EE14 Trimmer Capacitor Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The Knowles Voltronics EE14 is a through-hole trimmer capacitor with a capacitance range of 0.8–14 pF, rated for 125 V operation. This component features a top adjustment mechanism and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) dielectric material, designed for general-purpose applications. The EE14 is classified as obsolete, making equivalent substitute parts necessary for ongoing system maintenance and new design implementations where this capacitance range and voltage rating are required.

Substiute Parts

EE14

Knowles VoltronicsIn Stock: 1007EE14 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

GAA14006

Sprague-GoodmanIn Stock: 850GAA14006 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the EE14 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Capacitance Range Compatibility: The substitute must cover the required 0.8–14 pF range. The GAA14006 provides a 1–14 pF range, which covers the upper portion of the EE14 specification but does not extend to 0.8 pF minimum.

Voltage Rating: The EE14 operates at 125 V. The GAA14006 is rated for 250 V, which exceeds the EE14 requirement and provides additional voltage margin.

Adjustment Type: Both the EE14 and GAA14006 feature top adjustment mechanisms, ensuring mechanical compatibility in existing designs.

Physical Dimensions: The EE14 measures 0.300" diameter (7.62 mm) with a maximum seated height of 0.480" (12.19 mm). The GAA14006 measures 0.303" diameter (7.62 mm) with a maximum seated height of 0.500" (12.70 mm). These dimensions are functionally equivalent for through-hole PCB mounting.

Operating Temperature: Both components operate across –65°C to 125°C, ensuring thermal compatibility.

Mounting Type: The EE14 is through-hole mounted. The GAA14006 is specified as user-defined mounting, which accommodates through-hole installation.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The GAA14006 serves as a functional substitute for the EE14 in applications where the 1–14 pF capacitance range is acceptable. The GAA14006 provides superior voltage rating (250 V versus 125 V) and higher Q factor (5000 versus 3000 at 100 MHz), making it suitable for designs requiring enhanced performance margins.

The primary consideration is the minimum capacitance specification: the EE14 extends to 0.8 pF, while the GAA14006 begins at 1 pF. Applications requiring capacitance values below 1 pF cannot use the GAA14006 as a direct substitute.

Both components are classified as obsolete. The GAA14006 carries RoHS compliance certification, whereas the EE14 does not specify RoHS status. For new designs or systems requiring RoHS compliance, the GAA14006 is the appropriate selection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the GAA14006 replace the EE14 in all applications?

A: The GAA14006 is suitable for applications requiring capacitance values between 1–14 pF. If your circuit requires capacitance below 1 pF, the GAA14006 cannot be used as a direct substitute.

Q: What is the difference between PTFE and air dielectric materials in trimmer capacitors?

A: The EE14 uses PTFE dielectric, while the GAA14006 uses air dielectric. Air dielectric capacitors typically exhibit higher Q factors and lower dielectric loss, which may improve circuit performance in high-frequency applications.

Q: Are the physical dimensions compatible for PCB mounting?

A: Yes. The EE14 (0.300" diameter, 0.480" height) and GAA14006 (0.303" diameter, 0.500" height) have functionally equivalent dimensions for through-hole PCB mounting. The minor differences (0.003" diameter, 0.020" height) do not affect standard PCB hole patterns or mechanical clearance.

Q: Does the higher voltage rating of the GAA14006 affect circuit operation?

A: No. A component rated for higher voltage (250 V) can be safely used in circuits designed for lower voltage (125 V). The higher rating provides additional safety margin and does not alter electrical performance at the design voltage.

Q: What is the significance of the higher Q factor in the GAA14006?

A: The GAA14006 exhibits a Q factor of 5000 at 100 MHz compared to 3000 for the EE14. Higher Q indicates lower dielectric loss, which reduces signal attenuation in high-frequency circuits and improves overall circuit efficiency.

Q: Are both components RoHS compliant?

A: The GAA14006 is certified RoHS compliant. The EE14 does not specify RoHS status. For applications requiring RoHS compliance, the GAA14006 is the appropriate selection.