C&K Combines Sensitive Touch and Tactile Technology In 14-Function Navigation Switch

LAS VEGAS, NV -- C&K Components, a leading international supplier of tact switches, toggle, rocker and pushbutton switches, and smart card interconnect devices, has developed a 14-function navigation switch. Designated SensoNav(TM), the switch combines sensitive touch and tactile functions while guaranteeing an extended life span of 1 million actuations per direction.

"Most navigation switches employ either a 5-way switch or a pad, but we have combined these technologies to create the only 14 function navigation switch currently available on the market," said Jerome Smolinski, senior product manager for C&K Components. "While other navigation switches aren't surface mountable or compatible with pick and place equipment, SensoNav is compatible with standard SMT lines and doesn't require power consumption, all while enhancing device functionality."

The combination of sensitive and tactile technology enables the standard 5-way center, up, down, left and right directions with tactile feedback, free direction scrolling on the sensitive level, as well as two scrolling directions with variable speeds and 4 scrolling directions with double speeds.

Typical applications for the SensoNav(TM) switch include portable games, mobile phones, MP3 players and universal remote controls.

Developed as an alternative to standard touch pad technology, the

SensoNav(TM) switch utilizes the same driver that drives the keyboard in significantly less space, and simplifies designs and reduces cost due to no additional electronics required.

Typical pricing for the SensoNav switch starts at approximately $2.00.

Engineering prototypes are available immediately, with full volume production beginning end of Q4.