CT-94X-503 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94X-503 is a 50 kOhm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based side-adjustment trimmer features 18 turns and PC pin termination in a rectangular form factor (9.60mm x 4.80mm). The part is currently obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing production and repair applications. Substitute parts must maintain electrical performance and mechanical compatibility within the specified parameter tolerances.

Substiute Parts

CT-94X-503

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 1094CT-94X-503 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EX503

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 1197CT-94EX503 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296X-1-503

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 25903296X-1-503 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the CT-94X-503 are qualified based on the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 50 kOhms (exact match required)
• Power rating: 0.5W minimum
• Tolerance: ±10% or better
• Temperature coefficient: ±100ppm/°C or better
• Adjustment type: Side Adjustment
• Resistive material: Cermet
• Mounting type: Through Hole
• Termination style: PC Pins

Two substitute parts meet these criteria with allowable variations in number of turns and physical dimensions within acceptable mechanical tolerances for PC board mounting.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-94EX503 (Direct Substitute): This part is the primary equivalent for the CT-94X-503. It maintains identical electrical specifications, physical dimensions, and turn count (18 turns). The CT-94EX503 is manufactured by Nidec Components Corporation and holds Active product status with ROHS3 compliance, making it suitable for new designs and production environments requiring RoHS certification.

3296X-1-503 (MFR Recommended Alternative): This Bourns Trimpot® 3296 sealed trimmer provides electrical equivalence with a 25-turn configuration versus the original 18-turn design. Physical dimensions vary slightly (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm), requiring verification of PCB layout compatibility. This part is Active and suitable for applications where the increased turn count provides finer adjustment resolution. RoHS compliance status differs from the original specification.

Selection between CT-94EX503 and 3296X-1-503 depends on PCB space constraints and adjustment resolution requirements. The CT-94EX503 provides direct dimensional compatibility, while the 3296X-1-503 offers enhanced adjustment capability with minor dimensional variation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-94EX503 be used as a direct replacement for CT-94X-503? A: Yes. The CT-94EX503 matches all critical electrical parameters (50 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C) and maintains identical physical dimensions and 18-turn configuration. No PCB layout modifications are required.

Q: What is the primary difference between CT-94EX503 and 3296X-1-503? A: The CT-94EX503 maintains the original 18-turn specification, while the 3296X-1-503 features 25 turns. Physical dimensions also differ slightly (9.60mm x 4.80mm versus 10.03mm x 4.83mm). Both provide equivalent electrical performance at 50 kOhms, 0.5W.

Q: Does the 25-turn configuration of 3296X-1-503 affect circuit performance? A: No. The increased turn count affects adjustment resolution and mechanical feel but does not alter electrical performance. The resistance value, power rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient remain equivalent to the original specification.

Q: Are there packaging considerations when substituting these parts? A: CT-94EX503 is supplied in Bulk packaging, while 3296X-1-503 is supplied in Tube packaging. Verify packaging requirements for your procurement and assembly processes.

Q: What compliance differences exist between the substitute parts? A: CT-94EX503 is ROHS3 compliant, while both the original CT-94X-503 and 3296X-1-503 are RoHS non-compliant. Select CT-94EX503 for applications requiring RoHS certification.

Q: Can 3296X-1-503 be used in applications with tight PCB space constraints? A: The 3296X-1-503 dimensions (10.03mm x 4.83mm) exceed the original specification (9.60mm x 4.80mm). Verify PCB layout clearances before selection. CT-94EX503 is recommended for space-constrained applications.