C&K Develops Hall-Effect Pushbutton Switch

The HP Series Hall-effect switch uses a magnet and an IC to detect the motion, position, or change in the field strength of the magnet to give a clean, fast, and linear output that is switched without bounce - an inherent problem with mechanical contact switches, said David Webber, director of product management for C&K Components. Because the switch employs a magnet, the electrical life is virtually limitless and the reliability is such that the switch will not experience field failures.

The Hall-effect circuit is highly sensitive and provides reliable, repetitive operation in close tolerance applications. The circuit is practically immune to environmental contaminants and can be sealed to meet IP67 specifications, making the switch ideally suited for use in harsh off-highway and industrial applications. The HP Series switch also has the ability to have redundant, linear Hall devices. Input voltage is 5VDC, with a programmable output voltage range from 0.5V to 4.5V and one or two available outputs. Actuator travel is 0.150 and operating temperature ranges from -40ºC to +85ºC.