EN3L8M Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The EN3L8M is an 8-position circular connector receptacle with male pins, manufactured by Switchcraft Inc. as part of the EN3® series. This component features solder cup termination, bayonet lock fastening, and gold-plated contacts rated for 6.5A at 250VAC/DC. The EN3L8M is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent parts essential for ongoing procurement and system maintenance. The EN3L8MX serves as the direct active substitute, offering identical electrical and mechanical specifications with current manufacturing availability.

Substiute Parts

EN3L8M

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 1228EN3L8M Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

EN3L8MX

Switchcraft Inc.In Stock: 4748EN3L8MX Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The EN3L8MX is a direct substitute for the EN3L8M based on identical alignment across all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. Substitution is valid when the following parameters match:

• Connector type: Receptacle with male pins
• Number of positions: 8
• Termination method: Solder cup
• Fastening mechanism: Bayonet lock
• Contact finish: Gold plating
• Current and voltage ratings: 6.5A at 250VAC/DC
• Ingress protection: IP66/IP68
• Operating temperature range: -40°C ~ 65°C
• Cable opening range: 0.160" ~ 0.265" (4.06mm ~ 6.73mm)
• Compliance certifications: ROHS3, UL94 V-0

The EN3L8MX maintains full compatibility with applications designed for the EN3L8M while offering the advantage of active product status and improved inventory availability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The EN3L8MX is the appropriate selection for new designs and replacement applications. As an active product with current manufacturing support, it eliminates obsolescence risk associated with the EN3L8M. Both parts maintain identical electrical performance, mechanical compatibility, and regulatory compliance certifications (ROHS3, UL94 V-0, REACH Unaffected). The EN3L8MX is available in bulk packaging with significantly higher inventory levels, supporting production requirements without supply constraints.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can EN3L8MX be used as a direct replacement for EN3L8M in existing assemblies?

A: Yes. The EN3L8MX is electrically and mechanically identical to the EN3L8M across all specified parameters, including connector type, pin configuration, termination method, fastening mechanism, current/voltage ratings, and environmental specifications. No design modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary difference between EN3L8M and EN3L8MX?

A: The EN3L8M is classified as obsolete, while the EN3L8MX is an active product. Both maintain identical specifications. The EN3L8MX offers current manufacturing availability and bulk packaging options.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns with cable assemblies designed for EN3L8M?

A: No. The cable opening range (0.160" ~ 0.265" / 4.06mm ~ 6.73mm), bayonet lock fastening, and keyed orientation are identical between both parts. Existing cable assemblies are fully compatible.

Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory requirements?

A: Yes. Both EN3L8M and EN3L8MX are ROHS3 compliant, UL94 V-0 rated, and REACH unaffected. Compliance certifications are equivalent.

Q: What is the operating temperature range for these connectors?

A: Both parts operate across -40°C to 65°C, suitable for general purpose, instrumentation, marine, and medical applications.

Q: Are there packaging differences between the two parts?

A: The EN3L8M packaging is unspecified, while the EN3L8MX is supplied in bulk packaging. This distinction does not affect electrical or mechanical performance.