Alps Alpine develops the world’s smallest class TACT switch
Alps Alpine has announced the launch of what they believe to be the world’s smallest class surface-mount type TACT Switch, the “SKUB Series.” At just 2.4mm×1.4mm×0.55mm (W×D H), this switch achieves a smaller size than previous models, while maintaining the same tactile feel and durability. The SKUB series has an actuating force of 1.6N and a switching travel of 0.11mm. The initial contact resistance is 500mΩ. The IP68-protected component has a long service life of 500,000 switching cycles. It is designed for switching currents of 50mA at a maximum of 12VDC. Mass production began in September 2024.
In today’s market for electronic devices such as wearable devices and smartphones, there is a growing demand for miniaturisation and higher performance. To meet this demand, electronic components on circuit boards are increasingly densely packed, making it essential to reduce the size of each component.
The switch boasts a compact size of 2.4mm × 1.4mm, making it approximately 17% smaller in volume than our previous smallest model, the SKTA Series. It is also about 20% lighter, contributing to reduced environmental impact through its lighter weight.
SKUB Series: 2.4×1.4×0.55mm (W×D×H), 0.0024g
SKTA Series: 2.6×1.6×0.53mm (W×D×H), 0.003g
By enhancing the sealed structure, the SKUB Series achieves IP68-level waterproof and dustproof performance, the highest standard. It is ideal for products requiring waterproofing, such as wearable devices, earphones, and hearing aids.
Miniaturisation often weakens the tactile “click” feeling when pressed, but improvements to the spring structure solve this issue, providing the same tactile feel as the SKTA Series. The switch offers a comfortable user experience, even in wearable devices or earphones where tactile feedback is crucial for operation without visual cues.
With improvements to the spring structure, the SKUB Series boasts a lifespan of 500,000 operations, one of the highest among our products. This ensures stable performance over the long term, even in devices where the switch is frequently used.
As with our previous products, the housing of the SKUB Series is made from recycled materials. By effectively utilising resources without compromising quality or performance, we contribute to the realisation of a circular economy.
