CT-94Z-502 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT-94Z-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 product is currently obsolete, necessitating identification of functionally equivalent alternatives for ongoing system support and new designs requiring this specification class.

Substiute Parts

CT-94Z-502

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 962CT-94Z-502 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-94EZ502

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 1429CT-94EZ502 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296Z-1-502

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 12503296Z-1-502 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the CT-94Z-502 are identified based on strict electrical and mechanical parameter matching. The primary substitution criteria are:

• 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. The CT-94EZ502 represents a direct equivalent from Nidec Components Corporation within the same CT94 series. The 3296Z-1-502 from Bourns Inc. provides functional equivalence with allowable variation in turn count (25 turns versus 18 turns) and minor dimensional tolerance within the rectangular form factor specification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The CT-94EZ502 from Nidec Components Corporation is the primary substitute for the obsolete CT-94Z-502. This part maintains identical electrical specifications, mechanical dimensions, and turn count within the same CT94 series. The CT-94EZ502 is currently in active production status and carries RoHS3 compliance, addressing regulatory requirements for new designs.

The 3296Z-1-502 from Bourns Inc. serves as a functional alternative when CT-94EZ502 availability is constrained. This part maintains all critical electrical parameters and mounting characteristics. The increased turn count (25 turns versus 18 turns) provides finer adjustment resolution. The dimensional variation (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm) remains within acceptable tolerance for most through-hole PCB layouts. However, physical space constraints in compact designs may require verification of fit.

For new designs requiring RoHS compliance, the CT-94EZ502 is the recommended selection. For legacy system support where RoHS compliance is not mandated, both substitutes are electrically and mechanically qualified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the CT-94EZ502 be used as a direct replacement for the CT-94Z-502?

A: Yes. The CT-94EZ502 maintains identical resistance, power rating, tolerance, temperature coefficient, turn count, adjustment type, resistive material, mounting type, termination style, and physical dimensions. It is a direct equivalent within the CT94 series.

Q: What is the primary difference between the CT-94EZ502 and 3296Z-1-502?

A: The CT-94EZ502 is a direct series equivalent with 18 turns and identical dimensions. The 3296Z-1-502 features 25 turns and slightly larger dimensions (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm). Both maintain identical electrical specifications.

Q: Does the increased turn count of the 3296Z-1-502 affect circuit performance?

A: No. The turn count affects adjustment resolution and mechanical feel, not electrical performance. Both parts deliver the same 5 kOhm resistance, power rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient.

Q: Are there physical space considerations when substituting with the 3296Z-1-502?

A: Yes. The 3296Z-1-502 is slightly larger (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 4.80mm). Verify PCB layout clearance before substitution in space-constrained applications.

Q: Which substitute part should be selected for new designs?

A: The CT-94EZ502 is recommended for new designs. It provides direct equivalence to the original specification and carries RoHS3 compliance for regulatory alignment.

Q: What is the packaging difference between the substitutes?

A: The CT-94EZ502 is supplied in Bulk packaging. The 3296Z-1-502 is supplied in Tube packaging. Verify packaging requirements for procurement and assembly processes.