2 Pin Horizontal Tact Switch for Side Push PCB Applications
The TS-1186 is a horizontal tact switch with a 2‑pin SMT footprint, designed for side‑push actuation on compact PCBs. It delivers a clear tactile click, 0.2mm travel, and up to 100,000‑cycle mechanical life. Rated 50mA 12V DC. RoHS & REACH compliant. Tape & Reel packaging. MOQ 1,000 pcs. Free sample for qualified projects.
What Is a Horizontal Tact Switch?
A horizontal tact switch, also known as a Tact Switch SMD Horizontal, is a tactile push button switch that is actuated from the side rather than the top surface. This design allows engineers to place user controls along the edge of a PCB where vertical space is limited. They provide momentary SPST switching with clear tactile feedback and automatic return after release. The 2‑pin SMT configuration simplifies the PCB footprint while providing reliable electrical contact.
Why Choose a Side Push Tact Switch?
Compared with standard top‑actuated tactile switches, a horizontal tactile switch offers several practical advantages:
- Better utilization of PCB edge space
- Lower product profile and improved enclosure integration
- Convenient side‑access user controls
- Reliable tactile feedback in compact devices
These advantages make a side actuated tactile switch particularly popular in portable and miniaturized electronic products such as wearables, handheld instruments, and IoT edge nodes.
2 Pin Horizontal Tact Switch Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Number | TS-1186 |
| Switch Type | Horizontal Tact Switch |
| Mounting Type | SMT / SMD |
| Pin Count | 2 Pin |
| Circuit | SPST Normally Open |
| Rating | 50mA DC 12V |
| Operating Force | 180gf / 260gf |
| Travel | 0.20 ±0.10mm |
| Contact Resistance | ≤100mΩ |
| Insulation Resistance | ≥100MΩ |
| Mechanical Life | 50,000–100,000 Cycles |
| Packaging | Tape & Reel |
| Compliance | RoHS & REACH |
Key Features of the Side Push 2 Pin SMD Tact Switch
Horizontal Side Actuation
Side‑push design allows operation from the PCB edge, making it ideal for compact electronic enclosures where top‑push is not feasible.
Compact SMT Footprint
Designed for automated SMT assembly and high‑density PCB layouts, this 2 pin smd tact switch takes up minimal board space.
Reliable Tactile Feedback
Metal dome construction provides a crisp click response and consistent switching feel for every press.
Long Mechanical Life
Supports up to 100,000 operating cycles depending on operating force selection, ensuring years of reliable service.
Low Power Signal Switching
Suitable for low‑current signal control circuits commonly used in consumer electronics and IoT devices.
RoHS & REACH Compliant
Suitable for global electronics manufacturing projects. See RoHS Compliance Guide.
Applications of Horizontal SMD Tactile Switches
Frequently Asked Questions – Horizontal Tact Switch
What is a horizontal tact switch?
A horizontal tact switch is a side‑actuated tactile push button switch that is operated from the side of the component rather than the top surface. The TS-1186 is a 2‑pin SMT version of this design.
What is the difference between a horizontal and vertical tactile switch?
Horizontal tactile switches are actuated from the side, while vertical tactile switches are pressed from the top. The choice depends on whether the designer needs edge‑mounted or top‑mounted controls.
Why use a side push tact switch?
Side push switches save vertical space and allow controls to be positioned along PCB edges, enabling thinner product enclosures and more flexible industrial design.
What is the operating life of this switch?
Depending on the force option selected, the TS-1186 can provide 50,000 to 100,000 operating cycles under normal conditions.
Is this switch compatible with SMT assembly?
Yes. The TS-1186 is designed for automated pick‑and‑place manufacturing and standard lead‑free reflow soldering processes.
Selecting a Reliable Horizontal Tact Switch for Your Next Design
When integrating a horizontal tact switch into a product, engineers must consider actuation force, travel distance, and mounting orientation. This side push tact switch from Vistar Electronics addresses the growing demand for side‑actuated controls in slim, portable devices. The TS-1186’s 2‑pin SMT footprint minimizes board space while the metal dome provides a sharp, consistent click that users appreciate. With up to 100,000‑cycle durability, it’s suited for high‑use buttons on fitness trackers, hearing aids, and remote controls.
Compared to generic 2 pin smd tact switch alternatives, the horizontal orientation opens up new layout possibilities. By placing the button along the board edge, designers can achieve a flush‑mounted side button that feels natural to press. This horizontal tactile switch also simplifies waterproofing, as the actuation direction is parallel to the enclosure seal rather than perpendicular. For products requiring IP67 protection, sealed versions are available on request.
As a specialized side actuated tactile switch manufacturer, Vistar offers custom operating forces, actuator heights, and gold‑plating options to meet specific application needs. Explore our full switch range: Tactile Switch Category, 3×6 Tactile Switch SMD 2Pin, 2 Pin SMD Tactile Switch 3×4×2, and 4×4 Tact Switch SMD 4Pin. For educational content, see our guides on How Does Tact Switch Work and the Introduction of SMD Tactile Switch. For relevant standards, consult IEC Standards and ISO Standards. To request a free sample of the TS-1186 or discuss a custom side‑push switch, contact sales@vistarelectronics.com.
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