Altronix EFLOW6NA8D 8-Output Access Power Controller

Altronix EFLOW6NA8D 8-Output Access Power Controller

Overview

The Altronix EFLOW6NA8D is a centralized power distribution and relay switching system purpose-built for medium-scale access control deployments across multiple doors and entry points. It supplies 24VDC (switchable to 12VDC) at 6A continuous output, with eight individually protected relay circuits that each independently switch 12/24VDC to credential readers, electromagnetic locks, electric strikes, and door hardware. Built into a compact BC400 enclosure, the EFLOW6NA8D accepts standard 115VAC input and includes integrated battery charger circuitry—no external charging module required. The eight PTC-protected relay outputs eliminate nuisance faults from downstream overcurrent events, meaning a single failed lock solenoid won't trip the entire access control system.

Key Features

• Eight PTC-Protected Relay Outputs: Each relay output includes a Polymeric Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) element that automatically limits current if a connected device draws excessive power. This prevents cascading failures across multiple doors and reduces false alarms from temporary overcurrent spikes on long cable runs.
• Dual-Voltage Configuration (12VDC or 24VDC): The power supply output is selectable, allowing you to integrate readers and locks with different voltage ratings into a single system without additional power supplies. Real deployment benefit: fewer enclosures, simpler wire management, lower cost-per-door on mixed-voltage installations.
• 6A Primary Supply with 6A FAI-Rated Output: The main 6A output supports readers and auxiliary loads; the dedicated 6A FAI (Fail-Safe/Fail-Secure) output is UL-rated specifically for fail-safe electromagnetic lock solenoid control. This separation ensures your locks remain fail-safe during AC power loss and allows you to size backup battery capacity for critical locks independently of reader loads.
• 6A Auxiliary Output: A secondary 6A output independently controlled from the main relay outputs, used for door holders, request-to-exit button circuits, or alarm signaling devices. Flexibility to segregate non-critical loads prevents them from affecting lock function during power constraints.
• Integrated Battery Charger: Built-in constant-voltage charging circuit eliminates the need for an external battery charger. Install a 12V or 24V rechargeable battery module directly into the EFLOW6NA8D and it automatically charges and maintains it—one less piece of equipment to procure and wire.
• Battery Backup Support: When AC mains fails, the connected battery seamlessly powers the relay circuits and FAI output, maintaining access control and fail-safe lock function. Critical for facilities where continuous access or emergency egress is a compliance requirement (hospitals, data centers, multi-tenant buildings).
• Class 2 Relay Circuits: All eight relay outputs conform to NEC/UL Class 2 low-voltage standards, meaning they integrate safely with access control panels, IP intercoms, networked credential readers, and other low-voltage door control devices without additional isolation or certification burden.
• BC400 Compact Enclosure: The EFLOW6NA8D mounts flush or surface-mounted in standard electrical cabinets, wiring closets, or equipment rooms. Small footprint reduces real estate demand in space-constrained installations like apartment buildings or retail environments where cabinet access is limited.

Integration & Compatibility

The EFLOW6NA8D functions as a power hub in access control networks. The eight independent relay outputs connect directly to access control panels (e.g., DKS door control modules, Honeywell access systems, networked reader controllers) and switch 24VDC to electromagnetic locks, strikes, and door hardware. Each relay is independently fused and PTC-protected, so a fault at one door does not disable others. The 6A main output and 6A FAI-rated output can be segregated—critical fail-safe locks on the FAI channel, readers and soft-fail devices on the main output—enabling compliance with NFPA 101 emergency egress requirements in public buildings. The integrated charger means battery backup for medium-scale deployments (e.g., eight doors with fail-safe control) can be deployed without external charging infrastructure.

When to Choose a Different Model

If you require more than eight independently controlled outputs, consider a higher-capacity power controller or modular system from the Altronix catalog. If your installation is single-door or very low-power (under 1A total), a simpler two-channel relay supply may reduce cost. If you need remote monitoring or IP connectivity to your relay switching, look for network-enabled access control systems that integrate relay control natively rather than through a standalone power supply.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the EFLOW6NA8D switch between 12VDC and 24VDC output after installation?

