A new generation of illuminated tactile switches brings long-travel feedback, reflow soldering compatibility, and enhanced reliability to compact electronic designs—bridging the gap between performance and manufacturability.
Littelfuse has expanded its K5V Series with the launch of the K5V4 illuminated tactile switches, marking a first for reflow-compatible, long-travel SPDT (single pole double throw) components. Designed using high-temperature polyarylate (PAR) material with a 250°C thermal deformation threshold, the switch enables direct surface-mount assembly without silicone sleeves or special handling—streamlining production and cutting costs for electronics manufacturers.
The new switches directly address challenges faced by OEMs transitioning from traditional wave soldering to reflow processes, providing improved throughput and tighter design integration. They combine sharp tactile feedback, long travel, and integrated LED illumination in a compact, dust-resistant package, making them suitable for space-constrained or high-density systems where reliability and user feedback are essential.
Each K5V4 unit features a gold-plated dome contact for long-term reliability, with an audible click and 4N actuation force to ensure clear, responsive control. Configurable SPDT contacts support both normally open and normally closed functions, while high-brightness LEDs come in multiple color and bi-color variants for enhanced visibility in low-light environments.
The series offers both SMT (Gull Wing, GH) and THT (Pin-in-Paste, PIP) options, ensuring design flexibility across consumer, industrial, and professional-grade systems. Littelfuse positions the K5V4 as a key component for data centers, networking infrastructure, industrial controls, and pro audio/video equipment—applications where precision input and long-term durability are critical.
With its first-in-market combination of illumination, long travel, and reflow compatibility, the K5V4 addresses a long-standing manufacturing gap. Competing designs have typically required wave soldering, adding complexity and labor costs. By contrast, the K5V4 enables reliable, high-volume SMT integration without sacrificing tactile feel or environmental resistance.
