Altronix EFLOW6NA8 8-Output Access Power Controller
Overview
The Altronix EFLOW6NA8 is a dedicated access control power management solution designed for integrators deploying multi-output relay-based access systems. This controller combines regulated power supply and battery charging functionality in a single DIN-rail mounted platform, eliminating the need to source separate power and charging components during system design. The EFLOW6NA8 delivers consistent 12/24VDC output at up to 6A maximum current, making it suitable for small to mid-scale access control installations with multiple door strikes, magnetic locks, or auxiliary devices. Built into a BC400 industrial enclosure rated for field deployment, the unit supports standard 115VAC input and includes auxiliary output connectivity for expanded system integration.
Key Features
- 8 Fused Relay Outputs: Independent relay channels with individual fusing provide circuit protection and isolate each output—if one relay channel experiences an overcurrent condition, the other seven remain unaffected. This is critical in multi-door access deployments where a short on one strike plate cannot trigger a false alarm or lockdown across the entire system.
- Dual Voltage Configuration (12VDC / 24VDC): Selectable output voltage allows the EFLOW6NA8 to adapt to both legacy and modern access control hardware on the same platform. Eliminates the need to maintain separate power supplies for mixed-voltage installations.
- 6A Maximum Current Rating: Sufficient amperage for aggregated loads across relay outputs in mid-sized multi-door installations. A typical electromagnetic door strike draws 0.5–1.5A, so 6A comfortably supports 4–8 simultaneous strikes plus auxiliary loads without voltage sag.
- Integrated Power Supply and Battery Charger: Consolidated AC-to-DC conversion and battery maintenance charging in one enclosure reduces bill-of-materials cost, physical footprint in tight electrical closets, and cable routing complexity. No separate transformer or charger procurement required.
- 115VAC Primary Input: Standard North American mains voltage compatibility with no exotic power supply requirements. Single-phase AC input simplifies facility integration into standard electrical panels.
- Auxiliary Output Terminal: Additional output connectivity enables integration of secondary system components, status monitoring sensors, or alarm inputs, extending system flexibility without additional hardware.
- UL Listed and CE Marked: Meets North American (UL) and European (CE) safety standards for commercial security installations, reducing compliance risk in regulated deployments.
- BC400 Industrial Enclosure: Ruggedized powder-coat steel housing rated for indoor mechanical rooms, electrical closets, and non-hazardous environments. Protects internal components from dust and accidental contact without requiring additional cabinet.
- FAI (Flexible Access Interface) Compatible: Supports standard access control protocol integration for seamless communication with management platforms. Enables remote monitoring and switching control through standard network-integrated systems.
- DIN-Rail Mounting: Standard industrial form factor simplifies installation in existing electrical infrastructure without custom bracket fabrication.
Integration and Deployment Considerations
The EFLOW6NA8 functions as a centralized power distribution hub for relay-dependent access control topologies. Integrators commonly deploy this controller in scenarios where multiple electromagnetic locks, door operators, or strike plates require independent power switching and battery backup coordination. The eight isolated relay outputs eliminate single-point failure risk when one output experiences an overcurrent condition—fusing protects the relay circuit without affecting adjacent channels. This isolation is essential in healthcare facilities, data centers, or secure warehouse environments where access loss to one door cannot compromise security across multiple zones.
The combination of power supply and charger functionality within the EFLOW6NA8 reduces physical footprint in constrained electrical closet deployments. Battery backup capacity depends on attached battery specifications and total relay load; integrators should calculate connected device draw (typically 0.5–1.5A per strike) and select appropriately-sized backup batteries during system design. Standard 115VAC input voltage compatibility eliminates the need for dedicated step-down transformers in facilities with conventional North American power distribution. The BC400 enclosure provides adequate thermal margin for continuous operation in indoor mechanical rooms, though placement away from direct heat sources extends component lifespan.
