Use Langir Capacitive Touch Switch to Save Your Time & Cost
Multi-wire leads section 0.22mm2 length 300mm, insulator layer can be other colors such as red
Supply voltage: 5vdc, 12vdc or 24vdc, operating force is 0 N. Multiple materials and multiple led selection
Case : aluminum, anodized or stainless steel 316L, Cable, length 300 mm, section depending on switch model
Connector : HE14 6V compatible with AMP/TYCO281839-3, momentary or latching
12v light sensitive switch with momentary or latching function
Langir capacitive touch switch is our newest innovation of touch sensor technology.
- Highest quality of materials making it robust with very long service life
- Customization options available for any applications
- Free quotation and consultation for all your capacitive touch switch needs
- Fast delivery and easy to install!
Custom Your Capacitive Touch Switch
The Langir capacitive touch switch is your excellent choice of modern switch equipped with the latest touch sensor technology enabling you to easily actuate it with just a touch of your finger.
Unlike the typical mechanical switch, with the capacitive touch switch, there is no need to apply much pressure to press a button. Its touch sensitive feature will instantly react to the touch of your finger. So even if you need to frequently switch the capacitive touch switch on or off, it will not put so much stress on your fingers.
At Langir, there are various types of capacitive touch switches that you can choose from such as the anti vandal capacitive touch switch, your best choice for tough switches. The Langir capacitive touch switch is waterproof and also ideal for near seawater applications due to its high corrosion resistant properties.
Langir also ensures that your capacitive touch switch needs are accommodated. This is why Langir accepts custom orders if you want something different for your capacitive touch switch whether the size, shape, color, configuration and so on.
If you are not sure what customization options you would need, Langir will be happy to assist you. Share with us your capacitive touch switch ideas and we will do our best to turn your ideas into reality. You can even discuss your own design of your capacitive touch switch if you want to, Langir will listen to you!
If you order from us, we will make sure that you will receive the best quality capacitive touch switch. Langir has a very strict quality check process. This ensures that we provide you with the optimum performance for your application.
Langir offers easy and flexible customization services for your capacitive touch switch. Your capacitive switch is shipped fast and in good condition ready for installation and use.
- Factory
- Application
FAQ’S
The new CP series capacitive switches technology senses the touch of a finger and creates an electrical charge to activate the switches.
Sure, we accept small orders & samples orders.
Yes, Langir’s capacitive touch switch has both vandal proof rated IK10 and water proof with IP67 and IP68 ratings.
We accept T/T, L/C, and Paypal. For big orders, we accept advance T/T. We accept Paypal payments for small or sample orders.
After your order is confirmed, we will dispatch your order immediately and have your order delivered within 3 days. You will also receive a confirmation about the lead time of your order.
Langir: Your Reputable Capacitive Touch Switch Supplier from China
Langir is your reputable and leading switch manufacturer from China. Our commitment to our customers is to provide world-class quality capacitive touch switches incomparable to any other.
Langir’s new CP series capacitive touch switch technology takes your switch experience to the next level.
It senses a touch of a finger that generates an electrical charge that activates the switch instantly.
The Langir capacitive touch switch has an intuitive auto-calibration function that empowers its sensor to adapt to any kind of external environment. It is specially engineered to be durable and to only require a second activation force. Its sensitivity can be compared to a touchscreen that you can operate with just a gentle touch.
Our capacitive touch switches undergo generous local and international quality inspections and certifications to meet the expectations of our customers worldwide. You can certainly trust Langir as your capacitive touch switch provider and we will never let you down.
Our ordering process is really easy and fast. When you order, your capacitive touch switch will be dispatched and delivered to you straight away. You will receive your capacitive touch switches in just a few days and you can immediately use them for your application.
Langir’s friendly sales team is always ready to take your calls and eager to answer all your inquiries. Just dial our number and we will take good care of your capacitive touch switch needs.
Capacitive Touch Switch – FAQ Guide
This guide will introduce you to the amazing capacitive touch switch and everything you need to know about it.
You will learn about its types, features, configurations, and other important information that will help you in choosing the best suitable capacitive touch switch for your application.
You will also get the answers to some of the most common questions about the capacitive touch switch.
