Introduction

If you have completed the lessons on Bourns® trimmers and networks, you have seen capabilities in the areas of surface mount technology, the importance of a sealed product for reliability following board mounting/processing, and the continuing reduction of package sizes as dictated by the changing electronic industry.

These three major drivers are important to customers as they reduce their end product sizes and automate their assembly processes. Conversely, these issues are also the foundation and driving force behind the designs of Bourns' switch product line.

Product specifications and part numbering systems can be found in the switch section of the Bourns web site.

The primary driver for the switch product line is to take advantage of Bourns' expertise in the area of manufacturing of surface mount components, and to provide through-hole devices wherever practical. Component designs are small, sealed, and compatible with the current board mount technology.

Another important sales issue involves the expansion of accounts that can be served as a result of Bourns® ultra-miniature switches. You will find many new opportunities for these devices in end-products that have not been traditionally served by other Bourns components.

Bourns offers a wide selection of switches in the smallest sizes. Most of our products are the direct result of customer inquiries adding credibility to the product lines and reinforcing the need for these products in the electronics industry. Although the main thrust of the switch line is aimed at customers using surface mount technology, the through-hole versions of these devices are also available for customers who have not made the transformation to surface mount technology but are looking for performance in a small package.

All Bourns switches are designed to meet 6-sigma performance criteria. Test data is available to customers on an "as requested" basis to demonstrate Bourns' ability to meet the published specifications. There may be instances where designs and materials in two or more models are similar, which will result in a "qualification by similarity."

The main benefits of successfully completing this module are:

• You will gain a better understanding of the different Bourns switch categories
• You will have an understanding of the construction of each type of switch
• You will gain the confidence to help your customers select the Bourns switch that best fits their application
• You will have a reference source for technical information on Bourns switch products