Miniature surface-mount switches deliver big-switch reliability and flexible configurations

06-06-2023 | Omron | Industrial

New D2LS miniature surface-mount micro switches from Omron combine tiny dimensions with a positive mechanical action comparable to larger switches, ensuring exceptional long-term durability.

The contacts are SPST-NO configuration. When employed in applications such as game controllers, computer mice, smart-home switches, and small handheld devices, the switches provide a high-quality user experience with the feel and reliability of larger microswitches.

Created for surface mounting, the series can readily replace larger surface-mount switches such as tactile switches. Housed in an 8.6mm x 4.8mm plastic package just 3mm high, they can be obtained with or without integral 0.6mm mounting bosses. The no-boss option permits an extremely low mounted height on substrates such as FPC.

Further options include a selectable activation force of 0.6N or 1.2N, allowing designers to optimise the sensitivity for the application's needs. One example is to ensure the side switches of a computer mouse or game controller are as responsive and easy to activate as the main switches.

Also, the series can respond more quickly to user actions with a shorter distance to the turn-on point than typical tactile and standard rubber switches employed in game controllers. Furthermore, the mechanism has a smooth snap action that minimises fatigue for enhanced comfort and longer gameplay. Unlike standard rubber switches, activation produces a synchronised audible click, providing a confident user experience.

The series is in production now and offered in three durability grades, rated for five million, ten million, and 20 million operations with stable activation force throughout the component lifetime.

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By Seb Springall

Seb Springall is a seasoned editor at Electropages, specialising in the product news sections. With a keen eye for the latest advancements in the tech industry, Seb curates and oversees content that highlights cutting-edge technologies and market trends.