Keywords
Citation
(2003), "New capacitive switch offers non-contact actuation", Sensor Review, Vol. 23 No. 3. https://doi.org/10.1108/sr.2003.08723cad.006
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2003, MCB UP Limited
New capacitive switch offers non-contact actuation
New capacitive switch offers non-contact actuation
Keywords: Sensors, Capacitance
The new 1297/1897 series capacitive switch from Wimbledon-based CTL Components features programmable sensitivity levels that enable it to be actuated by a light touch or even by the mere proximity of an object (Plate 6).
The new switch manufactured in Germany by Mentor GmbH has no moving parts and thus eliminates the problems of wear and tear associated with conventional mechanical switches.
Plate 6
New capacitive switch offers non-contact actuation
The proximity capability of the switch opens up an array of possibilities for the designer as it can be located behind a plastic, glass or ceramic panel and protected from hazards such as moisture, dirt and vandalism.
This makes it especially suitable for use in hygiene-sensitive applications, industrial control panels and a wide variety of equipment accessible to the general public, including vending machines, lift control panels, exhibition displays and information terminals.
The switch works by creating a localised capacitive field, which changes when an object comes near, thereby causing a disturbance of the resonant circuit. If the disturbance exceeds pre-defined limits, then a switching signal is generated.
Available in both surface-mount and through-hole versions, the capacitive switch can be specified with or without an integral two-colour LED light pipe, which displays the status of the switch in red or green.
This compact device has a maximum overall dimensions of just 10 × 10.4 × 28.5 mm, a voltage rating of 5-30 V DC and an operating temperature range of 40° to +85°C.
For further information, please contact: Avram Balabanovic, CTL Components plc. Tel: +44 (0) 20 8545 8700; Fax: +44 (0) 20 8540 0034; E-mail: ab@ctl-components.com; Web site: www.ctl-components.com