Tactile Switches

Image Part Number Description / PDF Quantity Rfq
B3F 1000G

B3F 1000G

Waldom Electronics

KEYSWITCH

1088

B3WZ4007A

B3WZ4007A

Waldom Electronics

KEYSWITCH

1500

B3WZ0029M

B3WZ0029M

Waldom Electronics

SW 2GREEN LED WHITE CAP

594

B3FZ0001M

B3FZ0001M

Waldom Electronics

KEY SW. IN AMMO PACK (1K MIN)

874

B3MZ0001C

B3MZ0001C

Waldom Electronics

KEY SWITCH

6377

B3WZ0109B

B3WZ0109B

Waldom Electronics

MANUAL SWITCH

0

B3W1100S

B3W1100S

Waldom Electronics

KEYSWITCH

0

B3U 0024A

B3U 0024A

Waldom Electronics

TACTILE SWITCH

0

B3WZ0045B

B3WZ0045B

Waldom Electronics

SW YELLOW LED WHITE CAP

0

Tactile Switches

1. Overview

Tactile switches are momentary contact switches designed to provide tactile feedback when actuated. They are fundamental components in human-machine interfaces, enabling precise input registration through mechanical deformation. These switches play a critical role in modern electronics by ensuring reliable user interaction in devices ranging from consumer gadgets to industrial equipment.

2. Main Types and Functional Classification

TypeFunctional CharacteristicsApplication Examples
PCB Mount Tactile SwitchesLow profile, solderable terminals, short travel distanceRemote controls, mobile phones
Panel Mount Tactile SwitchesFront-panel installation, threaded bushingIndustrial control panels
Surface Mount Technology (SMT)Miniaturized, automated assembly compatibleWearable devices
Heavy Duty Tactile SwitchesHigh current rating, reinforced contactsMedical equipment

3. Structure and Components

Typical tactile switch construction includes: - Actuator: Dome-shaped plunger with textured surface - Contact System: Gold-plated phosphor bronze contacts - Housing: High-temperature resistant thermoplastic (e.g., LCP) - Spring Mechanism: Stainless steel leaf spring for tactile feedback - Terminals: Solder pins or surface-mount pads

4. Key Technical Specifications

ParameterTypical RangeImportance
Rated Current0.01-0.5ADetermines circuit compatibility
Operating Voltage5-250VDCSafety and insulation requirements
Actuation Force0.5-5.0NUser experience optimization
Electrical Life50,000-500,000 cyclesProduct longevity assessment
Contact Resistance10-100m Signal integrity maintenance

5. Application Fields

Primary industries include: - Consumer Electronics: Keyboards, gaming controllers - Industrial Automation: PLC control panels - Medical Devices: Patient monitoring systems - Automotive: Dashboard controls, steering wheel buttons - Telecommunications: Network equipment interfaces

Case Study: Apple Magic Keyboard uses SMT tactile switches with 0.8mm travel distance and 50cN actuation force for optimal typing experience

6. Leading Manufacturers and Products

ManufacturerRepresentative ProductKey Features
OmronB3F SeriesIP67 rating, 500,000 cycles life
C&K ComponentsPTS645 SeriesLow profile (3.2mm), RoHS compliant
E-SwitchTL1105 SeriesSurface mount, 0.1A rating
Alps AlpineSKQH SeriesClick-type feedback, 1.5N force

7. Selection Guidelines

Key considerations: - Electrical requirements (current/voltage ratings) - Mechanical specifications (actuation force, travel distance) - Mounting method compatibility (through-hole vs SMT) - Environmental factors (temperature range, ingress protection) - Cost-volume optimization for mass production

8. Industry Trends

Emerging developments include: - Miniaturization for wearable devices (sub-2mm packages) - Enhanced reliability for automotive applications (-40 C to 125 C operation) - Integration with haptic feedback systems - Adoption of eco-friendly materials (halogen-free plastics) - Smart switch development with embedded sensors

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