C&K doubles cycle life of subminiature tactile switches

C&K has extended its tactile switch product family with a long-life subminiature version. The new addition to the PTS526 Series of tactile switches offers an electrical life cycle of one-million actuations, up from 500,000 cycles, targeting high-volume consumer device applications.

The subminiature tactile switches measure 5.2 × 5.2 mm and offers a customizable thickness of 0.8 mm up to 2.0 mm. This allows customers to either add more more functionality or design smaller consumer devices, said C&K.

The surface-mount tact switches provide a choice of three actuation forces (1.6, 2.5, and 3.2 N). Key specs include a dielectric strength of >250 Vrms, insulation resistance of > 100 megohms, a max voltage of 12 VDC, contact rating of 50 mA, and contact resistance of <100 milliohms. Bounce time is ≤ 10 ms. The operating temperature range is -40°C to 85°C. The switches are sealed to IP40.

In addition, the subminiature tactile switches provide a large actuation surface for easier integration. They are suited for applications such as home automation, IoT devices, and e-cigarettes, as well as control systems for devices such as drones, e-bikes and robot vacuum cleaners.

C&K also offers the KSC TE series of miniature tactile switches with a long life cycle. These switches offer a 5-million to 10-million electrical cycle life for industrial, elevator, gaming, and computer peripherals markets. They are offered in three actuation forces and are housed in small 6.2 × 6.2 × 3.5 mm footprint.