SSW detect switch for safety-critical applications

C&K has announced its new SSW Detect Switch. This next generation double-pole double-throw (DPDT) device will enable customers to improve functional safety in their electronic designs. It is defined by several key features – including built-in redundancy, self-failure detection and lack of bi-stability with controlled switching time.

The SSW Detect Switch has many attributes that will be of great value for automobile industry applications, such as Electric Parking Brakes (EPB) and x-by-wire, which each require functional safety in accordance with the ISO 26262 automotive standard, as well as any other applications where low-level signals are used.

It is IP67 sealed to prevent liquid/dust ingress and provides strong mechanical and electrical stability, with the durability needed to withstand extreme operating temperatures (from -40°C to 85°C) and uncompromising operational environments.

For easy integration into its intended applications, the SSW Detect Switch is supplied on tape and reel packaging, in a surface mount format with gull wing terminations.

This vertical detect switch supports low-level switching (5V – 1mA) and has low acoustics for snap-acting devices.

It has fully switching travel compatibility with existing products on the market (making it simple to replace previous switch devices without needing to alter the fundamental design).

By using horizontal cam actuation, the switch enables short travel of mobile contacts, thereby providing faster switching times (<15ms).

The advanced, patented design ensures that contacts are working in one direction only in controlled distances, resulting in low stress and constant contact pressure.

Among the benefits of this are stable contact resistance, accurate and repeatable switching heights, plus high life expectancy (300,000 electrical cycles), even under harsh environment stress conditions.

“Strict requirements for sustained performance and reliability mean that switch manufacturers must meet the highest design standards,” said Regis Clement, Automotive Solutions Manager, C&K.

“At C&K we strive to go beyond customers’ expectations through simultaneous engineering processes, which optimize all our switch components with fully automated, innovative assembly techniques, guaranteeing product stability and unmatched quality.”