EE5 Trimmer Capacitor - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The EE5 is a 0.8–5pF trimmer capacitor manufactured by Knowles Voltronics, rated for 250V operation with top adjustment and through-hole mounting. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of compatible substitutes essential for ongoing system support and component procurement.

Trimmer capacitors in this specification range are used for precision frequency tuning and circuit calibration in RF and analog applications. The obsolete status of the EE5 necessitates evaluation of active alternative components that maintain electrical and mechanical compatibility with existing designs.

Substiute Parts

EE5

Knowles VoltronicsIn Stock: 976EE5 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

AE5

Knowles VoltronicsIn Stock: 1028AE5 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the EE5 is evaluated based on the following critical parameters:

• Capacitance Range Overlap: The substitute must cover the required tuning range within the application circuit.
• Voltage Rating: Minimum 250V to ensure safe operation under specified conditions.
• Adjustment Mechanism: Top adjustment required for mechanical compatibility with existing tuning access.
• Physical Dimensions: Identical diameter (0.300") and height (0.480" max) to ensure PCB footprint compatibility.
• Mounting Type: Through-hole configuration mandatory for existing board designs.
• Operating Temperature: Full range –65°C to +125°C required for environmental compliance.
• Q Factor: Maintained at 5000 @ 100MHz to preserve circuit performance characteristics.

The AE5 satisfies these substitution criteria with the exception of capacitance range lower limit (1pF minimum versus 0.8pF minimum). This difference is acceptable only if the application circuit does not require tuning below 1pF.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The AE5 is the designated substitute for the obsolete EE5 based on manufacturer documentation and equivalent electrical performance. Selection of the AE5 is appropriate when:

• The application circuit tuning range requirement is 1pF or higher (not below 1pF).
• PCB layout and mechanical assembly accommodate the identical 0.300" diameter and 0.480" maximum height.
• The dielectric material change from PTFE to air does not introduce unacceptable frequency drift or temperature coefficient variation for the specific application.
• ROHS3 compliance is required for the end product.

If the application requires tuning capability below 1pF, the EE5 cannot be substituted with the AE5, and alternative component families must be evaluated.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the AE5 be used as a direct replacement for the EE5 in all applications?

A: The AE5 is mechanically and electrically compatible for most applications. However, the capacitance range lower limit differs (1pF vs. 0.8pF). If your circuit requires tuning below 1pF, the AE5 is not suitable. Additionally, the dielectric material differs (air vs. PTFE), which may affect temperature stability in temperature-sensitive applications.

Q: What is the significance of the dielectric material change from PTFE to air?

A: PTFE and air dielectrics have different temperature coefficients and frequency stability characteristics. PTFE typically provides better temperature stability, while air dielectrics offer lower loss. The impact on your circuit depends on the specific tuning range and operating conditions. Circuit validation is necessary if temperature stability is critical.

Q: Are the physical dimensions identical between EE5 and AE5?

A: Yes. Both components have a 0.300" (7.62mm) diameter and 0.480" (12.19mm) maximum seated height. PCB footprint and mechanical clearance are identical.

Q: Is the AE5 RoHS compliant?

A: Yes, the AE5 is ROHS3 compliant. The EE5 compliance status is not specified in available documentation.

Q: What is the Q factor difference between these components?

A: Both the EE5 and AE5 maintain a Q factor of 5000 @ 100MHz, ensuring equivalent circuit performance in RF applications.

Q: Can I use the AE5 if my design requires the full 0.8–5pF range?

A: No. If your circuit requires adjustment below 1pF, the AE5 cannot provide this capability. Alternative components with lower minimum capacitance must be sourced.