4‑Way DC Power Splitter 5.5×2.1mm (1F→4M), FS-DC1F4M

Introduction: What the FS-DC1F4M 4‑Way DC Power Splitter Is

Product:4‑Way DC Power Splitter 5.5×2.1mm (1F→4M), FS-DC1F4M — a compact 1‑to‑4 5.5×2.1mm DC barrel splitter designed for low‑voltage devices. Priced to be budget‑friendly (cost price $1.80; suggested retail $4.95), this accessory offers a simple way to feed multiple small electronics from a single DC supply.

The FS-DC1F4M provides one female 5.5×2.1 mm DC input and four corresponding male outputs arranged around a moulded central hub. It is intended for tidy, low‑cost distribution of DC power to devices such as CCTV cameras, LED strips and other small electronics where one adapter can serve multiple loads.

Key Features at a Glance

• Connector configuration:1 × 5.5×2.1 mm female → 4 × 5.5×2.1 mm male.
• Moulded central hub:neat cable routing, basic strain relief and compact footprint.
• Typical dimensions:~410 mm total length; output legs ~177–215 mm (vendor dependent).
• Typical cable gauge (equivalent items):jack side often ~22 AWG; output leads often ~24 AWG — confirm exact AWG/current rating with supplier.
• Use cases:CCTV camera clusters, LED lighting runs, media devices and other low‑voltage DC setups.

Detailed Specifications and Practical Benefits

The FS-DC1F4M uses the ubiquitous 5.5×2.1 mm barrel connector family, one of the most common DC power connector sizes for consumer and light professional electronics. The single female inlet accepts a standard adapter plug, and four male leads allow a single supply to feed multiple devices without repeatedly swapping adapters.

The moulded central hub is designed to keep the four output leads grouped neatly, providing a compact, low‑profile distribution point. This reduces cable clutter and makes routing easier in rack, cabinet or wall‑mounted installations.

• Typical length:~410 mm total; each leg roughly 177–215 mm (vendor dependent) — long enough for short runs between devices in a confined mounting area.
• Typical cable gauge:similar items often use ~22 AWG at the jack and ~24 AWG on output legs. These gauges are suitable for low current applications but can impose limits if multiple outputs draw significant combined current.
• Voltage & current:Intended for low‑voltage DC systems. Important: current rating data for FS-DC1F4M is listed as INSUFFICIENT DATA — always confirm with the supplier/manufacturer before connecting high current loads.

Benefit: for small devices with modest current draw, the splitter removes the need for multiple wall adapters, simplifies wiring and reduces the number of power outlets required. Drawback: without a confirmed current rating and heavier gauge wiring, it is not appropriate for high current distribution or applications where voltage drop across the leads is critical.

Safety guidance for this type of splitter is straightforward: ensure the combined current draw of all connected devices does not exceed the rating of the supply, the connector and the cable. The FS-DC1F4M’s documentation did not include a definitive current or temperature rating or formal CE/RoHS/UKCA declarations at the time of research — these are marked INSUFFICIENT DATA. If you require formal compliance evidence or technical datasheets (AWG, current rating, material and certifications), contact the supplier before purchase.

Use Cases and Scenarios Where the Splitter Excels

Small CCTV installations frequently use many low‑current cameras mounted in proximity. The FS-DC1F4M enables a single 12V or other appropriate DC adapter to feed up to four cameras (provided the adapter and splitter current capacities are suitable). The compact hub simplifies locating the splitter near a cluster of cameras and reduces the number of wall sockets and power bricks required.

For short LED runs or multiple short accent strips, the splitter can distribute power from one transformer to several strips. Because LED strips can be sensitive to voltage drop, use this splitter only for short runs and low combined current; for longer runs or high‑power strips, use heavier gauge distribution or a purpose‑designed LED power distribution accessory.

Small peripherals such as routers, single‑board computers, network accessories and media players sometimes operate from 5–12 V barrel adapters. The FS-DC1F4M is a tidy way to power several such devices in a compact AV cabinet or desktop arrangement, assuming current requirements are modest.

