CT-94X-203 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94X-203 is a 20 kOhm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based side-adjustment trimmer features an 18-turn design 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 applications and new designs requiring this specification class.

Substiute Parts

CT-94X-203

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 1233CT-94X-203 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EX203

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 1602CT-94EX203 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296X-1-203

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 19463296X-1-203 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the CT-94X-203 are identified based on electrical and mechanical parameter alignment within the trimmer potentiometer category. The critical parameters determining substitutability are: resistance value (20 kOhms), power rating (0.5W), tolerance (±10%), temperature coefficient (±100ppm/°C), adjustment type (side adjustment), resistive material (cermet), mounting type (through hole), and termination style (PC pins).

Two substitute parts meet these core electrical and mechanical requirements:

CT-94EX203 (Nidec Components Corporation): Direct parameter match with identical 18-turn configuration and matching form factor. Active product status with RoHS3 compliance.

3296X-1-203 (Bourns Inc.): Electrical parameters match with 20 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, and ±100ppm/°C temperature coefficient. Differs in turn count (25 turns versus 18 turns) and slightly larger form factor (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm). Active product status.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-94EX203 is the primary substitute for direct replacement applications. This part maintains identical electrical specifications, turn count, and form factor to the CT-94X-203. The part is active in production with RoHS3 compliance, supporting modern design requirements and regulatory standards. Inventory availability (1554 pcs) supports production needs.

3296X-1-203 serves as an alternative where form factor tolerance permits. The 25-turn configuration provides finer adjustment resolution compared to the 18-turn original design. The slightly larger footprint (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm) requires PCB layout verification. This part is active in production. RoHS non-compliance status should be evaluated against application requirements.

Selection between these substitutes depends on PCB space constraints, adjustment resolution requirements, and regulatory compliance mandates for the end application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-94EX203 be used as a direct replacement for CT-94X-203?

A: Yes. CT-94EX203 matches all critical electrical parameters (20 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C), turn count (18 turns), and form factor (9.60mm x 4.80mm). No circuit or layout modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary difference between CT-94EX203 and 3296X-1-203?

A: CT-94EX203 maintains the 18-turn configuration and identical form factor. 3296X-1-203 features 25 turns and a slightly larger footprint (10.03mm x 4.83mm). Both share identical electrical specifications (20 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10%, ±100ppm/°C).

Q: Does the 25-turn design of 3296X-1-203 affect circuit performance?

A: The increased turn count provides finer adjustment resolution but does not alter electrical performance. The resistance value, power rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient remain identical. Application requirements for adjustment granularity determine suitability.

Q: Are there PCB layout considerations when substituting with 3296X-1-203?

A: Yes. The 3296X-1-203 footprint is slightly larger (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm). PCB layout must accommodate this dimension increase. Pin configuration and spacing remain compatible with through-hole mounting.

Q: What is the packaging difference between these substitutes?

A: CT-94X-203 and CT-94EX203 packaging specifications are not differentiated in this reference. 3296X-1-203 is supplied in tube packaging, while CT-94EX203 is supplied in bulk packaging. Procurement and handling procedures may differ accordingly.

Q: How do RoHS compliance statuses affect part selection?

A: CT-94EX203 is RoHS3 compliant, supporting applications with RoHS regulatory requirements. CT-94X-203 and 3296X-1-203 are RoHS non-compliant. Application regulatory mandates determine whether RoHS compliance is a selection criterion.