Furthermore, you will learn what makes a top quality capacitive touch switch and what validations you should look for to confirm it.
You’ll get plenty of information from this guide, so before making a purchase, read this capacitive touch switch complete guide first.
1. What is a capacitive touch switch?
Capacitive touch switch
A capacitive touch switch is an electrical switch that has an integrated touch sensor technology that detects and reacts to changes in its capacitance field.
It is also referred to as the touch sensitive switch, touch push button, touch push button switch, touch switch, touch switch button, touch button switch, and finger touch switch.
This type of switch is used in various applications in different types of industries.
The capacitive touch switch has different types, designs, and electrical configurations just like other switches.
But because it possesses the touch sensor technology and other unique features, the capacitive touch switch is unmatched when compared to other switches.
Fun Fact: Mobile phones started the touch sensor technology is a misconception
The capacitive sensor technology may have been popularized by Apple’s multi-touch display iPhone back in 2007 but little did we know that the same technology has been around for a while and they are found in objects that we interact with daily.
It has been used in computer touchpads, digital watches, digital audio players, elevators with touch-sensitive elevator buttons, several kitchen appliances, lamps that have can dim or brighten by just touching the base, types of machinery used for production in many industries, and many more.
Casio capacitive touch sensor watch of 1983
2. Who is the inventor of the capacitive touch switch?
The capacitive touch switch’s can be credited to the development of touch screen technology.
In 1968, Eric A. Johnson, a researcher of the Royal Radar Establishment based in Malvern, England completed his report on the touch screen technology to be used for air traffic control.
Aside from this, there were already previous researches about his work on capacitive touchscreens which were completed and published in 1965 then another one in 1967.
In the 1970s, CERN engineers Bent Stumpe and Frank Beck invented a touchscreen technology that is transparent while working for a television factory.
Because of this invention, in 1973, CERN put it into other use together with its other industry partners.
Then in the 1990s, an academic research report completed by Sears describes a switch that can be activated by rotating knobs, adjusting sliders, and swiping the screen.
In 2013, there is about 90% of capacitance technology development happening in many industries which include the electrical switch manufacturers.
Eventually, because of the modern feel and durability of the capacitive touch switch, it was used in widespread applications and even preferred over mechanical switches.
Touchscreen interface in 1967
3. What are the parts of the capacitive touch switch and how does it work?
The capacitive touch switches a single electrode placed behind the non-conductive panel.
This panel is typically made from an anodized material, aluminum, or stainless steel.
The capacitive touch switch has a capacitance field cycling simultaneously and while it does that, its surface tries to detect any change in the capacitance field.
The changes can be caused by a touch of a finger or any other object that has a small electrical charge.
A human body carries a small amount of electrical charge and because of this, the capacitive touch switch reacts when you touch it.
You cause an effect or change to the capacitance field, an electrical charge that is active and contained within small wiring integrated inside the capacitive touch switch.
It immediately detects the change in the electricity flow and triggers the conforming process based on its function or what it was programmed to do.
4. Can any random objects actuate the capacitive touch switch?
No, not all objects but only those that carry electrical charges, even just a little amount of it.
Some examples of these are soap bars, peeled potatoes, oranges, lemons, and many others.
Objects that are good conductors of electricity can also work as long as you are holding them.
The electrical charge flows through the object you’re holding that gets transferred to the capacitive touch switch causing it to be actuated.
But certain objects are not good conductors and will not actuate the capacitive touch switch even if you are holding it.
These are cloth, wood, stone, or any objects considered as insulators that block the electrical flow and therefore the capacitive touch switch is not actuated.
Examples of electrical conductors
5. Can flowing water actuate a capacitive touch switch?
The direct answer is not all capacitive touch switches.
Similar to the human body, water is an electrical conductor.
Capacitive touch switch manufacturers understand that water, in its liquid form, carries positively charged atomic particles which could affect the capacitance of the switch.
There are capacitive touch switches that are now designed to disregard false triggers such as flowing water or even a drop of water on its actuator’s surface.
6. Will the capacitive touch switch actuate if you’re wearing gloves?
The answer is a yes and a no.
This is because there are gloves made of leather, cloth, wool, or rubber and these materials are insulators which does not charge or discharge electrical current.
