NKK Switches Announces IP Rated, Panel Sealed 22mm Pushbuttons

SCOTTSDALE, AZ--(Marketwire - October 22, 2009) - NKK Switches, the world's leading designer and manufacturer of innovative electromechanical switches, today announced the availability of its LB Series of 22mm panel sealed pushbuttons. These devices are designed to give engineers an easy to install, rugged and highly customizable pushbutton switch at a cost-effective price. They are ideally suited for industrial, commercial, medical, transportation, energy and test equipment.

All LB panel sealed switches are rated IP65 of IEC60529 for dust tightness and are protected from multi-directional water jets, similar to NEMA 4 and 13. The IP65 rating is facilitated by an internal silicone rubber seal and a specially designed external o-ring.

In addition, the LB series incorporates a compact body design to minimize behind panel depth. The body is also molded in combination solder lug and the .110" quick connect terminals are epoxy sealed to prevent the entry of flux, dust and other contaminants.

The series is bushing-mounted and features a snap action contact mechanism that ensures long electrical life and crisp actuation. Distinctive audible and tactile feedback on all models provides confirmation of actuation to operators.

Engineers are offered the choice between illuminated and non-illuminated models. Illuminated versions can be configured with red, green or amber Bright LEDs or with white, green or blue Super Bright LEDs. LED models can also be configured with built-in resistor options to save time and money during the assembly process. Black or gray housings can be specified

Custom legends and inscriptions can also be easily added to caps by NKK. Options include laser etching, screen printing or pad printing. Wire assemblies are also available from NKK upon request.

These 22mm panel sealed pushbuttons are available in SPDT or DPDT, momentary or alternate action. The alternate action models feature a latch-down mechanism to clearly indicate status.

Offering a choice between gold or silver contacts, the LB Series is rated 3A @ 125V AC, 3A @ 250V AC and 3A @ 30V DC for power models. Logic level devices are rated at 0.4VA maximum @ 28V AC/DC. The mechanical life rating for all momentary action configurations is 1,000,000 operations minimum and maintained action configurations is 200,000 operations minimum.

These switches are UL Recognized, C-UL Recognized and CSA Certified. All models feature a UL94V-0 flammability rated material.

A leading designer and producer of electromechanical switches, NKK Switches offers one of the industry's most extensive selections of illuminated, process sealed, miniature, specialty, surface mount and programmable switches. NKK manufactures more than 3.5 million toggle, rocker, pushbutton, slide, rotary, DIP rotary, keypad and keylock switches, each of which can be used as the foundation of a customized design. All switches are designed and manufactured to provide the quality and dependability that has made NKK the benchmark for reliability for over half a century.

NKK continues to lead the industry in responding to the needs of the marketplace with innovation, high reliability, customization and a commitment to excellence. The company provides a full suite of customization solutions that include: design, programming, printing and support. Downloadable 3D CAD models of the company's switches are available, allowing design engineers to quickly integrate complex models into their designs at no charge. NKK maintains a complete network of qualified representatives and distributors through the United States, Canada, Central and South America, Europe and Asia.

Engineers who design the human-machine interface for their products rely on the broad product line, specialized design expertise and customer support of NKK Switches. For more information, contact NKK Switches, 7850 E. Gelding Dr., Scottsdale, AZ 85260. Phone: (480) 991-0942. Fax: (480) 998-1435. Visit the NKK Web site at www.nkkswitches.com.

Contact Information: For more information, contact: Chris Walker Connect Public Relations 480-366-6015 Bob Wanless NKK Switches 480-991-0942