Alps Alpine Develops the World’s Smallest Class TACT Switch™

Combining Miniaturization and High Performance to Drive Further Evolution in Electronic Devices

Munich, Germany – October 11, 2024 – Alps Alpine announces the launch of 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. Background In today’s market for electronic devices such as wearable devices and smartphones, there is a growing demand for miniaturization 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. With nearly 50 years of experience in developing and manufacturing TACT Switch™ since 1976, Alps Alpine has utilized its technological expertise to develop this new product that meets market needs. This switch supports further advancements in the electronic devices in which it is installed, expanding the possibilities of next-generation electronics. Key Features 1. World’s Smallest Class*: 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 2. Top-Level Waterproof and Dustproof Performance 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. 3. Comparable Tactile Feel to Previous Models Miniaturization 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. 4. Extended Product Lifespan 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. 5. Environmental Consideration As with our previous products, the housing of the SKUB Series is made from recycled materials. By effectively utilizing resources without compromising quality or performance, we contribute to the realization of a circular economy. Product Information Dimensions: W2.4 × D1.4 × H0.55 Operating Force: 1.6N Travel Distance: 0.11mm Maximum Rating: 12VDC 50mA Operating Life: 500,000 cycles Initial Contact Resistance: 500mΩ Protection Rating: Equivalent to IP68 Applications Smartphones, Wearable Devices, Earphones, Electronic Cigarettes *As of October 2024, based on our research.

Alps Alpine Co., Ltd., founded in 1948 in Japan, is one of the world's largest independent manufacturers of electromechanical components and in-vehicle infotainment products. Headquartered in Tokyo, Alps Alpine maintains ca. 100 group companies across the Americas, Europe and Asia. With ultimate specialist knowledge and reliability, Alps Alpine develops, produces, and markets electromechanical components as well infotainment and next generation mobility lifestyle products such as Audio, Display, Communication and Drive Assist on a worldwide basis. As a subsidiary of Alps Alpine Co., Ltd., Alps Alpine Europe GmbH has been serving European customers for more than 40 years. Based in Munich, our head office in Europe combines a team of specialists in Sales, Marketing, Engineering and R&D. Including our sales offices in many other major cities such as Duesseldorf, Stuttgart, Wolfsburg, Gothenburg, Milton Keynes, Milan and Paris, Alps Alpine Europe GmbH employs around 560 people. Alps Alpine also has manufacturing locations in Ireland, the Czech Republic and Hungary to serve primarily our European customers.