DCT switches with 3.5mm actuator optimise compact designs

Littelfuse, Inc. now offers the C&K Switches KSC2 KSC Dual Circuit Technology (DCT) Series Tactile Switches. The latest expansion to its innovative tactile switch series provides a 3.5mm actuator height, lower than the KSC4 DCT with its 5.2mm actuator height. Combined with SPDT functionality and the Electrical Height specification, the KSC2 DCT delivers unmatched functionality in a compact, space-saving design.

The DCT offers designers improved flexibility for creating slim, precise, and reliable products. Its shorter actuator travel results in faster response times, which is critical for applications needing high-speed and accurate input. Combined with its robust IP67-rated sealing and SPDT functionality, the DCT is excellent for demanding environments where compactness, reliability, and advanced functionality are paramount.

The new 3.5mm actuator height sets the DCT apart by delivering a combination of space-saving design, faster response times, and improved integration. Its compact profile is ideal for slim and compact devices where every millimetre matters, while the shorter travel distance allows quicker signal registration, enhancing device performance. Also, the reduced height enables the switch to fit seamlessly into tighter spaces, providing greater design flexibility for engineers.

"By offering a lower actuator height, we're enabling designers to achieve greater precision and faster response in smaller form factors," said Jeremy Hebras, vice president of Digital and Technical Developments, Electronics Business Unit at Littelfuse. "This addition reflects our commitment to advancing functionality while meeting the space-saving demands of today's applications."

The KSC2 DCT and KSC4 DCT tactile switches now include the Electrical Height specification, which provides a precise switching position relative to the PCB. This improvement decreases cumulative tolerance errors and simplifies integration into designs. The specification stops variability by delivering a standardised accuracy of ±0.15mm or ±0.2mm, supplying consistent and reliable functionality across applications. Also, it streamlines design processes, accelerating integration and reducing development time for engineers.

The KSC2 DCT's 6.2mm x 6.2mm footprint, compact 3.5mm actuator height, and SPDT functionality provide designers a reliable, versatile solution for modern device challenges. By including multiple electrical functions into a single, space-efficient switch, the DCT sets a new standard for tactile switch performance.

"After our first-to-the-world introduction of the DCT circuitry in the KSC4 DCT Tactile Switch Series, we are now expanding this offering to an even smaller form factor, supported by our continuously demonstrated micro-mechanism expertise," said Jeremy Hebras. "Coupled with Electrical Height functionality, this is recommended to our customers designing for tighter spaces to also benefit from this unique solution, allowing them to enrich their own device with more electrical functions, in one small and single SMT package."

The DCT is designed for various applications, including Power tools, lawnmowers, snow blowers; Electrosurgical instrument; Elevators, smoke/fire alarm systems, automation equipment; and Automotive door handles, EV charging stations.