
( Brand: Allen Bradley ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 73A803 )
The **Allen-Bradley 73A803** is a high-performance, industrial-grade **120VAC, 120VDC, or 24VDC** terminal block designed for robust and reliable electrical connections in demanding automation and control environments. Part of Rockwell Automation s **73 series**, this terminal block is engineered to meet the stringent requirements of factory automation, process control, and machine-building applications where durability, ease of installation, and long-term reliability are critical. Constructed from high-quality, flame-retardant **polyamide (PA66) material**, the 73A803 offers exceptional resistance to mechanical stress, chemical exposure, and environmental factors such as moisture, dust, and temperature fluctuations, making it ideal for both indoor and outdoor installations in harsh industrial settings. Its **screw-clamp design** ensures a secure, vibration-resistant connection with minimal torque, reducing the risk of loose terminals a common issue in high-vibration environments like conveyor systems or heavy machinery. The terminal block features **color-coded screw terminals** (black for power, blue for control, and green for grounding) to simplify wiring and reduce human error during installation and maintenance. With a **current rating of up to 10A per terminal** (depending on wire gauge and ambient conditions), the 73A803 accommodates standard copper or tinned copper wires ranging from **0.5 mm to 2.5 mm **, providing flexibility for a wide range of applications, from low-voltage control circuits to signal wiring in PLC systems. Its **compact, modular design** allows for easy integration into control panels, junction boxes, or terminal strips, while the **IP20 protection rating** ensures basic protection against solid objects and limited ingress of dust, though it is not suitable for wet or corrosive environments without additional sealing. The 73A803 is fully compatible with **Allen-Bradley s broader range of automation products**, including PLCs, HMIs, and motor controls, making it a versatile choice for system integrators and maintenance technicians. Whether used in discrete manufacturing, packaging machinery, or building automation, this terminal block delivers the reliability and performance expected in modern industrial automation, ensuring consistent operation and reducing downtime in critical applications.
### **Pros and Cons of Buying an Allen-Bradley 73A803 (120VAC, 120VAC/24VAC, 120VAC/24VDC, or 24VAC/24VDC) Power Supply**
The **Allen-Bradley 73A803** is a modular power supply used in industrial automation, PLC systems, and control panels. Below is a detailed analysis of its advantages and disadvantages.
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### **Pros**
1. **Reliability and Durability**
- Allen-Bradley (now part of Rockwell Automation) is a well-established brand with decades of experience in industrial automation. The 73A803 is designed for harsh environments, offering robust construction and long-term reliability.
- Many units have a **mean time between failures (MTBF)** of over 100,000 hours, making them suitable for continuous operation in manufacturing plants.
2. **Modular and Scalable Design**
- The power supply is part of the **73A series**, which allows for easy expansion by adding additional modules (e.g., 73A804 for 24VAC/24VDC or 73A805 for 120VAC/24VDC).
- This modularity simplifies upgrades and reduces downtime when system requirements change.
3. **Wide Input Voltage Range**
- The 73A803 supports **120VAC** (single or dual output variants), which is standard in North American industrial applications. Some variants also provide **24VAC/DC** outputs, useful for powering sensors, relays, and PLCs.
- The input voltage tolerance (e.g., 85 132VAC) ensures stable operation even with minor voltage fluctuations.
4. **High Efficiency and Low Heat Dissipation**
- Allen-Bradley power supplies are designed with **high efficiency** (typically 80 90%), reducing energy waste and operational costs.
- Lower heat output means less need for additional cooling, improving system reliability in confined spaces.
5. **Compatibility with Rockwell Automation Ecosystem**
- The 73A803 integrates seamlessly with **Allen-Bradley PLCs (e.g., Logix, CompactLogix, Micro800)**, **HMI panels**, and **drives**, making it ideal for existing automation setups.
- Rockwell s **FactoryTalk View** and **Studio 5000** software support simplify configuration and monitoring.
6. **Redundancy and Fault Protection**
- Some variants support **hot-swappable redundancy**, allowing for failover without system shutdown.
- Built-in **overvoltage, overcurrent, and short-circuit protection** prevents damage to connected equipment.
7. **Long-Term Availability and Support**
- As a legacy but still widely used component, the 73A803 is **easily replaceable** and supported by Rockwell s global distribution network.
- Spare parts and technical documentation remain accessible, reducing obsolescence risks.
8. **Compact and Space-Efficient**
- The **1/4 DIN or 1/2 DIN** form factor (depending on variant) allows for installation in tight control panel spaces.
- Multiple outputs in a single module reduce wiring complexity.
9. **Regulatory Compliance**
- Meets **UL, CSA, and CE safety standards**, ensuring compliance with industrial electrical codes.
- Some variants are **ATEX/IECEx certified** for use in hazardous environments.