When to Choose a Different Model
If your installation requires more than 8 independent relay outputs, consider Altronix models in the same access control power family with higher output counts. If 6A total current is insufficient for your aggregated load (for example, a warehouse with 12+ simultaneous strike activations), evaluate higher-amperage variants. If your facility operates on 230VAC mains voltage or requires three-phase input, consult the broader Altronix access power line for models compatible with international power standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What's the maximum number of door strikes the EFLOW6NA8 can power simultaneously?
A: That depends on the draw per strike. A typical electromagnetic strike consumes 0.5–1.5A. With a 6A maximum output, the EFLOW6NA8 can power 4–8 strikes continuously. If you need all 8 strikes activated at once, verify your actual draw specs and confirm that peak current doesn't exceed 6A.
Q: Does the EFLOW6NA8 include a battery?
A: No. The controller includes the charger circuit to maintain an external backup battery, but the battery itself must be selected and installed separately based on your backup runtime requirements.
Q: Can I mix 12VDC and 24VDC loads on the same EFLOW6NA8?
A: No. The output voltage is selected globally—either 12VDC or 24VDC for all eight relay outputs. You cannot configure individual relays at different voltages on a single unit.
Q: Is the EFLOW6NA8 suitable for outdoor installations?
A: The BC400 enclosure is rated for indoor use in mechanical rooms and electrical closets. For outdoor deployments, you would need to mount the controller inside a weather-rated cabinet or enclosure.
Q: What's the warranty on the EFLOW6NA8?
A: Consult your specialty distributor or the manufacturer for specific warranty terms. Altronix products typically carry a standard limited warranty; details vary by region and purchase channel.
Q: Does the EFLOW6NA8 work with Milestone XProtect or other VMS platforms?
A: The EFLOW6NA8 is compatible with FAI-based access control management systems. Verify with your VMS provider and the access control platform vendor to confirm integration before deployment.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix EFLOW6NA8 is a purposeful piece of access control infrastructure—nothing flashy, but exactly what you need when designing a multi-door system that requires isolated power switching and consolidated battery backup. The 8 fused relay outputs are the real value here. Each one is protected independently, so a short or overcurrent on a single strike plate won't cascade through your entire access topology. That matters in real deployments.
Technical Highlights:
- 8 Fused Relay Outputs: Individual fusing per channel means a fault on door 3 doesn't ripple to doors 1, 2, 4–8. In a warehouse or healthcare facility with multiple secure zones, this isolation is non-negotiable for availability.
- 6A Maximum Current at 12/24VDC: Adequate for 4–8 simultaneous electromagnetic strikes (typical draw 0.5–1.5A per strike). You need to do load math during design, but the current rating is honest and sufficient for mid-scale deployments.
- Integrated Power Supply and Battery Charger: One enclosure, one 115VAC input, one set of battery terminals. Reduces BOM complexity and simplifies electrical closet wiring compared to sourcing separate transformer and charger units.
- BC400 Enclosure + DIN-Rail Mount: Fits standard electrical infrastructure. Ruggedized steel, but it's rated for indoor mechanical rooms only—don't try to mount this on an exterior wall or in a wet environment.
Deployment Considerations:
- Battery Sizing: The EFLOW6NA8 includes charger circuits but no battery. You must select an appropriately-sized backup battery based on total connected load and desired runtime. A typical scenario: 6A aggregate draw, 2-hour backup = roughly 12–15Ah lead-acid or lithium equivalent. Factor this into your proposal early.
- Voltage Lock: The 12/24VDC output is a global setting—you cannot run mixed voltages on different relays from a single unit. If your facility has legacy 12V equipment and modern 24V locks, you'll either need two EFLOW6NA8 units or a separate power distribution strategy.
- FAI Integration: The controller supports Flexible Access Interface protocols, which means you can integrate with standards-based access management platforms. Verify compatibility with your specific VMS or access control platform before final design.
Deploy the EFLOW6NA8 in small to mid-scale multi-door access systems where relay isolation and consolidated battery backup simplify installation and reduce failure modes. It's a solid fit for office complexes, warehouse entry control, healthcare facility zones, and data center access—anywhere you need multiple independent power-switched locks without a single point of failure. Skip this if you need more than 8 relays, require outdoor-rated enclosures, or operate on non-North American mains voltage.
