CT9X104 Trimmer Potentiometer - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT9X104 is a 100 kOhms, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based, side-adjustment component features 18 turns and PC pin termination in a rectangular form factor (9.60mm x 5.50mm). The part is currently obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent substitutes essential for ongoing maintenance, repair, and legacy system support.

Substiute Parts

CT9X104

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 889CT9X104 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-9EX104

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 772CT-9EX104 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

3296X-1-104

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 11893296X-1-104 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the CT9X104 is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Resistance value: 100 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)

Variations in the following parameters are permitted within the substitute category:

• Number of turns (18 turns preferred; 25 turns acceptable with mechanical verification)
• Face dimensions (minor variations acceptable if mounting footprint compatibility is confirmed)
• Manufacturer and product status (active alternatives preferred for obsolete parts)
• RoHS and REACH compliance status (dependent on application requirements)

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-9EX104 (Nidec Components Corporation) is the primary direct substitute for the CT9X104. This part maintains identical electrical specifications, mechanical form factor, and series designation. The CT-9EX104 is currently in active production status and carries RoHS3 compliance, making it suitable for new designs and legacy system replacements where regulatory compliance is required.

3296X-1-104 (Bourns Inc.) is a secondary alternative that meets all critical electrical parameters but introduces mechanical variations. The 25-turn configuration provides finer adjustment resolution compared to the 18-turn original, and the face dimensions differ slightly (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 5.50mm). This substitute is recommended only when PCB layout accommodates the dimensional variance and the increased turn count is functionally acceptable. The Bourns part is in active production but does not carry RoHS compliance.

Selection between CT-9EX104 and 3296X-1-104 depends on application requirements: choose CT-9EX104 for direct form-fit-function replacement; choose 3296X-1-104 only when mechanical layout permits and finer adjustment capability is beneficial.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the CT-9EX104 be used as a direct replacement for the CT9X104?

A: Yes. The CT-9EX104 matches all critical electrical and mechanical parameters of the CT9X104, including resistance, power rating, tolerance, temperature coefficient, adjustment type, resistive material, mounting configuration, and face dimensions. The CT-9EX104 is electrically and mechanically interchangeable.

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

A: The CT9X104 and CT-9EX104 feature 18 turns, while the 3296X-1-104 features 25 turns. The turn count affects adjustment resolution and the mechanical range of the potentiometer shaft. A 25-turn potentiometer provides finer control but requires more rotation to traverse the full resistance range. Substitution with a 25-turn part is acceptable only if the application does not require identical adjustment characteristics and the mechanical interface accommodates the different turn count.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these substitutes?

A: Yes. The CT9X104 is supplied in bulk packaging, the CT-9EX104 is supplied in bulk packaging, and the 3296X-1-104 is supplied in tube packaging. Packaging does not affect electrical or mechanical performance but may influence procurement, handling, and storage procedures.

Q: Does RoHS compliance matter for this substitution?

A: RoHS compliance is application-dependent. The CT-9EX104 is RoHS3 compliant, while the CT9X104 and 3296X-1-104 are non-compliant. If the application or end-market requires RoHS compliance, the CT-9EX104 is the appropriate choice. If RoHS compliance is not a requirement, all three parts are functionally equivalent from an electrical standpoint.

Q: Can the 3296X-1-104 be used in place of the CT9X104?

A: The 3296X-1-104 is electrically equivalent but introduces mechanical differences. The face dimensions are slightly larger (10.03mm x 4.83mm versus 9.60mm x 5.50mm), and the 25-turn configuration differs from the 18-turn original. Substitution is possible only if PCB layout and mechanical assembly accommodate these variations and the application does not require identical adjustment behavior.

Q: What inventory status should I consider when selecting a substitute?

A: The CT-9EX104 (747 pcs in stock) and 3296X-1-104 (1107 pcs in stock) are both currently available. Availability should be evaluated against project timelines and volume requirements. The CT-9EX104 is recommended as the first choice due to form-fit-function equivalence; the 3296X-1-104 should be considered only if CT-9EX104 availability is insufficient and mechanical compatibility is confirmed.