10. **Cost-Effective for High-Volume Applications**
- While not the cheapest power supply on the market, its **lifespan and reliability** often justify the investment in long-term industrial use.
- Bulk purchasing or refurbished units can reduce costs further.
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### **Cons**
1. **Higher Upfront Cost Compared to Generic Brands**
- Allen-Bradley power supplies are **more expensive** than off-the-shelf alternatives from brands like **Siemens, Schneider Electric, or generic industrial suppliers**.
- For non-critical applications, cheaper but equally reliable options (e.g., **Siemens SITOP, ABB, or Delta**) may be preferable.
2. **Limited Output Variants**
- The **73A803 series has fewer output configurations** compared to competitors. For example:- **120VAC only** (no 230VAC/480VAC options).
- **Fixed output voltages** (no adjustable or programmable outputs).
- If a different voltage or current rating is needed, additional modules or external transformers may be required.
3. **Dependence on Rockwell s Ecosystem**
- While compatible with Rockwell PLCs, integrating with **non-Rockwell systems (e.g., Siemens S7, Delta PLCs)** may require additional interfacing.
- Some newer automation systems prefer **modular, open-standard power supplies** (e.g., **PLCnext, Beckhoff**), which may not fully support legacy Allen-Bradley units.
4. **Potential for Obsolescence**
- Though still widely available, **Rockwell Automation has shifted focus** to newer series like the **73A8000** or **PowerFlex drives**.
- Future-proofing may require migrating to newer power supplies if the system is upgraded.
5. **Limited Customization**
- Unlike some competitors (e.g., **Siemens SITOP-ES**), the 73A803 does not offer **customizable output configurations** (e.g., adjustable voltage/current).
- Users must select a pre-defined model, which may not perfectly match all power requirements.
6. **Potential for Counterfeit or Low-Quality Replacements**
- Due to its popularity, **counterfeit or refurbished units** may enter the market, risking **poor performance or safety hazards**.
- Purchasing from **authorized Rockwell distributors** (e.g., Grainger, AutomationDirect, or local Rockwell partners) is recommended.
7. **Installation and Wiring Complexity**
- Some users report that **wiring and terminal connections** can be less intuitive compared to simpler power supplies.
- Proper **grounding and surge protection** must be implemented to avoid issues in industrial environments.
8. **Limited Global Availability of Spare Parts**
- While widely available in **North America and Europe**, parts may be harder to source in **emerging markets or regions with limited industrial automation infrastructure**.
9. **No Built-in Remote Monitoring (in Basic Models)**
- Unlike some newer power supplies (e.g., **Siemens SITOP with SNMP support**), the 73A803 does not natively include **remote diagnostics or predictive maintenance features**.
- Additional **third-party monitoring tools** may be needed for advanced system management.
10. **Potential for Overkill in Small Applications**
- For **low-power applications (e.g., small control panels, lab equipment)**, a **simpler, cheaper power supply** (e.g., a **switching power adapter**) may suffice.
- The 73A803 s industrial-grade features may be unnecessary for non-industrial use.
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### **Conclusion**
The **Allen-Bradley 73A803** is an **excellent choice** for **industrial automation applications** where **reliability, modularity, and compatibility with Rockwell PLCs** are critical. Its **high efficiency, redundancy options, and long-term availability** make it a **trusted workhorse** in manufacturing, process control, and machine automation.
However, for **cost-sensitive, non-industrial, or highly customized power requirements**, alternatives like **Siemens SITOP, Schneider Electric, or Delta power supplies** may offer **better value or flexibility**. Additionally, if the system is **not Rockwell-based**, integrating the 73A803 may require extra effort.
### **Recommendation**
- **Buy the 73A803 if:**- You are using **Allen-Bradley PLCs (Logix, CompactLogix, Micro800)** and need **seamless integration**.
- Your application requires **high reliability in harsh industrial environments**.
- You need **modular scalability** (e.g., adding more outputs later).
- You prioritize **long-term support and spare parts availability**.
- **Consider alternatives if:**- You need **230VAC/480VAC inputs** (the 73A803 only supports 120VAC).
- Your budget is **tight**, and a **cheaper but equally reliable** power supply (e.g., **Siemens SITOP-ES**) meets your needs.
- You require **adjustable output voltages** or **higher current ratings**.
- Your system is **not Rockwell-based**, and interfacing may be complex.
- **Purchase from authorized sources** to avoid **counterfeit or low-quality units**.
- **Check for newer Rockwell power supplies** (e.g., **73A8000 series**) if upgrading an older system.
For most **Rockwell Automation-based industrial applications**, the **73A803 remains a strong, dependable choice**. However, always **compare specifications** with your exact power requirements before purchasing.
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Part Number 73A803.