CT-94W-501 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94W-501 is a 500 Ohm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based trimmer features an 18-turn top adjustment mechanism with PC pin termination and rectangular form factor (9.60mm x 4.80mm). The part is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing design support and procurement continuity.

Substiute Parts

CT-94W-501

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 756CT-94W-501 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EW501

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 2226CT-94EW501 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296W-1-501

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 36473296W-1-501 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the CT-94W-501 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 500 Ohms
• Power rating: 0.5W (1/2W)
• Tolerance: ±10%
• Temperature coefficient: ±100ppm/°C
• Adjustment type: Top Adjustment
• Resistive material: Cermet
• Mounting type: Through Hole
• Termination style: PC Pins

Two substitute parts meet these core electrical and mechanical requirements. The CT-94EW501 maintains identical specifications and belongs to the same CT94 series. The 3296W-1-501 provides electrical equivalence but differs in turn count (25 turns versus 18 turns) and dimensional tolerance, representing a functional alternative where turn count variation is acceptable for the application.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-94EW501 is the primary substitute for the CT-94W-501. Both parts share identical electrical specifications, turn count, and physical dimensions. The CT-94EW501 is manufactured by Nidec Components Corporation and maintains active product status with RoHS3 compliance, providing superior long-term availability and regulatory alignment compared to the obsolete original part.

3296W-1-501 (Bourns Trimpot® 3296 - Sealed) serves as a secondary alternative where turn count variation is acceptable. This part introduces 25 turns instead of 18, resulting in finer adjustment resolution. Dimensional differences are minimal (9.53mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm), and all electrical parameters remain equivalent. The 3296W-1-501 is active and widely available but does not carry RoHS3 compliance.

Selection between CT-94EW501 and 3296W-1-501 depends on application requirements regarding adjustment resolution and regulatory compliance. For designs requiring exact turn-count matching and RoHS3 compliance, CT-94EW501 is the appropriate choice. For applications where finer adjustment capability is beneficial and RoHS compliance is not mandated, 3296W-1-501 provides a viable alternative.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-94EW501 be used as a direct replacement for CT-94W-501?

A: Yes. The CT-94EW501 provides direct electrical and mechanical equivalence. Both parts specify 500 Ohms, 0.5W power rating, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C temperature coefficient, 18-turn adjustment, and identical physical dimensions. No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary difference between CT-94EW501 and 3296W-1-501?

A: The CT-94EW501 maintains 18 turns, matching the original CT-94W-501 specification. The 3296W-1-501 features 25 turns, providing finer adjustment resolution. Dimensional differences are negligible (less than 0.1mm variance). All electrical parameters are equivalent.

Q: Does turn count affect circuit performance?

A: Turn count determines adjustment resolution and mechanical feel but does not alter electrical performance when the same resistance value is achieved. An 18-turn potentiometer requires larger adjustment movements per unit resistance change compared to a 25-turn design. Application requirements determine whether this difference is significant.

Q: Are there RoHS compliance differences between the substitutes?

A: Yes. The CT-94EW501 is RoHS3 compliant. The 3296W-1-501 is RoHS non-compliant. The original CT-94W-501 is also RoHS non-compliant. For designs requiring RoHS3 certification, CT-94EW501 is the appropriate selection.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in PCB layouts?

A: CT-94EW501 and CT-94W-501 share identical dimensions and PC pin termination, allowing direct PCB layout compatibility. The 3296W-1-501 has minimal dimensional variance (less than 0.1mm) and identical termination style, making it compatible with existing layouts in most applications. Physical clearance verification is recommended for space-constrained designs.

Q: What is the packaging difference between substitutes?

A: CT-94EW501 is supplied in Bulk packaging. The 3296W-1-501 is supplied in Tube packaging. Both formats are standard for through-hole components and do not affect electrical or mechanical performance.