Equivalent & Substitute Parts for P5C Trimmer Capacitor

Part Overview

The P5C is a 0.6–4.5pF trimmer capacitor manufactured by Knowles Voltronics, rated for 500V operation with side adjustment and through-hole mounting. This component is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing design support and procurement planning. The P5C features a sapphire dielectric with sealed construction and operates across the temperature range of –55°C to 125°C.

Substiute Parts

P5C

Knowles VoltronicsIn Stock: 1012P5C Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

27274

Knowles Johanson ManufacturingIn Stock: 78227274 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the P5C is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Capacitance Range: Must match 0.6–4.5pF exactly
• Adjustment Type: Must be side adjustment
• Size / Dimension: Must maintain 0.140" (4.66mm) diameter compatibility
• Voltage Rating: Must support minimum 500V operation

The substitute part 27274 (Knowles Johanson Manufacturing, Giga-Trim® series) satisfies the capacitance range, adjustment type, and physical diameter requirements. However, the mounting type differs: the P5C uses through-hole mounting, while the 27274 employs surface-mount technology. This distinction requires careful evaluation during circuit redesign or board layout modification.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 27274 is the manufacturer-recommended substitute for the P5C. Both components are manufactured by Knowles entities and share identical capacitance range and side-adjustment specifications. The 27274 is currently in active production status, ensuring long-term availability compared to the obsolete P5C.

The primary consideration for selection is the mounting technology transition: the P5C is through-hole mounted, while the 27274 is surface-mount. Circuit board redesign and revalidation are required if the 27274 is selected. The 27274 carries RoHS compliance certification, which may be advantageous for applications subject to environmental regulations.

Voltage rating information for the 27274 is not provided in available specifications. Verification of voltage performance against the 500V requirement of the original application is necessary before final selection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 27274 directly replace the P5C without board modification?

A: No. The P5C uses through-hole mounting while the 27274 uses surface-mount technology. Board layout and footprint changes are required.

Q: Are the capacitance ranges identical between the P5C and 27274?

A: Yes. Both components provide 0.6–4.5pF adjustment range with side-adjustment mechanism.

Q: What is the voltage rating of the 27274?

A: The voltage rating for the 27274 is not specified in available technical data. Confirmation from the manufacturer is required for applications requiring 500V operation.

Q: Is the 27274 RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The 27274 is RoHS compliant, whereas RoHS status for the P5C is not specified.

Q: Why is the P5C classified as obsolete?

A: The P5C is no longer in active production. The 27274 represents the current-generation equivalent from the same manufacturer family.