K12S Series surface mount key switches feature enhanced illumination, IP67 sealing

C&K Components, a leading international supplier of tact switches, toggle and rocker switches, and smart card interconnect devices, has expanded its K12S Series harsh environment surface mount key switch family with improved illumination, environmental sealing and actuation options.

By employing an advanced material that provides better transparency while withstanding high reflow temperatures, C&K has enhanced the luminosity of the K12S Series switches, with a choice of six standard LED colors to accommodate specific customer application requirements.

The K12S Series key switches now include a version sealed to IP67 standards for use in outdoor applications such as automotive door locks, trunk openers, motorbike handles and other environments likely to encounter harsh conditions. An IP40 version of the switch is available for less demanding environments.

Expanding the current range of SPST, single-contact design options, C&K now offers the K12S Series switches in DPST, dual-contact versions with a double-step actuation of 6/12N. “The unique design of the K12S Series separates the electrical and mechanical functions of the switch,” explained Regis Clement, Product Manager at C&K Components. “By configuring different combinations of spring mechanisms and cam designs, we are able to customize the switches’ travel distance, actuation force, and contact position to meet a variety of different customer requirements within the same form factor.”

The entire line of K12S Series key switches feature gold-plated, self-cleaning contacts with low contact resistance (<100mΩ), 100N overload resistance and life cycles of 1,000,000. The switches’ low PCB-mounted profile makes them ideal for mechatronics design engineers to integrate into complex sub-assemblies requiring precise control for joysticks, remote controls, vehicle cabins and forklift/crane controls. In the DPST configuration, the K12S Series meets safety requirements for demanding applications in medical, military, avionics or industrial equipment.

Available in tape-and-reel packaging of 900 pieces, the surface-mount K12S Series key switches are compatible with automated pick-and-place equipment.

Attached File | K12S catalog pages - PDF (355.73 Kb)