The Types Of Illuminated Tact Switch

Illuminated tact switches are tactile switches that illuminate when pressed. Depending on the application and the user's preference, illuminated tact switches come in different types, each with its own unique design and features. Some of the common types of illuminated tact switches include momentary, latching, SMD, through-hole, and dome contact. Momentary switches are only active when pressed, while latching switches remain locked in position once pressed. SMD and through-hole switches refer to the way the switch is mounted to the PCB, with SMD switches featuring surface mount technology for soldering, while through-hole switches have pins that pass through the PCB. Dome contact tact switches feature a metal dome that provides a tactile feedback to the user when pressed.

Illuminated Tact Switches are tactile switches that light up under various conditions to indicate a change in status or to provide feedback to the user. Tact switches are small, and their size makes them ideal for use in devices that have limited real estate, such as consumer electronics, appliances, and communication devices.

Illuminated Tact Switches come with different illumination options depending on the users' specific requirements, and there are generally four basic types of Illuminated Tact Switches - standard, bi-color, RGB, and LED backlight.

1. Standard Illuminated Tact Switches: Standard switches come with a single LED or a small light source. The LED is mounted in a central position in the switch housing and shines through a transparent or semi-transparent cap, making it visible from the outside. The LED used to illuminate the switch can either be a single color, typically red or green, or it can be a multi-color that produces a different color depending on the switch's activation.

2. Bi-color Illuminated Tact Switches: Bi-color switches use two LED lights, and they often have a single internal contact, consisting of a common anode or cathode, with two other contacts on the opposite side. Bi-color switches use a single contact to control two LED lights. When activated, one LED lights up, and when deactivated, the other LED lights up. Bi-color switches are often used in applications where multiple states need to be communicated, such as on/off, power on or off, or low/high.

3. RGB Illuminated Tact Switches: RGB switches use multiple LEDs to provide a range of colors. They are often used in gaming and other applications where multiple colors need to be displayed. RGB switches are typically used in high-end products, such as keyboards, gaming mice, and other devices.

4. LED Backlight Illuminated Tact Switches: LED Backlight switches are standard tactile switches with an additional LED. The LED is usually mounted behind the button and illuminates the switch cap when it is pressed. LED Backlight switches are commonly used in industrial applications, such as where strong backlighting is required.

Illuminated Tact Switches come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and they are designed to meet different specifications for use in different applications. They are commonly found in applications, such as PCB boards, consumer electronics, appliances, communication devices, vending machines, and other applications.

In conclusion, Illuminated Tact Switches are a versatile solution for any application that requires tactile feedback and illumination. The different types available depend on the application, with Bi-color and RGB switches being ideal for gaming applications while the LED backlight switches are suitable for industrial applications where strong backlighting is required. By utilizing Illuminated Tact Switches, manufacturers can increase the user experience and product value.