C&K adds 12N illuminated keyswitch

C&K has expanded its K12S keyswitch product family with the introduction of an illuminated switch with a 12N actuation force. Touted as a first-to-market surface-mount 12N keyswitch, the K12S series offers more than 1-million actuation cycles, making them suited for industrial and automotive manufacturing applications

(Source: C&K)

The K12S Series keyswitches offer IP67-sealed versions for use in outdoor applications such as automotive door locks, trunk openers, motorbike handles, and other harsh environments. IP40-rated versions also are available for less demanding environments.

In addition, the K12S switches have been tested to use with gloves for applications like motorcycle controls. They can withstand an overload of 100N and offer abuse-proof contacts, said the company.

C&K said it has enhanced the the luminosity of the K12S Series switches by using an advanced material that delivers better transparency while withstanding high reflow temperatures. The switch series is available in seven standard LED colors to meet different application requirements. Colors include amber, green, orange, red, white, and yellow.

Thanks to different combinations of spring mechanisms and cam designs, C&K said it can customize the switches’ travel distance, actuation force, and contact position to meet different application requirements in the same form factor.

The K12S Series switches are available in double pole, single throw (DPST), dual-contact versions with a double-step actuation of 6/12N. In the DPST configuration, the K12S Series meets safety requirements for demanding applications in medical, military, avionics or industrial equipment, said C&K.

In addition, the low PCB-mounted profile makes them suited for integration into complex sub-assemblies requiring precise control for joysticks, remote controls, vehicle cabins, and forklift/crane controls.

The switches feature gold-plated, self-cleaning contacts with a low contact resistance of <100 mΩ and an 100N overload resistance. Dielectric strength is >300 Vrms and insulation resistance is >1,000 MΩ. The operating temperature range is -40°C to 85°C.