Switches for New Smart Home Device Applications

Smart Home technology is transforming the layers of security, convenience and sustainability provided to homeowners by allowing them to control and automate devices from the comfort of their own phone, tablet or almost any other networked device. As new Smart Home technologies develop and drive demand, there will inherently be an increase to electromechanical switch functionality requirements.

Switches play a massive role in the Internet of Things (IoT) market — serving as the basis for user interface on any device — and the symbiotic relationship between Smart Home systems and devices means they often operate in harmony by sharing usage data to drive automation and improve efficiency.

Whether it’s a new cleaning system, thermostat, security camera, TV, motion sensor or voice-assisted device, all of these products are expected to come with increased functionality and benefits, making the need for switch design considerations in Smart Home IoT applications more important than ever.

As a leading electromechanical switch manufacturer, E-Switch has the answer to match your design needs. Regardless of the switch type (tactile, detector, pushbutton, toggle, rocker) or features needed (miniature, low profile, sealed, illuminated), E-Switch offers low-cost solutions, exceptional customer service and rapid turnaround times.

Now, let’s take a look at the main switch types and products that you’ll commonly find in Smart Homes, such as smart speakers, kitchen appliances, HVAC units and various control systems.

Tactile IoT Switches: Smart Home Applications

When looking at tactile switches for this particular market, engineers and designers typically prefer switches with a fully sealed IP67 rating, multiple operating force options, miniature sizes and flexible mounting options.

They can be used for on/off, WiFi connection, volume control and mode selection buttons. E-Switch has one of the broadest ranges of tactile switches on the market, so let’s take a look at some examples from our celebrated lineup.

TL3301 Series SMT Tactile Switch

Example: The TL3301 was used as a reset switch for a smoke detector, for the power/test buttons on a carbon monoxide alarm, and as the on/off switch on a WiFi router, security control panel and security camera.

TL3342 Series Low Profile, SMT Tactile Switch

Example: The TL3342 was used for keypad activation on a fire alarm.

TL6100 Series Sealed, Through Hole Tactile Switch

Example: The TL6100 was used for an on/off power switch and volume control buttons on a baby monitor.

TL6120 Series Sealed, SMT Tactile Switch

Example: The TL6120 was used on a burglar alarm for the on/off power, detect intrusion and keypad activation buttons.

Detector IoT Switches: Smart Home Applications

Detector Switches are used to detect internal mechanical movements or human manual operations and convert those to electronic signals. They’re frequently used for opening and closing detection, while detectors with bidirectional operation allow for more design flexibility.

Detector switches offer a low-cost solution for designers while also ensuring a consistent signal output. Other desirable benefits include their compact size, low/thin profile, flexible actuation angles and a variety of mounting options (SMT, J-Lead, through hole, right angle).

TD1260 Series Ultraminiature SMT Detector Switch

Example: The TD1260 was used in a home appliance and a security system.

TD4700 Series Ultraminiature SMT Detector Switch

Example: The TD4700 was used in a handheld device and a computer peripheral.

E-Switch offers one of the largest selections of tactile and detector switches on the market. Click here to browse our complete catalog of products.