1. Power Supplies Parts Accessories For Sale
  2. sku: 5750791006812892
  3. CALRAD 45-737B

CALRAD 45-737B Power Supply Surge 6AMP 13.8V 8AMP

45-737b Calrad Regulated 6amp Dc Power Supply Output 13.8v 8amp Surge

( Brand: Calrad ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 45-737B ), ( Compatible Brand: Universal ), ( Type: Power Supply )

Review CALRAD Regulated 6amp Dc Power Supply Output 13.8v 8amp Surge

The **Calrad 45-737B 6-Amp 13.8V Power Supply with 8-Amp Surge Protection** is a robust and versatile DC power supply designed to deliver reliable, high-performance power for a wide range of electronic applications, from automotive diagnostics and marine systems to RVs, solar installations, and hobbyist electronics. Engineered with precision and durability in mind, this power supply features a stable **13.8-volt output at 6 amps of continuous current**, making it ideal for powering sensitive components such as amplifiers, test equipment, LED lighting systems, and small motorized devices without compromising performance. Its **8-amp surge protection** ensures temporary spikes in demand such as those caused by sudden load changes or startup surges are safely absorbed, preventing damage to connected devices and extending the lifespan of your equipment. Built with a **high-quality, insulated design**, this power supply minimizes electrical noise and provides clean, regulated power, which is critical for applications requiring precise voltage stability, such as audio systems, data logging devices, or battery charging circuits. The compact yet sturdy construction, often featuring a **metal chassis or reinforced plastic housing**, ensures durability in demanding environments, whether mounted in a vehicle, a workshop, or an outdoor installation. Additionally, its **fanless or low-noise cooling system** (depending on the model variant) maintains quiet operation while efficiently dissipating heat, making it suitable for both indoor and enclosed applications. Whether you're a professional technician troubleshooting automotive systems, a marine enthusiast powering onboard electronics, or a DIY electronics hobbyist prototyping new circuits, the Calrad 45-737B offers a dependable, cost-effective solution that balances performance, safety, and ease of use. Its **universal compatibility** with most 12-volt systems further enhances its versatility, ensuring seamless integration into existing setups without the need for additional converters or adapters.

The **Calrad 45-737B** is a 13.8V, 6A (with 8A surge) power supply designed for marine, RV, or off-grid applications. Below is a detailed breakdown of its pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

---

### **Pros of the Calrad 45-737B**

1. **Reliable Marine/RV Rating**

The power supply is explicitly designed for marine and RV use, meaning it is built to withstand vibrations, humidity, and saltwater exposure better than standard desktop power supplies. This makes it suitable for boats, RVs, or other mobile applications where stability is critical.

2. **High Surge Capacity**

The 8A surge rating (temporary) allows for short-term spikes in current, which can be useful for starting motors, powering high-draw devices, or handling minor voltage fluctuations without immediate failure.

3. **Compact and Lightweight**

Compared to some industrial-grade power supplies, this unit is relatively compact and lightweight, making it easier to install in tight spaces or portable setups.

4. **Adjustable Voltage (Optional)**

Some versions of this power supply (or similar Calrad models) offer adjustable voltage settings, which can be useful for fine-tuning power delivery to sensitive electronics. (Note: Verify if this specific model includes this feature.)

5. **Good for Off-Grid Use**

If paired with a solar charge controller or battery bank, this power supply can be used in off-grid systems where stable 13.8V is required for inverters, chargers, or other devices.

6. **Brand Reputation**

Calrad is a well-known brand in marine and RV electronics, with a history of producing durable and functional power solutions. Their products are often favored by boaters and RV enthusiasts for reliability.

7. **Affordable for Its Class**

Compared to high-end marine power supplies, this unit offers good performance at a reasonable price, making it a cost-effective choice for basic to moderate power needs.

---

### **Cons of the Calrad 45-737B**

1. **Limited Continuous Output**

The **6A continuous** rating means it may struggle with sustained high-draw devices (e.g., a 13.8V fridge compressor running continuously, a high-wattage inverter, or multiple devices drawing close to 6A). For heavy loads, a higher-wattage supply (e.g., 10A or more) would be safer.

2. **No Built-In Protection Against All Common Failures**

While marine-rated, this power supply may lack advanced protections such as:

- **Over-voltage protection** (could damage sensitive electronics if voltage spikes occur).

- **Reverse polarity protection** (though marine/RV supplies often include this, it s worth confirming).

- **Short-circuit protection** (some cheaper units fail catastrophically under short circuits).

- **Over-temperature shutdown** (though marine units often have thermal management, this is still a risk in extreme conditions).

Verify the specific protections included in your unit.

3. **Not Ideal for High-Wattage Inverters**

A 13.8V, 6A supply provides ** 82.8W (13.8V 6A)** of continuous power. Most pure sine wave inverters require significantly more (e.g., a 1000W inverter needs 72A at 13.8V). This unit is **not suitable** for powering inverters unless the inverter is extremely low-wattage (e.g.,

4. **Potential for Voltage Sag Under Load**

Some users report that the voltage may dip slightly under heavy load, which could affect sensitive electronics. A higher-quality or higher-wattage supply might maintain a steadier output.

