SM4ETA204 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SM4ETA204 is a 200 kOhms, 0.25W surface mount trimmer potentiometer with J Lead termination, manufactured by Nidec Components Corporation. This component features a 12-turn cermet resistive element with side adjustment capability and is designed for precision applications requiring manual tuning or calibration.

The SM4ETA204 is classified as obsolete. Locating equivalent substitute parts is necessary to support ongoing production, maintenance, and repair of systems utilizing this component. Active alternatives with compatible electrical and mechanical specifications are available to ensure design continuity.

Substiute Parts

SM4ETA204

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 938SM4ETA204 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SM-42TA204

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 3005SM-42TA204 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the SM4ETA204 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Resistance Value: 200 kOhms (exact match required)
• Power Rating: 0.25W / 1/4W (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: Surface Mount (exact match required)
• Termination Style: J Lead (exact match required)
• RoHS Compliance: ROHS3 Compliant (minimum requirement)
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: 1 (Unlimited) (exact match required)

The SM-42TA204 meets all critical electrical and mechanical parameters. Minor variations in the number of turns (11 vs. 12) and physical dimensions (within 0.004" tolerance) do not preclude functional equivalence in applications where the primary tuning range and adjustment resolution are compatible with the circuit design.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SM-42TA204 is a qualified substitute for the SM4ETA204 based on the following factors:

Compliance & Certification: Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical moisture sensitivity ratings, ensuring regulatory and environmental compatibility in existing designs.

Electrical Equivalence: Resistance, power rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient specifications are identical. The 11-turn configuration of the SM-42TA204 versus the 12-turn design of the SM4ETA204 represents a minor adjustment resolution difference that does not affect electrical performance in applications where the tuning range accommodates this variation.

Mechanical Compatibility: Physical dimensions differ by less than 0.004 inches in each axis. Both parts utilize identical J Lead termination and surface mount packaging, ensuring PCB footprint compatibility and soldering process alignment.

Product Status Advantage: The SM-42TA204 is classified as active, providing assured long-term availability and supply chain stability compared to the obsolete SM4ETA204.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SM-42TA204 be used as a direct replacement for the SM4ETA204 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The SM-42TA204 meets all critical electrical specifications (resistance, power rating, tolerance, temperature coefficient) and mechanical requirements (J Lead termination, surface mount packaging, cermet material). The 11-turn versus 12-turn difference represents a minor adjustment resolution variation that does not affect functional equivalence in standard tuning applications.

Q: What is the significance of the turn count difference between the two parts?

A: The SM4ETA204 provides 12 turns of adjustment range, while the SM-42TA204 provides 11 turns. This difference affects the granularity of manual tuning but does not alter the total resistance range or electrical performance. Applications requiring specific turn-count specifications should evaluate circuit sensitivity to adjustment resolution.

Q: Are there packaging differences between these parts?

A: The SM4ETA204 is supplied in standard packaging, while the SM-42TA204 is available in Tape & Reel (TR) format. Both parts are surface mount components with identical J Lead termination. Tape & Reel packaging is standard for automated assembly processes and does not affect component performance.

Q: Do both parts meet current environmental and regulatory standards?

A: Yes. Both the SM4ETA204 and SM-42TA204 are ROHS3 compliant and carry identical moisture sensitivity ratings (MSL 1 - Unlimited). The SM-42TA204 is additionally designated as REACH Unaffected, confirming compliance with current chemical substance regulations.

Q: What is the physical size difference, and does it affect PCB layout?

A: The SM4ETA204 measures 0.193" x 0.177" (4.90mm x 4.50mm), while the SM-42TA204 measures 0.189" x 0.181" (4.80mm x 4.60mm). The maximum difference is 0.004 inches per axis. Both parts fit within standard surface mount footprints and do not require PCB redesign.