
( Brand: Allen-bradley ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 42305-118-52C ), ( Country Of Origin: China )
The **Allen-Bradley 42305-118-52C** and **42305-117-02A** are high-performance, modular circuit board assemblies designed for integration into Rockwell Automation s **CompactLogix** and **ControlLogix** programmable logic controller (PLC) systems, respectively. These components serve as critical expansion modules, enhancing the processing power, I/O capacity, and overall functionality of their respective controller platforms. The **42305-118-52C** is a **CompactLogix 5370/5380 Series** **CPU Expansion Module**, engineered to provide additional processing resources, memory, and communication interfaces, allowing users to offload tasks from the primary CPU or integrate advanced control algorithms without compromising system performance. Built with Rockwell s proprietary **MicroLogix** or **CompactLogix** architecture, this module features a robust **FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array)**-based design, enabling high-speed data processing, real-time motion control, and complex logic execution. Its compact yet durable construction ensures compatibility with the **5370/5380** series, offering seamless integration into existing automation systems while supporting **EtherNet/IP**, **CIP Sync**, and **CIP Motion** protocols for synchronized motion and high-speed data acquisition.
On the other hand, the **42305-117-02A** is a **ControlLogix 5560/5570 Series** **I/O Expansion Module**, specifically a **24-Volt DC Input Module**, designed to expand the digital input capacity of these high-end industrial controllers. This module accommodates **24 VDC inputs**, making it ideal for interfacing with a wide range of sensors, switches, and discrete devices commonly found in manufacturing, process control, and automation applications. With **16 isolated input channels**, the **42305-117-02A** delivers reliable signal conditioning, noise immunity, and configurable input filtering to ensure accurate data acquisition even in harsh industrial environments. Its modular design allows for easy installation within the **ControlLogix** chassis, enabling scalability and flexibility in system expansion. Both modules adhere to Rockwell Automation s stringent quality standards, featuring **industrial-grade components**, **wide operating temperature ranges** (typically -40 C to 70 C), and **high shock/vibration resistance** to withstand the demands of continuous operation in factories, oil and gas facilities, and other demanding industrial settings. Whether used for **CPU offloading**, **motion control**, or **expanding I/O capacity**, these components exemplify Rockwell s commitment to delivering **high-performance, scalable, and future-proof automation solutions** tailored for modern manufacturing and process control applications.
### **Pros and Cons of buying a Allen-Bradley 42305-118-52C and 42305-117-02A Circuit Board Modules**
#### **Overview**
The **Allen-Bradley 42305-118-52C** (Power Supply Module) and **42305-117-02A** (CPU Module) are critical components of the **CompactLogix 5370/5380** series programmable logic controllers (PLCs). These modules are essential for controlling industrial automation processes, but their purchase involves trade-offs in terms of cost, availability, compatibility, and maintenance.
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### **Pros**
1. **High Reliability and Performance**
- Allen-Bradley (now part of Rockwell Automation) is a well-established brand known for robust industrial-grade components. These modules are designed for continuous operation in harsh environments, ensuring long-term reliability.
- The **42305-118-52C** provides stable power distribution, while the **42305-117-02A** offers high-speed processing and communication capabilities, making them suitable for demanding automation tasks.
2. **Direct Compatibility with CompactLogix 5370/5380**
- These modules are **factory-matched** for the **CompactLogix 5370/5380** series, ensuring seamless integration without additional configuration or compatibility issues.
- They support **EtherNet/IP**, **DeviceNet**, and other communication protocols, making them versatile for modern industrial networks.
3. **Warranty and Support**
- Purchasing from **authorized Rockwell Automation distributors** or **OEM suppliers** provides access to **factory warranties** (typically 1 2 years) and technical support.
- Rockwell s extensive documentation and software tools (e.g., Studio 5000) simplify troubleshooting and programming.
4. **New vs. Refurbished Options**
- **New modules** come with full warranties and are guaranteed to be in pristine condition, reducing the risk of failure.
- **Refurbished or remanufactured units** (from reputable sources) can offer significant cost savings while maintaining high reliability, as they undergo rigorous testing and reconditioning.
5. **Long-Term Availability**
- While some older Allen-Bradley models may become obsolete, these **CompactLogix modules are still widely supported** due to their continued use in industrial applications. Rockwell and third-party suppliers often stock them.
6. **Ease of Replacement**
- These modules are **hot-swappable** in most CompactLogix systems, allowing for quick replacement without downtime (if the system supports it).
- The **42305-117-02A** (CPU) can be easily swapped if the system has a backup or redundant configuration.
7. **Software and Firmware Updates**
- Rockwell periodically releases **firmware updates** for these modules, improving performance, security, and compatibility with newer software versions.
