ALPS Develops and Commences Mass Production of “SKST Series” Quiet Middle-Stroke TACT Switch

Realizing Both Quiet Operation and Excellent Operation Feeling

Munich, Germany, August 06, 2014 – ALPS ELECTRIC EUROPE GmbH has developed the “SKST Series” TACT Switch™ (Quiet Middle-Stroke Type) for automotive use, ideal for controls inside vehicle cabins. Mass production is already underway. Automobiles contain all kinds of switches that contribute to vehicle comfort and safety. Typical examples are controls for HVAC and audio systems located in the center console and controls for side mirrors and hands-free calls located in the steering wheel. Besides compatibility with the tough conditions of the vehicle cabin environment, for example in terms of temperature and vibrations, these switches need to produce a premium operating sound and feel consistent with the image each automaker is trying to convey. In electric vehicles, where there is no engine noise, there is also a need to preserve the quietness of the cabin. Quiet operation and excellent operation feeling are therefore important factors in the development of comfortable cabin environments. Responding to these market needs, ALPS has now developed and commenced mass production of the SKST Series TACT Switch™ (Quiet Middle-Stroke Type) realizing both quiet operation and an excellent operation feeling. As a TACT Switch™ with a 4N operating force and a long operating life of 500,000 cycles, the SKST Series achieves both quietness and excellent feel, enabling comfortable environments for operation of in-vehicle systems. ALPS created the switch’s excellent operating feel by applying mechanical engineering technology which the company has built up over the years, optimizing the shape and material of metal contacts using proprietary know-how and innovating with the internal structure to achieve a 0.9mm middle stroke. The newly developed metal contacts are used in combination with a rubber stem, enabling additional enhancements in quiet operation. Furthermore, extending the pre-stroke1 compared to earlier products improves flexibility in vertical attachment of switch knobs, facilitating integration into customers’ products. 1. Pre-stroke: The stroke distance from the point of switch operation to contact with the metal contacts Features TACT Switch™ achieving both quiet operation and excellent operation feeling Both quiet operation and excellent feel achieved through development of original metal contacts 0.9mm middle stroke produces an excellent operation feeling Pre-stroke structure facilitates integration by the customer Principal Applications Control switches for automotive applications, including steering wheels and audio systems Industrial equipment, metrology equipment, etc. Specifications Model: SKST Series Dimensions (W x D x H): 8.50mm x 8.50mm x 3.95 mm Operating force: 4 N Travel: 0.9 mm Operating life: 500,000 cycles Rating (max.): 16V DC 50mA Initial contact resistance: 100 mΩ max. For more information on the new the product please visit www.alps.com/products/e/npv_product/140730_SKST/SKST_E.PDF

ALPS Electric Co., Ltd. ALPS Electric (Tokyo: 6770) is a leading global manufacturer of high-quality electronic components for mobile devices, home electronics, vehicles and industrial equipment. With the philosophy of “Perfecting the Art of Electronics” ALPS Electric supplies over 40,000 different components to about 2,000 companies all over the world. For more information, visit www.alps.com. ALPS ELECTRIC EUROPE GmbH, a subsidiary of ALPS Electric Co., Ltd., was established in 1979. Since 2013 the European Head Office has been located in Munich and as such co-ordinates the Sales, Marketing and Product Engineering activities of our branch offices in Munich, Düsseldorf, Paris, Milton Keynes, Gothenburg as well as our sales office in Milan.