Because of its low cost and simplicity, the splitter is handy for prototyping and temporary setups where permanent wiring is unnecessary. It buys time and convenience when testing multiple devices from a single bench supply.

Comparisons with Similar Products

There are several classes of DC power distribution accessories. Understanding how the FS-DC1F4M stacks up helps choose the right tool for the job.

• Passive splitters(FS-DC1F4M style): inexpensive, plug‑and‑play, compact. Best for low current, short runs and consumer devices. Limitations: limited current capacity (vendor dependent), no per‑output fusing or protection, potential voltage drop.
• Powered distribution blocks:heavier gauge wiring, often with screw terminals or fused outputs. Better for higher current, professional installs and when per‑output protection is required. More expensive and bulkier than a passive barrel splitter.

A multi‑output power supply provides isolated or regulated multiple outputs tailored to each device’s needs. For installations with mixed voltage requirements or sensitive electronics, a multi‑output supply is a superior but more costly and complex solution. A passive splitter like the FS-DC1F4M is only appropriate when all devices share the same voltage and have reasonably low combined current draw.

Using one adapter per device maximises isolation and reduces the risk of overloading any single supply, but it increases cost, bulk and socket usage. A single adapter plus the FS-DC1F4M reduces clutter and cost — a clear advantage for many small projects and cost‑sensitive installs — but care must be taken to ensure the adapter and splitter are rated for the combined load.

Customer Feedback and Reviews

At the time of writing, specific customer testimonials for the FS-DC1F4M SKU were not available. For similar low‑cost 1‑to‑4 barrel splitters, common user feedback trends include:

• Positive: praised for affordability, convenience and compact design in low‑power setups (CCTV test rigs, small LED accent lighting, bench prototyping).
• Constructive concerns: users frequently request clearer current rating data and sometimes report mild heat buildup when drawing near the cable’s limits; others note that cheap variants can have loose connectors — an important reason to verify build quality before deployment.

If you plan a deployment where reliability and safety matter, seek product samples, check for a datasheet and, where possible, read verified reviews or request supplier test data (AWG, max continuous current, temperature rating and any certifications).

Buying Considerations and Practical Tips

• Confirm current requirements:Add the current draw of each connected device and ensure the wall adapter and splitter cabling can handle the total safely.
• Mind voltage drop:Keep cable runs short; use heavier gauge wiring or a different distribution method for longer runs or higher currents.
• Use in appropriate environments:This product is for indoor, dry locations unless a waterproof model or enclosure is used.
• Check fit and quality:Verify the 5.5×2.1 mm fitment on both your adapter and devices; poor fit can cause intermittent power or heat.
• Request documentation:If compliance, AWG and max current are important for your project, request the Folk Safe datasheet for FS-DC1F4M prior to purchase.

Conclusion: Why Choose the FS-DC1F4M?

The FS-DC1F4M 4‑Way DC Power Splitter is a low‑cost, practical accessory for anyone needing to power multiple small, low‑current DC devices from a single adapter. Its compact moulded hub, standard 5.5×2.1 mm connectors and short lead lengths make it ideal for CCTV clusters, short LED runs, prototyping and compact media cabinets. At a suggested retail price of $4.95 and a low cost price, it represents an economical choice for non‑critical and temporary installations.

However, it is crucial to treat the splitter as a passive, low‑power distribution accessory. Because formal electrical and compliance data for this SKU were not available at the time of research (current rating and certification information is INSUFFICIENT DATA), verify the splitter’s suitability with the supplier for any installation that approaches higher current draws or where safety and certification are required.

In short: if you need an affordable, space‑saving way to share DC power among several low‑power devices and you confirm the adapter and cables are rated for the combined load, the FS-DC1F4M is a sensible, convenient choice. For higher power, long runs, or installations requiring per‑output protection and certified ratings, consider a purpose‑built distribution block or multi‑output supply instead.