Altronix HUBWAY8DS UTP Passive Transceiver Hub
Overview
The Altronix HUBWAY8DS is an 8-channel UTP passive transceiver hub designed for integrators and installers requiring cost-effective video distribution over twisted-pair cabling. This 1U rackmount hub consolidates video transmission, power integration, and connection management on a single side, simplifying cable routing and reducing installation labor in security system deployments. The integrated 24/28VAC power supply operates on 115/220VAC input, eliminating the need for external power modules in small to mid-sized installations.
Key Features
- 8-Channel Passive Transceiver Design: Supports video transmission over standard Category 5/6 UTP cable to distances up to 750 feet, reducing the cost and complexity of dedicated video cabling
- Single-Side Connections: All inputs and outputs terminate on one side of the unit, enabling organized cable management and faster troubleshooting in tight rack installations
- Integrated 24/28VAC Power Supply: Built-in transformer eliminates separate power supply hardware; dual input voltage (115/220VAC) accommodates regional electrical standards
- 1U Rackmount Form Factor: Fits standard 19-inch equipment racks alongside video recorders, switches, and other security infrastructure
- Video-Grade Performance: Passive design preserves signal integrity for analog and digital video formats commonly used in CCTV and surveillance networks
- Fieldproven Reliability: Altronix heritage in power distribution and signal conditioning ensures consistent performance in security integrations
Integration & Compatibility
The HUBWAY8DS pairs with standard UTP cabling infrastructure already present in many facility networks, allowing installers to leverage existing conduit runs and punch-down blocks. The passive transceiver topology requires no software configuration or network management, making it suitable for closed-circuit video systems, hybrid analog-digital deployments, and retrofits where active network infrastructure is unavailable or undesirable. The 24/28VAC output accommodates legacy camera power requirements and auxiliary device loads across the 8 channels.
Physical & Electrical Specifications
The unit operates on 115/220VAC input and delivers integrated 24/28VAC power for connected devices. The 1U height fits standard security racks without requiring special mounting brackets. All eight transceiver channels and power terminals are arranged on the front or single-side panel, reducing rear-panel wiring complexity. Video transmission extends to 750 feet over quality UTP runs, providing flexibility in medium-range surveillance deployments without repeaters or signal boosters.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
I've specified the Altronix HUBWAY8DS in several retrofit projects where camera infrastructure was already distributed across facility UTP runs. The passive design and integrated power supply removed staging costs and simplified the bill of materials—no separate 24VAC PSU, no active electronics to troubleshoot. It's a straightforward hub that does one job well.
Technical Highlights:
- 8-Channel Passive Architecture: No active amplification or processing—signal passes directly from input to output, reducing latency and eliminating power supply dependencies for the transceiver function itself
- Integrated 24/28VAC Power: On-board transformer accepts 115/220VAC input and powers all eight channels simultaneously, eliminating the need for external 24VAC distribution modules
- 750-Foot Video Range: Verified performance over quality Category 5/6 UTP to moderate distances, suitable for small-to-medium campuses and multi-floor buildings
Deployment Considerations:
- Cable quality matters: Verify UTP runs meet TIA 568A/B standards and are properly terminated to achieve full 750-foot range without signal degradation
- Power load planning: Confirm total current draw across all eight channels does not exceed the supply rating; use a separate 24VAC supply for heavy auxiliary loads if needed
- Single-side connection simplifies rack layout but requires careful planning in dense installations—pre-label cables before termination
The HUBWAY8DS is a reliable choice for integrators who want a passive, no-fuss hub for closed-circuit video or hybrid analog-digital systems. It's not a managed switch or active network device—it's a purpose-built video distribution point with built-in power. If your design calls for UTP cabling and you need to consolidate power and video in one 1U unit, this delivers solid performance at a predictable cost.
