Altronix AL600ULPD8CB 8-Output 12/24VDC Power Supply
The Altronix AL600ULPD8CB is a switching power supply and battery charger built for security and access control installations where distributed power is required across multiple devices. It accepts 115VAC input and delivers selectable 12VDC or 24VDC output with 6A maximum current capacity across all 8 independent outputs. The unit integrates battery backup functionality, meaning it can sustain critical devices through an AC line failure — a core requirement for access control, door strikes, and surveillance infrastructure that cannot tolerate downtime.
Key Features
- 8 Independent Outputs: Eliminates the need for multiple single-output supplies in distributed deployments. Each output is separately fused, so a short on one line won't cascade to others — a practical safeguard in installations where multiple contractors may be working on different subsystems.
- Selectable 12VDC or 24VDC: No hardware reconfiguration needed. A front-panel switch lets you choose the voltage your devices expect. This flexibility matters in mixed-device installations where some equipment runs on 12V and other gear prefers 24V.
- 6A Maximum Output Current: Total budget across all 8 outputs. Plan accordingly: if you're powering eight door strikes rated 700mA each, you'll be at practical capacity. Review device datasheets to confirm you won't exceed this aggregate limit during normal and peak loads.
- Integrated Battery Charging: The AL600ULPD8CB includes built-in charge controller, so you connect a 12V or 24V backup battery and the supply handles float charging automatically. This keeps the battery ready without manual charger management.
- AC Fail Supervision: Detects loss of mains power and can trigger a contact closure (if configured with external relay or integrated in your panel). Critical for systems that need to log power events or alert operators to a site condition.
- Low Battery Supervision: Monitors backup battery reserve and signals when capacity drops below usable threshold. Prevents a false sense of security when the battery is actually depleted and cannot sustain devices through an extended outage.
- Battery Presence Supervision: Confirms a battery is physically installed. Catches installations where battery is missing or disconnected, alerting you to a vulnerability before a power event occurs.
Integration & Compatibility
The AL600ULPD8CB is designed to integrate into access control panels, card readers, door locks, and security equipment that expect 12VDC or 24VDC input. Its supervision outputs (AC Fail, Low Battery, Battery Presence) interface with standard contact inputs on security controllers — no special modules required. Because it uses a universal 115VAC mains input, it works in any standard North American electrical environment. If your facility uses 230V or 50Hz power, verify compatibility with site electrical specifications before ordering.
Backup battery capacity determines hold-up time during AC loss. Larger batteries extend runtime but also increase physical footprint. Typical deployments pair this supply with a 12Ah or 24Ah sealed lead-acid battery to sustain critical devices for 15–30 minutes, allowing an orderly shutdown or a backup generator start sequence.
Deployment Considerations
Install the AL600ULPD8CB in a temperature-controlled cabinet or UPS enclosure. Avoid direct sunlight and high-humidity environments unless you're adding supplemental protection. The unit generates heat during charging cycles, so ensure adequate ventilation around the supply. Use appropriate gauge wiring for each output based on current draw — undersized wires risk voltage sag and nuisance shutdowns. Label each of the 8 outputs clearly before handoff to maintenance, so future technicians know which devices they're supplying.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I parallel multiple AL600ULPD8CB units to increase current capacity?
A: Not recommended without external load-sharing circuitry. Connecting multiple supplies directly in parallel risks unequal current distribution and potential conflicts during battery switchover. Consult Altronix technical support for multi-supply configurations if you exceed 6A aggregate demand.
Q: What battery types are compatible with the AL600ULPD8CB?
A: Sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries rated for the output voltage you select (12V or 24V). Lithium or NiMH batteries are not recommended unless specifically listed in the Altronix datasheet. Verify amp-hour rating and terminal type with Altronix before purchasing.
Q: Does the AL600ULPD8CB require a UPS, or is the integrated battery backup sufficient?
A: The integrated battery provides hold-up only. A true UPS adds line conditioning and automatic transfer switching. For devices sensitive to power fluctuations or requiring extended runtime, pair the AL600ULPD8CB with a backup generator or UPS. For simple door strikes and card readers, the integrated battery is typically adequate.
Q: What is the warranty on the AL600ULPD8CB?
A: Lifetime Limited Warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. Refer to Altronix terms for coverage limits and exclusions.
Q: Can I monitor the supervision outputs remotely?
A: The supervision contacts (AC Fail, Low Battery, Battery Presence) are dry relay contacts. You can wire them into a security panel's input zone, and many modern panels can send alerts or emails when those inputs trigger. This enables remote notification of power events without additional gateways.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The AL600ULPD8CB is a workhorse for access control and modest surveillance backup scenarios. Its 8 independent 12/24VDC outputs mean you're not juggling multiple wall-warts or external chargers — a single cabinet unit handles eight devices with integrated battery conditioning. The 6A aggregate capacity is the hard limit; size your installation accordingly.
Technical Highlights:
- Dual-Voltage Switchable Output: Eliminates stock-keeping headaches. One unit covers 12V and 24V installations, reducing spares inventory and shortening lead times on mixed-device jobs.
- Three Supervision Contacts: AC Fail, Low Battery, and Battery Presence signals give you real-time visibility into power health. Dry relay contacts integrate cleanly into any security panel without special adapters or converters.
- Integrated Battery Charging: Built-in float charger means the backup battery is always topped up and ready. No separate charger means less cabinet clutter and one fewer point of failure.
Deployment Considerations:
- The 6A limit is aggregate — all eight outputs share that budget. If you're supplying eight 1A devices, you've maxed capacity. Sketch out your actual current draw (door strikes, readers, locks) before committing.
- Battery hold-up time depends entirely on backup capacity you pair with it. A small SLA battery gives you 10–15 minutes; larger capacity extends that. Factor runtime into your project spec.
- Install in a climate-controlled enclosure. The AL600ULPD8CB generates modest heat during battery charge cycles. Poor ventilation shortens battery life and can reduce supply lifespan.
Choose the AL600ULPD8CB for distributed access control and lock-strike backup where you need clean power to eight separate devices and visibility into battery status. Not suitable for high-current applications (security cameras, PTZs, or industrial devices). If you need more than 6A or more than 8 outputs, step up to a larger Altronix supply or stack multiple units with external coordination.
