MEAN WELL has continuously released 10~960W DIN rail power supplies and accessories since year 2000. The product line is now quite complete and has gained significant market share. As a response to the rapid development of complex building architectures, governments of Europe, USA and China announced safety regulations for security and fire system (EN54-4/ UL2524/ GB17945). To satisfy the vast market, MEAN WELL announced new DIN rail type all in one intelligent security power supply DRS-240 and DRS-480 series.
The most attractive feature of DRS-240/480 is the multi-functional integration, which includes AC-DC power supply, battery charger, DC-UPS and communication monitor in a single compact package. Other outstanding features include 90～305Vac input applicable to all parts of the world, compliance with safety control regulations and alarm signals, and automatic load priority power balancing (the battery will be charged with excess power). Additionally, the product has built-in MODBus communication interface, and charging parameters can be adjusted via SBP-001. The 2-stage/3-stage charging curve and charging current setting (20%～100%) can also be adjusted manually through the front panel. The charging parameter flexibility allows the DRS-240/ 480 to be suitable for variety of lead-acid and lithium batteries. All these integrations enable the DRS-240/ 480 to become one of the most complete DIN rail PSU for security and fire system. DRS-240/ 480 provide the best solution for fire safety system such as emergency communication equipment, fire emergency lighting, access control system, central monitoring system…etc.
DRS-480 Series: Smart Power Integration with Battery Backup and Communication
The MEAN WELL DRS-480 Series is a next-generation, all-in-one AC/DC DIN rail power supply with integrated battery charger and DC-UPS functionality. Built for demanding environments like security systems, telecom infrastructure, industrial automation, and critical backup applications, the DRS-480 provides both reliable power delivery and intelligent communication in a compact, robust form.
This article outlines how the DRS-480 Series can be integrated into real-world applications—covering power architecture, monitoring, and remote control capabilities.
Core System Capabilities
At the heart of your power infrastructure, the DRS-480 handles multiple functions to keep systems running seamlessly:
AC/DC Conversion: Converts wide-range AC input (90–305VAC) into clean, stable DC power (12V/24V/36V/48V output options).
Battery Charging: Built-in charger supports both lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries with selectable 2-stage or 3-stage profiles.
UPS Backup: Switches to battery instantly (<10ms) on AC failure to prevent downtime.
Alarm Monitoring: Relay outputs notify the system of faults such as AC loss, battery low, or charger failure.
Power Flow and Connections
The DRS-480 power supply integrates three key power elements:
AC Input: Connected to the mains via the terminal block.
Battery Bank: Wired to the BAT+ and BAT– terminals to support uninterrupted backup and recharging.
DC Output: Connected to your load (e.g., cameras, controllers, routers), delivering regulated voltage.
Thanks to its UPS mode, the DRS-480 ensures that the system load is continuously powered—even during AC outages.
Smart Communication Options
1. MODBus Communication (Standard Models)
Interface: RS-485 via RJ45 port
Integration: SCADA, PLCs, or energy management systems
Functions Monitored:
Real-time battery voltage and current
Load power
Internal temperature (if sensor connected)
Relay alarm statuses
Example Setup:
RJ45 → RS-485 converter → PC or BMS software
2. CANBus Communication (Optional Models)
For advanced control, optional models with CANBus support deeper integration into industrial networks:
Interface: CAN 2.0 via RJ45
Compatible Tools:
USB-CAN adapters for PC monitoring
SBP-001 programmer for full charge curve control
Why CANBus?
Adjust battery charging logic live
Coordinate with other smart devices
Perform diagnostics remotely
Charging Curve Programming with SBP-001
The SBP-001 Smart Programmer (used with CANBus models) allows custom battery charging profiles based on chemistry and application needs.
Supported Battery Types:
Lead-acid (AGM, Gel, Flooded)
Lithium (LiFePO4, LMO)
Editable Parameters:
Boost voltage
Float voltage
Constant current (CC)
Taper % and cutoff timing
Setup: RJ45 → SBP-001 → USB → PC software
This allows precise tuning for different battery bank sizes or environmental conditions.
Alarm Relay Outputs
The DRS-480 offers Form-C dry contact relays for event notifications. These outputs can be connected to alarm panels, BMS, or monitoring systems:
| Alarm Signal | Description |
|---|---|
| AC Fail | Triggers if input voltage drops below threshold |
| DC OK | Indicates proper DC output |
| Battery Low | Triggers when battery voltage is insufficient |
| Charger Fail | Alerts on charging circuit error or battery disconnect |