However, if they are thin gloves, the capacitive touch switch may be able to detect your touch.
Gloves made of latex material may hold some electrical charge and can actuate the capacitive touch switch.
Electrician wearing safety gears
7. What are the different capacitive touch switch descriptions you should know before making a purchase?
There are several capacitive touch switch descriptions that you must be familiar with before making a purchase.
These descriptions are the basic information and they usually describe the outer appearance of the capacitive touch switch and other features that describes it.
- Bushing diameter size
All types of switches have a wide variety of bushing diameter sizes and the capacitive touch switch has them too.
You can find small capacitive touch switch sizing from 8mm, 10mm, or 12mm.
While other sizes are range from 16mm up to 25mm or sometimes bigger.
- Different capacitive touch switch shapes
The capacitive touch switch has different shapes as well.
Typically, you can always find the round shaped capacitive touch switch.
But manufacturers can also provide you with the shape that you need such as square, rectangle, or oval.
- A wide array of different colors and shades
Gone are the days where you’re only stuck with primary color choices.
Nowadays, you can choose from an extensive variety of colors that you think will best match the color where the capacitive touch switch will be mounted to.
You also have more options to select the color that will best represent your business or your brand.
- Actuator shape
Since this is a capacitive touch switch that is operated by simply touching its actuator, you will not find a button to press which usually has different shapes and designs.
In general, the capacitive touch switch may only have the flat, chamfer, flat plus chamfer actuator shapes available.
- Terminal type
The capacitive touch switch has in-built wires ready for installation, unlike other switches where there are metal rods to which you still need to connect wires to.
You can choose from flying leads, cable, or connector terminal options.
- Illumination types
The capacitive touch switch typically has the ring illumination design and the ring can be thin or thick.
Other illumination types may be available by request.
- Diverse LED colors
You have plenty of LED colors to choose from and it can be either single color or double color which is a combination of two different colors.
For example, for single colors, you can select whether red, blue, yellow, green, or white.
A double color would be a combination of red and blue, green and yellow, blue and white, and many other color combinations.
Examples of these are the LED touch switch and capacitive touch switch with LED.
The other descriptions of the capacitive touch switch will be discussed later on.
Some of them are very critical when choosing the right capacitive touch switch for your application.
Thick ring capacitive touch switch
8. What are the example measurements of a capacitive touch switch?
The capacitive touch switch has different diameter sizes which means that they may also have different measurements.
For example, a 16mm may have a bushing length measuring 25mm and 13.50mm behind the panel.
A 19mm could have a 25mm bushing length as well but would measure 19mm behind the panel.
Then a 25mm has a 25mm bushing length too but will measure 25mm behind the panel.
Capacitive touch switch dimensions
9. Is the capacitive touch switch considered a true capacitive touch push button?
The capacitive touch switch is also referred to as the true touch switch.
There are three different sensing types:
- Static sensor – This type has a continuous output signal while the sensor is actuated.
- Dynamic sensor – The output signal is set within several milliseconds.
- Toggle – The output signal stays on until you actuate the sensor area once again.
The capacitive touch switch possesses a sensing distance technology that detects the speed of touch and the size of the damping factor.
For instance, a finger can achieve a higher sensing distance if it’s fast approaching when compared to a slow approaching finger.
While a hand achieves a better damping factor because it has a bigger surface.
Unlike the other electrical switches, the capacitive touch switch does not need a physical force to be actuated.
It only needs a small amount of electrical charge from your body which is transmitted to the switch that actuates it instantly.
This is why the capacitive touch switch is the true touch switch; it gives you the modern approach to switch actuation that matches with the technology trends of today.
10. What advantages does the capacitive touch switch will provide you?
There are plenty of advantages why capacitive touch switches should be preferred over other types of switches in the market.
