TC86P-1-502 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TC86P-1-502 is a 5 kOhms trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Bourns Inc. as part of the Trimpot® TC86 series. This through-hole component features PC pin termination, cermet resistive material, and top adjustment capability with 0.3W power rating. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing maintenance, repair, and legacy system support.

Substiute Parts

TC86P-1-502

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1168TC86P-1-502 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3306P-1-502

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 37593306P-1-502 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TC86P-1-502 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Resistance Value: Must be 5 kOhms
• Mounting Type: Must be through-hole with PC pin termination
• Adjustment Type: Must be top adjustment
• Resistive Material: Must be cermet
• Number of Turns: Must be 1 turn
• Temperature Coefficient: Must be ±250ppm/°C
• Compliance: Must maintain ROHS3 compliance and MSL 1 rating

The 3306P-1-502 meets these core substitution criteria. While it features a lower power rating (0.2W versus 0.3W) and slightly different tolerance (±25% versus ±20%), these variations remain within acceptable substitution parameters for this component category. The dimensional difference (0.319" x 0.268" versus 0.303" x 0.268") is minimal and does not affect PCB mounting compatibility for standard through-hole applications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3306P-1-502 is the designated substitute for the obsolete TC86P-1-502. Both components are manufactured by Bourns Inc. and maintain identical compliance certifications (ROHS3, REACH Unaffected, EAR99 ECCN classification). The substitute part is currently in active production with significantly higher inventory availability (3686 pcs versus 1144 pcs for the original).

The primary design consideration is the power rating differential: the substitute operates at 0.2W compared to the original 0.3W. This substitution is valid for applications where the circuit design does not require the full 0.3W dissipation capability. For circuits operating at or near the 0.3W limit, thermal analysis and power consumption verification are necessary before implementation.

The tolerance variance (±25% versus ±20%) and minimal dimensional difference do not present substitution barriers for standard through-hole trimmer potentiometer applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3306P-1-502 directly replace the TC86P-1-502 in existing PCB designs?

A: Yes, for applications where power dissipation does not exceed 0.2W. The through-hole PC pin configuration, resistance value, adjustment type, and physical mounting footprint are compatible. Verify that your circuit design operates within the 0.2W power rating before substitution.

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

A: The TC86P-1-502 is rated for 0.3W dissipation, while the 3306P-1-502 is rated for 0.2W. If your application requires continuous operation at power levels between 0.2W and 0.3W, the substitute may not be suitable. Calculate actual power dissipation in your circuit to confirm compatibility.

Q: Are there dimensional compatibility issues?

A: The substitute is 0.016" (0.4mm) wider (8.10mm versus 7.70mm). This minimal difference does not affect standard through-hole PCB mounting. Verify clearance in your specific PCB layout if space constraints exist.

Q: Do both parts have the same compliance certifications?

A: Yes. Both the TC86P-1-502 and 3306P-1-502 are ROHS3 compliant, REACH unaffected, and classified as EAR99 for export control purposes. MSL ratings are identical at level 1 (unlimited moisture sensitivity).

Q: Why is the original part obsolete?

A: The TC86P-1-502 has been discontinued by Bourns Inc. The 3306P-1-502 from the Trimpot® 3306 series represents the current production alternative for this resistance and configuration specification.

Q: Does tolerance difference affect circuit performance?

A: The tolerance variance (±25% versus ±20%) represents a 5% wider specification band on the substitute. For precision trimmer applications, measure the actual resistance value of the substitute component to confirm it meets your circuit requirements.