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### **Cons**
1. **High Upfront Cost**
- **New modules** can be **expensive**, especially compared to third-party or generic alternatives. For example:- **42305-118-52C (Power Supply)**: Typically ranges from **$800 $1,500** depending on the supplier.
- **42305-117-02A (CPU)**: Usually costs **$1,200 $2,500 **, depending on the model variant and quantity.
- Purchasing both new can result in a **significant capital expenditure**.
2. **Limited Availability of Refurbished Units**
- While refurbished modules exist, **high-quality remanufactured units may be scarce** due to demand and the complexity of testing PLC components.
- Some suppliers may offer **open-box or returned-with-defect units**, which could pose reliability risks if not properly inspected.
3. **Potential for Counterfeit or Low-Quality Alternatives**
- The industrial automation market has **counterfeit modules**, particularly from unscrupulous online sellers. These can fail prematurely or cause system instability.
- **Third-party clones** (e.g., from China-based suppliers) may not meet Rockwell s performance or warranty standards.
4. **Depreciation Over Time**
- Like all industrial equipment, these modules **lose value over time**. If the system is replaced or upgraded, the cost of these modules may not be recovered.
- For older systems, the **cost of replacement parts may exceed the value of the entire PLC setup**.
5. **Dependency on Rockwell s Ecosystem**
- If the system relies heavily on **Rockwell-specific features** (e.g., certain communication protocols, software integrations), switching to third-party modules could introduce compatibility issues.
- **Firmware updates** may require Rockwell s software, which could become outdated or unsupported in the future.
6. **Lead Times for New Units**
- Even from authorized distributors, **lead times can be 2 4 weeks**, causing delays in maintenance or system upgrades.
- During **supply chain disruptions** (e.g., semiconductor shortages), availability may be further reduced.
7. **Training and Expertise Required**
- Working with Allen-Bradley PLCs requires **specialized knowledge** of Studio 5000, ladder logic, and industrial networking.
- If in-house expertise is lacking, **hiring a consultant or technician** adds to the cost.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Allen-Bradley 42305-118-52C (Power Supply) and 42305-117-02A (CPU)** are **high-quality, reliable components** essential for CompactLogix 5370/5380 systems. They offer **superior performance, warranty support, and long-term availability**, making them a **preferred choice for mission-critical industrial applications**.
However, the **high cost, potential for counterfeit parts, and dependency on Rockwell s ecosystem** are significant drawbacks. For businesses with **limited budgets or those willing to take risks**, third-party or refurbished alternatives may be considered but only if sourced from **trusted suppliers** with proper testing and warranties.
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### **Recommendation**
1. **For New Systems or Critical Applications:**- **Purchase new modules directly from an authorized Rockwell Automation distributor** (e.g., Grainger, RS Components, or local Rockwell partners).
- **Verify the exact model compatibility** with your CompactLogix version to avoid mismatches.
- **Consider a warranty extension** if available, as it provides added peace of mind.
2. **For Budget-Conscious or Replacement Scenarios:**- **Buy refurbished units from a reputable supplier** (e.g., **Rockwell s own remanufactured program** or **certified industrial refurbishers**).
- **Insist on a full test report** (including functionality and firmware verification) before purchase.
- **Compare prices across multiple suppliers** to ensure you re getting a fair deal.
3. **For Long-Term Cost Savings:**- **Evaluate whether upgrading to a newer CompactLogix model** (e.g., 5380 with improved features) could reduce future maintenance costs.
- **Consider a backup or redundant CPU module** to minimize downtime in case of failure.
4. **Avoid Risks:**- **Never purchase from unverified online marketplaces** (e.g., eBay, AliExpress) unless the seller is a **certified Rockwell distributor**.
- **Check for counterfeit indicators** (e.g., mismatched serial numbers, poor packaging, or no documentation).
- **Document the purchase and installation** for warranty claims in case of defects.
### **Final Verdict:**If **reliability, warranty, and long-term support** are priorities, **buying new or certified refurbished Allen-Bradley modules is the safest choice**. However, if **cost is a major concern**, a **trusted refurbished unit with proper testing** can be a viable alternative **but only if the risk of failure is acceptable** for your application. Always **prioritize quality over price** in industrial automation components to avoid costly downtime.
Perfect for Ems looking a dependable component to integrate into their systems, this module offers seamless fit and efficient operation. The Allen Bradley 42305-117-02A Circuit Board 42305-118-52C Industrial Module OEM is a high-quality electronic component designed for industrial automation and motion control systems. Made in China, this circuit board ensures reliable performance and durability demanding industrial environments.