Switches improve design of wearable electronics

5th June 2017

C&K

Alice Matthews

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Datasheet

A new series of switches has been announced by C&K, aimed at giving designers of portable electronics the low profile, reliable and long-lasting switches they need to power the next-gen of devices. C&K’s KXT3 series were built to meet the specific needs of those engineers creating hearing aids, smart watches, activity trackers, action cameras and gesture controllers.

With C&K’s KXT3 series, the central location of the soldering pads gains space on the PCB or the FPC – all while staying within the switch width, meaning that designers can shrink the product or have additional space to work with. Additionally, the KXT3 switch series have a laser-welded top film for water and dust ingress – and are available in four actuation forces, ranging from 1-3.3N.

“Today’s portable and wearable electronics are becoming smaller than those from previous generations – and designers need modern switch solutions that recognise that reality in a way that doesn’t lower quality or reliability,” said Jérôme Smolinski, Global Product Manager for Tactile Switches at C&K. “Our KXT3 series will help product designers create excellent products that stand out to consumers.”

The KXT3 series features a redesigned overmoulded base and integrates a new dome. The switches are 3.5mm in length, 2.0mm in width and 0.6mm high; are RoHS compliant; and built Halogen free. The new configuration of the switch enables it to provide a large range of force with stable tactile – and to accommodate multiple domes over time, as needed.