Detector switch shrinks for compact devices

Alps Electric has developed the first compact detector switch for digital cameras and other compact digital devices that when depressed automatically triggers an "off" state.

Alps Electric has developed the first compact detector switch for digital cameras and other compact digital devices that when depressed automatically triggers an "off" state.

Named the SPVS Series, this two-way-operation normally closed detector switch offers strong potential in a variety of applications, and boasts compactness coupled with a long-stroke.

Sample shipments are to commence in February 2007.

Today's digital cameras, digital video cameras and other digital devices while certainly small and thin, also boast remarkably increased functionality.

This has placed growing importance on accurate detection to prevent data loss caused by operational error, such as when opening and closing the lid on a device's battery or memory card slot.

Compact detector switches, therefore, are essential in detecting movement in these mechanisms.

The SPVS Series of compact detector switches detects both vertical and horizontal movement and boasts a great variety of functional options.

The SPVS Series boasts eight formats including: Alps' first compact detector switch development, the normally closed type; the traditional normally open type that triggers an "on" state when depressed; a right or left lever placement type; and a type that allows for flexibility in mounting with or without a positioning boss.

This abundant variety of options frees design, allowing for compact detector switch configuration in various situations and conditions.

Inside this product's small frame, the detection function controlled by the stroke, from its resting point through full extension measures 1.55mm.

In normally closed types and normally open types, a 1.15mm off-stroke and a 1.20mm on-stroke are assured, respectively.

Also, by applying Alps' long-developed high-precision processing technologies, initial on/off positioning tolerance was successfully kept within a +/-0.18mm range (generally +/-0.30mm).

This small degree of tolerance absorbs inconsistencies that occur due to finger grip measurement gaps and mounting gaps from solder misalignment in manufacturing.

In addition, it contributes to improved flexibility in set engineering.

SPVS Series dimensions are 3.5 x 3.3 x 1.0mm, which makes it compatible for loading into ultracompact miniature digital devices.

Alps has realised an even smaller mounting area by adopting J-lead terminals.

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