397LMX250M2CE Equivalent & Substitute Parts Reference

Part Overview

The 397LMX250M2CE is a 390 µF, 250 V aluminum electrolytic capacitor manufactured by Cornell Dubilier / Illinois Capacitor in the LMX series. This radial, can-style snap-in capacitor is designed for general-purpose applications requiring stable performance across extended operating temperatures from -25°C to 105°C with a rated lifetime of 5000 hours at 105°C. The part maintains Active product status with full RoHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected designation.

Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary when the primary part number becomes unavailable, when procurement lead times require alternative sourcing, or when inventory constraints necessitate compatible alternatives that meet identical electrical and mechanical specifications.

Substiute Parts

397LMX250M2CE

Cornell Dubilier / Illinois CapacitorIn Stock: 686397LMX250M2CE Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

LGX2E391MELA30

NichiconIn Stock: 1149LGX2E391MELA30 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the 397LMX250M2CE is determined by strict equivalence across the following parameters:

Electrical Parameters (Non-Negotiable):

• Capacitance value: 390 µF
• Voltage rating: 250 V
• Tolerance: ±20%
• Polarization: Polar
• Operating temperature range: -25°C to 105°C minimum
• Lifetime specification: 5000 hours at 105°C minimum

Mechanical Parameters (Non-Negotiable):

• Package type: Radial, Can - Snap-In
• Lead spacing: 10.00 mm (0.394")
• Diameter: 25.00 mm (0.984")
• Mounting type: Through Hole

Regulatory Parameters (Non-Negotiable):

• RoHS3 compliance
• REACH unaffected status

The substitute part LGX2E391MELA30 meets all critical electrical, mechanical, and regulatory requirements for direct substitution. Height variation (37.00 mm vs. 32.00 mm seated height) is acceptable provided the application PCB layout accommodates the dimensional difference.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The LGX2E391MELA30 (Nichicon) qualifies as a direct electrical and mechanical substitute for the 397LMX250M2CE (Cornell Dubilier / Illinois Capacitor) based on the following engineering criteria:

Electrical Compatibility: Both parts maintain identical capacitance (390 µF), voltage rating (250 V), tolerance (±20%), and operating temperature range (-25°C to 105°C). Both achieve the specified 5000-hour lifetime at 105°C. The Nichicon substitute demonstrates equal or superior ripple current ratings at both 120 Hz and 50 kHz, indicating equivalent or improved performance in high-frequency applications.

Mechanical Compatibility: Both parts utilize identical radial, can-style snap-in packaging with matching lead spacing (10.00 mm) and diameter (25.00 mm). The Nichicon part features a reduced seated height (32.00 mm versus 37.00 mm), which is mechanically compatible provided the application PCB layout does not require the additional height of the original part.

Regulatory Compliance: Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, satisfying regulatory requirements for equivalent substitution in regulated applications.

Product Status: Both parts maintain Active product status, ensuring continued availability and manufacturing support.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the LGX2E391MELA30 be used as a direct replacement for the 397LMX250M2CE in all applications?

A: Yes, provided the application PCB layout accommodates the reduced seated height of 32.00 mm (versus 37.00 mm). All electrical, mechanical, and regulatory parameters are equivalent or superior. Verify PCB clearance above the capacitor mounting location before implementation.

Q: What is the significance of the different ESR values between the two parts?

A: The 397LMX250M2CE specifies ESR of 637.6 mOhm @ 120 Hz. The LGX2E391MELA30 does not provide an ESR specification in the available data. ESR is a secondary performance parameter; both parts meet the primary electrical requirements (capacitance, voltage, tolerance, ripple current). If ESR is a critical design parameter, contact the manufacturer for the Nichicon part's ESR specification.

Q: Are the ripple current ratings interchangeable between these parts?

A: The ripple current ratings are application-dependent specifications. The Nichicon LGX2E391MELA30 demonstrates higher ripple current ratings at both 120 Hz (1.43 A versus 1.39 A) and 50 kHz (2.145 A versus 2.0433 A). This indicates the Nichicon part can handle equal or greater ripple current stress, making it suitable for applications designed around the Cornell Dubilier specifications.

Q: What is the difference between the packaging designations "Bulk" and the original part's packaging?

A: The packaging designation refers to the supply format (Bulk versus other formats such as tape-and-reel). This does not affect the component's electrical or mechanical performance. The actual component package type (Radial, Can - Snap-In) remains identical.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in high-temperature applications?

A: Yes. Both parts specify identical operating temperature ranges (-25°C to 105°C) and identical lifetime ratings (5000 hours at 105°C). They are fully interchangeable for thermal performance in applications within these specifications.

Q: What should be verified before implementing the LGX2E391MELA30 as a substitute?

A: Verify the following before substitution: (1) PCB layout accommodates the 32.00 mm seated height; (2) Lead spacing and diameter match the PCB footprint (both 10.00 mm spacing and 25.00 mm diameter); (3) Circuit polarity matches the polar capacitor orientation; (4) Ripple current and ESR requirements are met (contact manufacturer if ESR is critical); (5) Regulatory compliance requirements are satisfied (both parts are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected).