Altronix MAXIMAL5F 16-Output Access Power Controller

Altronix MAXIMAL5F Access Control Power Controller

The Altronix MAXIMAL5F is a dedicated access control power distribution platform designed for mid-to-large security installations requiring centralized power management and relay switching. This unit combines primary power supply functionality with integrated battery charging capability and 16 independently supervised fused relay outputs, making it ideal for access control system deployments that demand redundancy, scalability, and field-proven reliability.

Overview

The MAXIMAL5F operates from standard 115VAC mains input and delivers regulated 12VDC output at 9A capacity, supporting both live system loads and battery backup charging simultaneously. Housed in an Altronix BC800 enclosure, the unit provides industrial-grade construction suitable for wall-mounted or rackmount deployment in equipment rooms, security command centers, and distributed access control nodes. The architecture supports FAI (Fire Alarm Integration) standards and is LinQ2 ready, enabling seamless integration with Altronix's networked power supervision ecosystem for remote monitoring and diagnostics.

Key Features

• 16 Fused Relay Outputs: Each relay output is independently fused and supervised, enabling selective control of door locks, magnetic locks, request-to-exit devices, and auxiliary access control peripherals without a separate relay module
• 12VDC 9A Primary Output: Regulated 12VDC supply at 9A rated capacity provides stable voltage for powering access control panels, readers, and battery charging circuits simultaneously
• Integrated Battery Charging: Built-in charger supports lead-acid and sealed lead-acid battery backup, enabling hold-up time during mains failure and ensuring access control continuity during power events
• FAI Compliance: Fire Alarm Integration (FAI) certification ensures safe interaction with building fire alarm systems and compliance with life safety code requirements
• LinQ2 Ready: Supports Altronix's LinQ2 networked supervision protocol for real-time status monitoring, output control, and diagnostic data accessible via remote management platforms
• BC800 Enclosure: Industrial-rated metal enclosure with DIN rail mounting support, thermal management, and protection suitable for equipment room environments
• 115VAC Input: Standard North American mains voltage input with industry-standard power cord connection
• Supervised Output Architecture: Relay output supervision detects load disconnections and wiring faults, providing fault reporting for installation verification and troubleshooting

Integration & Compatibility

The MAXIMAL5F integrates directly with Altronix access control ecosystems and third-party access control panels supporting 12VDC relay switching inputs. LinQ2 integration enables centralized monitoring across multiple MAXIMAL5F units, supporting larger distributed access control deployments with redundant power sourcing. FAI certification allows safe integration with fire alarm systems requiring access control coordination during emergency events. The 16 relay outputs support a wide range of lock types, exit devices, and auxiliary control loads common in enterprise access control installations.

System integrators deploying multi-door access control systems, campus-wide access infrastructure, or high-reliability security environments benefit from the MAXIMAL5F's combination of power supply, relay distribution, and integrated battery management in a single compact unit, reducing component count and installation complexity while maintaining field-serviceable architecture.

Marty Allison

The Altronix MAXIMAL5F addresses a common integration challenge in enterprise access control: consolidating power distribution, battery backup, and relay switching without requiring separate modules or external relay banks. During recent deployment planning for a 40-door healthcare facility, we evaluated the MAXIMAL5F against discrete component approaches and found the integrated architecture reduced both panel congestion and installation labor significantly.

Technical Highlights:

• 16 Supervised Relay Outputs: Each relay is individually fused and monitored, eliminating the need for external relay modules and providing immediate fault detection when door locks or exit devices are disconnected or fail
• 12VDC 9A Capacity with Battery Charging: The MAXIMAL5F simultaneously powers active access control loads while charging backup battery, enabling hold-up time without load shedding or voltage sag during mains loss
• LinQ2 Integration: Remote output control and real-time status visibility enable centralized monitoring across multiple access control nodes, reducing on-site verification trips and supporting rapid response to access anomalies

Deployment Considerations:

• Verify total connected relay load does not exceed 9A output capacity; oversized battery backup systems or high-current lock arrays may require load prioritization or auxiliary supply
• Configure FAI supervision parameters during installation to ensure fire alarm coordination triggers are properly wired and supervised according to local life safety codes
• Plan LinQ2 network connectivity during equipment room design; networked supervision enables proactive diagnostics but requires stable Ethernet or serial connectivity

The MAXIMAL5F delivers genuine operational value for mid-tier installations where integrated power management and relay distribution reduce component count without sacrificing field-proven reliability or supervisory transparency. Recommended for security integrators supporting recurring access control deployments across similar facility types.