CT-94P-504 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94P-504 is a 500 kOhms, 0.5W trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This through-hole component features PC pin termination, cermet resistive material, and 18-turn side adjustment capability. The part is classified as obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for ongoing production and maintenance applications. Substitute parts must maintain electrical performance across resistance, power rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient specifications while accommodating potential differences in physical dimensions and compliance status.

Substiute Parts

CT-94P-504

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 926CT-94P-504 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EP504

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 733CT-94EP504 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296P-1-504

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 23883296P-1-504 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the CT-94P-504 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 500 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 in number of turns, physical dimensions, packaging format, and compliance certifications do not disqualify a part from functional substitution, provided all electrical and core mechanical parameters remain equivalent. The following parts meet these substitution criteria.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-94EP504 (Direct Substitute)

The CT-94EP504 is functionally equivalent to the CT-94P-504 across all critical electrical parameters. This part is manufactured by Nidec Components Corporation and maintains active product status. The primary distinction is physical dimension: the CT-94EP504 features a square face (0.378" x 0.378") compared to the rectangular face of the original part (0.378" x 0.189"). PCB layout compatibility must be verified before selection. The CT-94EP504 achieves ROHS3 compliance, providing environmental regulatory advantage over the original obsolete part.

3296P-1-504 (MFR Recommended Substitute)

The 3296P-1-504, manufactured by Bourns Inc. under the Trimpot® 3296 series, meets all electrical specifications of the CT-94P-504. This part differs in number of turns (25 turns versus 18 turns) and physical dimensions (0.375" x 0.190" rectangular face). The increased turn count provides finer adjustment resolution. The 3296P-1-504 maintains active product status and offers the highest inventory availability (2300 units). REACH status is affected, requiring compliance verification for applications subject to REACH regulations. RoHS non-compliance status matches the original part.

Both substitutes are electrically and mechanically compatible for applications where dimensional variations and compliance differences are acceptable.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-94EP504 and 3296P-1-504 be used interchangeably with CT-94P-504?

A: Both parts are functionally equivalent in electrical performance. Physical dimensions differ, requiring PCB layout verification. CT-94EP504 has a square footprint; 3296P-1-504 has a rectangular footprint similar to the original but with slightly different dimensions. Mechanical fit must be confirmed before substitution.

Q: What is the significance of the 18-turn versus 25-turn difference?

A: Turn count affects adjustment resolution. The 3296P-1-504 with 25 turns provides finer control granularity than the 18-turn CT-94P-504. Both achieve the same resistance range and electrical performance. Application requirements determine whether increased resolution is beneficial or unnecessary.

Q: Does RoHS compliance affect substitution decisions?

A: RoHS compliance is a regulatory and supply chain consideration, not an electrical performance factor. CT-94EP504 is ROHS3 compliant, while CT-94P-504 and 3296P-1-504 are non-compliant. Selection depends on end-product regulatory requirements and customer specifications.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: Yes. CT-94P-504 packaging is not specified. CT-94EP504 is supplied in Bulk packaging. 3296P-1-504 is supplied in Tube packaging. Packaging affects handling, storage, and procurement logistics but does not impact electrical or mechanical function.

Q: What is the impact of REACH status differences?

A: REACH Affected status (3296P-1-504) indicates the part contains substances of concern requiring compliance documentation for European Union applications. REACH Unaffected status (CT-94P-504, CT-94EP504) indicates no REACH-regulated substances. Selection depends on geographic market and regulatory obligations.

Q: Can these parts be used in new designs or only as replacements?

A: CT-94EP504 and 3296P-1-504 are active products suitable for new designs. CT-94P-504 is obsolete and should not be specified for new designs. Existing designs using CT-94P-504 should transition to active substitutes for long-term supply security.