When you're wiring up control circuits, the first question is always how to get a dependable 24V supply from the line voltage you actually have. The ACME TA-2-81321 addresses that with a 50VA control transformer that accepts either 208V or 480V on the primary and delivers 24V on the secondary-all in one relatively compact unit.
ACME TA-2-81321 Industrial Control Transformer 50VA 208/480V To 24V
The ACME TA-2-81321 offers a genuinely useful dual-primary input-wire it for 208V or 480V and get 24V output-for a modest $44.99. The limiting factor is the 50VA capacity; you can't run several heavier control loads from it.
Quick verdict
This transformer is built for small control loads. The 50VA rating covers a handful of relays, a small contactor coil, indicator lights, or a compact PLC power supply. The dual-primary 208/480V input makes it flexible for plants that operate on either voltage. At $44.99, the open-box/new old stock condition means you're getting a lower price, but you'll want to look closely at the product images to confirm the physical state before buying.
Who it suits
The ideal buyer is someone servicing or building a control panel that needs a 24V control circuit and has either 208V or 480V available. Because the primary accepts both voltages, the same transformer can be used as a spare across different machines or moved from one line voltage to another without swapping units. It's also a fit if your total control load stays comfortably under 50VA, leaving a little headroom for inrush.
What stands out from the listed details
The clear standout is the dual primary voltage-208V or 480V on the input side, 24V on the output. The 50VA power rating tells you this is intentionally for low-power control applications, not for running motors or heating elements. The listing condition is "New - Open box" with a description noting new old stock, which explains the price. Shipping is via Ground Advantage, a straightforward ground service.
Meaningful trade-offs
The open-box status is the main caveat. You get a price break, but you don't get the sealed factory experience. The description points to pictures for a closer look, so you need to rely on those photos to check terminal condition, any scuffs, or whether the enclosure looks clean. Also, 50VA is not a lot of capacity. If you're powering a control circuit with high-inrush contactors or multiple loads that together exceed 50VA, you'll quickly outgrow this transformer. And the primary is only rated for 208V or 480V, so it won't work with a 120V or 240V feed.
Bottom line
For a single 24V control circuit pulling under 50VA and running on 208V or 480V, the ACME TA-2-81321 is a practical buy at $44.99. The dual-primary flexibility makes it a smart spare, while the open-box condition and 50VA limit are the trade-offs to weigh. If the photos show a clean unit and your load fits, this transformer will do the job without overcomplicating things.
