Bourns 3309W-1-503 Trimmer Potentiometer Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Bourns 3309W-1-503 is a 50 kOhm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer with PC pin termination and side adjustment capability. This component is classified as obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for ongoing production and maintenance applications. The 3309W series represents a legacy design in the Trimpot® product line, and active alternatives are available to maintain circuit functionality in applications requiring precision resistance adjustment.

Substiute Parts

3309W-1-503

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 7853309W-1-503 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-6EX503

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 1405CT-6EX503 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the Bourns 3309W-1-503 is based on the following critical parameters that must remain constant:

• Resistance value: 50 kOhms
• Power rating: 0.5W minimum
• Number of turns: 1 turn
• Adjustment type: Side adjustment
• Resistive material: Cermet
• Mounting configuration: Through hole with PC pins
• Environmental compliance: ROHS3 and REACH requirements

The Nidec Components Corporation CT-6EX503 meets all mandatory electrical and mechanical specifications for direct substitution. Both components share identical resistance, power rating, turn count, adjustment mechanism, and termination style. Physical dimensions differ slightly, but both maintain rectangular form factors suitable for standard PCB layouts.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The Nidec CT-6EX503 is the direct substitute for the obsolete Bourns 3309W-1-503. Selection is based on the following factors:

• Both components meet ROHS3 compliance and REACH requirements
• Active product status of the CT-6EX503 ensures long-term availability and supply chain continuity
• Electrical specifications are functionally equivalent for 50 kOhm, 0.5W applications
• The CT-6EX503 offers improved tolerance (±10% versus ±25%) and superior temperature stability (±100ppm/°C versus ±250ppm/°C)
• Physical dimensions are slightly smaller but remain compatible with standard through-hole PCB layouts
• Both components utilize identical PC pin termination and cermet resistive elements

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Nidec CT-6EX503 directly replace the Bourns 3309W-1-503 in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both components share identical electrical specifications for resistance, power rating, number of turns, and adjustment type. The CT-6EX503 is a functional equivalent suitable for direct substitution in through-hole applications.

Q: What are the dimensional differences between these parts?

A: The Bourns 3309W-1-503 has a face dimension of 0.354" x 0.433" (9.00mm x 11.00mm), while the Nidec CT-6EX503 measures 0.323" x 0.276" (8.20mm x 7.00mm). The CT-6EX503 is more compact but maintains the same rectangular form factor and PC pin configuration.

Q: Does the tolerance difference affect substitution suitability?

A: The CT-6EX503 provides tighter tolerance (±10%) compared to the 3309W-1-503 (±25%). This represents an improvement in precision and does not prevent substitution. Applications requiring the original ±25% tolerance will operate within specification with the tighter tolerance of the substitute.

Q: Are there compliance or environmental differences between these parts?

A: Both components are ROHS3 compliant, REACH unaffected, and carry MSL rating 1 (unlimited moisture sensitivity level). No compliance or environmental restrictions differentiate these parts.

Q: Why is the Bourns 3309W-1-503 listed as obsolete?

A: The 3309W series represents legacy Trimpot® technology. The Nidec CT-6EX503 and similar active alternatives provide equivalent functionality with improved specifications and ongoing manufacturing support.