Here are some of its best advantages and unique features that prove its superiority among others:
- Ease of installation
- Very long service life
- Multipurpose
- Cost effective
- Waterproof and vandal proof features
- Dust proof, easy to clean surface
- Different bushing diameters
- Flexibility to be mounted into any panel or screen materials
- Led touch sensor integration switches for commercial use
- Can be configured as sensors for short distance proximity
- Autocalibration for recurring processes
- LED indicator types provide easy to located feature
- Prevents operator fatique for repeated operation because it does not need significant pressure to actuate
- A sealed unit that prevents any infiltration of outside elements that can cause damage to the switch
- It does not have any moving parts, which means that it does not have any mechanical parts that could rust or deteriorate over time
- Because it does not have any moving parts, it strengthens its durability and prolongs its service life
- The wirings are built in, removing the need to solder wires or to apply adhesive
As you can see, the capacitive touch switch offers a long list of advantages and there could be more that’s not included here.
The capacitive touch switch is worth the investment for your business or even for your personal use.
Different kinds of capacitive touch switch
11. What are the similarities and differences between the capacitive touch switch and the piezo switch?
To begin with, comparing the capacitive touch switch and the piezo switch, let’s talk about their similarities first.
Both the capacitive touch switch and the piezo switch are:
- Touch actuated, there are no buttons to press
- They usually have a flat surface for their actuators.
- Do not have any moving mechanical parts
- They are sealed switches hence waterproof
- Wires are integrated, soldering or adhesive is not required
For their differences, the piezo switch:
- Has two layers of materials for its actuator, the outer layer is a metallic material while the inner layer is ceramic.
- Relies on the piezoelectric effect which is the bending of the piezo ceramic.
- Requires a significant amount of pressure to bend the inner ceramic layer to actuate it.
While the capacitive touch switch:
- Has one electrode installed behind a non-conductive panel
- Relies on the human body’s electrical charge to affect the capacitance field.
- Only needs a slight touch of a human finger to actuate the switch.
As you can see, both of them have good features which could be ideal for your application needs.
Capacitive touch switch and Piezo switch
12. Are there special kinds of capacitive touch switches?
Yes, there are.
Their capacitive touch switch has special kinds that are built to be used for a specific environment or a particular manner of usage and these are:
The metal capacitive touch switches or metal touch switch are made from either anodized aluminum or stainless steel.
The stainless steel capacitive touch switch is the most impressive among the rest because it provides better resistance from rust and other damage causing elements.
Two types of stainless steel grades are used to make the stainless steel capacitive touch switch.
These are the stainless steel grade labeled as 304 and the other one is 316L.
They differ in metal and mineral compositions which is why they are labeled using a type of grading system.
Since they have different compositions, they also provide unique protection against rust formation and other outside elements that can cause deterioration.
The stainless steel with the 304 grade is the one primarily used in many applications including for manufacturing the capacitive touch switch.
It is the most common type of stainless steel that, apart from the capacitive touch switch, is also used in many industries such as utensils, screws, food processing equipment, screws, car headers, etc.
This is because it has outstanding anti-corrosion properties and high heat resistance which is ideal for tough environments such as humid places, the outdoors, and even saline environments.
On the other hand, the 316L stainless steel grade is the second most widely used since it is also resistant to corrosion.
While the grade 316L is also known as the marine grade stainless steel because it has greater resistance to the corrosive effects of saltwater.
This is the minimum grade if the application of the capacitive touch switch is near seawater where saltwater mist can be carried by the wind or there’s a risk of splashing saltwater on the switch.
The anti vandal capacitive touch switch is ideal for tough environments where there’s a high possibility of repeated use.
These are built to withstand abuse and heavy impacts.
They are usually marked with the IK10 seal that is considered as the best level of protection that the anti vandal capacitive touch switch can provide.
It means that it can tolerate up to 20 joules, an impact force equivalent to 5kg mass which was dropped from 1.5 inches above the impacted surface.
The waterproof capacitive touch switch has a tightly sealed unit and because of this, dust or liquids cannot enter it easily.
These kinds of capacitive touch switches are usually marked with IP ratings (Ingress Protection)
The waterproof type is IP68 or IP69k, the greatest level of protection it can provide against solid or liquid ingress.
Sealing IP69K
13. What does the NO or NC mean in the capacitive touch switch description refers to?
If you notice that the capacitive touch switch has a NO or NC description, this pertains to its normal output status, whether the output is open or closed by default.
The NO is the abbreviation of normally open; hence it is labeled as a normally open capacitive touch switch.
Normally open capacitive touch switch has its output on the “on” status before actuating.
