Alps Alpine develops the smallest class TACT switch

11th October 2024

Alps Alpine

Sheryl Miles

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Alps Alpine announces the launch of the world's smallest* class surface-mount type TACT Switch, the “SKUB Series.” At just 2.4 × 1.4 × 0.55 (W×D H), this switch achieves a smaller size than previous models, while maintaining the same tactile feel and durability.

The SKUB series has an actuating force of 1.6N and a switching travel of 0.11mm. The initial contact resistance is 500mΩ. The IP68-protected component has a long service life of 500,000 switching cycles. It is designed for switching currents of 50mA at a maximum of 12VDC. Mass production began in September 2024.

Background

In today’s market for electronic devices such as wearable devices and smartphones, there is a growing demand for miniaturisation and higher performance. To meet this demand, electronic components on circuit boards are increasingly densely packed, making it essential to reduce the size of each component.

With nearly 50 years of experience in developing and manufacturing TACT Switch since 1976, Alps Alpine has utilised its technological expertise to develop this new product that meets market needs. This switch supports further advancements in the electronic devices in which it is installed, expanding the possibilities of next-generation electronics.

Key features

1. World’s smallest class*:

The switch boasts a compact size of 2.4 × 1.4mm, making it approximately 17% smaller in volume than our previous smallest model, the SKTA Series. It is also about 20% lighter, contributing to reduced environmental impact through its lighter weight.

SKUB Series: 2.4 × 1.4 × 0.55mm (W×D×H), 0.0024g

SKTA Series: 2.6 × 1.6 × 0.53mm (W×D×H), 0.003g Top-level waterproof and dustproof performance

2. Top-level waterproof and dustproof performance

By enhancing the sealed structure, the SKUB Series achieves IP68-level waterproof and dustproof performance, the highest standard. It is ideal for products requiring waterproofing, such as wearable devices, earphones, and hearing aids. Comparable tactile feel to previous models

3. Comparable tactile feel to previous models

Miniaturisation often weakens the tactile “click” feeling when pressed, but improvements to the spring structure solve this issue, providing the same tactile feel as the SKTA Series. The switch offers a comfortable user experience, even in wearable devices or earphones where tactile feedback is crucial for operation without visual cues. Extended product lifespan

4. Extended product lifespan

With improvements to the spring structure, the SKUB Series boasts a lifespan of 500,000 operations, one of the highest among our products. This ensures stable performance over the long term, even in devices where the switch is frequently used. Environmental consideration

5. Environmental consideration

As with our previous products, the housing of the SKUB Series is made from recycled materials. By effectively utilising resources without compromising quality or performance, we contribute to the realisation of a circular economy.