CTS 201XR503B Trimmer Potentiometer - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CTS 201XR503B is a 50 kOhm, 0.2W through-hole trimmer potentiometer with PC pin termination and side adjustment capability. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing system support and new design implementations. The 201 series carbon-based trimmer potentiometer has been superseded by modern cermet-based alternatives that maintain electrical compatibility while offering improved performance characteristics and active product status.

Substiute Parts

201XR503B

CTS ElectrocomponentsIn Stock: 1090201XR503B Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3306W-1-503

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 22973306W-1-503 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CTS 201XR503B is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 50 kOhms (exact match required)
• Power rating: 0.2W minimum (1/5W)
• Adjustment type: Side adjustment (mechanical compatibility)
• Mounting type: Through hole (PCB integration)
• Termination style: PC pins (electrical connection method)
• Number of turns: 1 turn (adjustment range)

The Bourns 3306W-1-503 qualifies as a direct functional substitute based on matching all critical parameters. While the resistive material differs (cermet vs. carbon) and tolerance specifications vary (±25% vs. ±20%), these differences fall within acceptable substitution criteria for trimmer potentiometer applications. The cermet construction of the 3306W series provides superior temperature stability and reliability compared to carbon-based designs.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Bourns 3306W-1-503 is the qualified substitute for the obsolete CTS 201XR503B based on the following factors:

Product Status: The CTS 201XR503B is obsolete with no active manufacturing. The Bourns 3306W-1-503 maintains active product status with confirmed inventory availability (2270 pcs), ensuring long-term supply chain viability.

Compliance & Certifications: The Bourns 3306W-1-503 carries ROHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status, meeting current regulatory requirements. Both components share identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS classifications.

Electrical Equivalence: Both components provide 50 kOhm resistance at 0.2W power rating with single-turn side adjustment through PC pin termination. The tolerance difference (±25% vs. ±20%) and resistive material change (cermet vs. carbon) do not preclude functional substitution in standard trimmer potentiometer applications.

Physical Considerations: The Bourns substitute features a significantly smaller footprint (6.81mm x 8.10mm vs. 18.64mm x 15.10mm). PCB layout verification is required to confirm mechanical fit within existing mounting locations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Bourns 3306W-1-503 directly replace the CTS 201XR503B without circuit modification?

A: Yes, from an electrical standpoint. Both components provide identical resistance, power rating, and adjustment characteristics. However, the substantially smaller physical dimensions of the Bourns part require verification that the PCB mounting footprint accommodates the reduced size.

Q: What is the significance of the resistive material change from carbon to cermet?

A: Cermet construction provides improved temperature stability (±250ppm/°C specified for the Bourns part) and superior reliability compared to carbon-based designs. This represents a performance enhancement rather than a limitation for substitution purposes.

Q: Does the tolerance difference (±25% vs. ±20%) affect substitution suitability?

A: The Bourns part carries a wider tolerance specification. In applications where the original ±20% tolerance is critical to circuit function, the ±25% tolerance of the substitute must be evaluated against circuit performance requirements.

Q: Are there any compliance or regulatory differences between these components?

A: The Bourns 3306W-1-503 is ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current environmental regulations. The CTS 201XR503B compliance status is not specified. Both share identical ECCN and HTSUS classifications for export control purposes.

Q: What inventory considerations apply to this substitution?

A: The CTS 201XR503B is obsolete with 1075 pcs available. The Bourns 3306W-1-503 is an active product with 2270 pcs in stock, providing superior long-term availability and supply chain stability.