SDC 101-KDENA vs SDC MC-4PAK: Specification Comparison
Both the SDC 101-KDENA and the SDC MC-4PAK are wired, 4-door access controllers from SDC (Security Door Controls), designed for networked commercial access control deployments. Each unit supports up to 250,000 HID-compatible credentials, communicates over OSDP and TCP/IP, and carries a lifetime warranty. Buyers selecting between them are evaluating the same product class at the same door capacity, with differences concentrated in operating voltage, physical form factor, mounting options, and hardware features such as the key-switch override present on the 101-KDENA.
In This Guide
- How do door capacity and credential storage compare between the 101-KDENA and MC-4PAK?
- What are the differences in input voltage, mounting, and physical dimensions?
- How do the two controllers compare on protocol support, reader compatibility, and credential formats?
- Which should you choose: the 101-KDENA or the MC-4PAK?
- Side-by-Side Specs
- FAQ
How do door capacity and credential storage compare between the 101-KDENA and MC-4PAK?
Both controllers manage exactly 4 independent door zones and store up to 250,000 credentials on-device. Neither unit requires a remote server for credential lookups at that capacity. The 101-KDENA spec sheet describes these as '4 independent zones,' while the MC-4PAK spec describes '4 independent access points from one controller.' No functional difference in door or credential capacity is indicated by the provided specifications for either model.
What are the differences in input voltage, mounting, and physical dimensions?
The 101-KDENA operates at 24VDC and also lists PoE (802.3af) as a power option, giving installers flexibility to power the unit over a standard Ethernet run without a separate power supply. The MC-4PAK operates at 30VDC; no PoE capability is listed in its specifications. This voltage difference affects power-supply selection and compatibility with existing infrastructure.
Physically, the 101-KDENA measures 4½" × 6 7/16" × 2" and weighs 2 lbs, with Wall and Rack mount options specified. The MC-4PAK is listed at ¾" diameter and 1 lb; those dimensions appear inconsistent with a 4-door controller enclosure and may reflect a data entry anomaly — buyers should verify MC-4PAK physical dimensions directly from the manufacturer datasheet before installation planning.
The 101-KDENA includes an integrated key switch for emergency manual override. No key switch or manual override feature is listed in the MC-4PAK specifications.
How do the two controllers compare on protocol support, reader compatibility, and credential formats?
Both the 101-KDENA and MC-4PAK support OSDP and TCP/IP dual-protocol operation, enabling encrypted reader communications and direct LAN integration without proprietary lock-in. Both specify HID-compatible credential formats. The 101-KDENA additionally lists 'Keypad' as a supported reader type and explicitly notes HID-compatible reader technology. The MC-4PAK specification does not list a reader type or keypad support, though HID credential format is confirmed.
The 101-KDENA lists a Strike Type of Magnetic Lock; no lock-output type is specified for the MC-4PAK. The 101-KDENA package contents note that accessories are ordered separately, while the MC-4PAK package contents confirm only the controller unit is included. Neither model lists software licensing, mobile credential support, or cloud management capabilities in the provided specifications.
Which should you choose: the 101-KDENA or the MC-4PAK?
Our take: The 101-KDENA is the stronger choice when PoE infrastructure, lower-voltage power plants, or emergency manual override capability are deployment requirements. Key spec deltas: the 101-KDENA runs on 24VDC with PoE (802.3af) support, while the MC-4PAK requires 30VDC with no PoE listed — a meaningful wiring and budget difference in retrofit environments. The 101-KDENA includes an integrated key switch for emergency override; no such feature is specified on the MC-4PAK. The 101-KDENA also specifies Wall and Rack mounting options, supporting both field and rack-room installations. Door capacity (4) and credential storage (250,000 HID) are identical across both units. The MC-4PAK may suit deployments already standardized on 30VDC power infrastructure, but buyers should independently verify its enclosure dimensions before procurement, as the published figures appear inconsistent with a 4-door controller form factor.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Spec-for-spec, from manufacturer data.
| Specification | SDC 101-KDENA | SDC MC-4PAK |
|---|---|---|
| Product Type | Controller | Controller |
| Door Capacity | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Credential Capacity | 250,000 | 250,000 |
| Credential Format | HID-compatible | HID-compatible |
| Communication Protocols | OSDP; TCP/IP | OSDP; TCP/IP |
| Input Voltage | 24VDC | 30VDC |
| PoE Support | 802.3af | — |
| Connectivity | Wired | Wired |
| Reader Type | Keypad | — |
| Strike Type | Magnetic Lock | — |
| Key Switch Override | Integrated | — |
| Mount Type | Wall; Rack | — |
| Dimensions | 4½" × 6 7/16" × 2" | ¾" Diameter (verify with mfr) |
| Weight | 2 lbs | 1 lb |
| Color | — | White |
| Warranty | Lifetime | Lifetime |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which should you choose: the 101-KDENA or the MC-4PAK?
The 101-KDENA is the stronger choice when PoE infrastructure, lower-voltage power plants, or emergency manual override capability are deployment requirements. Key spec deltas: the 101-KDENA runs on 24VDC with PoE (802.3af) support, while the MC-4PAK requires 30VDC with no PoE listed — a meaningful wiring and budget difference in retrofit environments. The 101-KDENA includes an integrated key switch for emergency override; no such feature is specified on the MC-4PAK. The 101-KDENA also specifies Wall and Rack mounting options, supporting both field and rack-room installations. Door capacity (4) and credential storage (250,000 HID) are identical across both units. The MC-4PAK may suit deployments already standardized on 30VDC power infrastructure, but buyers should independently verify its enclosure dimensions before procurement, as the published figures appear inconsistent with a 4-door controller form factor.
Can either the 101-KDENA or MC-4PAK be powered over Ethernet?
Only the 101-KDENA lists PoE (802.3af) as a supported power input. The MC-4PAK specifies 30VDC input only; no PoE capability is listed in its provided specifications.
Do both controllers work with my existing HID readers and credentials?
Yes. Both the 101-KDENA and MC-4PAK specify HID-compatible credential formats and OSDP protocol support, which is the current HID open standard for encrypted reader communication. Neither model restricts you to a proprietary reader ecosystem based on the provided specifications.
Is the 101-KDENA or MC-4PAK better suited for installations that need a manual emergency override?
The 101-KDENA is the only model of the two with an integrated key switch for emergency manual override, as specified. The MC-4PAK specifications do not list any manual override feature, so if local emergency release is a code or policy requirement, the 101-KDENA is the indicated choice.
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