Illuminated Key Switch Family Adds LED Colors, Improves Actuation

C&K Components expanded its K12S series of harsh-environment, surface-mount key switch family with enhanced luminosity, including a choice of six standard LED colors. It’s also added environmental-sealing and actuation options. One particular version is sealed to IP67 standards for use in outdoor applications, such as automotive door locks, trunk openers, etc. (an IP40 version is available for less-demanding environments). The company extended its current range of single-pole single-throw (SPST), single-contact design options with dual-pole single-throw (DPST) versions with a double-step actuation of 6/12N. All key switches feature gold-plated, self-cleaning contacts with less than 100 mΩ contact resistance, 100N overload resistance, and life cycles of 1,000,000. Their low PCB-mounted profile suits them for integration into complex subassemblies that require precise control for joysticks, remote controls, vehicle cabins, and forklift/crane controls. DPST configurations meet safety requirements for medical, military, avionics, and industrial-equipment applications.

C&K COMPONENTS