CT9X502 Trimmer Potentiometer - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CT9X502 is a 5 kOhm, 0.5W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC Components. This cermet-based component features 18-turn side adjustment with PC pin termination and is designed for applications requiring precision variable resistance in compact rectangular form factors.

The CT9X502 is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain availability, and support ongoing production or repair requirements for systems utilizing this component.

Substiute Parts

CT9X502

Vishay Beyschlag/Draloric/BC ComponentsIn Stock: 1220CT9X502 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CT-9EX502

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 1347CT-9EX502 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 CT9X502 are identified based on electrical and mechanical parameter compatibility. The critical parameters determining substitution eligibility are:

• Resistance value: 5 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

Substitute parts must maintain these core electrical specifications to ensure functional equivalence within the original application circuit. Variations in number of turns, physical dimensions, and compliance certifications are noted but do not preclude substitution when electrical parameters align.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

CT-9EX502 (Nidec Components Corporation) is the primary direct substitute. This part maintains identical electrical specifications and physical dimensions to the CT9X502. The CT-9EX502 is classified as active product status, ensuring ongoing availability. The component is RoHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements. This substitute provides the most seamless replacement path with no design modifications required.

3296X-1-502 (Bourns Inc.) is an alternative substitute that satisfies all core electrical requirements. This component differs in number of turns (25 versus 18) and physical dimensions (0.395" x 0.190" versus 0.378" x 0.217"). The 3296X-1-502 is active product status and available in tube packaging. Physical dimension variation requires verification of PCB layout compatibility and mechanical clearance in the target application. RoHS compliance status differs from the original part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the CT-9EX502 be used as a direct replacement for the CT9X502?

A: Yes. The CT-9EX502 maintains identical electrical specifications (5 kOhms, 0.5W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C temperature coefficient) and physical dimensions (0.378" x 0.217" face). No circuit modifications or PCB layout changes are required.

Q: What is the significance of the 18-turn versus 25-turn difference between the CT9X502 and 3296X-1-502?

A: Number of turns affects adjustment resolution and mechanical feel during tuning. The 3296X-1-502 provides finer adjustment granularity due to increased turns. Both parts achieve the same electrical range (0 to 5 kOhms). Application requirements determine whether this difference is acceptable.

Q: Are there physical dimension constraints when substituting with the 3296X-1-502?

A: Yes. The 3296X-1-502 face dimensions (0.395" x 0.190") differ from the CT9X502 (0.378" x 0.217"). PCB layout, mounting hole spacing, and mechanical clearance must be verified before substitution. The larger width and reduced height may affect component placement in space-constrained designs.

Q: What is the impact of RoHS compliance differences?

A: The CT-9EX502 is RoHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental regulations. The original CT9X502 and 3296X-1-502 are non-compliant. Compliance requirements depend on application market, customer specifications, and regulatory jurisdiction. Verify compliance requirements before final part selection.

Q: How does product status affect part selection?

A: The CT9X502 is obsolete, indicating discontinued manufacturing and limited future availability. Both CT-9EX502 and 3296X-1-502 are active products with ongoing production and supply chain support. Active status ensures long-term availability for production runs and field repairs.