Altronix AL1024ULACMCB 8-Output Access Power Controller
The Altronix AL1024ULACMCB is a modular eight-output power supply and charger purpose-built for distributed access control infrastructure. This unit delivers selectable 12VDC or 24VDC output across independent regulated channels, allowing you to power multiple door strikes, readers, and auxiliary devices from a single enclosure without cross-talk or load interaction. The AL1024ULACMCB is UL Listed for North American electrical code compliance and integrates power-supply and battery-charger functions, making it suitable for both legacy mixed-voltage deployments and contemporary standardized systems.
Key Features
- Eight Independent Output Channels: Each output is isolated, so a short or surge on one reader or strike doesn't cascade to others. Critical in multi-door facilities where you need granular per-device control and diagnostics.
- Selectable 12VDC or 24VDC Output: Configure the unit to match your hardware inventory—12V for older solenoid strikes and readers, 24V for modern intelligent access controllers. This flexibility avoids the cost and complexity of multiple power supplies in hybrid installations.
- Multiple Current Ratings (4A @ 12VDC, 3A @ 24VDC, 10A @ 12VDC Maximum): The 4A and 3A ratings provide headroom for typical badge readers and single-strike doors; the 10A maximum capacity supports heavier load scenarios or future expansion. Match your specification to expected aggregate draw—undersizing here forces a second unit, oversizing wastes cost and cabinet space.
- Integrated Power Supply and Charger: Built-in charger eliminates the need for a separate battery management module when you want battery-backed node operation. Simplifies wiring and reduces single points of failure in access panels.
- UL Listed: Meets North American electrical codes, essential for insurance and code compliance in commercial and institutional deployments. Skipping UL certification can void your installation warranty and create liability exposure.
- Multi-Output Architecture for Modular Panel Design: Eight outputs mean eight independent power rails. This architecture scales—stack multiple AL1024ULACMCB units in your access control enclosure if you exceed eight doors, without needing a larger or more complex centralized supply.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Covers manufacturing defects for the life of the product, standard in the access power supply segment. Review the warranty document to confirm which failure modes are covered.
Integration & Compatibility
The AL1024ULACMCB is a power infrastructure component compatible with any 12VDC or 24VDC access control device—door strikes, mag locks, card readers, credential encoders, and control nodes. It does not directly interface with IP cameras or network-attached systems; use it to power auxiliary access hardware in parallel with your video recording infrastructure and Ethernet switching backbone. Mounting in a standard 19-inch equipment rack or wall-mount enclosure is straightforward, though space planning is necessary to ensure cable strain relief and thermal clearance.
For deployments combining access control with physical security surveillance, coordinate power provisioning: the AL1024ULACMCB handles access devices while PoE switches power cameras and edge analytics appliances independently. This separation prevents a single power fault from disabling both systems simultaneously.
When to Choose a Different Model
If you require more than eight independent outputs, consider stacking multiple AL1024ULACMCB units or consult the broader Altronix power supply family for higher-channel configurations. If your environment demands hot-swappable battery packs or redundant dual-supply failover, compare alternative models in the Altronix catalog that explicitly support those topologies. The AL1024ULACMCB is a straightforward eight-channel supply—it does not include remote monitoring, SNMP alerts, or IP-based health reporting; if centralized power management across a geographically distributed site is required, evaluate supervised or networked alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the maximum aggregate current draw I can expect from all eight outputs simultaneously?
A: The AL1024ULACMCB specifications list 4A @ 12VDC, 3A @ 24VDC, and 10A @ 12VDC maximum current capacity. The practical limit depends on your voltage selection and the capacity rating of your input AC power. Do not assume all eight outputs can deliver full rated current simultaneously unless the datasheet explicitly guarantees that—thermal and supply headroom may limit real-world parallel load.
Q: Can the AL1024ULACMCB power both 12VDC and 24VDC devices at the same time?
A: No. The unit is configured for either 12VDC OR 24VDC operation, not both simultaneously. Select the voltage that matches your majority device population, then use isolated DC-DC converters for minority-voltage hardware.
Q: Is the AL1024ULACMCB suitable for outdoor or wet-environment mounting?
A: The AL1024ULACMCB is a power supply module typically mounted inside an access control enclosure or secured cabinet. It is not inherently rated for direct outdoor exposure. Mount it in a weatherproof, ventilated enclosure if field deployment is required, and ensure adequate thermal clearance around the unit.
Q: What warranty coverage does the AL1024ULACMCB include?
A: The unit carries a Lifetime Limited Warranty covering manufacturing defects. Review the warranty terms for exclusions (abuse, environmental damage, modifications). This is a manufacturer warranty and does not cover physical damage from power surges or incorrect configuration.
Q: Can I use the integrated charger function with any battery type?
A: The integrated charger is designed for lead-acid or sealed AGM backup batteries typical in access control nodes. Consult the datasheet for recommended battery chemistries and terminal configurations. Using incompatible battery types (lithium, NiMH) may damage the charger or the battery itself.
Q: How many AL1024ULACMCB units can I stack or parallel in a single enclosure?
A: There is no inherent limit to the number of units you can install in a cabinet, but coordinate thermal management—each unit dissipates heat under load. Ensure adequate air circulation and monitor enclosure temperature, especially in warm climates or fully loaded configurations. Staggered power sequencing is recommended to avoid inrush current spikes when multiple supplies turn on simultaneously.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix AL1024ULACMCB is a workhorse eight-output supply—straightforward, UL Listed, and purpose-designed for distributed access control where you need independent voltage rails without the cost and cabinet footprint of a full panel redesign. The dual-voltage (12/24VDC selectable) architecture is the real win here: if you're managing a hybrid site with older 12V solenoid hardware and newer 24V smart readers, this single unit eliminates the juggling act of separate supplies and the need to stock two distinct product lines.
Technical Highlights:
- Eight Independent Channels: Each output is isolated from the others, so a fault or excessive load on one door strike doesn't affect adjacent readers or locks. In a 4-door or 8-door facility, this means targeted diagnostics—you know exactly which device failed, not a whole panel blackout.
- Current Ratings (4A @ 12VDC, 3A @ 24VDC, 10A @ 12VDC): The multiple ratings reflect real-world flexibility. Standard badge readers and single strikes stay within 2–3A; if you add electric locking mechanisms or high-drain controllers, the 10A maximum absorbs growth without a second supply. Upsizing prevents thermal stress and extends MTBF.
- Integrated Charger: The built-in battery-backup charger function means you can provision backup power at the panel level without external charge controllers. Reduces component count and keeps the access control footprint clean for standardized cabinet designs.
Deployment Considerations:
- Voltage is a one-time configuration choice—you cannot run 12V and 24V outputs simultaneously. Audit your device population before ordering and confirm the dominant voltage. If you have a truly mixed 50/50 split, you'll need two units or DC-DC conversion boards for the minority devices.
- The AL1024ULACMCB is not networked or monitored remotely—it has no SNMP, email alerts, or IP dashboard. If you need centralized power health visibility across a multi-site deployment, this is not the solution. It works best in localized access panels where a technician can manually verify status on-site.
- Thermal management matters under heavy concurrent load. Eight outputs at maximum current will generate heat. Ensure adequate enclosure ventilation and avoid stacking multiple units in poorly ventilated cabinets without airflow planning.
The AL1024ULACMCB is the right fit for warehouse automation sites, mid-sized office campuses, and retrofit projects where you need to consolidate legacy 12V hardware with newer 24V readers without redesigning the entire access infrastructure. It's not exotic—it's reliable, space-efficient, and does exactly what it promises.