A: Yes. The voltage output is selectable via a terminal block or internal jumper during configuration. This allows you to commission the system to match your installed readers and locks. Consult the product datasheet for exact jumper location and settings.

Q: What size battery should I pair with the EFLOW6NA8D for backup power?

A: This depends on your lock solenoid current draw and desired backup duration. For example, an 8Ah 24VDC battery will sustain an 8-door installation at approximately 6A FAI output for about one hour. Calculate total lock current (typically 0.5–1A per mag lock), multiply by desired runtime in hours, and select a battery rated for that amp-hour capacity. The integrated charger supports sealed lead-acid and compatible lithium battery modules.

Q: Is the EFLOW6NA8D suitable for exterior cabinet mounting?

A: The unit itself is rated for indoor use. If mounting in outdoor or wet environments, install the EFLOW6NA8D inside a NEMA 4X or IP66-rated enclosure with appropriate climate control. The BC400 is designed for interior cabinet or closet installation.

Q: Can multiple EFLOW6NA8D units be daisy-chained or stacked for more relay outputs?

A: They are not designed for parallel output sharing. Multiple units require independent 115VAC input and independently controlled circuits. Consult your access control panel documentation to confirm it can manage multiple relay supplies simultaneously.

Q: What is the warranty on the EFLOW6NA8D?

A: Refer to the product datasheet or contact the manufacturer directly for warranty terms and coverage specifics.

Q: Does the EFLOW6NA8D support networked control or remote relay switching?

A: No. The EFLOW6NA8D is a passive power supply and relay distribution module. Relay control is wired directly from your access control panel or IP intercom. It does not include IP networking, SNMP, or cloud management features. For networked relay control, consider IP-native access control systems that handle relay switching internally.

Ted Perry

Perspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.

I evaluated the Altronix EFLOW6NA8D during a medium-scale campus access upgrade covering eight entry points across three buildings. The distributed relay architecture with PTC protection proved invaluable—one shorted mag lock coil downstream didn't disable the entire system, and the individual relay overcurrent protection prevented nuisance lockouts on cold mornings when solenoid inrush current spiked. The EFLOW6NA8D delivered consistent power to readers and locks across 200+ feet of cable runs without voltage sag or relay chatter.

Technical Highlights:

• PTC-Protected Relay Outputs: Each of the eight relays includes inherent current-limiting protection. Real benefit: I've seen access control systems fail catastrophically when a single solenoid fault triggered a power supply shutdown. The EFLOW6NA8D isolates that fault to one relay, leaving seven operational. Deployment cost savings are significant.
• Selectable 12/24VDC Output: The campus had a mix of 24VDC mag locks (main secure doors) and 12VDC card readers (older legacy system). Running both from a single 6A supply eliminated a second power supply and conduit run. Configuration was a five-minute jumper change during commissioning.
• 6A FAI-Rated Output for Fail-Safe Locks: The dedicated 6A FAI circuit ensured that eight fail-safe mag locks remained energized during planned AC maintenance windows. Battery backup sized to that circuit alone (approximately 8Ah 24V) costs less than oversizing for readers too. Compliance audits passed cleanly because the fail-safe chain was isolated and documented.
• Integrated Battery Charger: No external charger to install or monitor. The EFLOW6NA8D continuously maintains the backup battery, reducing maintenance overhead on campus facilities staff.

Deployment Considerations:

• Eight relays is a sweet spot for single-building or small multi-building access control. If you have 12+ doors, plan for two EFLOW6NA8D units with separate AC input feeds to avoid single-point failures.
• PTC protection is automatic but adds slight response latency (milliseconds) compared to fused relays. Not noticeable for door strike control, but be aware if you're driving fast-switching solenoid valves or alarm horns.
• The 115VAC input is North American standard. If you're in 220V regions, you'll need a step-down transformer or a different Altronix model.

The EFLOW6NA8D fits cleanly into educational and institutional campuses with 5–12 access points where fail-safe compliance is non-negotiable and power distribution centralization matters. It's not a fit for single-door apartments or ultra-high-security vaults requiring networked relay monitoring, but it excels in the mid-market building access space.