TC86W-1-501 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TC86W-1-501 is a 500 Ohm, 0.3W through-hole trimmer potentiometer manufactured by Bourns Inc. as part of the Trimpot® TC86 series. This component features cermet resistive material, side adjustment, and PC pin termination for through-hole mounting applications. The product is currently obsolete, making identification of suitable substitute components essential for ongoing design support, maintenance, and production continuity.

Substiute Parts

TC86W-1-501

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 721TC86W-1-501 Datasheet

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3306W-1-501

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 54683306W-1-501 Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TC86W-1-501 is determined by the following critical parameters:

Resistance value (500 Ohms), adjustment type (side adjustment), mounting method (through hole with PC pins), and resistive material composition (cermet) are non-negotiable substitution criteria. The temperature coefficient (±250ppm/°C) and number of turns (1) must remain constant.

The 3306W-1-501 qualifies as a functional substitute based on matching resistance, adjustment type, mounting configuration, and resistive material. However, the power rating differs: the substitute operates at 0.2W versus the original 0.3W specification. This reduction in power handling capacity must be evaluated against circuit requirements. The tolerance specification also differs (±25% versus ±20%), representing a wider acceptable resistance range in the substitute component.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3306W-1-501 is an active production component from Bourns Inc., providing supply continuity for the obsolete TC86W-1-501. Both components maintain ROHS3 compliance and identical MSL ratings, supporting equivalent environmental and regulatory requirements.

Selection of the 3306W-1-501 requires verification that circuit power dissipation does not exceed 0.2W at the trimmer potentiometer. The reduced power rating represents the primary design constraint. The wider tolerance specification (±25% versus ±20%) may impact circuit performance in applications requiring tighter resistance accuracy.

Physical dimensions differ slightly between the two components. PCB layout and mechanical clearance must accommodate the 3306W-1-501 footprint (0.268" x 0.319" versus 0.303" x 0.268").

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3306W-1-501 directly replace the TC86W-1-501 in all applications?

A: Direct replacement is possible only when circuit power dissipation at the trimmer potentiometer does not exceed 0.2W. Applications operating at or near the original 0.3W specification require circuit redesign or alternative component selection.

Q: What is the impact of the tolerance difference between these components?

A: The TC86W-1-501 maintains ±20% tolerance while the 3306W-1-501 operates at ±25% tolerance. In circuits where precise resistance values are critical, the wider tolerance of the substitute may introduce measurable performance variation.

Q: Are there physical mounting differences?

A: Both components use through-hole PC pin termination and side adjustment. However, face dimensions differ: TC86W-1-501 measures 0.303" x 0.268" while 3306W-1-501 measures 0.268" x 0.319". PCB layout verification is necessary to confirm mechanical compatibility.

Q: Do both components meet the same regulatory requirements?

A: Yes. Both the TC86W-1-501 and 3306W-1-501 are ROHS3 compliant with MSL rating 1 (unlimited moisture sensitivity level), supporting equivalent environmental and regulatory compliance.

Q: Why is the TC86W-1-501 listed as obsolete?

A: The TC86W-1-501 has been discontinued by Bourns Inc. The 3306W-1-501, as an active production component, represents the current manufacturing alternative for this resistance and adjustment type combination.