Altronix AL600ULACMCB 12/24VDC Power Supply/Charger
The AL600ULACMCB is a UL Listed AC/DC power supply and charger offering dual-voltage operation — 12VDC or 24VDC — with field-selectable output. This unit bridges primary power delivery and backup charging in one compact form factor, making it a practical choice for access control panels, alarm systems, door controllers, and distributed security infrastructure requiring regulated DC power with integrated battery maintenance capability.
Key Features
- Dual voltage output (12VDC or 24VDC, field selectable): Flexibility to match existing control panels and downstream devices without stock-keeping multiple SKUs. Switch voltage configuration in the field if system requirements shift.
- Multiple current ratings (4A @ 12VDC, 3A @ 24VDC, or 10A @ 12VDC): The 10A @ 12VDC option addresses high-draw scenarios — multiple solenoid locks, card readers, and relay modules — without forcing an oversized power supply. At 24VDC you trade amperage for voltage efficiency in long cable runs (lower voltage drop).
- UL Listed for safety-critical applications: Meets recognized safety standards for fire, shock, and component reliability — necessary for installations requiring third-party validation or code compliance in commercial and institutional deployments.
- Integrated PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) protection: Self-resetting overcurrent protection avoids nuisance fuse replacements. If a short or overload occurs, the PTC thermistor raises its resistance, cutting current; when the fault clears, resistance drops and normal operation resumes without manual intervention.
- Battery charging capability: Maintains backup batteries at float voltage, keeping them topped up without overcharging. Critical for systems requiring failover to UPS or battery-backed door strikes during power loss.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Covers defects in materials and workmanship, reducing long-term risk on deployed units.
Integration & Compatibility
The AL600ULACMCB connects to AC mains (standard wall outlet power) and outputs regulated DC to control panels, access control readers, electric strikes, and alarm system power supplies. Field selection of 12VDC or 24VDC means you can adapt to the voltage requirements of your installed base without purchasing different models. Battery charging allows you to integrate 12V or 24V sealed lead-acid (SLA) or gel-cell backup batteries, commonly found in access control and alarm panel designs. Confirm your panel's voltage requirement and current draw before installation; the 10A @ 12VDC and 4A @ 12VDC options serve different load profiles.
When to Choose a Different Model
If you need a higher-amperage output at a single fixed voltage, review the broader power supply category for Altronix units rated at 8A or higher. If your deployment requires redundant power supplies (dual AC inputs or hot-standby operation), consider multi-unit configurations with external coordination or a dedicated redundancy-class supply from the Altronix catalog. For systems requiring integration with an Altronix network video recorder or centralized cabinet power distribution, confirm the AL600ULACMCB fits your power budget and cable distance constraints.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the AL600ULACMCB suitable for 24/7 continuous operation?
A: Yes. The unit is rated for continuous AC/DC conversion at its specified output current. Monitor ambient temperature and ensure adequate airflow around the supply; sustained high loading may increase thermal stress.
Q: Can I use this supply with both 12V and 24V devices simultaneously?
A: No. The AL600ULACMCB outputs either 12VDC or 24VDC (field selectable), not both at the same time. Select your voltage based on your primary load, then install backup batteries at the same voltage.
Q: Does the AL600ULACMCB include a battery?
A: No. The unit charges external batteries (typically 12V or 24V SLA/gel-cell); you must source and install the battery separately.
Q: What does PTC protection do, and will it affect my load?
A: PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) protection automatically limits current if a short circuit or overload occurs, then resets when the fault is cleared. It prevents permanent shutdown and reduces fuse replacement hassles, with minimal impact on normal operation.
Q: What is the warranty coverage?
A: The AL600ULACMCB is covered by Altronix's Lifetime Limited Warranty, which covers defects in materials and workmanship for the life of the product.
Q: Is this supply suitable for outdoor or wet environments?
A: The AL600ULACMCB is not rated IP67 or higher and is not designed for direct outdoor mounting or submersion. Install it in a cabinet, conduit, or indoor enclosure and run weatherproof cables to outdoor devices.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The AL600ULACMCB hits a practical sweet spot in the access control and alarm power supply market. Its dual-voltage selectable design means you don't need to maintain separate SKU inventory for 12V and 24V installations — a real cost driver when you're deploying across mixed-voltage panel bases. The battery charging capability is the key differentiator; many basic supplies just deliver raw power. This one trickle-charges your SLA backup battery continuously, keeping it float-charged without overcharging it into early failure.
Technical Highlights:
- 10A @ 12VDC option: Enough headroom for multiple solenoid locks (typically 1–3A each) plus card readers and relay modules. At 3A @ 24VDC, you're trading amperage for voltage stability in longer cable runs — the math favors 24V if your infrastructure supports it.
- PTC protection vs. traditional fusing: Self-resetting thermistor means no field tech callouts for blown fuses. Overload clears the fault automatically; normal service resumes without intervention. UL Listed validation confirms the protection mechanism won't create false security (no hidden shutdown risks).
- Float-charging for battery longevity: Trickle-charge function keeps backup batteries topped up without the voltage creep that kills SLA cells prematurely. If you're planning 3–5 year battery service life, this matters.
Deployment Considerations:
- The unit is AC mains dependent — no internal UPS. If you need redundancy, you'll be pairing this with an external ATS (automatic transfer switch) or dual-supply configuration.
- Current ratings drop significantly at 24VDC (3A vs. 10A @ 12V). If you're in a high-draw 24V installation, spec out your load carefully; you may need a higher-amperage unit.
- It's an indoor supply — cabinet or conduit mounting only. Don't attempt direct outdoor exposure; run field wiring with appropriate gauge and protection to your external devices.
Deploy this in access control cabinets, alarm panel enclosures, and distributed door-strike arrays where you need reliable float charging and don't require redundant AC feeds. It's the right fit for institutional and commercial sites with stable AC mains and moderate to heavy DC loads.
