CT-94P-500 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94P-500 is a 50 Ohm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based side-adjustment trimmer features 18 turns and PC pin termination, designed for precision resistance adjustment in electronic circuits. The part is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for ongoing maintenance, repair, and legacy system support.

Substiute Parts

CT-94P-500

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 1023CT-94P-500 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3296P-1-500

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 11483296P-1-500 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the CT-94P-500 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 50 Ohms (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)

The 3296P-1-500 manufactured by Bourns Inc. meets all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. While the number of turns differs (25 turns versus 18 turns), this parameter does not prevent functional substitution when the same resistance value, power rating, tolerance, and adjustment characteristics are maintained. Physical dimensions remain within acceptable tolerance for through-hole mounting applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3296P-1-500 is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the CT-94P-500. Selection of this substitute is supported by the following factors:

• All critical electrical parameters match exactly: resistance, power rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient
• Mechanical compatibility is confirmed through equivalent mounting type, termination style, and physical dimensions within acceptable tolerance
• The substitute part is in active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity
• The substitute maintains cermet resistive material and side-adjustment functionality
• RoHS non-compliance status is consistent between the original and substitute part

The difference in number of turns (25 versus 18) does not affect functional substitution when resistance value and adjustment characteristics remain constant. The increased turn count in the substitute may provide finer adjustment resolution in applications requiring precision tuning.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3296P-1-500 be used as a direct replacement for the CT-94P-500?

A: Yes. The 3296P-1-500 meets all critical electrical and mechanical specifications: 50 Ohm resistance, 0.5W power rating, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C temperature coefficient, cermet material, side adjustment, through-hole mounting, and PC pin termination. Physical dimensions are compatible with standard through-hole PCB layouts.

Q: What is the significance of the different turn counts (18 versus 25)?

A: Turn count affects adjustment resolution and the mechanical range of the potentiometer shaft rotation. The 3296P-1-500 with 25 turns provides finer adjustment granularity compared to the 18-turn CT-94P-500. Both parts achieve the same 50 Ohm resistance range and maintain equivalent electrical performance.

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

A: Both parts are RoHS non-compliant and carry the same ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8533.40.8050) classifications. The substitute part is REACH Affected, while the original is REACH Unaffected. Compliance requirements should be verified against your application and regional regulations.

Q: Will the 3296P-1-500 fit in the same PCB footprint as the CT-94P-500?

A: Yes. Physical dimensions are within acceptable tolerance: CT-94P-500 measures 0.378" x 0.189" (9.60mm x 4.80mm), while the 3296P-1-500 measures 0.375" x 0.190" (9.53mm x 4.83mm). Both use PC pin termination and through-hole mounting, making them compatible with standard PCB layouts designed for the original part.

Q: Is the 3296P-1-500 currently available?

A: Yes. The 3296P-1-500 is in active production status with documented inventory availability, ensuring reliable supply for new designs and legacy system support.