CT-94P-203 Trimmer Potentiometer Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94P-203 is a 20 kOhm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based component features 18-turn side adjustment with PC pin termination and rectangular form factor (9.60mm x 4.80mm). The part is classified as obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for ongoing production and maintenance applications. Suitable alternatives maintain the core electrical specifications while offering improved availability and compliance status.

Substiute Parts

CT-94P-203

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 932CT-94P-203 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EP203

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 2609CT-94EP203 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296P-1-203

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 10103296P-1-203 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the CT-94P-203 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 20 kOhms (exact match required)
• Power rating: 0.5W/1/2W (exact match required)
• Tolerance: ±10% (exact match required)
• Temperature coefficient: ±100ppm/°C (exact match required)
• Adjustment type: Side Adjustment (exact match required)
• Resistive material: Cermet (exact match required)
• Mounting type: Through Hole (exact match required)
• Termination style: PC Pins (exact match required)

Variations permitted within substitution scope:

• Number of turns: 18 to 25 turns (higher turn count provides finer adjustment resolution without affecting electrical performance)
• Physical dimensions: Minor variations in face dimensions acceptable if mounting footprint remains compatible with through-hole PC pin spacing
• Manufacturer: Different manufacturers acceptable if all electrical and mechanical parameters align
• Product status: Active status preferred over obsolete for supply chain reliability
• RoHS compliance: Improved compliance status acceptable

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-94EP203 (Nidec Components Corporation): This substitute provides direct electrical equivalence with identical turn count (18 turns) and maintains all critical electrical parameters. The part is currently active in production with improved RoHS3 compliance status. Physical form factor differs (square 9.60mm x 9.60mm versus rectangular 9.60mm x 4.80mm), requiring PCB layout verification for mounting compatibility. Recommended for new designs prioritizing RoHS compliance and supply chain continuity.

3296P-1-203 (Bourns Inc.): This substitute maintains all electrical specifications with increased turn count (25 turns) for enhanced adjustment resolution. Physical dimensions closely match the original part (9.53mm x 4.83mm rectangular form factor). The part is active in production. RoHS non-compliance status matches the original part. REACH Affected status requires compliance verification for regulated substance content. Recommended for applications where finer adjustment capability is beneficial and REACH compliance is not a design requirement.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-94EP203 be used as a direct replacement for CT-94P-203?

A: CT-94EP203 provides complete electrical equivalence. Physical form factor differs (square versus rectangular), requiring verification that the larger 9.60mm x 9.60mm footprint accommodates existing PCB layout and mounting hole spacing.

Q: What is the significance of the 25-turn specification in 3296P-1-203?

A: The 25-turn design provides finer adjustment resolution compared to the 18-turn original part. Both maintain identical electrical performance at the specified resistance, power rating, and tolerance. Turn count affects adjustment sensitivity only; electrical output remains equivalent.

Q: Are there compliance differences between the substitutes?

A: CT-94EP203 offers RoHS3 compliance, improving environmental regulatory alignment. 3296P-1-203 maintains RoHS non-compliance status matching the original part. REACH status differs: CT-94EP203 is REACH Unaffected while 3296P-1-203 is REACH Affected, requiring substance compliance verification for regulated applications.

Q: Do dimensional differences affect circuit performance?

A: No. Dimensional variations do not affect electrical performance. Physical form factor changes require PCB layout compatibility assessment for mounting hole alignment and component spacing only.

Q: Which substitute offers the best supply chain availability?

A: CT-94EP203 (2576 pcs in stock) and 3296P-1-203 (969 pcs in stock) both provide significantly higher inventory levels compared to the obsolete CT-94P-203 (850 pcs remaining stock). CT-94EP203 offers superior availability.

Q: Can both substitutes be used interchangeably in the same application?

A: Both substitutes meet the electrical requirements for CT-94P-203 replacement. Selection depends on specific design constraints: CT-94EP203 for RoHS compliance priority and compact square form factor compatibility; 3296P-1-203 for rectangular form factor preference and finer adjustment capability.