CT-94X-502 Trimmer Potentiometer Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94X-502 is a 5 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, making equivalent substitutes necessary for ongoing production, maintenance, and repair applications. Direct functional replacements are available from active manufacturers with identical or compatible electrical and mechanical specifications.

Substiute Parts

CT-94X-502

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 956CT-94X-502 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EX502

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 2220CT-94EX502 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296X-1-502

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 10553296X-1-502 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the CT-94X-502 are qualified based on the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 5 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)

Two substitute parts meet these criteria with allowable variations in number of turns and face dimensions within acceptable mechanical tolerances for standard PCB layouts.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-94EX502 (Direct Substitute): This part is the primary equivalent for the obsolete CT-94X-502. It maintains identical electrical specifications, number of turns (18), and face dimensions. The CT-94EX502 is manufactured by Nidec Components Corporation and carries Active product status with RoHS3 compliance, making it suitable for new designs and RoHS-regulated applications. Inventory availability is substantial (2,148 pcs).

3296X-1-502 (Manufacturer Recommended Alternative): This Bourns Trimpot® 3296 sealed trimmer provides functional equivalence with a higher turn count (25 turns vs. 18 turns) and slightly larger face dimensions (10.03mm x 4.83mm vs. 9.60mm x 4.80mm). The increased turn count offers finer adjustment resolution. This part is Active and suitable for applications where the dimensional variation is acceptable. RoHS compliance status differs from the original part.

For direct replacement in existing designs, CT-94EX502 is the preferred choice due to dimensional and turn-count matching. The 3296X-1-502 is suitable when design flexibility permits the dimensional and adjustment resolution differences.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-94EX502 be used as a direct drop-in replacement for CT-94X-502?

A: Yes. The CT-94EX502 matches all critical electrical parameters (5 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C), adjustment type (side adjustment), resistive material (cermet), mounting method (through hole), termination style (PC pins), number of turns (18), and face dimensions (9.60mm x 4.80mm). It is a direct functional equivalent.

Q: What is the difference between the 18-turn and 25-turn versions?

A: The number of turns affects adjustment resolution. The 18-turn CT-94EX502 provides the same resolution as the original CT-94X-502. The 25-turn 3296X-1-502 offers finer adjustment granularity, requiring more rotation to achieve the same resistance change. Selection depends on application requirements for adjustment precision.

Q: Are there dimensional compatibility concerns with the 3296X-1-502?

A: The 3296X-1-502 has a slightly larger face dimension (10.03mm x 4.83mm vs. 9.60mm x 4.80mm). This 0.43mm width increase and 0.03mm height increase must be verified against PCB layout constraints and available mounting space before substitution.

Q: What is the RoHS compliance status of these substitutes?

A: CT-94EX502 is RoHS3 compliant. The 3296X-1-502 is RoHS non-compliant. Selection should align with product regulatory requirements and end-market compliance mandates.

Q: Is packaging type a consideration for substitution?

A: Packaging affects handling and storage but does not impact electrical or mechanical function. CT-94EX502 is supplied in Bulk packaging; 3296X-1-502 is supplied in Tube packaging. Both are suitable for component assembly processes.