The VLC 1600 is a Class 4 laser product (if >500 mW). The datasheet will warn:
The integrated photodiode enables Automatic Power Control (APC) . A sample circuit from a typical VLC 1600 datasheet:
Laser Anode ──> Vcc (>3V)
│
[Current Sense Resistor]
│
[MOSFET / BJT Pass Transistor]
│
Laser Cathode ─┼──> To ground via driver IC
│
Photodiode A ──┼──> To op-amp inverting input
│
Photodiode K ──┴──> To op-amp non-inverting reference (APC setpoint)
The APC loop maintains constant optical power by adjusting the drive current, compensating for temperature-induced efficiency drops.
Based on aggregated field data from VLC 1600 users, here are common issues and what the datasheet implies for resolution.
| Failure Symptom | Likely Cause | Datasheet Reference | | :--- | :--- | :--- | | No light output | Open circuit / ESD damage | Absolute max reverse voltage (VR=2V) | | Gradual power loss | Facet degradation / contamination | Cleanliness spec (Class 100 cleanroom) | | Wavelength shift > 5nm | Over-temperature | Derating curve (typically 0.3 nm/°C) | | Speckle or mode hopping | Drive current near threshold | Operate > 2x Ith (e.g., >700mA) | | Photodiode current not tracking | PD saturation or bad APC loop | Monitor PD linear range (0-2 mA) |
If you have the physical component, measure its package dimensions (e.g., 5mm LED, SMD 3535, etc.) and compare with datasheets for Vishay VLC series (e.g., VLC.1340, VLC.1420) or Kingbright VLC series. These share similar naming and specifications.
Alerton VisualLogic VLC-1600 is a high-performance, BACnet-compliant field controller specifically designed as an input monitoring device
. Unlike other controllers in the VisualLogic series, the VLC-1600 is dedicated to high-density input applications and has no control outputs Technical Specifications According to the official Alerton VLC-1600 datasheet , the device features the following hardware capabilities:
: 16 universal inputs with 10-bit resolution (upgraded to 16-bit in the VLC-1600-E variant Configurability
: Software or jumper-selectable for thermistors, dry contacts, 0–5 VDC, 0–10 VDC, or 4–20 mA signals. Pulse Support : Inputs 1–3 can accept pulse-type signals. vlc 1600 datasheet
: 32-bit architecture (Motorola AZ60 or ARM Cortex-M4F depending on model).
: Non-volatile flash memory for program and data storage, ensuring reliability during power cycles. Internal Speed : Logical loop time of for high-speed data processing.
: 24 VAC @ 10 VA (VLC-1600) or up to 26 VA (VLC-1600-E). It utilizes a half-wave rectifier, allowing multiple units to share a single transformer. Connectivity and Integration
The VLC-1600 is a native BACnet controller, designed for seamless integration into building automation systems: : Communicates on a BACnet MS/TP LAN at speeds up to 115.2 Kbps (depending on the model). Smart Sensors : Supports intelligent wall sensors including the Microset, Microset II, and Microset 4 on Input 0. Programming : Fully programmable using Alerton’s VisualLogic graphical toolset. Physical and Environmental Attributes Dimensions : 4.90” H x 5.45” W x 1.40” D (125mm x 138mm x 36mm). Operating Limits
: Temperature range of 0–158°F (-17–70°C) with 0–95% non-condensing relative humidity. Terminations
: Removable header-type screw terminals that accept 14–24 AWG wire. Typical Applications
Because it focuses purely on monitoring, it is often used to augment the input capabilities
of other controllers in central plant systems or lighting panels. It is a cost-effective solution for fault detection, diagnostics, and high-density process variable monitoring. or specific wiring diagrams for the universal inputs? hbt-bms-VLC-1600-E-datasheet.pdf
If you were looking for audio equipment rather than an electronic component, the Velodyne VLC-1600 is a historical subwoofer model. The VLC 1600 is a Class 4 laser product (if >500 mW)
Product: Velodyne VLC-1600 Subwoofer Type: Powered Subwoofer (Active) Driver Size: 15-inch Amplifier Power: ~160 Watts RMS Crossover: Variable (40Hz - 120Hz) Application: Home Theater / Home Audio Notable Features: Known for high excursion and low-frequency output typical of Velodyne's classic "VL" series.
Recommendation: If the component in your hand does not match the descriptions above, please check the logo:
In the world of building automation, the VLC-1600 isn't just a part number; it’s the quiet observer of the Alerton VisualLogic family. While its siblings like the VLC-16160 are "doers" with dozens of outputs to flip switches and move valves, the 1600 is a dedicated monitoring specialist.
Here is the "deep story" of what this device actually does behind the scenes: The Nervous System of the Building
Imagine a massive skyscraper. Thousands of sensors are "breathing"—measuring the temperature of the air, the flow of water in pipes, and the CO2 levels in crowded lobbies. The VLC-1600 acts as a high-density nerve center for these signals. It features 16 universal inputs but zero control outputs. Its entire purpose is to listen, translate, and report. Technical Vital Signs
The Processor: It uses a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4F (on newer -E models) or a Motorola AZ60 (on legacy models). This allows it to process data in 100-millisecond loops, ensuring that if a critical sensor detects a leak or a spike in pressure, the building's brain knows about it instantly.
Universal Inputs: These are the "ears" of the device. They are highly flexible and can be configured to understand: Thermistors (measuring heat)
Dry contacts (knowing if a door is open or a pump is tripped)
0-10 VDC or 4-20 mA signals (precise measurements from industrial sensors). The APC loop maintains constant optical power by
Memory: All its logic is stored in non-volatile flash memory, meaning if the power goes out, it doesn't "forget" what it’s supposed to be watching when it wakes back up. Why "VisualLogic"?
The "VL" in VLC stands for VisualLogic, a graphical programming language used by technicians. Instead of writing lines of code, engineers "wire" together functional blocks on a screen. This makes it much easier to set up complex monitoring routines, like calculating the average temperature across 16 different rooms or detecting a "fault" when two sensors disagree. The Legacy & Transition
The VLC-1600 is part of the Honeywell Alerton BACtalk ecosystem. You'll often find it in: Central Plants: Monitoring massive chillers and boilers.
Lighting Panels: Tracking energy usage across entire floors.
Cloud Analytics: Feeding real-time data into modern energy-saving software.
Note on Discontinuation: Many standard VLC-1600 units are now listed as discontinued by Honeywell, replaced by the updated VLC-1600-E which offers better security (secure boot) and faster communication.
Are you looking to replace an existing unit, or are you programming one for a new building project? I can help you find specific wiring diagrams or configuration steps for the inputs if you'd like. VLC-1600 data sheet
Here is helpful, practical content regarding the "VLC 1600 Datasheet."
Since "VLC 1600" is not a standard, single commercial product (VLC usually stands for Variable Length Code, VLC Media Player, or Visible Light Communication), this guide covers the three most likely things you are searching for and provides the equivalent of a "datasheet" for each.