When you touch the actuator, the output status becomes “off”.
The NC stands for normally closed; therefore it is called a normally closed capacitive touch switch.
This means that the output status is “off” before actuating.
When the actuator is touched, the output status becomes “on”.
14. What are the output types of the capacitive touch switch?
The capacitive touch switch has two output types and they are:
- NPN sensors – These are known as sinking sensors which increase the positive signal transmitted to the base which enables a bigger current to be directed from the lead collector to the emitter.
- PNP sensors – Also called the sourcing sensors, it works just like NPN sensors but it is set up to let the negative current be transmitted to the base and enables it to flow this time from the emitter to the lead collector.
Both output types can increase electrical signals or control large currents.
While both outputs can do the same functions, NPN is mostly preferred over the other.
This is because it can move electrons faster enabling high speed switching abilities and amplifying circuits.
Aside from this, NPN is also more affordable than PNP therefore more manufacturers produce NPN instead of the other.
NPN and PNP wiring diagram
15. What do the electrical configurations mean referring to capacitive touch switches?
In an electrical circuit, you could find some abbreviated terms that represent the electrical configurations of the capacitive touch switch such as SPST, or DPDT.
These are abbreviated terms that when expanded refers to the number of poles and throws that a capacitive touch switch has.
The pole or poles pertains to the set of terminals or contacts that are found connected in a circuit.
While the throw or throws are the contact points or positions that the capacitive touch switch can make.
The following explains the different types of electrical configurations of the capacitive touch switch:
When expanded, the SPST means single pole single throw.
This is the most basic switch, or the on off touch switch type.
It is also known as the two-way switch in the US while in the UK, it is known as the one-way switch.
The SPST capacitive touch switch possesses two terminals that can be connected or not to the circuit.
The SPDT term means single pole double throw which is also referred to as a changeover switch.
In the US, they call this the three-way switch, and in the UK as a two-way switch.
- DPST power push button switch
DPST means double pole single throw which can be described as equivalent to 2 SPST switches in on a single unit.
The term DPDT when expanded means double pole double throw switch which is comparable to 2 SPDT switches found in one unit.
There are other electrical configurations of the capacitive touch switch which are more complex and are typically used in more complex electrical switches.
The ones listed above are the most common and the basic electrical configurations of the capacitive touch switch.
16. What are the switch actions available for the capacitive touch switch?
Just like most switches, the capacitive touch switch has two switch actions.
These are the momentary and latching types.
The information below explains what these switch actions are:
The momentary capacitive touch switch has a temporary switch action.
This means that the momentary capacitive touch switch is only actuated while you are touching its actuator.
But once you stopped touching it, the actuation stops as well.
It is also called as momentary touch switch.
For example, doorbells, call buttons, car horns, etc.
The latching capacitive touch switch can also be referred to as the maintained type.
In here, the actuation of the latching capacitive touch switch does not stop even after you stopped touching it.
The actuation will stop when you touch it again.
Some example applications of this are light switches, audio controls, and other functions that require a latching switch action.
Capacitive touch switch application on Disk jockey equipment
17. What mounting methods can be used for capacitive touch switch installation?
In general, there are three commonly used mounting methods for switches that are also applied to capacitive touch switches, and these are:
- Panel mount
The panel mount method is an installation method where the capacitive touch switch is mounted on a panel, as the term indicates.
There are a couple of ways to do the panel mount method, and these are the front and the rear panel mount methods.
The front panel mount is when you mount the capacitive touch switch behind the panel.
This refers to the mounting flange that is fastened through the back of the capacitive touch switch.
Generally, the grooves are found in the body of switches which is where the mounting flange is fastened.
While the rear panel mount is when you fasten the mounting flange through the front of the panel.
In this type of mounting, the grooves are found around the actuator instead of its body.
- Surface mount
The surface mount method is where a capacitive touch switch is mounted on a surface or generally a PCB or printed circuit board.
The ideal preference for this type of installation is the miniature capacitive touch switch, mini touch switch, or low profile capacitive touch switch.
- Flush mount
The flush mount capacitive touch switch is usually installed in a fitted hole where the switch is leveled with the surface.
This mounting method allows the capacitive touch switch to be installed with a switch cap for extra protection.
