ALPS Presents Surface Mount Type Encoder with Hollow Shaft and Low-profile of 1.55mm

Duesseldorf, Germany, March 02, 2005 – With the SRGP40 series ALPS Electric Europa GmbH offers surface-mountable enoders with a hollow structure of 9.23mm in diameter. The low-profile devices feature a low-profile height of only 1.55mm and a compact floor space of 17.5mm in diameter. The encoders provide an output voltage of 5VDC. Other technical specifications are a resolution of twelve output pulses, a rotational torque of 2±1mNm and an insulation resistance of up to 100MΩ at 100VDC. The voltage proof is 500VAC per minute. The actuator requires an operating force of 20N. The SRGP40 series is rated for voltages of 5VDC and has a current consumption of 1mA with resistive load. With an operating temperature range from –10°C to +60°C and an operating life of up to 100,000 cycles, the new SRGP40 series is the ideal solution for applications such as menu and data scrolling in portable audio devices, digital cameras, personal digital assistants, etc. The encoders are suitable for lead-free reflow soldering and are available in minimum packing units of 800 pieces. With the SRGP40 series ALPS follows the market trend towards higher performance at compact design and the increasing demand for larger hollow shaft diameters. The wider surface area of the hollow shaft allows for more freedom in terms of function and design; such as the incorporation of several switches like the SKRH series and SKRN series in the center of the 9.23mm hollow space. To ensure a high vibration stability, Alps has developed an optimal design and used the best materials for the shaft and encoder case. Both were selected after repeated design and material simulations. In addition, the working part and sliding surfaces are both made of plastic, giving the user a smooth rotation feeling. For more information on the new SRGP40 series please visit http://www3.alps.co.jp/npv_pdf/srgp40_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.