CT-94X-103 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94X-103 is a 10 kOhms 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 currently obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing design support and production requirements.

Substiute Parts

CT-94X-103

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 994CT-94X-103 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EX103

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 15287CT-94EX103 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296X-1-103

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 41913296X-1-103 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the CT-94X-103 are identified based on strict electrical and mechanical parameter matching. The primary substitution criteria are:

• Resistance value: 10 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)

The CT-94EX103 (Nidec Components Corporation) qualifies as a direct equivalent, matching all electrical specifications and physical form factor. The 3296X-1-103 (Bourns Inc.) qualifies as a manufacturer-recommended substitute despite a variation in the number of turns (25 vs. 18), as this parameter does not restrict functional substitution in applications where the original 18-turn specification is not a critical design constraint.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The CT-94EX103 (Nidec Components Corporation) is the primary substitute for the obsolete CT-94X-103. This part maintains identical electrical specifications, physical dimensions, and form factor. The CT-94EX103 carries Active product status and RoHS3 compliance, making it suitable for new designs and production environments with regulatory requirements.

The 3296X-1-103 (Bourns Inc., Trimpot® 3296 - Sealed series) is designated as a manufacturer-recommended alternative. While it matches all critical electrical parameters and maintains the same termination and adjustment characteristics, it differs in two aspects: the number of turns (25 vs. 18) and physical dimensions (10.03mm x 4.83mm vs. 9.60mm x 4.80mm). The 3296X-1-103 remains in Active production status. Selection between these two substitutes depends on application-specific requirements regarding adjustment resolution and available PCB space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the CT-94EX103 be used as a direct replacement for the CT-94X-103?

A: Yes. The CT-94EX103 matches all electrical specifications (10 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C temperature coefficient) and maintains identical physical dimensions and termination style. Both parts feature 18-turn side adjustment with cermet resistive material.

Q: What is the difference between the CT-94EX103 and 3296X-1-103?

A: The primary differences are the number of turns (18 vs. 25) and physical dimensions (9.60mm x 4.80mm vs. 10.03mm x 4.83mm). Electrical specifications remain identical. The increased turn count in the 3296X-1-103 provides finer adjustment resolution, while the slightly larger form factor may impact PCB layout compatibility.

Q: Are there packaging differences between the substitute parts?

A: Yes. The CT-94EX103 is supplied in Bulk packaging, while the 3296X-1-103 is supplied in Tube packaging. Packaging selection may affect procurement, handling, and assembly processes.

Q: Does the RoHS compliance status affect substitution eligibility?

A: RoHS compliance is a regulatory and procurement consideration. The CT-94EX103 is RoHS3 compliant, while the 3296X-1-103 is RoHS non-compliant. Selection depends on end-product regulatory requirements and customer specifications.

Q: Can the 3296X-1-103 be used in applications designed for the CT-94X-103?

A: The 3296X-1-103 is electrically equivalent and functionally compatible. However, the increased number of turns (25 vs. 18) affects adjustment resolution, and the slightly larger dimensions (10.03mm x 4.83mm) may require PCB layout verification. Applications with strict adjustment resolution or space constraints should prioritize the CT-94EX103.