GDB-160MA Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The GDB-160MA is a 160 mA fast-blow glass cartridge fuse rated for 250 V AC/DC operation in a 5mm x 20mm package form factor. Manufactured by Eaton - Electronics Division, this component is classified as Active product status and requires a fuse holder for installation. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to ensure design flexibility, manage supply chain continuity, and accommodate alternative sourcing options while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility within circuit protection applications.

Substiute Parts

GDB-160MA

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 879GDB-160MA Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BK/S500-160-R

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 1561BK/S500-160-R Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

0034.1508

SCHURTER Inc.In Stock: 17740034.1508 Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

0217.160HXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 12450217.160HXP Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

0217.160MXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 14880217.160MXP Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

FSC-160MA

OptiFuseIn Stock: 2627FSC-160MA Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

FSD-160MA

OptiFuseIn Stock: 2702FSD-160MA Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the GDB-160MA is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Current Rating: 160 mA
• Voltage Rating (AC): 250 V
• Fuse Type: Cartridge, Glass
• Response Time: Fast Blow
• Package / Case: 5mm x 20mm
• Mounting Type: Requires Holder

All substitute parts listed below satisfy these mandatory parameters. Variations in secondary parameters such as breaking capacity, melting I²t, DC cold resistance, operating temperature range, and approval agency certifications are noted but do not disqualify substitution eligibility when the mandatory parameters align. Parts are grouped by manufacturer to facilitate sourcing decisions.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

All listed substitute parts maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility with the GDB-160MA based on matching mandatory parameters. Selection among substitutes should be guided by the following considerations:

Eaton - Electronics Division:

• BK/S500-160-R provides expanded approval agency coverage (BSI, CCC, CSA, cULus, IMQ, SEMKO, VDE) compared to the GDB-160MA (VDE, UR) and includes explicit RoHS3 compliance documentation. This part is suitable for applications requiring broader international certification scope.

SCHURTER Inc.:

• 0034.1508 offers an extended operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C) and RoHS3 compliance. The melting I²t value (0.0113) is slightly elevated relative to the GDB-160MA (0.008), which may affect thermal response characteristics in specific circuit designs.

Littelfuse Inc.:

• 0217.160HXP and 0217.160MXP both provide comprehensive approval agency certifications (CCC, CE, CSA, K-MARK, SEMKO, UL, VDE), extended operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C), and RoHS3 compliance. DC cold resistance is lower (2.525 Ohms) than the GDB-160MA (9.1 Ohms). Both parts are functionally equivalent with identical electrical parameters.

OptiFuse:

• FSD-160MA maintains a 35A breaking capacity matching the GDB-160MA, includes IEC 60127 certification, and supports an extended operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C). Melting I²t (0.0099) is closely aligned with the GDB-160MA (0.008).
• FSC-160MA features an elevated breaking capacity (100A) relative to the GDB-160MA (35A) and operates within a narrower temperature range (-55°C ~ 90°C). This part is suitable for applications where higher fault current interruption capability is required.

All substitute parts carry Active product status and are available in bulk packaging with substantial inventory levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the GDB-160MA be directly replaced with any of the listed substitute parts?

A: Yes. All listed substitute parts satisfy the mandatory electrical and mechanical parameters: 160 mA current rating, 250 V AC voltage rating, fast-blow response time, 5mm x 20mm package, and cartridge glass fuse type requiring a holder. Direct substitution is electrically and mechanically valid.

Q: What is the significance of breaking capacity differences between parts?

A: Breaking capacity defines the maximum fault current a fuse can safely interrupt at rated voltage. The GDB-160MA, BK/S500-160-R, 0034.1508, 0217.160HXP, 0217.160MXP, and FSD-160MA all specify 35A breaking capacity. The FSC-160MA specifies 100A breaking capacity. Selection should align with the maximum prospective fault current in the protected circuit. A higher breaking capacity does not compromise performance in lower-fault-current applications.

Q: How do melting I²t values affect fuse selection?

A: Melting I²t represents the thermal energy required to melt the fuse element and is a measure of thermal response. The GDB-160MA specifies 0.008, while substitutes range from 0.0099 to 0.0113. These variations are minor and do not disqualify substitution. Selection should consider the specific thermal characteristics required by the protected circuit.

Q: Are all substitute parts RoHS3 compliant?

A: All substitute parts listed carry explicit RoHS3 compliance documentation. The GDB-160MA does not specify RoHS status. If RoHS3 compliance is a design requirement, substitute parts provide documented compliance.

Q: What approval agencies are most relevant for international applications?

A: The GDB-160MA carries VDE and UR approvals. Substitute parts offer expanded certification coverage: BK/S500-160-R includes BSI, CCC, CSA, cULus, IMQ, SEMKO, and VDE; Littelfuse parts (0217.160HXP and 0217.160MXP) include CCC, CE, CSA, K-MARK, SEMKO, UL, and VDE. Selection should align with regional regulatory requirements and end-application standards.

Q: Do operating temperature ranges affect substitution eligibility?

A: Operating temperature range does not disqualify substitution when mandatory electrical and mechanical parameters match. The GDB-160MA does not specify an operating temperature range. Substitute parts with defined ranges (-55°C ~ 125°C or -55°C ~ 90°C) provide explicit thermal operating boundaries. Applications requiring operation outside standard ambient conditions should select parts with appropriate temperature specifications.

Q: What is the difference between DC cold resistance values?

A: DC cold resistance is the resistance of the fuse element at room temperature. The GDB-160MA specifies 9.1 Ohms, while Littelfuse parts (0217.160HXP and 0217.160MXP) specify 2.525 Ohms. Lower resistance reduces voltage drop across the fuse during normal operation. This parameter does not affect substitution eligibility but may influence circuit performance in applications sensitive to voltage drop.

Q: Can the FSC-160MA with 100A breaking capacity be used in place of the GDB-160MA?

A: Yes. The FSC-160MA is electrically and mechanically compatible with the GDB-160MA. The elevated breaking capacity (100A versus 35A) provides enhanced fault current interruption capability and does not compromise performance in circuits with lower prospective fault currents. Selection should confirm that the 100A breaking capacity aligns with circuit protection requirements.