Phoenix Contact 2304458 Interface Module Terminal Block - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Phoenix Contact 2304458 is a 16-position interface module terminal block designed for screw connection on the process side and rectangular male connector on the control side. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute parts essential for system maintenance and new designs. The part supports 12-24 AWG wire gauges with a rated voltage of 60VDC and current rating of 50 mA per contact. Given its discontinued status, the Phoenix Contact 2903599 has been identified as the manufacturer-recommended substitute.

Substiute Parts

2304458
Phoenix ContactIn Stock: 9072304458 Datasheet
2304458
Current Part
2903599
Phoenix ContactIn Stock: 11432903599 Datasheet
2903599
MFR Recommended

Key Parameters

Parameter Value
Manufacturer Part Number 2304458
Manufacturer Phoenix Contact
Category Terminal Blocks
Series VARIOFACE, FLKM
Positions / Poles 16
Process Side Connection Terminal Blocks - Screw Connection
Control Side Connection Rectangular, Male
Wire Gauge 12-24 AWG
Voltage - Rated 60VDC
Current Rating (Per Contact) 50 mA
Operating Temperature -20°C ~ 50°C
Product Status Obsolete
RoHS Status RoHS Compliant

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The Phoenix Contact 2903599 qualifies as a manufacturer-recommended substitute for the 2304458 based on the following critical parameters:

Maintained Compatibility:

  • 16-position configuration (identical pole count)
  • Rectangular male control side connector (same interface type)
  • RoHS compliance (regulatory alignment)
  • Moisture Sensitivity Level 1 (same handling requirements)

Parameter Variations Requiring Evaluation:

  • Process side connection: Changes from screw connection (2304458) to spring connection (2903599)
  • Wire gauge range: Shifts from 12-24 AWG to 14-26 AWG
  • Voltage rating: Reduces from 60VDC to 24VDC
  • Current rating: Increases from 50 mA to 63 mA per contact
  • Operating temperature: Extends upper limit from 50°C to 60°C
  • Physical dimensions: Length decreases from 90.00mm to 57.10mm; width increases from 90.00mm to 109.80mm
  • Series designation: Changes from VARIOFACE, FLKM to VARIOFACE, VIP

Parameter Comparison

Parameter 2304458 (Original) 2903599 (Substitute)
Manufacturer Phoenix Contact Phoenix Contact
Category Terminal Blocks Terminal Blocks
Positions / Poles 16 16
Control Side Connection Rectangular, Male Rectangular, Male
Control Side Cable Retainer Latches Latches
Process Side Connection Terminal Blocks - Screw Connection Terminal Blocks - Spring Connection
Wire Gauge 12-24 AWG 14-26 AWG
Voltage - Rated 60VDC 24VDC
Current Rating (Per Contact) 50 mA 63 mA
Operating Temperature -20°C ~ 50°C -20°C ~ 60°C
Length 4.643" (90.00mm) 2.248" (57.10mm)
Width 4.643" (90.00mm) 4.323" (109.80mm)
RoHS Status RoHS Compliant RoHS Compliant
Product Status Obsolete Active

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Phoenix Contact 2903599 is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the obsolete 2304458. Both components maintain RoHS compliance and identical 16-position rectangular male connector architecture, ensuring regulatory and interface compatibility.

Selection of the 2903599 requires verification that the following parameter changes align with system requirements:

  • The reduction in rated voltage from 60VDC to 24VDC must be compatible with the application's operating voltage
  • The shift from screw connection to spring connection affects termination methodology and mechanical interface
  • The wire gauge range expansion (14-26 AWG versus 12-24 AWG) accommodates a broader conductor size spectrum
  • Physical dimension changes (57.10mm × 109.80mm versus 90.00mm × 90.00mm) must be evaluated for mechanical fit within the enclosure or panel layout
  • The increased current rating (63 mA versus 50 mA) provides enhanced capacity for higher-current applications

The 2903599 is currently in active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability compared to the discontinued 2304458.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 2903599 directly replace the 2304458 in existing installations?

A: Direct replacement requires confirmation that the application voltage does not exceed 24VDC (the substitute's rated voltage), that the mechanical dimensions fit the available space, and that the spring connection termination method is compatible with the system design. The screw-to-spring connection change represents a functional difference requiring evaluation.

Q: What is the significance of the wire gauge range change from 12-24 AWG to 14-26 AWG?

A: The 2903599 accepts a broader range of conductor sizes. Applications using 12-13 AWG conductors with the original 2304458 must use alternative solutions, as the 2903599 minimum gauge is 14 AWG. Conversely, the 2903599 accommodates 25-26 AWG conductors not supported by the original part.

Q: How do the physical dimensions affect substitution?

A: The 2903599 is shorter (57.10mm versus 90.00mm) but wider (109.80mm versus 90.00mm). Panel cutouts, mounting brackets, and spatial constraints must be re-evaluated to ensure the substitute fits the available installation space.

Q: Why does the voltage rating decrease from 60VDC to 24VDC?

A: The 2903599 is designed for lower-voltage control applications. Applications requiring 60VDC operation cannot use this substitute and require alternative components rated for higher voltages.

Q: What is the difference between screw and spring connection types?

A: The original 2304458 uses screw terminals requiring manual tightening of fasteners for wire termination. The 2903599 uses spring terminals that accept and retain conductors through spring force without manual fastening. This affects installation procedure and maintenance access.

Q: Is the 2903599 suitable for new designs?

A: Yes. The 2903599 is in active production status with current inventory availability, making it suitable for both replacement applications and new system designs where the specified parameters align with application requirements.

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