TC86K-1-203 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TC86K-1-203 is a 20 kOhms trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Bourns Inc., part of the Trimpot® TC86 series. This through-hole component features PC pin termination, side adjustment, and a 0.3W power rating with cermet resistive material. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing maintenance, repair, and legacy system support.

Substiute Parts

TC86K-1-203

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 955TC86K-1-203 Datasheet

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3306K-1-203

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 21723306K-1-203 Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TC86K-1-203 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Resistance Value: 20 kOhms (exact match required)
• Adjustment Type: Side Adjustment (functional requirement)
• Termination Style: PC Pins (PCB compatibility requirement)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole (assembly compatibility requirement)
• Resistive Material: Cermet (performance consistency)
• Temperature Coefficient: ±250ppm/°C (thermal stability requirement)
• Number of Turns: 1 (adjustment range requirement)

The 3306K-1-203 qualifies as a substitute based on matching all critical parameters. Variations in power rating (0.2W vs. 0.3W) and tolerance (±25% vs. ±20%) represent acceptable deviations within the allowed electrical and mechanical parameter space for this product category. Physical dimensions show minor variation but remain compatible with standard through-hole PCB layouts.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3306K-1-203 is the designated substitute for the obsolete TC86K-1-203. Both components are manufactured by Bourns Inc. and maintain identical compliance certifications (ROHS3, REACH Unaffected, EAR99 ECCN classification). The substitute is currently in active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain continuity.

The 3306K-1-203 operates at a lower power rating (0.2W vs. 0.3W) and wider tolerance (±25% vs. ±20%). These parameters remain within acceptable operational margins for applications originally designed for the TC86K-1-203. The identical temperature coefficient (±250ppm/°C) and resistive material (cermet) ensure thermal stability and performance characteristics consistent with the original component.

Physical dimensions show minor variation. The substitute measures 0.268" x 0.319" (6.81mm x 8.10mm) compared to the original 0.303" x 0.268" (7.70mm x 6.80mm). PCB layout verification is recommended to confirm mechanical fit within the available mounting space.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3306K-1-203 directly replace the TC86K-1-203 in all applications?

A: The 3306K-1-203 qualifies as a substitute based on matching resistance value, adjustment type, termination style, mounting type, and temperature coefficient. The lower power rating (0.2W vs. 0.3W) and wider tolerance (±25% vs. ±20%) are acceptable deviations. Physical dimensions differ slightly; PCB layout verification is necessary to confirm mechanical compatibility.

Q: What is the significance of the power rating difference?

A: The TC86K-1-203 is rated for 0.3W while the 3306K-1-203 is rated for 0.2W. The substitute operates at a lower maximum power dissipation. Applications must not exceed the 0.2W limit of the substitute component.

Q: How do tolerance differences affect circuit performance?

A: The TC86K-1-203 specifies ±20% tolerance while the 3306K-1-203 specifies ±25% tolerance. The wider tolerance of the substitute introduces greater initial resistance variation. Applications sensitive to precise resistance values require evaluation of this parameter.

Q: Are the physical dimensions compatible with existing PCB layouts?

A: The substitute dimensions (0.268" x 0.319" / 6.81mm x 8.10mm) differ from the original (0.303" x 0.268" / 7.70mm x 6.80mm). Both components use through-hole PC pin termination and side adjustment. PCB layout review is necessary to confirm the substitute fits within the available mounting space.

Q: What compliance certifications apply to the substitute?

A: The 3306K-1-203 maintains ROHS3 compliance, REACH Unaffected status, and EAR99 ECCN classification, identical to the original TC86K-1-203. MSL rating is 1 (Unlimited) for both components.

Q: Is the 3306K-1-203 currently available?

A: Yes, the 3306K-1-203 is in active production status with documented inventory availability, unlike the obsolete TC86K-1-203.