Development of New Slide Switch Enabling Design of More Compact Electronic Devices by ALPS Electric
Market Demand for thinner and smaller form factor portable electronic devices has forced components manufacturers to come up with thinner components occupying a smaller footprint. This pressure has been felt more by manufacture of compact slide switches, components that are normally placed on the side of a device responsible for performing the ON/OFF power or performing hold (Pause) function. At the same time, overwhelming number of electronic devices such as smartphones with touch panel operation functionality have begun incorporating slide switches allowing easier visual confirmation from the mobile phone’s pause function. In response to this need Alps Electric has developed a 0.7mm-high slide switch in helping the mobile product manufacturers to design more compact electronic devices such as mobile phones, digital cameras and compact music players.
The new SSAJ series slide switch by Alps comes in a dimension of 5.5mm wide x 2.5mm deep x 0.7mm high resulting in 36% reduction in volume. Furthermore, the operational knob on the newly developed SSAJ slide switch is reinforced by a metal plate inserted inside its plastic body, ensuring its durability. Additionally, the company has incorporated a unique structure with a plate spring with 1.5N operating force, resulting in an appropriate clicking sensation, enhancing the product usability. Alps have already begun the sample shipment of the new SSAJ slide switches at 100 JPY per unit. The company is planning for a monthly production of 2 million units by December of 2010.
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