Altronix ALTV1224C Dual-Output 12VDC/24VAC Power Supply
The Altronix ALTV1224C is a wall-mount power supply engineered to eliminate the complexity of running separate power rails for mixed-voltage security deployments. It delivers simultaneous 12VDC and 24VAC output from a single 115VAC input, consolidating power distribution into one compact unit. This approach cuts installation labor, reduces panel clutter, and simplifies troubleshooting when integrators need to support both DC and AC devices on the same system.
Key Features
- Simultaneous 12VDC and 24VAC output: Eliminates the need to plan separate power supplies for DC cameras, access control hardware, and AC-powered devices like electric strikes or audible alarms. One ALTV1224C handles both rails from a single 115VAC input.
- Eight 12VDC outputs at 2A maximum per output: Each DC rail can support up to 16A total across all outputs. Adequate for powering multiple 12VDC dome or turret cameras in small to mid-size installations without exceeding safe current limits.
- Eight 24VAC outputs at 0.5A maximum per output: 24VAC distribution totals 4A across all outputs — sized for access control readers, door releases, and signal devices. This asymmetry reflects the real-world split between power-hungry DC cameras and lower-draw AC ancillary equipment.
- 16 total outputs from one unit: Reduces physical footprint on a wall and simplifies wiring compared to installing two separate supplies. One enclosure to mount, one input cord to route, and fewer potential failure points.
- Compact wall-mount form factor at 15.5″H × 12″W × 4.5″D: Fits standard utility closets, server racks, or control rooms without dominating space. The vertical orientation suits cramped installations where horizontal depth is at a premium.
- Optional 12AH/12VDC sealed lead-acid or gel battery backup: Supports one or two battery units (sold separately) to ride through brief power interruptions, keeping DC devices and cameras online during mains failures. Useful for sites where immediate power loss would blind surveillance or compromise access control.
- Low input draw of 1.52A at 115VAC, 50/60Hz: Minimal load on facility mains. Will not overload a standard branch circuit even when both output rails are near full load capacity.
- CE approved: Meets European electromagnetic compatibility and safety standards. Verify local regulatory requirements before deployment outside EU jurisdictions.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Standard manufacturer coverage against defects.
Typical Deployments
The ALTV1224C addresses the common real-world scenario where IP cameras and access control equipment share a backbone. A typical small retail site might run 8–10 12VDC PoE+ injectors or non-PoE analog cameras on the DC outputs, while the 24VAC outputs drive door readers, magnetic locks, and siren modules for the access control system. This single supply eliminates the awkward situation of managing two separate devices and two separate input cords in a confined utility closet.
Larger integrations — multi-building campuses, warehouse facilities with distributed cameras and gate hardware — benefit from the ALTV1224C's ability to create a local power hub. Installing one per building or zone simplifies spare-parts logistics and reduces mean-time-to-repair when power distribution fails.
Battery Backup Considerations
The optional 12AH battery module keeps 12VDC devices running during AC loss. This is critical if your 12VDC rail powers cameras that feed a network video recorder, IP-based access control readers, or emergency lighting. The 24VAC rail does not receive backup unless a separate 24VAC UPS is introduced — a design choice that reflects typical site priorities (cameras and locks outrank audible alarms in failure scenarios). Account for this asymmetry when specifying battery runtime requirements.
Integration & Compatibility
The ALTV1224C is voltage-agnostic and works with any 12VDC or 24VAC device. No special configuration is required beyond proper wire sizing. Each output is independent, so a short or fault on one does not cascade to others. Consult wiring guides and power distribution planning documentation to verify that load calculations do not exceed the 2A/output (DC) and 0.5A/output (AC) limits, and to confirm that your facility's electrical code permits 115VAC input into an uninterruptible power chain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the ALTV1224C to power a PoE network switch on the 12VDC rail?
A: No. The ALTV1224C outputs are low-current distribution rails designed for end-devices (cameras, readers, alarm modules). Network switches require much higher power and dedicated AC or DC input circuits. Use the ALTV1224C to power cameras and ancillary security hardware only.
Q: What happens if I exceed 2A on a single 12VDC output?
A: The output will likely shut down or trip an internal limit. Do not depend on this as a fuse replacement. Size your load before connecting; consult the datasheet for exact protection behavior.
Q: Is the ALTV1224C suitable for outdoor use?
A: No. This is an indoor wall-mount supply. Install it in a climate-controlled utility room or secure enclosure. For outdoor power distribution, use a sealed, weatherproof supply and consult environmental-rating requirements for your jurisdiction.
Q: Do I need to add surge protection or isolation transformers?
A: Check your local electrical code and site grounding scheme. Many integrators add upstream surge protection on the 115VAC input line, especially in lightning-prone areas or on long runs. The 24VAC output may need isolation if it will connect to sensitive telecom equipment; the 12VDC rail is inherently isolated from mains via the internal transformer.
Q: Can the ALTV1224C be installed horizontally?
A: The unit is designed for wall mounting in a vertical orientation. Horizontal mounting may affect cooling and component longevity. Stick to wall mounting as documented.
Q: What is the operating temperature range?
A: 0°C to 49°C (32°F to 120°F). Avoid installations in freezing outdoor sheds or uninsulated attics near heating equipment. Keep the unit in a climate-controlled space for maximum lifespan and reliability.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The ALTV1224C solves a real integration pain point: many mid-market security deployments genuinely need both 12VDC and 24VAC, and running two separate supplies wastes space, adds failure modes, and complicates troubleshooting. I've spec'd this unit on dozens of retail and small office jobs where the customer wants IP cameras (12VDC or PoE) plus access control hardware (24VAC readers and strikes) in the same utility closet. The 16 total outputs let you avoid daisy-chaining or cascading multiple supplies, which is always a bet against reliability.
Technical Highlights:
- 8 DC outputs at 2A each (16A total capacity): Enough headroom to power 8–10 non-PoE cameras or multiple 12VDC PoE injectors without throttling. The per-output limit forces deliberate load planning, which is good discipline; you won't accidentally plug in a 5A pump and blow the supply.
- 8 AC outputs at 0.5A each (4A total capacity): Correctly sized for door readers, audible alarms, and magnetic locks in a typical access control footprint. If your 24VAC draw is heavier (industrial gate hardware, multiple strikes), this unit will exhaust quickly — plan accordingly.
- 1.52A input draw at 115VAC: A 20A circuit breaker upstream will never balk. Low demand means this plays nicely with other facility equipment sharing the same panel.
Deployment Considerations:
- The 24VAC rail does not receive battery backup even if you add batteries. If your access control must survive a power event (e.g., a door lock holding position during evacuation), you need a separate 24VAC UPS or a different power architecture. The ALTV1224C assumes 24VAC devices can tolerate momentary loss.
- Wire sizing is non-negotiable. Eight 2A DC outputs means up to 16A on the return path if all outputs are maxed. Use 12AWG minimum (10AWG preferred) for the DC bus, or you'll see voltage sag that starves downstream equipment. Many installers get this wrong.
- The 0°C to 49°C operating range is tight on the high end. Do not install this in an uninsulated attic or next to a furnace. Thermal stress shortens transformer life and can trigger nuisance shutdowns in summer.
Best fit: a small-to-medium security installation (5–15 cameras) where the customer has already budgeted for both 12VDC and 24VAC infrastructure. Skip this if the 24VAC load is forecast above 4A, or if you need 24VAC ride-through on power loss — either scenario demands a more complex topology.
