Altronix SMP3E Selectable Output Power Supply Enclosure
The Altronix SMP3E is a compact power supply enclosure that addresses one of the most persistent installation headaches: retrofitting access control and security devices across sites where voltage requirements vary or were never standardized. Rather than stock three separate SKUs, the SMP3E offers field-selectable output of 6VDC, 12VDC, or 24VDC — a practical solution that cuts inventory complexity and lets you configure the unit on-site to match your door strike, magnetic lock, or auxiliary device.
Key Features
- Field-selectable output voltage (6VDC, 12VDC, or 24VDC): Set the voltage at installation without removing the unit or swapping modules. Reduces the need to carry multiple SKUs on a truck and eliminates waste from obsolete inventory.
- Input range 12–28VAC: Accepts standard transformer outputs and 24VAC signaling circuits, giving you flexibility in source transformer selection and compatibility with existing building power infrastructure.
- Maximum output current of 0.5A @ 6VDC (scaling proportionally at higher voltages): Sufficient for door strikes, magnetic locks, and access control auxiliary circuits. Not intended for high-current loads like panel power distribution, but well-suited to edge-node power distribution in modular security architectures.
- Battery backup support: The SMP3E is designed to integrate with backup batteries, ensuring continuity during AC power loss. Critical for fail-safe (energized) locks and access control systems that must remain functional during mains failure.
- Single output terminal: Streamlined wiring reduces error and installation time compared to multi-channel designs. One point of connection simplifies troubleshooting and reduces potential for cross-wiring errors in emergency scenarios.
- Compact grey enclosure design: Fits into tight cabinet spaces, DIN-rail mounting scenarios, or integrated into larger power distribution panels without consuming excessive footprint.
- CE approval: Marks compliance for European Union deployment; required for most EU-territory access control and security system integrations.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Long-term confidence in hardware reliability with straightforward replacement policy.
Integration & Compatibility
The SMP3E integrates into access control power distribution systems, door automation circuits, and modular security node architectures. Because voltage is field-selectable, a single unit can be provisioned to match the requirements of a door strike, mag lock, or auxiliary security device. The battery backup capability pairs naturally with UPS and battery modules used in redundant access control deployments. Input voltage tolerance (12–28VAC) permits connection to both dedicated security transformers and shared building VAC circuits, provided the source can sustain the required current draw under load.
When to Choose a Different Model
If you need higher current capacity (above 0.5A sustained), consider a higher-amperage power supply from the same Altronix family — units like the Altronix AURA or Altronix SMP series offer 2.5A to 4A outputs. If you require DC-in capability (not VAC), look for a separate DC-DC converter module. For applications requiring redundant or N+1 power paths, evaluate modular power distribution panels that integrate multiple supply channels.
Expert Guidance: Access Control Power Planning
When designing access control power distribution for retrofit sites, the constraint is often that voltage has already been chosen by legacy equipment — and not always documented. The field-selectable SMP3E removes that constraint. Bring one unit to the site, set it to 6VDC, test the door strike, and reconfigure to 12VDC or 24VDC if needed. This flexibility is particularly valuable in multi-tenant buildings or phased renovations where different zones may have different voltage expectations.
Deployment Context
The SMP3E is most effective as a distributed power node rather than a central hub. Deploy it near the device it powers — whether that's a door strike on the third floor or an access reader in a remote warehouse section. This reduces long wire runs, voltage drop, and potential noise coupling into low-voltage control circuits. Pair it with a comprehensive power planning guide if you are designing a multi-door access control layout.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I change the output voltage after installation?
A: Yes. The SMP3E is field-selectable, so you can reconfigure the output voltage without removing the unit from the enclosure. Refer to the datasheet for the specific selection method (jumper or switch position).
Q: What happens if the AC input fails? Does the battery backup activate automatically?
A: The SMP3E supports battery backup capability, but the battery module itself must be integrated separately. Upon AC loss, the backup battery provides DC output through the SMP3E's circuit. Consult the datasheet for compatible battery modules and integration instructions.
Q: Is the SMP3E suitable for outdoor installations?
A: The SMP3E is a compact enclosure designed for indoor mounting or protected cabinet use. For outdoor applications, you would need to house it in an outdoor-rated cabinet or enclosure that provides IP66 or higher environmental protection.
Q: What is the maximum wire gauge I can connect to the output terminal?
A: Refer to the product datasheet for terminal specifications and wire gauge compatibility. Oversized wire may not seat properly; undersized wire risks voltage drop and overheating.
Q: Does the SMP3E include a battery backup module in the box?
A: No. The SMP3E supports battery backup integration, but batteries are sold separately. Verify compatibility with your chosen backup battery module before ordering.
Q: Is CE approval sufficient for all European Union deployments?
A: CE marking indicates conformance to applicable EU directives. However, local regulations (particularly in security and access control) may impose additional requirements. Always confirm compliance with local authority having jurisdiction before final installation.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix SMP3E solves a real problem on retrofit access control jobs: voltage mismatch. You arrive at a site, the legacy equipment calls for 12VDC, but the building's transformer outputs 24VAC and the installer before you wired everything for 24VDC. The SMP3E removes that headache entirely — field-selectable output means one unit handles 6VDC, 12VDC, or 24VDC, configured on-site without swapping modules or burning SKUs.
Technical Highlights:
- Field-selectable 6/12/24VDC output: Set voltage at installation. No module swaps, no inventory bloat. Critical for multi-tenant or phased-renovation sites where voltage requirements vary floor to floor or phase to phase.
- 12–28VAC input range: Accepts both dedicated 24VAC security transformers and standard building VAC circuits. Flexibility in source selection reduces dependency on specialized transformers and simplifies truck stock.
- 0.5A maximum current output: Ample for door strikes, magnetic locks, and access reader auxiliaries. Not for panel power distribution, but ideal for edge-node, per-door power nodes in modular architectures.
- Battery backup support: Integrates with separate backup modules to maintain output during mains loss — essential for fail-safe systems that must remain energized during power events.
Deployment Considerations:
- Battery module is separate; factor in cost and space when planning UPS integration. Confirm compatibility before ordering.
- Output current scales with voltage selection: 0.5A @ 6VDC, proportionally lower at 12VDC and 24VDC. For high-current loads (above 2.5A sustained), step up to a larger Altronix model in the same family.
- Compact footprint fits DIN rail and cabinet mounting, but no outdoor rating. House in IP66+ enclosure if deployed outside or in wet environments.
Deploy the SMP3E as a distributed power node — one near each secured door or zone rather than a central hub — to minimize wire runs and voltage drop. On retrofit access control upgrades or multi-tenant expansions, this unit's voltage flexibility pays for itself in installation simplicity alone.
