ALPS Presents Compact, Two-Way Detection Switches

Duesseldorf, Germany, December 02, 2004 – ALPS Electric Europa GmbH has developed the SSCM series of highly versatile, high-contact-reliability two-way detection switches. ALPS will begin shipping samples in the second half of December. Today, mobile devices such as digital cameras and digital video cameras have become significantly smaller and thinner, while at the same time incorporating an increasing number of functions. In order for device manufacturers to incorporate these functions, it is necessary that internal components also become smaller and thinner, while offering high reliability. The SSCM series detection switches provide detection of mechanism operation and recording media insertion in compact mobile devices, as well as detection of change from zoom to wide angle, photography mode settings, and other operations in digital cameras. Because the SSCM series detects movement in two directions, it can detect both sliding and rotating operations. This feature will allow the development of devices that are more convenient and highly versatile. Using its proprietary high-precision processing technology, ALPS used fixed contact points on both the left and right sides of the switch to achieve a clip type, two-sided sliding contact point structure. This structure makes the SSCM series resistant to vibration, impact, and contaminants such as particles and dust, which makes these devices highly reliable. The SSCM series is compact and thin, with dimensions of 5.0mm x 4.0mm x 1.5mm (W x L X H), which gives device manufacturers greater freedom of design. Features ALPS’ precision processing technology was used to ensure that these detection switches display high contact reliability and versatility Two-way detection makes devices that use them more convenient and highly versatile. ALPS’ proprietary clip type, two-sided sliding contact point structure confers high contact reliability. The SSCM series detection switches are compact and thin. These devices are reflow-soldering compatible. Principal Applications Detection of mechanism operation in DVDs, digital cameras, and other devices Detection of mode change and zoom operation in digital cameras and digital video cameras. For more information on the SSCMH series please visit http://www3.alps.co.jp/npv_pdf/sscm_e.pdf

ALPS Electric Co., Ltd. Since its establishment in 1948 ALPS has grown as a comprehensive manufacturer of electronic components. At present ALPS is creating innovative high-value-added products in its main business segments – Components, Magnetic Devices, Communications, Peripheral Products, and Automotive Electronics – which are contributing to the advance of a digital society. ALPS is a global company that carries out its operations with 23 production bases in 8 countries as well as 60 sales bases in 13 countries. Consolidated net sales in the year ended March 31, 2003 amounted to YEN 602 billion. ALPS Electric Europa GmbH, a subsidiary of ALPS Electric Co., Ltd., was established in 1979. Since 1989 the European Head Office is located in Düsseldorf. A team of specialists is working here in Sales, Marketing, and Product Engineering. From Düsseldorf the activities of our branch offices in Munich, Paris, Milton Keynes and the European distribution are co-ordinated. ALPS Nordic AB, a 100 percent subsidiary of ALPS Electric Europa GmbH, located in Sweden, is servicing the Scandinavian market.