Phoenix — LifeSafety Power is rolling out the latest generation of NetLink network communication technology for its FlexPower Unified Power Solutions. This update adds two new modules: NetLink Connect (NLC) and NetLink Expansion (NXB), designed to boost security, scalability, and installation simplicity for managed power systems.
NetLink Connect modules deliver system status over a single network drop through a secure Open Supervised Device Protocol (OSDP) connection with encryption and supervisory features. NetLink Expansion units attach to an NLC and extend communication to multiple enclosures using the same network drop. LifeSafety Power says the switch from RS-485 to OSDP boosts cybersecurity between enclosures. The NXB depends on an NLC to operate.
Each NLC + NXB setup can manage as many as 64 managed modules — B150, M8, SD4, and SD16 solutions among them — on one network drop. Earlier NetLink boards, the NL2, NL4, and NLX, each required their own drop and supported just 2, 4, or 24 modules. This expanded capacity cuts installation complexity by limiting field wiring to a single OSDP link.
Every managed module reports health metrics, alarms, and battery status back to a central console via NetLink, enabling faster diagnostics and maintenance scheduling. The FlexPower series supports a mix of DC, AC-redundant, or PoE systems, from single-door units to high-capacity enclosures.
The new hardware supports future software and cybersecurity updates. LifeSafety Power notes this flexibility will provide long-term value for organizations using managed power systems. Software updates will add reporting dashboards, alarm settings, and firmware distribution across locations. NetLink, the company’s proprietary solution, allows remote monitoring, control, and management of individual systems, providing real-time data on power operations and connected components.
Users can operate NetLink through a standalone browser-based interface or integrate it with Multi-Site Manager (MSM Enterprise) for single-pane management across access control platforms. Integration lets security teams oversee multiple sites from one console.
NetLink Connect and NetLink Expansion will replace the NL2, NL4, and NLX boards, which are set to be discontinued by the end of 2025. Critical security updates for those legacy boards will remain available for three years after they reach end of life, with no additional feature enhancements.
