SM4ETA502 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SM4ETA502 is a 5 kOhms, 0.25W surface mount trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Nidec Components Corporation. This cermet-based component features J Lead termination and side adjustment capability with 12 turns of adjustment resolution. The part is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives necessary for ongoing design support and procurement planning. Substitute parts must maintain electrical performance within the specified tolerance and power rating while accommodating modern supply chain availability.

Substiute Parts

SM4ETA502

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 1108SM4ETA502 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SM-42TA502

Nidec Components CorporationIn Stock: 2052SM-42TA502 Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The SM-42TA502 qualifies as a direct substitute for the SM4ETA502 based on the following critical parameters:

• Identical resistance value: 5 kOhms
• Identical power rating: 0.25W (1/4W)
• Identical tolerance: ±10%
• Identical temperature coefficient: ±100ppm/°C
• Identical adjustment type: Side Adjustment
• Identical resistive material: Cermet
• Identical mounting type: Surface Mount
• Identical termination style: J Lead
• Identical RoHS compliance: ROHS3 Compliant
• Identical moisture sensitivity level: MSL 1

Substitution is valid where these electrical and mechanical parameters determine functional equivalence. The SM-42TA502 represents an active product from the same manufacturer family, providing improved supply chain availability compared to the obsolete SM4ETA502.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SM-42TA502 is the qualified substitute for the SM4ETA502 based on electrical and mechanical equivalence. Both components maintain identical electrical specifications across resistance, power rating, tolerance, and temperature coefficient. Both are ROHS3 compliant and carry MSL 1 rating, confirming equivalent environmental and regulatory standing.

The SM-42TA502 is currently in active production status with documented inventory availability, whereas the SM4ETA502 is obsolete. For new designs or component replenishment, the SM-42TA502 provides functional continuity with improved supply chain support.

Minor dimensional variations exist between the two parts (0.193" x 0.177" versus 0.189" x 0.181" face dimensions), and the SM-42TA502 features 11 turns of adjustment versus 12 turns on the SM4ETA502. These differences do not affect electrical performance or functional substitution within standard circuit applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SM-42TA502 replace the SM4ETA502 in existing designs?

A: Yes. The SM-42TA502 maintains identical electrical specifications (5 kOhms, 0.25W, ±10% tolerance, ±100ppm/°C temperature coefficient) and identical mechanical characteristics (surface mount, J Lead termination, side adjustment, cermet material). Both components are ROHS3 compliant with MSL 1 rating.

Q: What is the difference in adjustment turns between these parts?

A: The SM4ETA502 provides 12 turns of adjustment, while the SM-42TA502 provides 11 turns. This difference does not affect electrical performance or functional operation in standard trimmer potentiometer applications.

Q: Are there dimensional differences between these parts?

A: Minor dimensional variations exist. The SM4ETA502 face dimension is 0.193" x 0.177" (4.90mm x 4.50mm), while the SM-42TA502 face dimension is 0.189" x 0.181" (4.80mm x 4.60mm). Both are rectangular surface mount packages suitable for standard PCB layouts.

Q: Why is the SM4ETA502 listed as obsolete?

A: The SM4ETA502 has been discontinued by the manufacturer. The SM-42TA502 represents the active equivalent from Nidec Components Corporation, providing continued availability for this functional specification.

Q: Are both parts compliant with current environmental standards?

A: Yes. Both the SM4ETA502 and SM-42TA502 are ROHS3 compliant. The SM-42TA502 carries REACH Unaffected status, while the SM4ETA502 shows Vendor Undefined REACH status. Both components carry MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity rating.