Example of switch cap
18. Can you use a capacitive touch switch as a dimmer switch for lights?
Of course, you can.
But you may need to have some electrical knowledge and other components necessary to carry out this project.
Dimmer switches allow you to increase or decrease the intensity of the lights in a room.
Aside from choosing the light intensity that you are most comfortable with, you can also save electricity because you only use the amount of light you need.
You can choose whether you want low, mid, or high for the intensity of your lights.
Aside from that, LED capacitive touch switches can be wired to light up even when not in use so you can easily locate them even in the dark.
The capacitive touch switch adds a modern touch to the interiors of your home.
If you want, you can also use it for other applications such as doorbells, door exit buttons, closet door controls, and many more.
Examples of this are the capacitive touch light switch, LED touch light switch, touch sensitive light switch, sensor touch light switch, touch button light switch, and touch switch for LED lights.
19. Is the capacitive touch switch auto calibrated?
There is a capacitive touch switch that is built with an autocalibration technology that allows it to adapt to different external environments.
It can also easily adapt to environments that are always changing such as the outdoors.
This technology offers low activation features which make the capacitive touch switch more durable.
20. Is the capacitive touch switch compatible with vehicle use?
Yes, definitely.
The capacitive touch switch can be used for any controls or switches in your vehicle such as:
- Power window controls
- Windshield wipers
- Audio controls
- Headlights or fog lights switches
- Trunk open switch
- LED strip accent switch
There could be more vehicle applications for the capacitive touch switch.
And because it is a versatile switch, it can be used for vintage or modern vehicles.
Car interior with LED strip lighting
21. Can you use the capacitive touch switch as a power button on your computer?
Yes, you can.
With some electrical knowledge and tools, you can replace your old computer power button with a more attractive capacitive touch switch.
Ensure that you are familiar with the wirings of the original power button before removing it.
The capacitive touch on-off switch is ideal for this application.
You can also choose the illuminated type which matches computers perfectly.
22. Can you use the capacitive touch switch for emergency buttons?
Unfortunately, due to the nature of the capacitive touch switch, it is not recommended for use as emergency buttons, safety applications, kill switches, panic buttons, and the like.
The capacitive touch switch is sensitive to a slight touch; someone may tap the button accidentally which could trigger a false alarm which could have unprecedented consequences.
Example of kill switch
23. Can the capacitive touch switch be mounted on a glass panel?
Yes, you can install a capacitive touch switch on a glass panel.
This is as long as the panel’s thickness is around 4mm, just enough for the capacitive touch switch.
The capacitive touch switch does not require much force to be actuated, but having a sturdy material is recommended.
Thinner materials may not hold up for long which can become a problem sooner or later.
24. What type of capacitive touch switch can be used in a limited space application?
This depends on whether you have limited surface area or limited rear space for your capacitive touch switch.
If you have a limited surface area, you can choose a small diameter sized capacitive touch switch like a 10mm capacitive touch switch.
If you have limited rear space, you can choose a low profile capacitive touch switch instead which is shorter in length compared to a standard sized capacitive touch switch.
Low profile capacitive touch switch
25. Can the capacitive touch switch work for AC and DC?
The capacitive touch switches are either for AC or DC, or they can be used for both,
To ensure that you purchase the right current type, check the capacitive touch switch’s product information, catalog, via the manufacturer’s website, or on the packaging itself.
26. Is the capacitive touch switch programmable?
Yes, there are types of capacitive touch switches that are programmable.
They come with software that can control the capacitive touch switch’s light intensity, touch sensitivity, output status, logic type, speed, animations, and so on.
There’s a converter cable that is connected to the capacitive touch switch and the USB port so you can connect it to a computer and program the switch.
These are ideal for call buttons, pick-to-light applications, and other applications in different types of industries.
27. What makes a safe and ideal workspace when working with capacitive touch switches?
When working on any electrical switches such as the capacitive touch switch, you must be aware of the precautionary measures that you should do or apply for your safety.
We’ve listed some of the safety recommendations and reminders that you can refer to when working with capacitive touch switches.
