Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed (Caged) Power Supplies: Reliable Metal-Cased Power Solutions

Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed (Caged) Power Supplies Introduction

Mean Well AC-DC enclosed power supplies, also known as AC-DC caged power supplies or open frame power supplies, are essential components for converting AC mains power into stable DC output for electronic systems. Widely used in industrial and commercial settings, these power supplies feature a metal enclosure without an IP rating, making them suitable for indoor use only. Unlike outdoor or waterproof models, their design focuses on cost-efficiency, ventilation, and integration ease. This article explores the features, popular series, applications, and advantages of Mean Well enclosed (caged) power supplies to help engineers and system designers choose the right solution.

Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed Power Supplies or Caged Power Supplies: The Basics Information

Mean Well AC-DC enclosed power supplies, which also named as caged power supplies, are characterized by a metal case that fully encloses the internal electronics. Unlike IP-rated outdoor power supplies, these units do not have an IP protection rating and are intended primarily for indoor use where environmental sealing against dust or water is not required.

The metal enclosure provides:

• Electrical safety by preventing accidental contact with live parts.
• Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) shielding to reduce interference.
• Mechanical protection against physical damage.
• Thermal management, as the metal case helps dissipate heat.

Because there is no IP rating, these power supplies are not designed for wet or dusty environments but are excellent for controlled indoor settings such as factory floors, control panels, and electronic equipment housings.

Mean Well AC-DC enclosed power supplies comply with global safety standards such as UL, CE, and TUV, ensuring safe and reliable operation.

Popular Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed Power Supplies Series

Mean Well offers a comprehensive range of enclosed power supplies or caged power supplies featuring metal cases without IP ratings, designed primarily for indoor industrial and electronic applications. These series vary in power capacity, features, and cooling methods, allowing users to select the ideal solution for their specific needs.

1. LRS Series

• Power Range: 35W(LRS-35 Series) to 600W(LRS-600 Series)

• Key Features of Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed Power Supplies:

• • Economical models without PFC (non-PFC) for cost-sensitive applications
  • Ultra-compact design with a low 1U profile (30-41mm height depending on model)
  • Convection cooled (fanless), resulting in silent operation
  • Withstands 300VAC surge input for 5 seconds
  • Low no-load power consumption (0.2W to 0.75W)
  • Certified for operation up to 70°C and 5G vibration resistance
  • Safety certifications including IEC/EN60335-1(PD3), IEC/EN61558-1/-2-16, IEC/EN/UL62368-1, and GB4943
  • Suitable for industrial control, automation, and general electronics

The industrial AC-DC enclosed power suppies LRS series is widely appreciated for its balance of cost, efficiency, and reliability. It supports output voltages of 5V, 12V, 15V, 24V, 36V, and 48V, making it versatile for many applications.

2. RSP Series

• Power Range: 75W(RSP-75 Series) to 3000W(RSP-3000 Series)

• Key Features:

• • Active Power Factor Correction (PFC) included for improved power quality
  • Fan-cooled with smart speed control for efficient thermal management (For the model over 1000W only, like RSP-1000 series, RSP-1500 series, RSP-1600 series, RSP-2000 series, RSP-2400 series and RSP-3000 series.)
  • Built-in constant current limiting circuit (in smaller models like RSP-75 series, RSP-100 series and RSP-150 series.)
  • Remote ON/OFF control available on select models (RSP-75 series, RSP-100 series,  RSP-150 series and RSP-500 series 
  • Remote sensing feature on RSP-500 series.
  • Compact 1U low profile (30mm height for 75-320W models, 40.5mm for 500W)
  • Designed for industrial automation, communication equipment, and LED lighting

The high-efficiency Mean Well AC-DC ecnlsoed power supplies RSP series are ideal when higher power and active PFC compliance are required, offering enhanced reliability and control features.

3. HRP Series

• Power Range: 75W (HRP-75 series) to 1000W (HRPG-1000 series)

• Key Features:

• • Built-in active PFC for energy efficiency and power quality
  • High efficiency with low no-load power consumption (<0.5W to 0.75W)
  • Robust build quality with a 5-year warranty
  • Suitable for industrial applications requiring reliable, long-life power supplies

The cost effective Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed Power Supplies HRP series are designed for demanding industrial environments where power supply longevity and performance are critical.

