Altronix SMP5WP Dual-Output 4A Power Supply

The Altronix SMP5WP is a compact, field-proven power supply engineered for security integrators and control panel builders who need reliable 12 or 24VDC output in space-constrained installations. This unit delivers 4 amperes of continuous output current at selectable voltage, powered by either 115VAC or 230VAC input — eliminating the need to stock and manage separate SKUs for mixed-voltage system designs. The dual-voltage architecture simplifies procurement and inventory management across multiple deployment sites, whether you're retrofitting legacy 12VDC readers into a modern 24VDC control panel or standardizing new builds across regional markets with varying line voltages.

Overview

The SMP5WP mounts directly to standard 35mm DIN rails, integrating seamlessly into control enclosures alongside relay modules, terminal blocks, and surge protection components. The 4-ampere output capacity supports medium-scale distributed circuits — door locks, magnetic sensors, auxiliary relay coils, and intercom systems — without the complexity of managing dual power supplies or voltage converters. Output voltage is selected at installation time via a simple switch or jumper, meaning no field modifications or reconfigurations are needed when system requirements change. Universal input voltage acceptance (115VAC or 230VAC) removes regional power variants as a project variable, streamlining international deployments and cross-regional standardization across facilities.

For system architects designing power infrastructure for access control systems, video surveillance backup circuits, gate operators, and intrusion alarm panels, the SMP5WP delivers the voltage flexibility and current capacity necessary to consolidate multiple power distribution points into a single, compact module.

Key Features

• Selectable 12VDC or 24VDC Output: Switch-selectable voltage eliminates the need to stock multiple power supply models, reducing parts complexity when integrating legacy 12VDC devices with modern 24VDC systems on the same control board. One part number covers both voltage families.
• 4-Ampere Continuous Output Current: Provides sufficient capacity for distributed door strikes (typically 0.5–1A each), electromagnetic locks, and sensor circuits in medium-scale panel designs without requiring secondary power distribution boards or parallel supplies.
• Universal Input Acceptance (115VAC / 230VAC): Operates from either line voltage without jumpers or internal reconfiguration, supporting North American, European, and international installation sites. Eliminates the need to pre-specify input voltage variants during procurement.
• DIN-Rail Mount Form Factor: Compact profile fits standard 35mm DIN rails used in control cabinets, sub-panels, and field enclosures. Rapid installation without panel drilling or custom bracketing.
• Thermally Efficient Design: Low heat dissipation allows operation in sealed or passively cooled enclosures without forced ventilation, reducing ambient temperature rise in tight panel spaces and extending component lifespan.
• Field-Serviceable Architecture: Modular internal construction supports troubleshooting and component replacement without removing the entire unit from the rail, minimizing downtime during maintenance cycles.

Integration and Compatibility

The SMP5WP integrates into any access control, video surveillance, or alarm system architecture requiring DC distribution. Standard DIN-rail mounting allows side-by-side integration with relay modules, surge suppressors, and terminal blocks, enabling modular panel builds without custom wiring harnesses. The unit is compatible with legacy 12VDC readers and sensors as well as modern 24VDC devices, making it well-suited for phased system upgrades where new and legacy components coexist temporarily on the same control board.

When sizing the SMP5WP for a specific panel design, verify that the total continuous load of all connected circuits does not exceed 4 amperes. Door locks, electromagnetic sensors, and relay coils should be individually calculated and summed; inrush current during lock actuation may temporarily exceed steady-state draw, but the SMP5WP is designed to handle typical access control duty cycles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can the output voltage be changed in the field after installation?

A: Yes. The SMP5WP output voltage is selectable via a simple switch or jumper that can be changed at any time without removing the unit from the DIN rail or disconnecting input power (though best practice is to de-energize the panel before making voltage changes). This flexibility supports system modifications and retrofits without requiring a supply swap.

Q: What is the typical load capacity for a mixed 12VDC and 24VDC circuit?

A: The SMP5WP provides 4 amperes total output current. If your panel uses both 12VDC and 24VDC circuits, the combined draw across both voltage rails cannot exceed 4A. For example, a 1.5A 12VDC circuit plus a 2.5A 24VDC circuit totals 4A and would fully saturate the supply. Plan your circuit loads accordingly to avoid exceeding the rated output.

Q: Does the SMP5WP require a separate backup battery for UPS functionality?

A: No. The SMP5WP is a line-powered AC-to-DC converter; it does not include an integrated battery or UPS circuit. If your access control or alarm system requires backup power during mains failure, you will need to add a separate battery module or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to the panel.

Q: What are the thermal limits for cabinet operation?

A: The SMP5WP is designed for operation in controlled indoor and sealed outdoor enclosures with ambient temperatures typically ranging from 0°C to 40°C during normal use. Extended operation near maximum load (4A continuous) will generate heat; ensure adequate air circulation or passive cooling within the cabinet to maintain safe operating temperature. Consult the product datasheet for exact thermal specifications.

Ted Perry

Perspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.

I have specified the Altronix SMP5WP in more than a dozen mixed-voltage panel builds across the Southeast, and it consistently delivers reliable performance without the procurement complexity of managing two separate SKUs. The voltage selector on the SMP5WP eliminates field confusion during integration of older 12VDC access control readers with newer 24VDC door strike systems on the same control board — a scenario that comes up frequently in facility modernization projects.

Technical Highlights:

• Dual-Voltage Output (12/24VDC): The SMP5WP's selectable output means one part number covers both voltage families — reducing SKU overhead by 50%, accelerating procurement cycles, and simplifying spares management across multiple sites.
• Universal Input (115VAC / 230VAC): No jumpers, no internal reconfiguration needed when line voltage varies by region or facility. A single unit supports North American 115VAC, European 230VAC, and hybrid installations without stock-keeping variants.
• 4-Ampere Continuous Output: Sufficient for typical access control circuits (door locks at 0.5–1A, sensor circuits at 0.1–0.3A, relay coils at 0.2–0.5A). When sized correctly, eliminates the need for secondary power distribution rails in medium-scale panels.

Deployment Considerations:

• The 4A output is a shared resource across all connected loads — sum 12VDC and 24VDC circuit draws carefully before final panel design approval. Oversized door strikes or large relay banks can saturate capacity quickly.
• The SMP5WP provides no battery backup or UPS functionality — if mains failure protection is required, integrate a separate battery module or UPS into the panel enclosure alongside the supply.

The SMP5WP is a solid choice for field integrators building mixed-voltage access control, surveillance, and alarm panels in North American and international installations where voltage flexibility and compact DIN-rail mounting reduce enclosure complexity and procurement overhead.