TACT switches provide soft-touch joystick functionality

Foremost Electronics offer a flexible solution to HMI control functionality in the MEC Navimec switch concept providing product designers with a circular soft-touch TACT switch with joystick functionality. These switches make it possible to navigate up, down, left and right with the provision of a centre function that will typically be used as an 'enter' key. The switches are available with or without illumination, and the non-illuminated versions may be over-printed with appropriate legends.

The five-position navigational switch is perfect for data entry and motion control devices where a joystick function is required. The switch is offered as a complete module or may be provided as single parts for custom PCB mounting.

The switches are offered with standard cap colours of grey, white, black, frosted white, ultra-blue, dusty blue, aqua blue, metal dark blue, metal light grey, metal dark grey and metal Bordeaux. Many standard legend options are available including, numeric, text and symbols. Legends may be pad printed, or laser marked for heavy-duty applications. Operating temperature range for solid cap versions is -40C to +65C and for a transparent cap -40C to +85C. Height above panel is 12.20mm and mounting hope needed is 34.25mm.

Alan Vincent, sales director of Foremost, comments: “While there is a continuing trend toward touchscreen HMI control systems there will always be applications for Emech switch solutions. Navimec TACT switches are ideal for system control in low or high ambient lighting where a tactile response is essential, in dusty or humid environments where touch screens can be unreliable and especially for directional control where operation of a Navimec TACT switch is instinctive, reliable and safe.”