- Work in a space where there’s ample lighting
- Ensure that your tools and materials are organized
- Your work table should be free from unnecessary or unsafe items
- Always switch off the mains or power supply when working on live wires
- Never touch parts with flowing electrical current
- Check your capacitive touch switch for any signs of damage or formation of rust since this could mean that is not a good switch anymore and may require replacement or repair.
- Ensure that your surroundings do not have any flammable gas that could react to any electrical spark which could lead to fire or explosion.
Sometimes your manufacturer will also include a safety measure list when working on their capacitive touch switches.
Also, read the product information sheet provided by the manufacturer if there’s one available, as this could tell you more critical information about the capacitive touch switch you’ve purchased.
A good example of work station
28. Does the capacitive touch switch possess a long life expectancy?
This depends on the quality of the capacitive touch switch and how it is used.
High quality capacitive touch switch generally has long service life and is expected to last up to 50 million cycles.
However, if it is of poor quality, the life expectancy is shorter and there are times that you may receive a defective capacitive touch switch.
Aside from its quality, another factor that can affect its life expectancy is the manner how it is used like the following:
- Manner of usage
Although the capacitive touch switch is a tough kind of switch, sometimes frequent use or deliberate abuse can cause damage and affect its performance.
It is best suggested to use an anti vandal capacitive touch switch which is built to be tough against these situations.
- Surrounding environment
The environment where the capacitive touch switch is mounted can also have a direct effect on its life expectancy.
For example, you have installed the capacitive touch switch outdoors when it is not rated as waterproof.
It may be a sealed switch, but a high IP rating can assure you that it can withstand the weather changes outdoors.
Ensure that you have used a waterproof capacitive touch switch for outdoor application.
- Temperature levels
All switches have a manufacturer recommended operating temperature range where they can work properly and will not encounter any performance issues or unit damage.
This goes the same for capacitive touch switches which typically has a recommended operating temperature range between -20°C to +65°C or -4°F to 149°F.
Going beyond these temperature ranges may cause a detrimental effect on the capacitive touch switch.
The capacitive touch switch component materials may react to the harsh temperature levels and may leave permanent damage.
- Risk of wrong voltage supply
The capacitive touch switch has a different voltage rating and you should follow the voltage rating that it is made for.
If you supply a higher power voltage, it may cause the capacitive touch switch to feel warm which can eventually shorten its life expectancy.
For example, if the capacitive touch switch’s voltage rating is 200 mA 24 VDC, then the supply voltage should be 5 VDC up to 24 VDC.
Supplying lower voltage is fine and does not impose any risk on the capacitive touch switch or your safety.
You will find the voltage label on the product’s description, its packaging, or engraved on the capacitive touch switch itself for example, 12v capacitive touch switch, 12v touch switch,
12 volt touch switch, or 12v touch dimmer.
Electrical specifications of a capacitive touch switch
29. What are the seals of a top quality capacitive touch switch?
There are several seals that you can check to determine if the capacitive touch switch has the best quality.
These seals may be acquired for a different purpose but it only shows that the manufacturers are dedicated to providing the best capacitive touch switch to their customers.
Here are some of the seals and their brief definitions:
- IP67 to IP69K – This seal indicates that the capacitive touch switch has a waterproof quality which means that it is protected from water jets, water spray, a splash of water, or even permanent submersion underwater for the highest rating.
- IK10 – This seal indicates that the capacitive touch switch is heavy duty and tough switch which can be used in applications with a high frequency of usage.
- CE – The CE is not a quality or a certifying seal but this validates that the manufacturer of the capacitive touch switch complies with the health, safety, and environmental protection by European standards.
- ISO – The ISO seal confirms that the manufacturer, their production process, documentations, management systems, equipment, and the other services they provide are compliant with ISO’s standardization and quality assurance.
- REACH – This seal indicates that the capacitive touch switch is made with safe materials ensuring the health and safety of the user and the safety of the environment.
- RoHS – This seal refers to the manufacturer’s compliance of not using any materials that are labeled as hazardous making the capacitive touch switch safe to touch or use.
- TUV – Having this seal signifies that the manufacture passed the safety inspections conducted independently inside their facilities, systems, machinery, and so on.
- UL – This shows that the capacitive touch switch has successfully passed various safety testing procedures.
These seals may not all be present in a capacitive touch switch manufacturer.