4. G3 Series

• Power Range: 15W (RS-15 series) to 150W (RS-150 series)

• Key Features:

• • Miniature size for space-constrained applications
  • Non-PFC design for economical power solutions
  • Withstand 300VAC surge input and 5G vibration
  • Suitable for critical applications needing compact, reliable power

The reliable AC-DC enclosed power supplies G3 series are ideal for compact devices where space and cost are critical factors.

Key Features and Technologies of Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed Power Supplies or Caged Style Power Supplies

Input Voltage Range

Typically, these power supplies support a wide AC input voltage range from 85 to 264VAC, with some models also accepting DC input. This wide input range ensures compatibility with global power sources.

Output Options

They offer single and multiple output configurations, with common output voltages including 5V, 12V, 24V, and 48V, suitable for powering a variety of devices.

Efficiency

Mean Well enclosed power supplies provide good efficiency, typically ranging from 85% to over 90% depending on the series, contributing to lower energy consumption and heat dissipation.

Power Factor Correction (PFC)

Many models incorporate active PFC to reduce harmonic distortion and improve power factor, enhancing energy efficiency and compliance with regulations.

Protection Features

Standard protections include:

• SCP (Short Circuit Protection)
• OLP (Over Load Protection)
• OVP (Over Voltage Protection)
• OTP (Over Temperature Protection)

These protections safeguard both the power supply and connected equipment.

Cooling Methods & Thermal Management

Most AC-DC enclosed power supplies in metal cases are either fanless (convection cooled) or fan-cooled depending on power rating and application needs. Fanless designs offer silent operation and high reliability, while fan-cooled models support higher power density.

Adjustable Output and Controls

Some models of Mean Well AC-DC enclosed power supplies provide adjustable output voltage and current via potentiometers. Remote ON/OFF control is also available in select series.

Surge Immunity and Reliability

They typically withstand surge voltages up to 300VAC for short durations, protecting against transient power spikes common in industrial environments.

Noise and Vibration Resistance

Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed power supplies are designed to operate quietly with low electromagnetic noise and withstand mechanical vibrations (e.g., 5G vibration test), ensuring stable performance in industrial settings.

Applications for Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed Power Supplies

Mean Well’s AC-DC metal-cased enclosed power supplies without IP rating are widely used in:

Industrial Automation

Powering control panels, factory automation equipment, and motor controllers where environmental sealing is not critical.

Electronic Equipment

Embedded systems, test and measurement instruments, and communication devices housed indoors.

LED Lighting (Indoor)

Indoor LED lighting systems that do not require outdoor or waterproof enclosures.

Security Systems

Surveillance cameras and access control systems installed indoors.

IT and Networking

Servers, switches, and communication equipment requiring reliable power in controlled environments.

These AC-DC Enclosed power supplies are ideal for environments where dust and moisture are minimal or controlled, and where a robust metal enclosure provides sufficient protection.

Advantages of Choosing Mean Well AC-DC Enclosed Power Supplies

Robust Metal Enclosure

Provides excellent electrical safety, EMI shielding, and mechanical protection in indoor environments.

Cost-Effective Solution

Without the complexity of IP-rated sealing, these power supplies are more economical while maintaining high quality and reliability.

Wide Product Range

Multiple series and power levels allow matching to diverse application requirements.

Global Safety Certifications

Compliance with UL, CE  and other standards facilitates international use.

High Reliability and Long Service Life

Designed to withstand industrial conditions including vibration and surges.

Low Noise Operation

Fanless options ensure silent operation, suitable for noise-sensitive applications.

Strong Technical Support and Documentation

Comprehensive datasheets and application notes aid design and troubleshooting.

Global Distribution

Easily sourced worldwide through established distribution channels.

Conclusion

Mean Well AC-DC enclosed power supplies or caged power supplies, featuring metal cases without IP ratings, offer a reliable, cost-effective, and efficient power solution for indoor industrial and electronic applications. Their robust metal enclosures provide essential protection and EMI shielding, while their broad product range and compliance with global standards make them a trusted choice for engineers and system designers. When environmental sealing is not required, these enclosed power supplies deliver dependable performance across automation, communication, lighting, and security systems.

For applications demanding environmental protection, consider Mean Well’s IP-rated sealed power supplies, which differ significantly from these caged metal case units. Selecting the right Mean Well enclosed power supply depends on your specific power, environmental, and certification requirements. Consulting official datasheets and authorized distributors will ensure the best match for your project.

If you need assistance with model selection or detailed technical specifications, Enocore.com is valuable partner for your design success.

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