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Alps Alpine Tactile Switches
Quick Overview
Alps Electric prides itself on its advanced technology and dedication to enhancing consumer lifestyles through innovative electronics. The TACT Switch™ products are highly regarded in the electronics industry for their reliability, contact stability, wide operating temperature range, and durability. Alps Alpine’s extensive lineup includes a variety of parameters such as operating feel, direction, and mounting methods, along with compact, low-profile, and exceptionally durable designs. Catering to various markets, their models include the SKTQ Series for automotive applications, meeting the demand for middle-stroke switches, and the SKSW Series for smartphones with high waterproof performance.
Details
Alps Tactile Switch
Alps Alpine, a leading global manufacturer of electronic components, offers a variety of switches renowned for their reliability and precision. These switches are utilized in a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to automotive systems. Alps Alpine redefines value with its independently developed and meticulously perfected products. The company is committed to advancing technology by rapidly deploying innovative solutions that continually meet the needs of an ever-changing and diverse industry. In addition to switches, Alps Alpine produces actuators, sensors, encoders, and connectors, providing comprehensive input, sensing, and connectivity solutions that cater to a wide array of products both now and in the future.
Alps SKCL/SKCM Series Switches
The Alps SKCL/SKCM series switches, also known as Alps Bigfoot and Alps CM, are the most common Alps switches used in computer keyboards. First introduced in 1983, these switches have been among the first widely available, compact-design keyboard switches. Over the years, many variants have emerged, with changes in color and design. Early versions did not feature the Alps logo on the top part of the case, only on the base of the switch.
The term “ALPS” is often misused to refer to clone switches made by other companies, as well as similar-looking switches with the same keycap mount. Although most clones differ from genuine Alps switches, they are similar enough that many people cannot distinguish between them.
Elastic Contact Switches
Originally, elastic contact switches used series names beginning with “KE,” later amended to “SKE.” Eventually, Alps expanded this range to include SKP* series, with the SKPA being the only known type in this group. Alps literature lists SKE* and SKP* together under the tact switch classification. In a 1983 advertisement in Computer Design magazine, Alps divided TACT switches into two types: conductive rubber (series KE) and mechanical contact (series KH).
Alps Alpine SKRW Low-Profile TACT Switches
Alps Alpine SKRW Low-Profile TACT Switches feature a compact design with a height of 0.35mm, offering up to 1 million cycles of operating life, surface-mount construction, and a top-push operating direction. These switches have a power rating of 50mA, 12VDC, 100mΩ maximum initial contact resistance, and dimensions of 3.7mm x 0.35mm. They are suitable for headsets, wearables, and cameras.
Alps Alpine SKUA Low-Profile TACT Switches
The SKUA series offers long operating life with surface mount push-button switches providing distinct tactile feedback. These compact, thin switches meet IP67/68 dust and water resistance standards. TACT switches with a metal dome deliver a sharp push feel, while those with a rubber dome offer a soft push feel. They are ideal for consumer electronics, automotive systems, industrial electrical equipment, and more.
Alps Alpine SKRA Middle-Travel TACT Switches
The SKRA series features middle-travel TACT switches with a rubber stem, allowing travel from 0.3mm to 0.5mm and over travel. These 6.2mm x 3.5mm x 5.2mm surface-mount switches have a sharp-feeling button and meet IP67 water and dust resistance standards. Applications include mobile devices, energy and industrial equipment, games, healthcare equipment, home appliances, office equipment, and automotive equipment.
Alps Alpine SKHC TACT Switch™
The SKHC series boasts extended durability of three million life cycles and offers joint or flat stem versions. With a minimum rating of 10µA, 1VDC, and a maximum rating of 50mA, 12VDC, along with 100mΩ maximum initial contact resistance, SKHC is designed for use in various applications, including measuring instruments, printers, and audio/visual equipment.
ALPS TACT Switch Types/Series
- Snap-in Type TACT Switch
- Surface Mount Type TACT Switch
- Radial Type TACT Switch
- Contactsheet™ TACT Switch
Alps switches, once used in some of the best keyboards ever made, are praised for their feel and sound. These switches bring a satisfying typing experience that many users still cherish today.