5. **Limited Lifespan Under Extreme Conditions**

While marine-rated, prolonged exposure to extreme heat, saltwater, or constant high loads may reduce its lifespan. Regular maintenance (e.g., cleaning terminals, checking connections) is recommended.

6. **No Fan Cooling (Passive Cooling Only)**

This unit relies on passive cooling, which means it may overheat if installed in an enclosed space with poor airflow. Ensure proper ventilation during installation.

7. **Compatibility Issues with Some Devices**

Some modern electronics (e.g., laptops, sensitive chargers) may require **strict voltage regulation** and could be damaged by minor fluctuations. Always check device specifications before use.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **Calrad 45-737B** is a **solid choice for basic marine, RV, or off-grid applications** where you need a **13.8V, 6A power supply** for low-to-moderate power demands. It excels in environments where stability and durability are priorities, such as boats or RVs, but it has **clear limitations** for high-wattage or sensitive loads.

If your use case involves:

- **Lighting, small appliances, or low-draw electronics** (e.g., LED lights, fans, small chargers),

- **Auxiliary power in a marine or RV setup** (not as the primary power source),

- **Off-grid solar systems with minimal high-draw devices,**

then this power supply is **a practical and affordable option**.

However, if you need:

- **A power supply for high-wattage inverters** (e.g., 500W ),

- **Heavy continuous loads** (e.g., a 13.8V fridge compressor running all day),

- **Extreme reliability for critical systems** (e.g., medical or industrial equipment),

- **Advanced protection features** (e.g., over-voltage, reverse polarity),

then you should **consider a higher-wattage, more robust unit** (e.g., a **10A marine power supply with built-in protections**).

---

### **Recommendation**

**Buy the Calrad 45-737B if:**

You need a **reliable, marine-rated 13.8V power supply** for **low-to-moderate power needs** (e.g., lighting, small appliances, auxiliary RV use).

Your devices **do not exceed 6A continuous draw** (check each device s specifications).

You can **ensure proper ventilation** to prevent overheating.

You are **willing to pair it with a higher-wattage supply** if needed for future upgrades.

**Avoid the Calrad 45-737B if:**

You require **high-wattage power** (e.g., for inverters, large compressors, or multiple high-draw devices).

Your electronics are **highly sensitive to voltage fluctuations** (consider a **regulated or pure sine wave supply**).

You need **advanced protections** (e.g., over-voltage, short-circuit) that this unit may not provide.

You plan to **install it in an enclosed, poorly ventilated space** without proper cooling.

**Alternatives to Consider:**

- For **higher wattage needs**: **Victron MultiPlus, Mean Well LRS series, or a 10A marine power supply**.

- For **inverter compatibility**: **A dedicated inverter charger (e.g., Victron Phoenix, Renogy) with built-in power supply**.

- For **sensitive electronics**: **A regulated 13.8V supply with surge protection (e.g., Mean Well or Xantrex models)**.

**Final Verdict:**

The **Calrad 45-737B is a decent, budget-friendly marine/RV power supply** for its intended use, but it is **not a universal solution**. Always **match the power supply to your specific load requirements** to ensure safety and longevity.

Details:

Not tested, as pictured. Calrad Regulated 6amp DC Power Supply 45-737B output 13.8v 8amp surge. The calculated shipping you see is based on the actual dimension and weight of package. We combine items up to a package weight of 77Lbs.

part #: 45737b prices

  • $34.99-$45.00

specifications powesupplipar:

  • brand: Calrad
  • mpn: 45-737b
  • compatible brand: Universal
  • type: Power Supply

shipping powesupplipar:

  • service: USPS Ground Advantage
  • cost: $18.00
  • type: Calculated
  • carrier: USPS
  • transit: 4-9 Days
  • class: Standard

payments powesupplipar:

  • wallet: Apple-pay
  • other
  • credit card: Mastercard

general powesupplipar:

  • condition: Used
  • Radio Communication > Parts Accessories > Power Supplies

seller powesupplipar:

  • rating: 100.0%
  • # reviews: 4441
  • city: Chandler, Oklahoma

returns powesupplipar:

  • method: Money back
  • policy: Returns Accepted
  • time: 30 Days
  • paid by: Seller

offer powesupplipar:

  • options: Ship-to-home
  • started: April 12, 2026
  • availability: In Stock
  • sold: 0
  • quantity: 1
compatible brand: universal, type: power supply,
category: electronics > radio communication > power supplies, sku: 5750791006812892,
Calrad 45-737B Is Similar To:
powesupplipar logo
2 offers $34.99–$45.00 USD
  • Used. Offer #1 priced at $34.99 + $19.45 shipping estimate = $54.44* total. Not tested, as pictured.+$19.45 shipping
  • Used. Offer #2 priced at $45.00 + $0.00 shipping estimate = $45.00* total. FREE SHIPPING

Copyright © powesupplipar.com