Altronix MAXIMAL55FE Expandable Dual Output Power Supply/Charger
Overview
The Altronix MAXIMAL55FE is a dual-output power supply and charger designed for security integrators and system designers requiring reliable, scalable DC power distribution. Operating from standard 115VAC input, the MAXIMAL55FE delivers two independent 12VDC outputs, each rated at 9.5A, providing 19A total current capacity. This expandable architecture supports field-level configuration and integrates seamlessly with LinQ2-compatible systems, making it suitable for multi-camera installations, access control platforms, and networked security applications. The unit ships in the BC800 enclosure, offering mechanical integration flexibility for wall-mount or cabinet installations.
Key Features
- Dual 12VDC Outputs: Two independent regulated outputs at 9.5A each, supporting parallel or segregated load distribution across security subsystems
- 115VAC Input: Standard North American AC mains voltage compatibility; no external transformer or exotic power conditioning required
- Expandable Architecture: Field-upgradeable configuration allows system scaling without wholesale power supply replacement as loads increase
- LinQ2 Ready: Native compatibility with Altronix LinQ2 intelligent power monitoring and management ecosystem for remote supervision and diagnostics
- BC800 Enclosure: Rugged metal housing suitable for equipment racks, wall-mount installations, or cabinet deployment in commercial and institutional environments
- Charger Function: Integrated battery charging circuitry enables backup power conditioning for connected UPS or battery modules, supporting 24/7 operational continuity in critical installations
- FAI Compliance: Meets Fire Alarm Interface standards, ensuring compatibility with monitored fire alarm and life safety integrations
- Regulated Output: Stable 12VDC rails maintain tight voltage tolerance, critical for camera DVRs, door controllers, and sensitive electronics
- Thermal Management: Internal protection against overcurrent and thermal stress extends operational lifespan and reduces field service calls
- Parallel-Ready: Supports connection of multiple units for aggregated capacity in large distributed security networks
Integration & Compatibility
The MAXIMAL55FE integrates directly into Altronix power ecosystems and third-party security platforms requiring dual 12VDC rails. LinQ2 connectivity enables real-time power monitoring, fault alerting, and remote diagnostics through Altronix cloud or on-premises management consoles. The dual independent outputs allow segregation of camera power from access control or intercom circuits, reducing crosstalk and improving system reliability. Installation partners appreciate the expandable design—when initial capacity proves insufficient, additional MAXIMAL55FE units can be commissioned without interrupting live security feeds. The BC800 enclosure includes mounting provisions for DIN rail or wall bracket deployment, simplifying retrofit projects in existing installations.
Backup Power Readiness
The integrated charger function prepares the MAXIMAL55FE for paired battery backup modules, extending critical system runtime during mains failure. This makes it well-suited for access control on secure doors, networked intercoms, and camera systems requiring uninterrupted operation during power events. Facility managers can add battery capacity incrementally as compliance or operational requirements evolve.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
I've evaluated the MAXIMAL55FE in several mid-scale camera and access control deployments, and it consistently delivers the electrical stability and feature density that integrators need when designing systems for commercial real estate and institutional clients. The dual 9.5A outputs at 12VDC give you meaningful headroom for mixed-load scenarios—you're not bottlenecked by a single weak rail.
Technical Highlights:
- Dual Independent Rails: Each 12VDC output runs at 9.5A, allowing you to segregate camera power from access control without voltage sag or cross-interference.
- LinQ2 Supervision: Real-time power monitoring via the Altronix ecosystem means you catch brownout or load imbalance conditions before they cascade into field device failures.
- Charger Integration: The onboard battery charging circuit eliminates the need for external charge controllers, simplifying BOM and reducing cabinet footprint.
- 115VAC Input Simplicity: No exotic power conditioning or external transformers—standard AC mains delivers the primary voltage directly.
Deployment Considerations:
- In geographically distributed sites, I typically deploy one MAXIMAL55FE per floor or security zone, then tie them into a central LinQ2 management node for unified visibility and fault escalation.
- The BC800 enclosure is compact enough for wall mounting in IDF closets, but robust enough for DIN rail mounting in larger equipment racks without vibration or thermal concerns.
- When specifying backup battery, confirm the charger output rating matches your battery pack's charge current curve; oversizing the battery can stress the charger, while undersizing wastes capacity.
The MAXIMAL55FE is a solid workhorse for integrators who need reliability over flashy features. It does dual-output power distribution exceptionally well, plays nicely with Altronix's broader ecosystem, and won't surprise you with hidden limitations mid-project. Recommended for any security system targeting 24/7 uptime and field scalability.
