Littelfuse 0388008.MXEP Glass Cartridge Fuse Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Littelfuse 0388008.MXEP is an 8 A, 250 V AC/DC fast-blow glass cartridge fuse in 3AB/3AG package format (1/4" x 1-1/4" axial). This part is classified as obsolete. Equivalent and substitute parts are available from the active Littelfuse 318 series, which maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications while offering improved availability and current product support.

Substiute Parts

0388008.MXEP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 11870388008.MXEP Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

0318008.HXP

LittelfuseIn Stock: 8630318008.HXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

0318008.MXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 27200318008.MXP Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

0318008.VXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 7750318008.VXP Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the 0388008.MXEP is based on strict equivalence across the following parameters:

• Current Rating: 8 A (exact match required)
• Voltage Rating: 250 V AC (exact match required)
• Response Time: Fast Blow (exact match required)
• Package / Case: 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4" (Axial) (exact match required)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole (exact match required)
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C ~ 125°C (exact match required)
• Melting I²t: 166 (exact match required)
• Size / Dimension: 0.275" Dia x 1.288" L (6.99mm x 32.72mm) (exact match required)

All substitute parts listed below meet these criteria. Differences in breaking capacity, DC cold resistance, and approval agency certifications do not affect functional substitution within the specified electrical and mechanical parameters.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 0388008.MXEP is obsolete and should be replaced with an active equivalent from the Littelfuse 318 series. All three substitute parts—0318008.HXP, 0318008.MXP, and 0318008.VXP—are functionally equivalent and meet the same electrical and mechanical specifications.

Selection among the three active substitutes should be based on:

• Availability: 0318008.MXP has the highest inventory (2612 pcs), followed by 0318008.HXP (797 pcs) and 0318008.VXP (706 pcs).
• Certification Requirements: All three substitutes carry expanded approval agencies (CE, CSA, KC, PSE, UL) compared to the obsolete part (CE, PSE), providing broader compliance coverage.
• Breaking Capacity: All substitutes offer 200A breaking capacity, compared to 100A for the main part, providing enhanced protection margin.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can 0318008.MXP, 0318008.HXP, and 0318008.VXP be used interchangeably with 0388008.MXEP?

A: Yes. All three parts are functionally equivalent. They share identical current rating (8 A), voltage rating (250 V AC), response time (fast blow), package format (3AB/3AG), physical dimensions (0.275" Dia x 1.288" L), and operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C).

Q: What is the difference between the three substitute parts?

A: The three substitutes are electrically and mechanically identical. Differences exist only in DC cold resistance (0.0122 Ohms vs. 0.0109 Ohms in the main part), breaking capacity (200A vs. 100A), and approval agency certifications. These differences do not affect substitution compatibility.

Q: Why does the obsolete 0388008.MXEP have lower breaking capacity than the substitutes?

A: Breaking capacity is not a substitution criterion for this application. The 8 A current rating and fast-blow response time remain constant across all parts. The higher breaking capacity of the 318 series substitutes provides additional safety margin without changing the fuse's primary protection function.

Q: Are the physical dimensions identical between the main part and substitutes?

A: Yes. All parts measure 0.275" diameter x 1.288" length (6.99mm x 32.72mm) and use the same 3AB/3AG package format, ensuring direct mechanical compatibility in through-hole mounting applications.

Q: Which substitute should I select for new designs?

A: For new designs, select from the active 318 series substitutes (0318008.HXP, 0318008.MXP, or 0318008.VXP) based on availability and supply chain requirements. All three are equivalent and carry current product status with expanded certification coverage.