But at least now you have an idea of what seals to look for to find the best quality capacitive touch switch.
Capacitive touch switch QA and certification seals
30. How to truly take care of your capacitive touch switches?
Despite the long life expectancy of the capacitive touch switch, there are some ways that you can do to maintain that or even prolong it.
Here are some of the best suggestions to truly take care of your capacitive touch switch:
- Capacitive touch switches should be handled with care
Even if you are confident that your capacitive touch switch is tough, still, you should handle when with care from the moment you receive them.
This adds more assurance that your capacitive touch switch is secure and no human error was achieved if ever some of them were faulty.
- Prevent using sharp objects
Although the capacitive touch switch can be actuated with any objects that are good conductors of electricity, it may be too sharp for it and may cause scratches or dents hurting the appearance of its smooth surface.
- Comply with the manufacturer’s suggested usage
Your capacitive touch switch order may come with a product sheet that could indicate the manufacturer has suggested usage of the switch and some reminders.
This information is very critical to understand since it could be beneficial in keeping your capacitive touch switch in top quality.
- Maintenance
The capacitive touch switch requires almost no maintenance.
However, some surface cleaning once in a while using a dry and clean cloth can help remove dust or dirt that are hard to remove.
Regular sanitation of the capacitive touch switch may be required in applications with frequent use.
- Proper storage
Always store your unused capacitive touch switches properly.
It is always best to store them in a dry and cool place inside a sealed container that is clean and free from other objects.
If you do not have a container, your capacitive touch switches may have come in a box especially when you have ordered many of them.
Batches of capacitive touch switches are packaged in a box and arranged in a molded tray.
This packaging can also serve as your storage container.
The molded tray adds better protection because each capacitive touch switch is equally separated from the other.
When you store the container, avoid placing heavy objects on top of it which can weaken the box and cause damage to the capacitive touch switches.
Capacitive touch switch storage facility
31. How do you make sure that you will purchase the right capacitive touch switch for your application?
To make sure that you will be able to select the right capacitive touch switch, create a simple checklist so you will not forget what you’re looking for before you go shopping.
Creating a checklist also gives you more time to think about the features and configurations you need for your application.
Here’s an example of a simple checklist you can use:
- Where will you use the capacitive touch switch for?
- How many capacitive touch switches will you need?
- What is the size of the capacitive touch switch that your application requires?
- Do you prefer a specific capacitive touch switch shape?
- What capacitive touch switch color do you prefer?
- Do you need an illuminated capacitive touch switch?
- What LED color do you want? Is it single or double LED colors?
- What switch action is required for your capacitive touch switch? Is it momentary or latching?
- What capacitive touch switch configuration type do you need? (SPST or DPDT, etc)
- Do need an anti vandal capacitive touch switch? Waterproof? Or both?
- What capacitive touch switch voltage rating is required for your application?
Hopefully, this checklist will enable you to think about what capacitive touch switch will suit your application best.
By purchasing the right capacitive touch switch, you’re able to save time and money.
You saved time because you know what kind of capacitive touch switch you need which will lessen the time spent shopping.
You also saved money because you have purchased the right capacitive touch switch instead of buying the wrong one and spending more money for making another purchase.
Therefore, you do not delay any business operation which could cause a loss of revenue; you are also on track with your schedule and saving valuable time and money.
32. What should you do if ever your capacitive touch switch is defective?
If one or some of your capacitive touch switches are defective, you can request a replacement from your manufacturer immediately.
But asking for a replacement must be done within the warranty period and the damage is not due to human error or natural calamity, and other conditions not covered by the warranty.
In general, you will be asked to return the defective capacitive touch switches and there could be an out of pocket expense which is to pay for the shipping fees.
By the time that the manufacturer receives the defective capacitive touch switches, they will inspect the units and determine if they should be repaired or replaced.
After that, the capacitive touch switches will be shipped back to you.
The length of time spent on this process depends on your distance from the manufacturer due to the shipping time back and forth.
Repair fees and replacement costs may be involved if the damage is caused by human error and other causes that are not covered by the warranty.
This is why you should choose high quality capacitive touch switches to give you peace of mind and assurance that they are all in good condition and will work providing optimum performance.