CT6W103 Trimmer Potentiometer - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT6W103 is a 10 kOhm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based, single-turn adjustment component features PC pin termination and top adjustment capability in a compact square form factor (7.00mm x 7.00mm). The product is currently obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing maintenance, repair, and legacy system support.

Substiute Parts

CT6W103

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 1142CT6W103 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-6EW103

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 6638CT-6EW103 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3362H-1-103

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 10273362H-1-103 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the CT6W103 are qualified based on strict electrical and mechanical parameter matching:

Primary Substitution Criteria:

• Resistance value: 10 kOhms (exact match required)
• Power rating: 0.5W minimum
• Tolerance: ±10% or better
• Temperature coefficient: ±100ppm/°C or better
• Number of turns: 1 Turn (single-turn adjustment)
• Adjustment type: Top Adjustment
• Resistive material: Cermet
• Mounting type: Through Hole
• Termination style: PC Pins
• Form factor: Square or rectangular face within 7.00mm nominal dimension
• Moisture sensitivity: MSL 1 or equivalent

Identified Substitutes:

1. CT-6EW103 (Nidec Components Corporation) - Direct equivalent with identical electrical specifications and form factor. Active product status with improved RoHS3 compliance.

2. 3362H-1-103 (Bourns Inc.) - Functionally equivalent with matching electrical parameters. Rectangular form factor (6.99mm x 6.60mm) provides compatible board-level integration. Active product status with established supply availability.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-6EW103 (Nidec Components Corporation) is the primary substitute for new designs and direct replacement applications. This part maintains identical electrical specifications and form factor to the original CT6W103, with the added advantage of active product status and RoHS3 compliance. Supply availability is established at 6556 units in stock.

3362H-1-103 (Bourns Inc.) serves as an alternative substitute where form factor tolerance permits. The Trimpot® 3362 series maintains all critical electrical parameters with a rectangular face dimension (6.99mm x 6.60mm) that differs marginally from the original square form. This part is actively manufactured with 1016 units available. Board layout verification is required to confirm the rectangular geometry accommodates existing mounting holes and clearance requirements.

Both substitutes are classified under HTSUS 8533.40.8050 and carry EAR99 export classification, matching the original part's regulatory profile.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-6EW103 be used as a direct drop-in replacement for CT6W103?

A: Yes. The CT-6EW103 maintains identical electrical specifications (10 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C), adjustment type (top adjustment), resistive material (cermet), termination style (PC pins), and form factor (square 7.00mm x 7.00mm). No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary difference between CT-6EW103 and 3362H-1-103?

A: Both parts are electrically equivalent. The primary difference is form factor: CT-6EW103 maintains the original square geometry (7.00mm x 7.00mm), while 3362H-1-103 uses a rectangular form (6.99mm x 6.60mm). Board-level compatibility must be verified for the Bourns part.

Q: Does the RoHS3 compliance of CT-6EW103 affect circuit performance?

A: No. RoHS3 compliance indicates material composition restrictions but does not alter electrical performance, tolerance, temperature coefficient, or functional characteristics. The part operates identically to the non-compliant original.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these substitutes?

A: Yes. CT-6EW103 is supplied in bulk packaging, while 3362H-1-103 is supplied in tube packaging. Inventory management and handling procedures may differ accordingly.

Q: Can 3362H-1-103 be used in applications where board space is critical?

A: The rectangular form factor of 3362H-1-103 (6.99mm x 6.60mm) is slightly smaller than the original square form (7.00mm x 7.00mm). Verify that existing mounting hole patterns and clearance zones accommodate the different geometry before substitution.

Q: What is the MSL rating difference between these parts?

A: CT6W103 and CT-6EW103 both carry MSL 1 (Unlimited), indicating no moisture sensitivity restrictions. 3362H-1-103 carries MSL Not Applicable, indicating the part does not require moisture-sensitive device handling protocols.