You probably press the side keys of your smartphone countless times a day without a second thought. What provides that "reliable click feel" is Panasonic Industry's tactile switches (Light Touch Switches). This time, we'll focus on mobile device applications and introduce the role and product information of tactile switches.
This article contains useful information for engineers involved in user interface design around switches. If you're looking to gain terminology and basic information about tactile switches, this article is for you.
(This article can be read in approximately 4 minutes.)
Table of Contents
What is a Tactile Switch (Light Touch Switch)?
Light Touch Switches Used in Mobile Devices
Light Touch Switches Supporting Mobile Device Input
User Feedback on Light Touch Switches
Want to Know More About Light Touch Switches?
・What is a Tactile Switch (Light Touch Switch)?
A tactile switch is a momentary micro-current switch that turns ON only when pushed, and is characterized by providing tactile feedback (a "click" sensation) upon pushing. They are used as input switches for operating signals in various electronic devices.
The name Light Touch Switch is Panasonic's unique product name, which is generally called a tactile switch or push momentary switch.
Reference Articles
Have You Pressed It Too? Panasonic's Tactile Switches (Light Touch Switches)
・Light Touch Switches Used in Mobile Devices
Tactile switches (Light Touch Switches) are used as input switches for mobile devices.
Let's take a look at where Light Touch Switches are used in mobile devices.
1. Use in Smartphones
Panasonic Industry's Light Touch Switches are used in the side button and home button of smartphones. We boast a top-class share of switches installed in smartphones. The switch you press every day might just be a Panasonic switch!
Smartphones are becoming thinner, and bezels are shrinking, limiting the area where switches can be installed. This demands smaller switches. Furthermore, as battery sizes increase, making smartphones heavier, there's a concern that the device might accidentally turn ON/OFF due to vibrations when placed in a car's door pocket, for example. To prevent accidental ON/OFF from light contact, high-force types that require a firm press to activate are needed.
Since these switches are pressed many times daily, Panasonic Industry conducts durability tests simulating smartphone usage.
2. Use in Smartwatches
Light touch switches are also used in the side button of smartwatches.
Similar to smartphones, the touch panel and battery occupy a large space, limiting the area available for switches. However, ultra-small types with a width of 2mm or less, and edge-mount types that can be mounted on the edge of the PCB, can address these constraints.
・Light Touch Switches Supporting Mobile Device Input
When incorporating tactile switches (Light Touch Switches) into mobile devices, the following challenges and requirements may arise:
・Difficulty accommodating switch PCBs within limited space or height.
・Desire to achieve both a solid click feel during operation and miniaturization.
・Need for waterproof/dustproof performance suitable for mobile devices.
Can Light Touch Switches solve these challenges?
Absolutely! Light Touch Switches can solve all your problems!
Light Touch Switches offer an ultra-small lineup with widths of 2mm or less, ideal for mobile devices. They contribute to improved strength as the switch is less likely to detach when the device is dropped.
The2.6mm x 1.6mm SMD type is ultra-small, comparable to a single black sesame seed. To achieve a click feel within such a tiny switch, the movable contacts must be made small and thin.
Additionally, to prevent malfunctions from light contact due to vibrations, switches sometimes require a high operating force. If you consider the movable contact as a thin plate, making the plate thicker would increase the operating force and strengthen the click feel, but it would be difficult to fit the part into a small size. Moreover, if a thick plate is repeatedly subjected to force, it might crack. Panasonic Industry solves these challenges through simulation technology and accumulated design know-how, achieving a high operating force of 3.0N, which is technically difficult for ultra-small sizes, and a long operating life of 500,000 cycles.
Furthermore, edge-mount types can be mounted on the edge of the PCB. They eliminate the need for small sub-boards or FPCs for horizontal installation, enabling thinner set designs. The 3.4mm x 1.7mm horizontal edge-mount type has a plug-in structure for the PCB, ensuring strength.
Panasonic's Light Touch Switches are available with dustproof and waterproof capabilities. We offer a wide range of IP67 compliant switches, allowing you to select the appropriate switch based on the mobile device size and required operating force.
⇒ Tactile Switches (Light Touch Switches) Search by Specifications
・User Feedback on Light Touch Switches
Here are some comments from users who utilize Light Touch Switches in their mobile devices:
"They achieve miniaturization and thinning of products, offering a reliable switch with a crisp operating feel and durability."
"In addition to high technology, they have prompt technical support and a stable supply system, and with two-site production considering risk management, they are a trustworthy partner."
"Support services, such as proposing the optimal switch for the customer's application, are extensive."
・Want to Know More About Light Touch Switches?
Have you understood how Panasonic Industry's Light Touch Switches are playing an active role in mobile devices?
We hope this article has deepened your understanding of Light Touch Switches, even if just a little.
If you want to learn more about Light Touch Switches or see application examples, please check out our selection guide and e-book!
