TC86P-1-203 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TC86P-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, cermet resistive material, and 0.3W power rating with top adjustment capability. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing maintenance, repair, and legacy system support.

Substiute Parts

TC86P-1-203

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 776TC86P-1-203 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3306P-1-203

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 28073306P-1-203 Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The 3306P-1-203 qualifies as a substitute for the TC86P-1-203 based on the following alignment of critical electrical and mechanical parameters:

Matching Parameters:

• Resistance value: 20 kOhms (identical)
• Temperature coefficient: ±250ppm/°C (identical)
• Number of turns: 1 (identical)
• Adjustment type: Top Adjustment (identical)
• Resistive material: Cermet (identical)
• Mounting type: Through Hole (identical)
• Termination style: PC Pins (identical)
• RoHS compliance: ROHS3 Compliant (identical)
• Moisture sensitivity level: 1 (Unlimited) (identical)

Differing Parameters:

• Power rating: 0.2W (1/5W) versus 0.3W
• Tolerance: ±25% versus ±20%
• Physical dimensions: 0.319" x 0.268" (8.10mm x 6.80mm) versus 0.303" x 0.268" (7.70mm x 6.80mm)
• Product status: Active versus Obsolete

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3306P-1-203 is an active product from Bourns Inc. and represents the primary substitute for the obsolete TC86P-1-203. Both components maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical moisture sensitivity ratings, ensuring regulatory and environmental consistency.

The 3306P-1-203 operates at a lower power rating (0.2W versus 0.3W) and carries a wider tolerance specification (±25% versus ±20%). Applications requiring the full 0.3W power dissipation capacity or tighter tolerance control must evaluate circuit requirements against the substitute's reduced specifications. The marginal dimensional difference (0.016" width increase) requires verification against PCB layout constraints and mechanical clearances in the target assembly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3306P-1-203 directly replace the TC86P-1-203 in all applications?

A: Direct replacement is possible when circuit design accommodates the lower power rating (0.2W) and wider tolerance (±25%). Applications operating near the original 0.3W specification or requiring ±20% tolerance control require circuit analysis to confirm compatibility.

Q: What are the critical substitution criteria for this trimmer potentiometer category?

A: Substitution validity depends on matching resistance value, temperature coefficient, number of turns, adjustment type, resistive material, mounting type, and termination style. The 3306P-1-203 satisfies all these criteria. Power rating and tolerance differences must be evaluated against specific circuit requirements.

Q: Are there mechanical compatibility concerns between these parts?

A: The 3306P-1-203 is 0.016" wider than the TC86P-1-203. PCB layout and mechanical clearance verification is required before implementation to ensure the substitute fits within available space constraints.

Q: Do both parts meet the same regulatory and compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both the TC86P-1-203 and 3306P-1-203 are ROHS3 compliant, carry MSL 1 (Unlimited) moisture sensitivity ratings, and share identical REACH and ECCN classifications.

Q: Why is the TC86P-1-203 obsolete while the 3306P-1-203 remains active?

A: The 3306P series represents Bourns Inc.'s current production line for open-frame trimmer potentiometers in this resistance and power class. The TC86 series has been discontinued in favor of the 3306 series, making the 3306P-1-203 the recommended active alternative for new designs and legacy replacements.