AKCP 5 Dry Contact Inputs (5DCS) – Optimized monitoring of dry contacts
AKCP 5 Dry Contact Inputs (5DCS)
Reliable monitoring and transmission of signals from switches, relays, or alarm contacts is essential for operators of critical infrastructure. The AKCP 5 Dry Contact Inputs Sensor (5DCS) is designed to monitor potential-free contacts in data centers, industrial sites, and utilities. Fully integrated with AKCP sensorProbe and securityProbe platforms, it enables scalable SNMP-based monitoring of status signals of all kinds.
With TCP/IP networking, the 5DCS provides real-time monitoring of safety- and mission-critical systems. Whether UPS systems, power distribution centers, or fire protection systems, the sensor instantly reports state changes, forwards alarms, and enables proactive responses by administrators.
Offering excellent scalability, smaller installations can connect up to 2 modules on a sensorProbe2 (10 inputs). With securityProbe platforms, up to 600 inputs are possible. The flexibility makes the 5DCS suitable for single server rooms as well as enterprise data centers and industrial environments.
Integrated with AKCP networks, AutoSense detection, dynamic configuration, and flexible alarm management simplify setup while maximizing operational safety.
Supported Configurations
- sensorProbe2: up to 2 modules (10 inputs)
- sensorProbe2+: up to 4 modules (20 inputs)
- sensorProbe8: up to 8 modules
- securityProbe: up to 600 modules
Application Examples
- Power distribution: monitoring utility panels and switchgear
- UPS systems: battery status and operation mode reporting
- Generators: operating or fault condition alerts
- HVAC: fault notifications from climate systems
- Network & telecom: supervision of service states
- Fire protection: integration with fire alarms or evacuation systems
Technical Details
- Contact voltage: 5 V pull-up, potential-free contacts
- Polling interval: multiple reads per second
- Networking: RJ45 (Cat5/6), distance up to 305 m
- Housing: 56 × 55 × 33.3 mm
- Mounting: DIN rail or screw mount
- AutoSense: plug-and-play detection
- Power supply: via controller, no external PSU
- Disconnect alarm: cable cut or tamper detection
Alarm & Network Management
SNMP integration allows flexible alarm handling. Options include:
- E-mail: notify responsible staff immediately
- SMS: via GSM gateways
- SNMP traps: for Nagios, PRTG, Zabbix, Tivoli, or HP OpenView
- Relay integration: activate sirens, cooling, or escalation mechanisms
With SNMP polling (SNMPget), constant status queries are possible. Events are logged and can be analyzed further for preventive actions.
Automation & Control Options
Combined with other sensors, complex automation can be implemented. For example, triggering emergency fans, controlling access doors, or activating security alarms. This extends the 5DCS functionality beyond monitoring, turning it into a core control point within IT and industrial environments.
Economic Benefits
By detecting faults early, downtime and operational losses are prevented. With scalability from small installations to enterprise systems and compatibility with existing alarm contacts, the 5DCS reduces hardware expenses, supports future growth, and maximizes ROI on monitoring setups.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Which contacts are supported?
Any dry contacts including relays, switches, door sensors, or alarms.
What is the maximum cable length?
Up to 305 meters with Cat5/6 cabling.
Does it require a power supply?
No, it draws power directly from the AKCP base unit.
Which AKCP systems are supported?
All sensorProbe and securityProbe platforms with AutoSense detection.
Is tamper detection included?
Yes, disconnect alarms alert on cable faults or tampering attempts.
The AKCP 5 Dry Contact Inputs Sensor (5DCS) enhances monitoring systems with dependable contact supervision. With five inputs per module, AutoSense setup, scalable alarms, and full SNMP integration, it is ideal for data centers, industrial facilities, and critical infrastructure. Its scalability and flexibility make it a future-proof, cost-effective solution for network-based dry contact monitoring.