What Is the Maximum Current per Channel for PA Control Boxes?
Each PA control box has a maximum continuous current rating per output channel. Exceeding this rating will cause the controller to overheat, trip its internal protection, or fail permanently.
PA Control Box Current Ratings
| Controller | Channels | Max Current / Channel | Voltage | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PA-20 | 1 | 5 A continuous | 12 / 24 V DC | PA-14, PA-04, PA-03, PA-18 |
| PA-20 (20A) | 1 | 20 A continuous | 12 / 24 V DC | PA-17 heavy-duty applications |
| PA-22 | 2 | 5 A per channel | 12 / 24 V DC | Dual-actuator independent control |
| PA-24 | 4 | 5 A per channel | 12 / 24 V DC | Four-zone independent control |
| FLTCON-1 | 1 | 8 A | 24 V DC out (110 V AC in) | Hall effect actuators |
| FLTCON-2 | 2 | 8 A per channel | 24 V DC out (110 V AC in) | Synchronised dual actuator |
| FLTCON-4 | 4 | 6.25 A per channel | 24 V DC out (110–220 V AC in) | Quad synchronised actuators |
| PA-41-4-12V24V | 4 | 6.25 A at 12 V | 12 / 24 V DC in | Wireless 4-actuator sync, 100 ft range |
⚠️ Always match controller to actuator The PA-17 draws up to 20 A under load. Using a standard 5 A box with the PA-17 will damage the controller immediately. Use the PA-20 20A variant or an external H-bridge rated for 20+ A.
Stall Current vs Running Current
PA actuators draw significantly more current at stall (end of stroke or obstructed) than at full-speed running. Internal limit switches cut power before stall on most models, but if you are using an external controller without internal limit switch protection, ensure the controller can handle stall current — which can be 2–3× the rated running current.