In 2011, MEC introduced a new generation of 5E and 5G series buttons. When we signed a contract with them, we considered only the new generation. The manufacturer's declaration was that we will prefer a new series but as long as the market still requires “old ones”, we will manufacture those as well. And this holds true until today. It is clear proof that the original concept was/is excellent and that these buttons still have their place in the market.

And therefore, our assortment offers the full range of MEC which, by the way, has belonged to the APEM family for over 20 years.

We should note, however, that the critical difference is "only" the cap retention and actuator. Therefore, older and newer generation caps are not compatible but can be easily distinguished by the part number. Letter “S” has been added to the new ones (e.g. 1D or 1DS).

What has changed is that MEC has stopped producing low-temperature versions of switches. So now all MEC switches have a working temperature range of -40°C to +160°C. Of course, the new generation has a wider range of options like choice of actuation force, LED colours, etc.

The most popular products from 3A/3C/3E/3F Series:

3CTH9 This is the simplest solution. It is a complete switch without the need to order a cap separately. If the shape, height, and colour are not critical parameters, then this is an excellent solution.

Basic parameters:

Dimensions 10x10mm, cap height above PCB 6.4mm
Cap diameter 6.5mm
Lifetime 10 000 000 cycles
Operating temperature range -40 ° C to + 160 ° C
Degree of protection IP67 (plastic housing)
Actuation Force 3,5N

3FTH9

The basic model of the previous generation. This model has the widest range of caps and is available both in the illuminated LED version, e.g. 3FTH920 and in the horizontal version 3FTH9RAS.

Basic parameters:

Dimensions 10x10mm
Height without fingerboard 10.4mm
Lifetime 10 000 000 cycles
Operating temperature range -40°C to + 160°C
Degree of protection IP67 (plastic housing)
Actuation Force 3,5N
Suitable Caps: 1D, 1E, 1F, 1GA, 1GC, 1K, 1KB, 1KC, 1N, 1P, 1Q, 1R, 1S, 1T, 1U, 1V, 1WA, 1WD, 1WP, 1X and 1ZC

3ATH9

Use this switch and the 1A / B / C / H / M rectangular caps to create more complex assemblies - keyboards, also two-piece or even two-colour. This switch is also used with the Navimec (except the center switch, which is from the 3F series).

Basic parameters:

Dimensions 10x10mm
Height without cap 6.4 mm
Lifetime 10 000 000 cycles
Operating temperature range -40 ° C to + 160 ° C
Degree of protection IP67 (plastic housing)
Actuation Force 3,5N
Suitable Caps: 1A, 1B, 1C, 1H, 1M, 1ZA, 2A, 2B, 1ZB

3ETH9

These switches are similar to the 3C series (with an integrated cap. The difference lies in the fact that you have a choice of cap height - there is the option to order an assembled switch with the cap or to order the cap separately.

These switches are also used in the "Varimec" family - assembled switches with caps in three sizes (each also round and square), total height from 10.4mm to 22.5mm and in 5 colours - more than 2400 combinations. Finally, you can also use them with 1Y caps that are designed for use under foil - use the 3E button and 1Y cap to create a foil keyboard.

Basic parameters:

Dimensions 10x10mm
Height without cap 6.4 mm
Lifetime 10 000 000 cycles
Operating temperature range -40 ° C to + 160 ° C
Degree of protection IP67 (plastic housing)
Actuation force: 3,5 N
Suitable buttons: 1Y and Varimec

For greater optimization options, such as select actuation force, choose 5G/5E Series. Here you can select 2N, 3.5N or 6.5N and the quiet 2N version without the click sound effect. Another possibility is the NCNO function.

Get the best results with MEC switches. Selected 3A/3C/3E/3F and 5G/5E buttons, in THT or SMD version, can be found in our stock range.

If you need assistance with the selection of MEC switches and suitable caps, or you need more information, please contact us at sales@soselectronic.com

Source: http://www.soselectronic.com/articles/mec/get-the-best-results-with-mec-switches-2354