Tact switches, as key components widely used in electronic devices, are favored for their ease of operation, compact structure, and quick response. To cater to various usage environments and requirements, tact switches have evolved into multiple types, each designed to meet the demands of diverse and complex scenarios. This article will primarily explore the types of tact switches offered by Kangerle Electronics, and provide a detailed explanation of their features and applications.

I. Standardtact switches

Standard tact switches are the most common type, typically used in electronic devices with relatively simple environmental requirements. Their design emphasizes tactile feedback and compact structure, providing reliable switch functionality under normal conditions. These switches come in various shapes and specifications, allowing users to select the appropriate model based on specific needs.

1. Top-push tact switch:

– Features: Operated by vertical pressing, offering clear tactile feedback and stable action.

– Models: Ultra-miniature series, 3×4 series, 3×6 series, 4.5×4.5 series, 6×6 series, etc.

– Applications: Commonly used in devices requiring direct pressing, such as calculators, remote controls, keyboards, and audio equipment.

2. Side-push tact switch:

– Features: Activated by pressing from the side, suitable for installations with limited space.

– Models: Ultra-miniature series, side-push series, etc.

– Applications: Widely used in portable devices like mobile phones, MP3 players, and routers.

3. Long-travel tact switch:

– Features: It offers a longer press travel for more pronounced feedback, ideal for operations requiring clear tactile sensation.

– Models: 4.5×4.5 series, 6×6 series, 12×12 series, etc.

– Applications: Often used in automotive electronics, industrial control panels, and other devices that require strong feedback.

4. Bracket-mounted tact switch:

– Features: Designed with brackets for easy installation and secure mounting, commonly used in devices with larger panels.

– Models: Bracket series.

– Applications: Suitable for household appliance control panels, office equipment, and other large devices.

5. Horizontal tact switch:

– Features: Installed horizontally, suitable for designs with specific installation requirements.

– Models: Bracket series, side-push series, 4.5×4.5 series, 6×6 series, 6.2×6.2 series, etc.

– Applications: Commonly used in electronic devices with special installation needs, such as certain industrial automation equipment.

6. Ultra-miniature tact switch:

– Features: Extremely small size, ideal for use in miniature electronic devices.

– Models: Ultra-miniature series.

– Applications: Widely used in smart wearables, medical electronic devices, automotive ETC systems, and other applications where space is critical.

II. Waterproof tact switches

With the advancement of technology, many electronic devices need to operate in harsh environments such as high humidity, dust, or chemical corrosion. To meet these demands, waterproof tact switches have been developed. Kangerle Electronics’ sealed tact switches feature a sealed design with IP67 dustproof and waterproof capabilities, ensuring stable performance in harsh conditions. These switches are primarily used in automotive components and are widely sold both domestically and internationally. Sealed tact switches can be divided into two main types: through-hole and surface-mount.

1. DIP waterproof tact switch:

– Features: This type of switch is connected securely by inserting the terminals into holes on the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) and soldering them in place.

– Models: 4.5×4.5 series, 6×6 series, 6.2×6.2 series, 7.2×7.2 series, 8×8 series, 12×12 series, etc.

– Applications: Suitable for situations requiring strong mechanical fixation, such as automotive electronics, outdoor equipment, and industrial control systems.

2. SMD waterproof tact switch:

– Features: Terminals are directly mounted on the PCB surface and soldered, suitable for fast assembly on automated production lines.

– Models: 4.5×4.5 series, 6×6 series, 6.2×6.2 series, 7.2×7.2 series, 8×8 series, 12×12 series, etc.

– Applications: Commonly used in compact and lightweight electronic products, such as smartphones, laptops, medical devices, and automotive control panels.

In addition to their advantages in various environments, sealed tact switches can be packaged and transported individually or using tape-and-reel methods. The tape-and-reel packaging secures the switches and maintains spacing, making transportation and installation more convenient and efficient.

III. Illuminated tact switches

Illuminated tact switches are a type of switch that integrates an LED within the switch, which lights up when pressed, providing status indication or lighting functions. This type of switch not only performs the functions of a conventional tact switch but also indicates the operation status through illumination, making it particularly suitable for operations in low-light or nighttime environments. Depending on the specific needs, illuminated tact switches can be further divided into the following categories:

1. Single-color Illuminated tact switch:

– Features: Integrated with a single-color LED, typically red, green, or blue, which lights up when the switch is pressed.

– Models: 6×6 series, 6×7 series, 7×7 series, 8×8 series, 10×10 series, etc.

– Applications: Widely used in household appliances, instruments, automotive electronics, and other devices requiring simple status indication.

2. Bi-color Illuminated tact switch:

– Features: Integrated with two colors of LED, capable of indicating different statuses or functions through color changes.

– Models: 6×6 series, 6×7 series, 7×7 series, 8×8 series, 10×10 series.

– Applications: Commonly used in devices that require multiple status indicators, such as volume control in audio equipment, mode switching in medical devices, etc.

3. Multi-color Illuminated tact switch:

– Features: Integrated with multiple colors of LED, supporting a variety of color changes, providing richer status indications or visual effects.

– Models: 6×6 series, 6×7 series, 7×7 series, 8×8 series, 10×10 series.

– Applications: Suitable for devices requiring multiple status indications or strong visual effects, such as game controllers, smart home devices, etc.

IV. Selecting and Applying tact switches

When selecting tact switches, besides considering the operation method and functional characteristics of the switch, it is also important to choose the appropriate type based on the specific usage environment. For instance, standard tact switches are sufficient for household appliances used in regular indoor environments. However, for devices used in outdoor or industrial environments, IP67 waterproof tact switches with dustproof and waterproof features should be prioritized to ensure long-term stable operation. For devices requiring a status indication, illuminated tact switches can be chosen to enhance user experience and operational convenience.

Additionally, the design and installation method of the tact switch should match the overall structure of the device. For compact electronic devices, ultra-miniature or surface-mount tact switches are ideal choices, while through-hole tact switches should be selected for devices requiring strong fixation.

Conclusion

Kangerle Electronics offers a wide variety of tact switches, each with diverse functions. From conventional types to sealed types and different operation and installation methods, each type has its unique advantages and applicable scenarios. Understanding and selecting the right tact switch during the design and selection of electronic devices can significantly enhance the user experience, reliability, and longevity of the device. As electronic technology continues to advance, the range and functionality of tact switches will continue to expand, providing reliable solutions for more application scenarios.