Customizable graphics on backlit industrial pushbutton switches

Available from Digi-Key, C&K Components have added painted and laser-etched symbols to the backlit caps on the APB series of industrial pushbutton switches. The LEDs are available in either blue or white, with the backlit caps providing a highly visible indication that the switch has been activated or turned on. The LEDs are independent of the switching mechanism, enabling customers to control the LED to indicate whether the switch is in the up (on) or down (off) position. It can even control the level of brightness. These pushbutton switches are ideal for joystick modules and control panels used in off-road transportation and construction equipment controls, as well as a variety of other harsh industrial applications. The rugged switches feature an extended operating life of up to 1,000,000 cycles. These switches are SPST (single-pull, single-throw) momentary action devices and are available in both a threaded version that features an IP67 panel seal and an IP65 snap-in version without a panel seal. Contacts are available in a range of ratings (200mA/24VDC; 100mA/50VDC; 400mA/22VAC; 125mA/125VAC) and operating life cycles (500,000 and 1,000,000) with a resistance of 50mohmn. Rated for use in temperatures spanning -40degC to 85degC. APB series switches feature a total travel distance of 2.1mm (±0.2) and are available with an operating force of either 4N (±1N) or 2N (±0.5N). In addition to the nine symbols offered as standard parts, C&K Components also offer a fully customizable painted and laser etched cap capability that allows them to recreate virtually any symbol on the 12mm backlit caps of their switches. These switches are commonly used in applications located in poorly lit environments, which can make it difficult to identify individual functions. The backlit cap graphics provide operators with a highly visible indication of what they are activating before they turn it on. Customers can now create symbols specific to their products and the functions its switches perform.