Product Overview
The NorthStar NP2-12/24 is the low-voltage version of the NP2 dual relay vehicle loop detector. It is commonly used when the operator control box supplies 12 to 24 volts AC or DC instead of line voltage. Like the other NP2 models, it reads the inductance change in an installed loop and sends relay output back to the gate operator or access control panel. This makes it useful for exit loops, safety loops, reverse loops, or hold-open loop inputs where a relay style detector is required. Low-voltage detector selection is especially important on battery backup and solar gate systems because the wrong detector can create wiring, current draw, or input compatibility problems. Before ordering, compare the old detector voltage, socket style, relay contact needs, and loop wiring layout.
Vehicle loop detectors are part of the control side of the gate system. They do not replace photo eyes, gate edges, or other monitored entrapment protection devices required by the operator and current safety standards. A loop detector should be wired only to the input function intended by the operator manufacturer.
Compatible With
Select low-voltage gate operators, solar or battery-backed gate systems, parking control panels, barrier gates, and access control boards using a standard 11-pin loop detector socket or harness with 12-24V AC/DC detector power. Commonly used for exit, reverse, safety, shadow, center, hold-open, and vehicle presence loop applications when the control board accepts relay contacts. Verify available detector power, current draw, relay wiring, and the required loop input function before replacing an older detector.
Features & Specifications
| Manufacturer | NorthStar Controls |
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| Product Type | Single channel dual relay inductive vehicle loop detector |
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| Part Number | NP2-12/24 |
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| Application | Vehicle detection for automated gates, parking gates, traffic control, and access control systems |
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| Compatible Operator Type | Select gate operators, barrier gates, parking systems, and access controllers with matching detector power and input style |
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| Voltage | 12-24V AC/DC low-voltage input, commonly listed as 10 to 30 VAC/VDC range |
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| Connection | 11-pin plug-in detector base or compatible harness |
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| Output | Dual relay outputs, commonly listed up to 7A at 277 VAC / 30 VDC |
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| Sensitivity | 10 selectable sensitivity levels |
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| Frequency | 4 selectable loop frequencies |
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| Inductance Range | Commonly 20uH to 1500uH on NorthStar NP2 family detectors; verify the exact data sheet for the installed model |
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| Temperature Range | Commonly -30 F to +180 F on NorthStar detector references |
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| Notes | Match by part number, voltage, socket or terminal style, output type, and control board loop function |
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Also Known As / Related Part Numbers
- NP2-12/24
- NP2-1224
- NP2-24
- NP2 12-24
- NP2 12/24
- NorthStar NP2-12/24
- NP2 low voltage
- NP2 family
- NP2-120
- NP2-240
Technician Note
When replacing a loop detector, do not assume that all NorthStar NP2-style detectors are interchangeable. The detector may share the same general product family while using a different voltage, socket, output type, or low-current connection style. If the loop has nuisance trips, no detection, or fault indications, check the loop and lead-in wiring before blaming the detector.
Before Ordering Checklist
- Match the exact part number from the old detector when available.
- Confirm detector supply voltage in the operator or access control enclosure.
- Check whether the system needs relay output, solid-state output, single output, dual output, or multiple loop channels.
- Verify the socket, plug, terminal strip, or harness style.
- Confirm the loop function: exit, reverse, safety, shadow, hold-open, center, or presence.
- Inspect the loop and lead-in for open, shorted, wet, or damaged wiring before replacing the detector.
Professional Advisory
Loop detector wiring should be handled with the gate operator powered down and according to the operator wiring diagram. For high-voltage detector power, damaged gate wiring, nuisance gate movement, or missing safety devices, use a qualified gate technician. Do not bypass safety inputs to make a detector or gate operator run.
Product Questions & Answers
What is the NP2-12/24 used for?
The NP2-12/24 is used with an inductive vehicle loop to send a vehicle detection signal to a compatible gate operator, parking gate, or access control panel.
Will the NP2-12/24 replace any NorthStar loop detector?
No. Match the original detector part number, voltage, socket or wiring style, output type, and the loop function. Similar NorthStar detector numbers can have different power and connection requirements.
What voltage does the NP2-12/24 require?
This model is listed for 12-24V AC/DC low-voltage input, commonly listed as 10 to 30 VAC/VDC range. Confirm the voltage available in the operator control box before installing a replacement detector.
Can the NP2-12/24 be used for exit or safety loops?
It may be used for exit, reverse, safety, hold-open, or presence loop functions when the operator board supports that input and the detector output is wired correctly.
What should be checked before ordering the NP2-12/24?
Check the old detector number, loop wiring, socket or terminal style, supply voltage, output contact type, and the gate operator wiring diagram. A qualified technician should handle unsafe wiring or high-voltage service.