RGL 1202SM-2 13.8V Monitored Switch-Mode PSU, 2 A, Battery Backup

Introduction: Meet the RGL 1202SM-2 Monitored 13.8V Switch‑Mode PSU

The RGL 1202SM-2 is a compact, monitored switch‑mode power supply designed for small to medium security installations. Delivering a regulated 13.8 V DC output at up to 2 A continuous, this unit combines reliable power delivery with onboard battery backup, charging and monitoring features — making it an ideal choice for CCTV cameras, access control systems and intruder alarm installations that require uninterrupted 12–14 V DC power.

Key features at a glance:

• Regulated 13.8 V DC output with 2 A continuous capacity.
• Onboard sealed lead‑acid (SLA) battery accommodation and charging with deep‑discharge protection.
• Voltage‑free fault contacts (mains fail, battery missing/fail, output/fuse fail) and front tamper contact for system integration.
• LED status indicators for mains, battery and output health.
• Hinged mild‑steel housing with multiple cable entries and optional DIN‑rail fittings.
• Suggested retail: 59.99 (manufacturer suggested price).

Detailed specifications and benefits

The RGL 1202SM-2 blends practical engineering with the monitoring features installers expect for reliable security systems. Below is a breakdown of the most relevant specifications and the benefits they deliver in real‑world installations.

• Output voltage:13.8 V DC (regulated). Benefit: Keeps cameras, access control panels and alarm sensors within the right voltage window to ensure consistent performance and reduce false alarms or image issues.
• Maximum current:2 A continuous. Benefit: Suited for smaller CCTV arrays, a single PTZ or several fixed cameras plus ancillary accessories without overloading the supply.
• Input voltage:230 V AC (fused). Benefit: Standard mains compatibility with user‑replaceable fused input for safety and easy maintenance.
• Battery charge current:Approximately 300 mA typical for the 2 A variant. Benefit: Provides continuous maintenance charging to keep SLA batteries topped up and ready for power outages while avoiding overcharge stress.
• Battery accommodation:Houses up to 1–2 × 7–9 Ah SLA batteries (variant dependent). Benefit: Sufficient backup runtime for many installations where short‑term mains outages are common or where alarm signalling needs to continue during a power loss.

• Protections:Current limiting, short‑circuit auto‑restart, mains transient protection and deep‑discharge protection. Benefit: Protects connected equipment and the PSU itself from common fault conditions, reducing downtime and maintenance calls.
• Fault outputs:Voltage‑free contacts for mains fail, battery missing/fail and output/fuse fail plus a front tamper contact. Benefit: Enables direct integration with alarm panels or monitoring systems so faults are reported centrally and promptly.
• Indicators:LEDs for mains, battery and output. Benefit: Quick visual checks for installers and maintenance teams to assess system health on site.

• Housing:Mild steel, white powder‑coated, hinged large housing. Benefit: Durable, discreet installation in plant rooms, cupboards or equipment cabinets, with easy access for servicing.
• Cable entry:Top, bottom and rear entries; DIN rail fitted on some variants. Benefit: Flexible installation options to suit wall or cabinet mounting and neat cable routing.
• Dimensions & weight:310 mm H × 340 mm W × 80 mm D; approx. 2.84 kg unboxed. Benefit: Compact footprint saves space while still allowing for battery storage and neat wiring.
• Compliance:EMC to EN 61000‑6‑1 & EN 61000‑6‑3. Benefit: Meets electromagnetic compatibility standards required for security and CCTV equipment integration.

Use cases and scenarios where the RGL 1202SM-2 excels

The RGL 1202SM-2 is designed for applications that need steady, monitored 13.8 V DC power with short‑term battery backup. Typical scenarios where this PSU is a particularly good fit include:

Ideal for single camera deployments or small groups of fixed cameras (especially in retail, small offices or residential systems) where 2 A is sufficient. The regulated output ensures cameras receive stable voltage to produce consistent images, while the battery backup keeps cameras running during short outages so recording and detection events aren’t lost.

Access control panels and electronic locks need a stable 12–14 V rail and reliable backup to ensure doors remain operable and events are logged. The monitored fault contacts let panels detect power issues and trigger alerts or fallbacks as required.

Alarm control panels often rely on external power supplies with monitored battery charging and status reporting. The deep‑discharge protection prolongs battery life and the fault contacts integrate with alarm monitoring so power problems are visible to end users and monitoring stations.

Where space is limited or a simple monitored power source is required (small kiosks, remote cabinets, small plant rooms), the RGL 1202SM‑2’s compact housing and flexible cable entries make it easy to install and maintain.

How it compares with other solutions

When choosing a PSU for security applications you typically weigh three categories: unmonitored basic supplies, linear (transformer) supplies and monitored switch‑mode units like the RGL 1202SM‑2. Here’s how it stacks up:

Basic unmonitored supplies are cheaper but lack fault contacts, battery charging and protection features. The RGL 1202SM‑2 adds vital monitoring and battery management, making it a better choice for systems where remote fault reporting and backup are important.

Linear supplies can be very robust and provide low noise, but they are heavier, bulkier and less efficient. Switch‑mode designs like the RGL 1202SM‑2 are lighter, more compact and more efficient, with built‑in battery charging and modern protections — ideal where weight, size and energy use matter.

Higher‑end units may provide network connectivity, advanced diagnostics, higher current capacity or multiple monitored outputs. The RGL 1202SM‑2 focuses on core monitored functionality at a competitive price and is well‑suited to small‑to‑medium installations; for complex multi‑zone systems, a networked or higher‑capacity supply may be preferable.

Customer feedback and typical installer impressions

While this article does not cite individual customer reviews, typical feedback from installers and system integrators who specify products like the RGL 1202SM‑2 highlights a few recurring strengths:

• "Reliable small PSU with sensible monitoring outputs" — installers appreciate the voltage‑free fault contacts that integrate easily with alarm panels.
• "Good battery support for small setups" — users note the ability to house 7–9 Ah SLA cells as useful for short backup durations without needing a large external battery cabinet.
• "Simple to fit and service" — the hinged housing, clear LED indicators and multiple cable entries make routine installation and maintenance straightforward.

Prospective buyers should check specialist reseller reviews and ask for installer feedback in their area to gauge real‑world reliability and support options.

Installation, safety and practical considerations

The RGL 1202SM‑2 should be installed by a suitably qualified technician and wired in accordance with local regulations. Important considerations include:

• Observe correct battery handling and disposal practices for sealed lead‑acid batteries.
• Use the fused mains input and respect the recommended cable sizes for load and battery connections.
• Refer to the official RGL datasheet for wiring diagrams, charge currents (variant specific) and exact battery capacity allowances.

Conclusion: Why choose the RGL 1202SM-2?

For small to medium CCTV, access control and intruder systems that require a reliable, monitored 13.8 V DC supply with battery backup, the RGL 1202SM‑2 represents a balanced choice. It offers regulated output, onboard battery charging with deep‑discharge protection, voltage‑free fault contacts for integration and a robust, service‑friendly enclosure — all at a competitive suggested price point of 59.99.

Choose the RGL 1202SM‑2 when you need a compact, monitored PSU that prioritises reliability, ease of installation and essential monitoring features without the complexity and cost of networked power systems. For full technical details and to confirm the best variant for your installation, consult the official RGL datasheet and speak to your supplier or installer.