Littelfuse's unique KSC DCT tact switch offers dual circuit technology and SPDT functionality

Littelfuse's unique KSC DCT tact switch offers dual circuit technology and SPDT functionality for superior safety

Available in SMT and IP67, providing efficient performance for automotive, consumer, medical and industrial applications

CHICAGO, Oct. 29, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Littelfuse, Inc., an industrial technology manufacturing company committed to powering a more sustainable, connected and safer world, announces the launch of the C&K Switch KSC DCT Series Tactile Switches. The KSC DCT (Dual Circuit Technology) Series is a sealed IP67-rated momentary action tactile switch that uses surface mount technology (SMT) and is designed to provide users with a highly adaptable and good tactile feel.

The KSC DCT is the first tact switch to offer single-pole double-throw (SPDT) functionality in a thin, compact 6.2×6.2×5.2mm footprint. The switch features a soft actuator that can withstand an operating force of 4.75N (+/-1.25N) and a lifespan of 300K cycles. The KSC DCT series is the logical choice for seamless integration into existing or next-generation designs, and provides excellent long-term reliability even in the dustiest environments. Watch the video.

KSC DCT tactile switches have the following main features and advantages:

SPDT function: A single tact switch has one input and two outputs, so the reliability is higher;

Compact size: suitable for applications with limited space;

IP67 sealing: provides high contact reliability and prevents dust and water ingress;

J-bend SMT package: Standard component mounting using typical pick-and-place machines (gull-wing terminations are also available);

Cost-effectiveness: SMT makes it ideal for high-volume applications.

KSC DCT Series Tactile Switches are ideal for the following applications:

Transportation: car door handles, electric vehicle charging station devices, two-wheelers and three-wheelers;

Consumer electronics: power tools, lawn mowers, snow blowers, home appliances;

Medical devices: electrosurgical equipment, portable medical equipment;

Industrial applications: elevators, fire alarm equipment.

“Littelfuse engineers designed the unique capabilities of the Dual Circuit Technology tact switch into an extremely small form factor, enabling electronics designers to provide safer products to their end customers,” said Jeremy Hebras, vice president of engineering digital and technology development for the Electronics Business Unit at Littelfuse. “Thanks to KSC DCT’s patented design, now everyone can accurately monitor the actual status of an electromechanical SMT tact switch, even when the switch is not in use, which helps differentiate between silent signals and equipment malfunctions.”

Today’s end-user safety needs continue to increase, requiring active fault verification. The KSC DCT tact switch adds a single-pole double-throw (SPDT) function, allowing the system to actively verify faults such as accidental door opening.

How it works

Dual Circuit Technology (DCT) has the ability to create two independent output signals within the body of a single pole double throw tact switch (SPDT). KSC DCT tact switches have a common, normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO) pin. Assume that the designer chooses to use both the NC and NO circuits. In this case, the switch provides a toggle signal and the designer can use both circuits to define the logic of the signal and take actions based on the defined logic. For example, in an automotive door handle, both the NC and NO circuits are required before any decision is made. When the logic is at rest, the NC contact is closed and the NO contact is open. When the user presses the button, nothing changes until the NC contact opens and the NO contact closes. View the KSC DCT Tact Switch Series Application Brief for more information.

Availability

The KSC DCT tactile switches are available in tape and reel packaging with a minimum order quantity of 1,400. Sample requests are accepted through authorized Littelfuse distributors worldwide.

More information

Additional information is available on the KSC DCT Tactile Switch product page. For technical questions, please contact Max Shi, Global Product Manager, at mshi@littelfuse.com.