Overview
The Allen-Bradley RC42GF821J is a hot-molded carbon composition resistor rated for 820 ohms at 2 watts with ±5% tolerance. MIL-SPEC engineering ensures reliable performance in demanding electrical and electronic systems. These resistors are manufactured to exacting standards for pulse withstanding, power dissipation, frequency stability, and rugged construction—making them ideal replacements for legacy equipment and new industrial builds.
Key Features
- Hot-molded carbon composition design – Rugged construction with low inductance and excellent pulse handling
- MIL-SPEC reliability – Outstanding performance across temperature extremes and demanding electrical conditions
- Low inductance – Suitable for high-frequency and RF applications requiring stable impedance
- Axial lead package – Standard 0.045″ diameter copper leads for easy board mounting and through-hole placement
- USA manufactured – Quality assurance built on proven production methods in Wisconsin facilities
Technical Specifications
- Resistance: 820 Ω
- Power Rating: 2 W
- Tolerance: ±5%
- Maximum Voltage: 500–750 V
- Temperature Range: Up to 70°C
- Lead Material: Oxygen-free copper
- Package Style: Axial leads, 0.045″ diameter
- Physical Dimensions: 0.07″ L × 0.31″ D
- Component Type: Hot-molded carbon composition
- Condition: New in Box
Typical Applications
- Industrial control circuits and automation equipment
- Vintage and legacy electronic device repair
- Power supply circuits requiring pulse stability
- RF and high-frequency filtering networks
- Test benches and prototype development
- Equipment refurbishment and retrofitting
Compatibility & Replacements
The Allen-Bradley RC42GF821J is a direct replacement for OEM applications requiring an 820Ω 2W 5% carbon composition resistor. Alternative 820Ω resistors in the Allen-Bradley lineup include the RC32GF821J (1W), RC20GF821J (0.5W), and RC07GF821J (0.25W) for lower power applications. Modern metal-film alternatives like the Dale RLR20C8200GR or IRC RLR20C8200GS offer improved tolerance (±2%) and lower noise if design specifications permit. However, for legacy equipment or circuits specifically engineered for carbon composition characteristics (pulse response, frequency behavior), the RC42GF821J is the proven choice. Verify circuit requirements and component footprint before substitution.






