Introduction to the DC04 4‑Way DC Power Splitter
The DC04 4‑Way DC Power Splitter is a compact, passive lead designed to distribute a single 12 V DC supply to up to four devices using the common 5.5 mm outer / 2.1 mm inner barrel connectors. Marketed primarily for CCTV installations, this splitter offers a simple, plug‑and‑play way to power multiple cameras or other 12 V devices from one power supply. Its modest size, straightforward design and affordable price point make it an attractive accessory for installers, hobbyists and small business operators who need a tidy, low‑cost power distribution solution.
Key Features at a Glance
- Connector configuration:1 × 2.1/5.5 mm female inline input to 4 × 2.1/5.5 mm male outputs.
- Cable length:Approx. 40 cm from the main female input to branch outputs.
- Passive design:No electronics, no voltage regulation — purely a splitter cable.
- Typical current capability:Around 1 A per branch (total limited by the connected PSU).
- Colour and build:Black cable, compact form factor ideal for discrete installations.
Detailed Specifications and Benefits
Understanding the DC04's specifications helps clarify where it performs well and where caution is required. The product is intentionally simple: a passive cable harness that routes power from one female barrel jack to four male barrel plugs. Key specification highlights include:
- Typical voltage:Intended for devices that run on 12 V DC, though actual device requirements should always be confirmed before connection.
- Per-output current:Typically ~1 A per branch. The combined load must not exceed the rating of your power supply or the practical capability of the cable gauge used in the lead.
- Maximum main current:Dependent on the cable gauge and supplier variant — some similar leads are used in systems carrying up to ~6 A in total, but you should verify the SKU/DC04 datasheet for precise limits.
- Connectors:The universal 5.5/2.1 mm barrel size is widely used in CCTV camera systems and many other low‑voltage devices.
- Length:The approx. 40 cm lead provides decent reach from a central power brick to nearby camera positions or devices, while remaining tidy for cable management.
- Passive operation:Because the DC04 contains no active components, it does not condition or boost voltage — it simply replicates the supply rails to multiple outputs. This keeps the unit low‑cost and highly reliable.
Benefits:The main advantages are simplicity, affordability and compatibility. For small installations with moderate current requirements, the DC04 removes the need to buy multiple separate power adapters and simplifies cable routing. Its passive nature also means no firmware, no failure modes other than wiring or connector wear, and no maintenance beyond ensuring connectors remain secure.
Use Cases and Scenarios Where the DC04 Excels
The DC04 is particularly well suited to a range of practical scenarios where multiple low‑current 12 V devices need to share the same power source:
- CCTV installations:Small home or retail CCTV systems with up to four cameras located near a central feed are a primary use case. The DC04 enables installers to run one 12 V adapter to a junction point and then fan out to each camera.
- Multi‑device hobby projects:Makers using 12 V LED strips, small routers, modems or sensors can use the DC04 to centralise power without additional electronics.
- Temporary setups and testing benches:Where multiple devices need to be evaluated or powered briefly, a passive splitter is quicker and neater than multiple power bricks.
- Small retail displays and kiosks:In point‑of‑sale or display environments where several small devices run on 12 V, the splitter reduces clutter and simplifies cable routing behind counters and stands.
Note: For higher‑current devices (for example, heaters, motors or large LED arrays), or where each branch could draw more than ~1 A, the DC04 may not be suitable without verifying cable gauge and PSU capacity. In those cases a purpose‑built power distribution unit or fused splitter is a safer choice.
Comparisons with Similar Products on the Market
Passive splitter leads like the DC04 are common, but there are a few categories of alternatives worth considering depending on requirements:
- Pros: Very low cost, compact, no electronics to fail, plug‑and‑play.
- Cons: No per‑output protection (no fuses), current limited by cable gauge and PSU, no regulation or filtering.
- Pros: Per‑output fusing protects individual branches from short circuits; some models provide screw terminals for flexible wiring and thicker cable for higher current.
- Cons: Typically larger and more expensive than a simple lead; installation may be less convenient for quick plug‑in jobs.
- Pros: Provide regulated outputs, overcurrent protection and sometimes switching per channel — ideal for mixed device types and critical systems.
- Cons: More expensive, bulkier and usually require mounting; often over‑spec for simple CCTV setups.
- Pros: Isolate devices from one another and avoid a single point of failure; appropriate when devices have different voltage/current requirements.
- Cons: Costly, more space‑consuming and less tidy than a shared supply plus splitter.
In most small CCTV deployments where four cameras of similar power draw are nearby, a passive lead such as the DC04 is often the most efficient and economical choice. Where protection, higher current or professional deployments are required, consider fused distributors or regulated multi‑output supplies instead.
Customer Testimonials and Reviews
Specific public reviews for the DC04 SKU (DC04 / ITM001097) are not provided here. That said, installers and buyers of comparable passive 4‑way splitter leads commonly report the following themes in feedback about this product type:
- Ease of use: Customers frequently note the convenience of plugging one PSU into a single point and fanning out power rather than running multiple adapters.
- Value for money: Passive splitters are generally inexpensive and provide a quick win for low‑power projects, which users appreciate.
- Limitations clearly understood: Experienced installers often remind others to verify PSU capacity and cable gauge before relying on passive splitters for higher current draws.
If you require verified reviews for procurement or compliance, request seller‑provided references or check retailer review pages for the specific SKU before purchasing.
Installation Tips and Safety Considerations
- Confirm polarity:Barrel connectors come in standard sizes but polarity must be checked (centre positive vs centre negative) to avoid damaging equipment.
- Verify total current:Add the current draw of all connected devices and ensure the power supply exceeds this total with some headroom (typically 20–30%).
- Check cable gauge and variant rating:Different suppliers may use different conductor gauges; for higher currents choose a heavier gauge or a fused distributor.
- Secure connections:Make sure plugs are fully seated and use strain relief or cable clips to reduce mechanical stress on connectors.
- Regulatory compliance:This product is a passive lead, not a power supply. Observe local wiring regulations and safety practices; consult a qualified electrician for mains work.
Conclusion
The DC04 4‑Way DC Power Splitter is a practical, affordable and straightforward solution for sharing a single 12 V DC supply across up to four devices. Its common 2.1/5.5 mm barrel connectors, compact 40 cm lead length and passive, plug‑and‑play design make it especially well suited to small CCTV installations, hobbyist setups and temporary test benches. While it does not provide per‑output protection or voltage regulation, its simplicity is an advantage when used within its limitations: confirm PSU capacity, check polarity and ensure the combined current draw is within safe bounds.
For installers seeking a tidy, budget‑friendly way to power multiple similar 12 V devices, the DC04 represents a sensible choice. For projects where protection, higher currents or professional certification are critical, consider upgrading to a fused distribution block or a regulated multi‑output power unit.
