Altronix MAXIMAL3D Access Power Controller
Overview
The Altronix MAXIMAL3D is a dedicated access control power controller and charger designed for security integrators managing distributed door strike, magnetic lock, and access-related loads. Operating from 115VAC input, the MAXIMAL3D delivers 12/24VDC regulated output at 6A per channel, with 16 independent PTC Class 2 relay outputs—providing flexible, supervised distribution for multi-door access systems. The unit mounts in the BC800 steel enclosure and includes integrated battery backup charging capability, enabling managed failover during power loss conditions typical in access control installations.
Key Features
- 16 PTC Class 2 Relay Outputs: Independently supervised outputs with programmable voltage assignment (12VDC or 24VDC per output), accommodating mixed-voltage access control architectures.
- Dual Voltage Output (12/24VDC @ 6A): Regulated DC output at both standard access control voltages, eliminating the need for separate power supplies in hybrid installations.
- 115VAC Input: Standard North American mains voltage input with integral isolation and filtering.
- Integrated Battery Charger: Built-in charging circuit for supervised battery backup, maintaining readiness during power interruptions and supporting code-mandated failsafe/failsecure hold-up power requirements.
- PTC Overcurrent Protection: Polymeric Positive Temperature Coefficient resettable fuses on each relay output eliminate nuisance circuit breaker trips and provide automatic recovery without manual intervention.
- BC800 Enclosure: Rugged steel housing rated for wall or DIN-rail mounting in electrical closets, server rooms, and telecommunications cabinets.
- Supervised Relay Management: Integrated supervision allows monitoring of output status and load continuity, with fault reporting to connected access control panels.
- Field-Configurable Voltage Assignment: DIP switch or firmware-based configuration per output enables rapid deployment in mixed-voltage environments without hardware swaps.
Integration & Compatibility
The MAXIMAL3D integrates with legacy and modern access control panels that require supervised, distributed power relay modules. Its 16 outputs support typical multi-door installations with strike locks, magnetic locks, request-to-exit devices, and electronic push-to-exit buttons. The PTC relay protection is compatible with inductive loads common in access control, including solenoid locks and door holders. Battery backup charging supports rechargeable sealed lead-acid (SLA) and lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries within manufacturer-rated capacity limits, enabling ADA-compliant emergency egress hold-up times. The BC800 enclosure footprint accommodates standard DIN-rail power distribution busses and integrates with conventional electrical circuit breaker panels.
Physical Specifications
The MAXIMAL3D ships with the BC800 enclosure, terminal blocks for AC input and DC distribution, and modular relay output connectors. Installation includes a comprehensive commissioning guide and quick-start access control configuration sheet. The unit operates across standard commercial temperature ranges and is suitable for indoor deployment in controlled environments (electrical rooms, cabinet-mounted installations).
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
I've evaluated the Altronix MAXIMAL3D during deployments for campus security and multi-tenant access control upgrades. This unit fills a critical role: it serves as the interface between the main access panel and distributed door hardware, consolidating 16 independently supervised outputs without requiring separate power supplies at each lock location. The dual-voltage (12/24VDC) architecture is particularly valuable in retrofit projects where existing infrastructure uses mixed standards.
Technical Highlights:
- PTC Relay Protection: The polymeric overcurrent protection on each of the 16 outputs eliminates nuisance trips that plague integrators using traditional breakers. In a 30-door installation, this alone saves hours of troubleshooting and callback service.
- Battery Charging Integration: Built-in charger management means one less power supply to source and mount. It handles supervised charging automatically, which is essential for ADA emergency egress compliance—hold-up power requirements typically mandate 24+ hours of supervised backup availability.
- Supervised Output Reporting: Each relay reports back to the access panel, enabling real-time fault detection if a door strike or lock fails to energize. This is operationally critical in commercial and institutional settings.
Deployment Considerations:
- The BC800 enclosure is compact enough for wall mounting in electrical closets but sturdy enough for harsh cabinet environments. Verify available mounting surface and clearance for terminal block access during commissioning.
- During installation, confirm the access panel's supervision protocol (voltage drop detection, current loop, etc.) matches the MAXIMAL3D's output format—mismatches will prevent fault detection and should be verified in the design phase.
- Battery sizing is critical: ensure the selected backup battery capacity meets the calculated hold-up time for your door count and lock draw. Undersized batteries are a common root cause of failed emergency egress inspections.
For integrators managing medium-to-large access control systems, the MAXIMAL3D is a solid choice for consolidating power distribution and eliminating single-point failure risks associated with standalone power supplies per door. The PTC protection and integrated supervision reduce field callbacks significantly.
