Water-proof Type Detector Switches for Automotive Applications

Duesseldorf, Germany, August 16, 2004 – With the SPVQ series ALPS Electric Europa GmbH now offers a range of IEC IP67 conform dust and water-proof detector switches for automotive applications or in wet environments. The switches are available as push and actuator types. They feature a stroke length with 3mm and a long operating life of 300,000 switching cycles. These Single-Pole Double Throw (SPDT) switches are rated for switching currents up to 0.1A at a maximum of 12VDC. Operating temperatures range between –40°C and +85°C. Depending on the version the SPVQ series can be mounted directly on a circuit board or is equipped with terminal contacts. The switches are housed in a PBT (polybutyleneterephthalate) case with dimensions of 13.3mm x 5.8mm x 10.65mm (L x W x H). With actuator they provide a height of 13.65mm. The silver-plated bronze terminal contacts ensure a high level of thermal resistance and offer a low initial contact resistance with a maximum of 500mOhm. The switches are lead-free and meet the ELV (End-of-Live Vehicle) and RoHS (Restriction on Hazardous Substances) directives. To guarantee reliable stable contacts against mechanical shock and vibration, the switches use double surface sliding contacts. Their contact force is made by a clip. Another advantage can be seen in the high operating force tuned to meet the needs of automotive applications: The actuating force is generated by a coil spring and levels 2N or 5.9N (actuator type). As the employed sliding contact technology provides a self cleaning of the contact the switches are suitable for low current applications in the µ-ampere range. The switches create no click sound and no click feeling.

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.