Equivalent & Substitute Parts for MDA-1/4-R

Part Overview

The MDA-1/4-R is a 250 mA, 250 V AC ceramic cartridge fuse manufactured by Eaton - Electronics Division. This slow-blow fuse is designed for applications requiring 3AB and 3AG holder compatibility with dimensions of 1/4" x 1-1/4" (6.35mm x 31.75mm). The part is active in production and holds CE, CSA, and UL approvals. Substitute parts are identified to provide alternative sourcing options while maintaining electrical and mechanical compatibility within the specified parameter ranges.

Substiute Parts

MDA-1/4-R

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 676MDA-1/4-R Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

BK/MDA-1/4-R

Eaton - Electronics DivisionIn Stock: 1534BK/MDA-1/4-R Datasheet

DirectRFQ

0326.250HXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 11290326.250HXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

0326.250MXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 17210326.250MXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

0326.250VXP

Littelfuse Inc.In Stock: 12460326.250VXP Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility is determined by strict alignment with the following critical parameters:

Mandatory Matching Parameters:

• Current Rating: 250 mA
• Voltage Rating - AC: 250 V
• Fuse Type: Cartridge, Ceramic
• Response Time: Slow Blow
• Package / Case: 3AB, 3AG, 1/4" x 1-1/4"
• Mounting Type: Requires Holder
• Size / Dimension: 0.250" Dia x 1.250" L (6.35mm x 31.75mm)

All identified substitute parts meet these mandatory parameters. Variations in secondary parameters such as DC voltage rating, breaking capacity, melting I²t, DC cold resistance, and operating temperature range do not preclude substitution when the primary electrical and mechanical specifications align.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

All identified substitute parts are active products with full CE, CSA, and UL regulatory approvals. Selection between the MDA-1/4-R and its substitutes is based on availability and sourcing requirements rather than functional differences.

Eaton-sourced alternatives: The BK/MDA-1/4-R provides direct manufacturer continuity with identical electrical and mechanical specifications to the MDA-1/4-R.

Littelfuse-sourced alternatives: The 0326.250HXP, 0326.250MXP, and 0326.250VXP series fuses provide cross-manufacturer substitution with equivalent primary performance characteristics. These parts carry expanded operating temperature ranges (-55°C to 125°C) and higher breaking capacity ratings (100A AC, 10kA DC) compared to the MDA-1/4-R, making them suitable for applications with more demanding environmental or fault-clearing requirements.

All substitute parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and hold equivalent regulatory certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the BK/MDA-1/4-R be used as a direct replacement for the MDA-1/4-R?

A: Yes. The BK/MDA-1/4-R is manufactured by Eaton - Electronics Division and shares identical electrical ratings (250 mA, 250 V AC), fuse type (ceramic cartridge), response time (slow blow), package designation (3AB, 3AG), and physical dimensions (1/4" x 1-1/4"). Both parts require the same holder type and carry identical regulatory approvals.

Q: What is the difference between the Eaton MDA-1/4-R and the Littelfuse 0326.250 series substitutes?

A: The primary differences are manufacturer and secondary performance characteristics. The Littelfuse 0326.250HXP, 0326.250MXP, and 0326.250VXP maintain the same 250 mA current rating, 250 V AC voltage rating, ceramic cartridge construction, slow-blow response, and 3AB/3AG package compatibility. The Littelfuse parts provide expanded operating temperature range (-55°C to 125°C versus unspecified for MDA-1/4-R) and higher breaking capacity (100A AC, 10kA DC versus 35A for MDA-1/4-R). All parts are CE, CSA, and UL approved.

Q: Are the Littelfuse 0326.250 series fuses compatible with 3AB and 3AG holders?

A: Yes. The 0326.250HXP, 0326.250MXP, and 0326.250VXP are all specified for 3AB and 3AG holder compatibility with identical physical dimensions of 0.250" diameter by 1.250" length (6.35mm x 31.75mm).

Q: Can I use a substitute part if my application requires DC voltage operation?

A: The MDA-1/4-R is rated for 250 V AC only with no specified DC rating. The Littelfuse 0326.250 series substitutes are rated for 250 V AC and 125 V DC. If your application requires DC operation, the Littelfuse parts provide this capability; however, the MDA-1/4-R does not.

Q: Are all substitute parts ROHS3 compliant?

A: Yes. The MDA-1/4-R, BK/MDA-1/4-R, and all Littelfuse 0326.250 series substitutes are ROHS3 compliant.

Q: What is the difference in melting I²t between the MDA-1/4-R and Littelfuse substitutes?

A: The MDA-1/4-R has a melting I²t of 0.28, while the Littelfuse 0326.250 series (0326.250HXP, 0326.250MXP, 0326.250VXP) have a melting I²t of 0.432. This indicates the Littelfuse parts have a higher thermal energy capacity before melting, which may affect response characteristics in specific fault scenarios.

Q: Do all substitute parts carry the same regulatory certifications?

A: Yes. The MDA-1/4-R, BK/MDA-1/4-R, and all Littelfuse 0326.250 series substitutes carry CE, CSA, and UL approvals.