TC86W-1-502 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The TC86W-1-502 is a 5 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

TC86W-1-502

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 1056TC86W-1-502 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

3306W-1-502

Bourns Inc.In Stock: 104923306W-1-502 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the TC86W-1-502 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Resistance Value: Must be 5 kOhms
• Mounting and Termination: Through hole with PC pins required for PCB compatibility
• Adjustment Type: Side adjustment mechanism must be maintained
• Resistive Material: Cermet composition for performance consistency
• Number of Turns: Single turn operation
• Temperature Coefficient: ±250ppm/°C stability requirement
• Power Dissipation: Minimum 0.2W acceptable for applications designed for 0.3W

The 3306W-1-502 qualifies as a substitute based on matching resistance, mounting type, termination style, adjustment mechanism, resistive material, turn count, and temperature coefficient. The power rating difference (0.2W vs. 0.3W) represents a reduction in dissipation capacity; this substitution is valid only where circuit design margins accommodate lower power handling.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The 3306W-1-502 is the identified substitute for the obsolete TC86W-1-502. Both components are manufactured by Bourns Inc. and maintain ROHS3 compliance and unlimited moisture sensitivity ratings.

Primary Consideration: The 3306W-1-502 operates at 0.2W versus the original 0.3W specification. This substitution is valid where circuit design does not require the full 0.3W dissipation capacity. Verify that the application's power budget accommodates the reduced rating.

Secondary Consideration: Tolerance widens from ±20% to ±25% in the substitute. Applications requiring tighter resistance tolerance must evaluate whether this change affects circuit performance.

Dimensional Compatibility: The substitute exhibits different face dimensions (0.268" x 0.319" versus 0.303" x 0.268"). Confirm PCB layout accommodates the revised footprint before implementation.

Availability: The 3306W-1-502 is active production status with substantial inventory availability, ensuring supply continuity for legacy system support and new builds.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 3306W-1-502 directly replace the TC86W-1-502 in all applications?

A: Direct replacement is valid where the circuit design accommodates 0.2W power dissipation and ±25% tolerance. Applications requiring the full 0.3W rating or tighter tolerance require engineering evaluation.

Q: What is the impact of the tolerance difference (±20% to ±25%)?

A: The tolerance widens by 5 percentage points. For a 5 kOhm resistor, this represents an additional ±250 Ohms of potential variation. Assess whether this affects circuit performance, particularly in precision applications.

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

A: The substitute has different face dimensions. The TC86W-1-502 measures 0.303" x 0.268", while the 3306W-1-502 measures 0.268" x 0.319". Verify PCB hole spacing and component clearance before substitution.

Q: Do both parts meet the same compliance standards?

A: Yes. Both the TC86W-1-502 and 3306W-1-502 are ROHS3 compliant, REACH unaffected, and carry MSL rating 1 (unlimited). Compliance requirements are satisfied by either component.

Q: Why is the TC86W-1-502 obsolete while the 3306W-1-502 remains active?

A: The TC86 series has been discontinued by Bourns Inc., while the 3306 series remains in active production. The 3306W-1-502 represents the current-generation equivalent within the Trimpot® product line.

Q: Can I use a higher power-rated trimmer potentiometer as a substitute?

A: Substitution criteria are based on the provided parameters. Only the 3306W-1-502 is listed as an equivalent substitute. Other components would require separate engineering analysis.