CT9X102 Trimmer Potentiometer - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT9X102 is a 1 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 5.50mm). The product is currently obsolete, making equivalent substitutes necessary for ongoing maintenance, repair, and legacy system support. 867 units are available in new original stock.

Substiute Parts

CT9X102

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 967CT9X102 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-9EX102

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 1406CT-9EX102 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296X-1-102

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 22393296X-1-102 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the CT9X102 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 1 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 CT9X102 has two identified substitutes: CT-9EX102 (Nidec Components Corporation) and 3296X-1-102 (Bourns Inc.). Both maintain electrical equivalence across all critical parameters. Mechanical variations in number of turns (18 vs. 25) and form factor dimensions are noted but do not preclude functional substitution in applications where the adjustment resolution and physical envelope permit.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-9EX102 (Nidec Components Corporation) is the primary direct substitute. It maintains identical electrical specifications, form factor, and turn count (18 turns) as the CT9X102. The CT-9EX102 is currently in active production status with 1333 units available in new original stock. This part achieves ROHS3 compliance, providing environmental regulatory advantage over the original obsolete part.

3296X-1-102 (Bourns Inc.) is a secondary substitute suitable for applications where mechanical envelope tolerance permits. While electrically equivalent, this part differs in two aspects: 25-turn design (versus 18 turns) and slightly larger form factor (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 5.50mm). The 3296X-1-102 is active production with 2200 units in stock. RoHS compliance status is non-compliant, matching the original part's regulatory posture.

For new designs or systems requiring regulatory compliance, CT-9EX102 is the recommended selection. For legacy system maintenance where form factor and turn count are critical constraints, 3296X-1-102 remains functionally equivalent if mechanical fit is verified.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can CT-9EX102 be used as a direct replacement for CT9X102?

A: Yes. CT-9EX102 maintains identical electrical specifications (1 kOhm, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C), adjustment type (side adjustment), resistive material (cermet), mounting method (through hole), termination style (PC pins), and form factor (9.60mm x 5.50mm). The 18-turn count is also identical. Physical installation and electrical performance are equivalent.

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

A: Turn count affects adjustment resolution. The 18-turn CT9X102 and CT-9EX102 provide coarser adjustment steps per full rotation compared to the 25-turn 3296X-1-102. In applications requiring fine-tuning capability, the 25-turn design offers greater resolution. Both designs achieve the same resistance range and tolerance specifications.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these substitutes?

A: Yes. CT-9EX102 is supplied in Bulk packaging, while 3296X-1-102 is supplied in Tube packaging. CT9X102 packaging specification was not provided. Packaging affects handling, storage, and component count per container but does not affect electrical or mechanical performance.

Q: Does RoHS compliance status affect functional substitution?

A: RoHS compliance is a regulatory and environmental consideration, not a functional performance criterion. CT-9EX102 is ROHS3 compliant, while CT9X102 and 3296X-1-102 are non-compliant. For applications subject to RoHS regulations, CT-9EX102 is the appropriate selection. For legacy systems without regulatory constraints, all three parts are functionally equivalent.

Q: Can 3296X-1-102 be used in applications designed for CT9X102?

A: Functional substitution is possible if the application tolerates the mechanical differences: 25-turn design (finer adjustment resolution) and slightly larger form factor (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 5.50mm). Electrical specifications are identical. Physical fit must be verified in the specific PCB layout and enclosure design.

Q: What inventory levels are available for each substitute?

A: CT9X102 (original): 867 units. CT-9EX102: 1333 units. 3296X-1-102: 2200 units. All are listed as new original stock.