.

Use conductors with appropriate current and voltage ratings. Ensure that terminals are correctly tightened or secured according to the spring-clamp connection requirements.

Keep input wiring and sensitive signal wiring properly arranged within the cabinet to reduce the possibility of electrical interference.

4. Calculate the Connected Load

The maximum rated output power is 50 W. At the nominal 24.5 V output, the rated current is 2.1 A.

Before connecting equipment, calculate the combined current demand of all loads. Include sensors, relays, communication devices, and other connected components.

It is good engineering practice to avoid continuously operating the power supply at its absolute maximum rating where practical. Allow suitable capacity for load variation and future expansion.

5. Adjust the Output Voltage

The output voltage can be adjusted between 24 and 28 V DC.

Before changing the setting, verify the voltage requirements of every connected device. Excessive voltage can damage sensitive electronic equipment, while insufficient voltage may cause unstable operation.

Use an appropriate measuring instrument to confirm the output after adjustment.

6. Commissioning and Testing

After installation, inspect the input wiring, output polarity, grounding, and terminal connections.

Apply power and measure the DC output voltage. Connect the intended load and verify that the voltage remains within the required range during normal operation.

Record the installation details and any voltage adjustments so that maintenance personnel can understand the original configuration.

Compatible System Components

The 1606-XLP50E can be used with various industrial control devices that accept a suitable 24 V DC supply.

The devices listed above are examples of potential loads. They are not included with the power supply, and compatibility must be confirmed individually.

Alternative Models and Replacement Considerations

The Bulletin 1606 XLP family includes power supplies with different output voltages and power ratings. A replacement should be selected according to the actual electrical requirements of the connected equipment.

These are related product-family examples, not guaranteed drop-in replacements.

Before selecting an alternative, compare:

• Input voltage and phase requirements.
• Output voltage adjustment range.
• Rated output current.
• Maximum output power.
• Mounting dimensions and DIN rail arrangement.
• Terminal type and wiring layout.
• Ripple and noise specifications.
• Operating temperature and ventilation requirements.
• Protection and certification requirements.

A replacement with a higher wattage rating may still require changes to the panel layout or wiring. Always check the complete technical documentation before installation.

Key Advantages

Compact Design

The 1606-XLP50E has a compact housing measuring 91 × 45 × 75 mm. Its small footprint helps conserve space in industrial control cabinets.

Wide Input Voltage Range

The unit supports 100–240 V AC input and 85–375 V DC input, making it suitable for a range of compatible electrical installations.

Adjustable DC Output

The 24–28 V DC adjustment range allows the output to be configured for compatible control equipment.

50 W Output Capacity

The rated 50 W output provides power for small automation systems and low-power control circuits.

DIN Rail Installation

DIN rail mounting simplifies installation in control cabinets and supports organized panel layouts.

Stabilized Output

The regulated DC output and specified ripple performance help support electronic devices requiring a consistent power source.

Efficient Operation

Typical efficiency of approximately 89% helps reduce conversion losses and associated heat generation during normal operation.

Lightweight Construction

With a listed weight of 0.24 kg, the power supply is easy to handle during installation, replacement, and maintenance.

Technical FAQs

1. What is the Allen-Bradley 1606-XLP50E?

The 1606-XLP50E is a compact industrial switching power supply from Rockwell Automation’s Bulletin 1606 XLP series. It converts AC or DC input power into regulated DC output for compatible control equipment.

2. What is the output voltage of the 1606-XLP50E?

Its nominal output is 24 V DC, adjustable from 24 to 28 V DC.

3. What is the rated output current?

The rated output current is 2.1 A at 24.5 V. At an adjusted output voltage of 28 V, the rated current is 1.8 A.

4. What is the maximum output power?

The rated output power is 50 W. The combined output voltage and current must remain within the manufacturer’s specified limits.

5. What input voltage does this power supply support?

It supports 100–240 V AC input and 85–375 V DC input. The specified AC operational range is 85–264 V AC.

6. Can the 1606-XLP50E be mounted on a DIN rail?

Yes. The unit supports DIN rail mounting and is intended for compact industrial control installations.

7. Is the output voltage adjustable?

Yes. The output can be adjusted within the 24–28 V DC range. Ensure that the selected voltage is suitable for all connected devices.

8. What is the protection rating?

The power supply has an IP20 protection rating. It should be installed in a suitable electrical cabinet where protection against water and other environmental contaminants is required.

9. Can it power a PLC and several sensors simultaneously?

It can power compatible equipment if the combined load remains within the 50 W power rating and the rated output-current limit. Calculate the total current demand before connecting multiple devices.

10. What should be checked when replacing an existing 1606-XLP50E?

Verify the complete model number, input voltage, output voltage, output current, mounting arrangement, terminal connections, and physical dimensions. Also check the load requirements and confirm that the replacement meets the original system’s electrical specifications.

Procurement and Maintenance Recommendations

When purchasing the Allen-Bradley 1606-XLP50E, verify the complete catalog number and inspect the product label. The 1606 XLP family contains models with different output voltages and power ratings, so similar product appearances should not be treated as proof of compatibility.

For new, surplus, or refurbished units, request clear product photographs and confirm the physical condition of the housing and electrical terminals. Check whether the product includes its original mounting accessories and packaging. For critical applications, request suitable functional test information before installation.

During routine maintenance, inspect terminal connections, wiring insulation, cabinet ventilation, and signs of overheating or contamination. Confirm the output voltage periodically and investigate unexpected voltage fluctuations or equipment resets.

When replacing a power supply, calculate the total connected load and confirm that the replacement can support the required current. A power supply that appears to operate normally without a load may still experience voltage instability or overload when connected to the complete control circuit.

Maintain a record of the installed model, output adjustment, connected loads, and replacement date. This information can simplify future troubleshooting and spare-parts procurement.

Conclusion

The Allen-Bradley 1606-XLP50E Power Supply is a compact 50 W industrial switching power supply designed to provide regulated 24–28 V DC output for automation and control equipment. It supports 100–240 V AC or 85–375 V DC input, delivers up to 2.1 A at 24.5 V, and supports DIN rail mounting.

Its compact dimensions, adjustable output voltage, stabilized DC supply, and wide input range make it suitable for small PLC systems, sensors, relays, communication devices, and other compatible industrial control loads.

For replacement and maintenance projects, engineers should verify the complete model number, calculate the connected load, and confirm the input and output requirements before installation.