Littelfuse, Inc. is a globally recognized manufacturer of electronic, automotive, and industrial circuit protection products, founded in 1927 by Edward V. Sundt in Chicago. The company is named after its small, fast-acting fuse invention, which revolutionized overload protection in early electronics and continues to be a core focus of its product portfolio today. Over the decades, Littelfuse has evolved from a small startup focused on radio fuses to a multinational corporation with operations spanning the United States, Asia, Europe, and other regions.
Littelfuse has consistently pushed the boundaries of circuit protection technology, beginning with the development of miniature fuses for the burgeoning radio and television industries in the mid-20th century. As demand for electronic devices grew, Littelfuse expanded its product lines and manufacturing capabilities, catering to new applications in aviation, telecommunications, automotive, and industrial sectors. Innovations such as the MICRO and PICO fuses further cemented the company’s reputation as a leader in subminiature circuit protection, supporting technological advancements in space exploration and electronics.
Today, Littelfuse is headquartered in Des Plaines, Illinois, and operates a network of manufacturing facilities and sales centers across the globe. Its products are integral to safeguarding electronic circuits in a wide array of devices, including computers, appliances, medical equipment, and automotive systems, making Littelfuse components ubiquitous yet often unnoticed by end users. The company’s commitment to innovation, quality, and reliability has made it a trusted partner for manufacturers worldwide.
Throughout its history, Littelfuse has also grown through strategic acquisitions, allowing it to expand its technology portfolio and market reach. These acquisitions have brought new expertise in areas such as sensors, relays, polymer protection devices, and power semiconductors, further diversifying Littelfuse’s offerings and strengthening its leadership in the circuit protection industry.
Littelfuse’s mission is to power progress by protecting what matters most, a principle reflected in its approach to both engineering and corporate responsibility. The company’s solutions help ensure the safe and reliable operation of critical technologies, underpinning modern life in ways that are frequently understated but absolutely essential.