Littelfuse Unique KSC DCT Tactile Switches Provide Dual-Circuit Technology with SPDT Functionality, Superior Safety

CHICAGO, October 15, 2024 -- LITTELFUSE, Inc. (NASDAQ: LFUS), an industrial technology manufacturing company empowering a sustainable, connected, and safer world, announces the C&K Switches KSC DCT Series tactile switches. The KSC DCT (Dual Circuit Technology) series are sealed IP67-rated, momentary-action tactile switches for surface-mount technology (SMT), designed to give users a positive, adaptable tactile feeling.

The KSC DCT is the first tactile switch to offer single pole double throw (SPDT) functionality in a small 6.2 x 6.2 x 5.2 millimeters size. The switches feature a soft actuator that withstands an operating force of 4.75N (+/-1.25N) and has a lifespan of 300K life cycles. The KSC DCT Series is a logical choice for seamless integration into existing or next-generation designs, providing outstanding, long-term reliability in even the dustiest environments. 

The KSC DCT Tactile Switches offer these key features and benefits:

●SPDT Functionality: Added reliability due to one input and two outputs in a single tactile switch.

●Compact Footprint: Fits applications where space is limited.

●IP67 Sealing: Provides high contact reliability, protecting against dust and water ingress.

●J-Bend SMT Package: Enables standard assembly mounting using typical pick-and-place machines. (Gullwing-type terminations are also available.)

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

The KSC DCT Series Tactile Switches are ideally suited for:

●Transportation: Automotive door handles, EV charging station units, two- and three-wheelers.

●Consumer Electronics: Power tools, lawnmowers, snow blowers, home appliances.

●Medical Devices: Electrosurgical instruments, portable medical devices.

●Industrial Applications: Elevators, fire alarm equipment.

“By designing the unique functionality of dual-circuit technology tactile switches into such a small form factor, Littelfuse engineers are enabling electronics designers to provide their end-customers a journey to a safer world,” said Jeremy Hebras, Vice President of Digital & Technical Developments, Electronics Business Unit Engineering, at Littelfuse. “Thanks to the KSC DCT’s patented design, everyone can now precisely monitor the actual status of an electromechanical surface-mount technology tactile switch, even when the switch is not in use, which helps discriminate a silent signal versus a device malfunction.”

The increased safety needs of today’s end users require active failure verification: with the added single pole double throw (SPDT) functionality, the KSC DCT tactile switch allows a system to actively verify failures, like an unwanted door opening.

How it works: Dual-Circuit Technology (DCT) is a feature that creates two independent output signals inside the body of one tactile switch–Single Pole Double Throw (SPDT). The KSC DCT tactile switch has a Common, Normally Close (NC), and Normally Open (NO) pin. Suppose the designer chooses to use both NC and NO circuitry. In that case, it provides a Changeover signal that allows the designer to use both circuitries to define the logic of the signal and take actions based on the defined logic. In an automotive door handle, for example, both NC and NO circuitries are used before making any decision. The logic is at rest; the NC contact is closed while the NO contact is open. When a user pushes the button, nothing will happen until the NC contact is open and the NO contact is closed. )

Availability

The KSC DCT Tactile Switches are available in tape and reel format in quantities of 1,400. Sample requests are accepted through authorized Littelfuse distributors worldwide. For a listing of Littelfuse distributors, please visit Littelfuse.com.