Altronix SMP5 Selectable Voltage Power Supply Charger
The Altronix SMP5 is a compact board-form power supply and charger designed for flexible low-voltage system integration where deployments may require either 12VDC or 24VDC. The unit accepts 12–28VAC input and delivers switchable DC output, eliminating the need to stock multiple SKUs when voltage requirements vary across different security, access control, or surveillance installations.
Key Features
- Selectable output voltage (12VDC or 24VDC): Single unit covers both common security system voltages, reducing inventory overhead and simplifying procurement for integrators managing mixed deployments.
- Wide input range (12–28VAC): Tolerates transformer variance and brownout conditions common in older buildings or distant distribution points — no need for isolation or conditioning equipment in many field scenarios.
- Current scaling by output voltage: Delivers 4A at 6VDC, 6A at 12VDC, or 10A at 24VDC. The higher amperage at 24VDC is practical for solenoid locks, strobe modules, and multi-device zones; the lower current at 12VDC suits cameras, readers, and control modules without overdrawing limited circuits.
- Board-form factor: Integrates directly into OEM enclosures, alarm control panels, and access control head-end systems without requiring a separate 19-inch rackmounted supply or external chassis — saves panel real estate and reduces system cost where internal space exists.
- Lifetime Limited Warranty: Manufacturer backing reduces risk on field replacements and supports long-term serviceability expectations for installed base.
Integration & Compatibility
The SMP5 suits power supply applications in access control panels, door strike assemblies, alarm system backbone circuits, and surveillance infrastructure where 24VDC or 12VDC rails feed multiple downstream loads. Common pairings include integration with access control readers, wireless transmitters, bell modules, and auxiliary battery-charger circuits. Input and output voltage selection occur via board-level configuration or panel-mounted switch, depending on integration approach — confirm with your system integrator or OEM partner on the specific terminal assignment and voltage setting method before ordering.
When to Choose a Different Model
If your deployment requires multiple independent output channels, regulated outputs at voltages other than 12V or 24V, or power delivery exceeding 10A, evaluate other Altronix power supply models in the industrial or rackmount form factor. The SMP5 is single-output; splitting output to multiple zones requires external distribution or secondary supplies. For chassis-based installations in control rooms, larger form-factor supplies often provide better thermal management and simpler troubleshooting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the SMP5 in an outdoor cabinet?
A: The SMP5 is a board-form power supply suited for indoor OEM panel integration. For outdoor or harsh-environment cabinets, use an Altronix enclosure-rated supply rated for wider temperature and humidity ranges. Confirm environmental specifications with the product datasheet before outdoor deployment.
Q: What transformer input voltage should I specify?
A: The SMP5 accepts 12–28VAC input. A standard 24VAC transformer is typical; confirm your field source falls within this range. Input voltage outside this window will not produce rated output.
Q: Does the SMP5 support battery backup charging?
A: The SMP5 is marketed as a power supply and charger. Confirm with the datasheet whether dedicated battery-charging circuitry is integrated or whether external charging control is required for backup battery applications.
Q: How do I select 12VDC or 24VDC output?
A: Output voltage is selectable, but the method (jumper, DIP switch, or terminal selection) depends on the specific board revision. Refer to the installation guide or datasheet included with your unit.
Q: What is the typical lead time for the SMP5?
A: Lead time depends on distributor stock. Contact an authorized Altronix distributor for current availability and delivery terms.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Altronix SMP5 solves a real pain point for integrators managing mixed-voltage deployments: buying separate SKUs for 12V and 24V supplies inflates inventory and complicates supply-chain planning. A single selectable-voltage board eliminates that friction, especially on retrofit jobs where you're retrofitting 12V devices into a 24V backbone or vice versa.
Technical Highlights:
- 10A output at 24VDC: Enough to support a solenoid-driven door strike (typically 0.5–2A hold current), auxiliary bell or strobe (1–3A), and a networked reader or camera (0.3–1A) all on the same circuit — reduces the number of separate power rails needed in a control panel.
- Wide 12–28VAC input tolerance: Accommodates aging step-down transformers and field-source voltage sag. No external conditioning needed in most access-control installations.
- Board-form integration: Saves panel depth compared to a separate chassis supply. Pairs directly with Altronix panel enclosures, cutting assembly labor.
Deployment Considerations:
- The SMP5 is single-output. If your panel needs segregated 12V and 24V rails for fault isolation, you will need two SMP5 units or a multi-output supply — verify your circuit topology before committing.
- Voltage selection is board-level (jumper or switch), not remote-selectable. Plan your voltage before shipment or allocate field-visit time to change it later.
- Thermal dissipation on a board-form supply depends on ambient panel temperature. Use in a ventilated or cooled enclosure if sustained full-load (10A at 24VDC = ~240W) is expected; confirm the enclosure's thermal rating matches your duty cycle.
The SMP5 is a clean fit for mid-sized access-control and alarm installations where voltage flexibility matters more than modularity. It will not replace a larger rackmount supply in a distributed multi-zone security backbone, but for panel-integrated and OEM applications, it delivers value.
