AKCP sensorProbeX+ SPX8-X20

The AKCP SPX8-X20 is an advanced platform for server room environmental monitoring and security management. Featuring eight intelligent sensor ports and twenty configurable dry contacts, this model offers a class-leading combination of direct sensor data acquisition and integration of external systems. Designed specifically for professional environments such as data centers, industrial facilities, and telecommunications sites, the SPX8-X20 unites all essential functions for modern data center monitoring in a compact and reliable device.

Unlike pure sensor solutions, the SPX8-X20 significantly expands monitoring capabilities. The dry contact monitoring enables seamless integration of door contacts, motion detectors, fire alarm systems, and industrial controls. This flexibility is key to comprehensive server room monitoring that covers not only environmental factors such as temperature or humidity but also physical security aspects like unauthorized access.

Thanks to native support for common network and security protocols such as SNMP v1/v2/v3, MQTT, Syslog, and HTTPS, the sensorProbeX+ SPX8-X20 meets the highest demands for data security and integration. Administrators can incorporate this platform into existing network management and building monitoring systems, creating a unified modular monitoring solution without parallel isolated systems.

With the SPX8-X20, manufacturer AKCess Pro sets new standards for modern monitoring technology. The combination of eight sensor ports for intelligent AKCP sensors, twenty dry contact ports for third-party systems, and a modular expansion concept makes this device the ideal choice for companies relying on comprehensive AKCP IoT integration, flexibility, and durability.

Core Features of the SPX8-X20

• 8 intelligent sensor ports for AKCP sensors
• 20 dry contacts for integration of external systems
• Support of SNMP v1/v2/v3, MQTT, HTTPS, Rsyslog
• Power over Ethernet (PoE) for flexible installation
• Robust aluminum housing, fanless, energy efficient (1 watt)
• MTBF of over 10 million hours - highest reliability

Intelligent Sensor Integration

The SPX8-X20 is fully compatible with the full range of AKCP smartRack sensors, including:

• Temperature and combined temperature-humidity sensors for precise environmental monitoring
• Airflow sensors to ensure adequate cooling in server cabinets
• Smoke detectors for early fire detection
• Water leak sensors for leak detection under raised floors
• Thermal map sensors for detailed temperature distributions in racks

For physical security, RFID access control and swing handle locks can be integrated, connecting access controls directly to the monitoring system.

Dry Contact Monitoring - Versatile Applications

The 20 dry contacts allow integration of external systems as both inputs and outputs. Typical scenarios include:

• Integration of fire alarm systems
• Door and window contacts for server room security
• Connection of uninterruptible power supplies or emergency generators
• Integration of existing building and process controls
• Alarm forwarding or access control through output logic

The dry contacts support signal levels between 0VDC/5VDC and up to 30V, enabling compatibility with almost all common industrial systems. With this versatility, the SPX8-X20 serves as a reliable link between classic building technology and modern monitoring platforms.

Network Functions

• SNMP-based monitoring for integration into central systems like Nagios, PRTG, or Check_MK
• HTTPS for secure configuration and user interfaces
• MQTT/MQTTS for IoT integration
• Syslog for centralized event logging

Integrated PoE monitoring (Power over Ethernet) significantly reduces installation effort and eliminates the need for additional power outlets. A 10/100 Mbps Fast Ethernet port ensures stable network connections at all times.

Reliability and Robustness

The SPX8-X20 is designed for continuous operation under demanding conditions. It operates reliably in temperature ranges between 0°C and 70°C, with industrial versions available from -25°C to 70°C. Thanks to the robust aluminum housing and fanless, energy-efficient design, the hardware remains virtually maintenance-free.

With an MTBF of over 10 million hours, the system is classified as top-tier reliability. All devices undergo a 96-hour burn-in test prior to shipment. Power consumption is only 1 watt, making it ideal for energy-efficient, sustainable IT infrastructures.

Optional Modules and Extensions

The modular monitoring solution scales with requirements. Examples of optional modules include:

• sensor4 modules – four additional sensor ports
• Thermal Map sensors – detailed temperature analysis in racks
• RFID Swing Handle Locks – physical access control
• Dry Contact expansions (10x or 20x)
• Mini Relay modules and Analog Input modules
• 4G Cellular Data Modem and GPS module
• Internal Mini UPS for battery backup

Licensing and Software

• VPN functions for remote locations
• Up to 80 virtual sensors
• Integration of external devices via Modbus
• 500 user database with RADIUS authentication
• IPv6 support for future-proof networking

Scalability and Expansion

With BEB (Basic Expansion Bus) and RS485 expansion, the SPX8-X20 supports a wide variety of scenarios. BEB extensions are suitable for the same rack level, while RS485 allows the use of expansion units over distances up to 300 meters. This makes the system equally attractive for compact server rooms and large-scale industrial environments.

Application Areas

• Data center monitoring of temperature, power, airflow, and security
• Telecommunications facilities with redundant systems
• Industrial plants with process monitoring
• Remote sites with cellular connectivity

The combination of robust hardware, SNMP-based monitoring, dry contact integration, and AKCP sensor compatibility provides a comprehensive solution for all modern server room monitoring requirements.

What are the advantages of the 20 dry contacts?

The potential-free contacts of the SPX8-X20 allow integration of external alarm systems, control systems, and monitoring technology. This makes it easy to incorporate existing systems into the monitoring infrastructure.

Can the SPX8-X20 be integrated into IoT environments?

Yes, the SPX8-X20 supports MQTT/MQTTS and can seamlessly be integrated into IoT networks, cloud platforms, and modern industrial monitoring solutions.

Can multiple SPX8-X20 units be networked over large distances?

Yes, with the RS485 expansion interface, expansion units can be operated and connected over distances up to 300 meters.