Alps SKCL Double Action

Alps SKCL Double Action
A single desoldered Alps SKCLKB switch
Manufacturer Alps Electric
Family Alps SKCM/SKCL series
Part Number SKCLKB1)
Switch Type Double action
Travel 3.5mm
Sense method Metal contact
Mount Plate mount
Rated lifetime 1st: 20M cycles, 2nd: 1M cycles
Quoted operating force 1st: 90gf, 2nd: 500gf

Alps SKCL Double Action is a double action switch in the first generation of the Alps SKCM/SKCL Series.

Characteristics

The switch follows the general characteristics of the SKCL family, consisting of an upper and lower housing, contact module, stem, and spring.

However, there are many additional parts and changes. The housing is symmetrical, similar to SKCM Brown, the stem has a long pole and a recess for an actuator similar to the actuator in Alps SCK2).

There is also a second, brown switchplate with no actuator leaf (as the actuator is in the stem) and also a very stiff second spring in the base of the bottom housing to provide actuation feedback for the second stage.

The tabs on the bottom housing are not the full width of the switch, as opposed to other switches in the series.

Additional Information

There is another version of this switch with an amber stem that appears to have been present in arcade machines3). Its part number, if any, is unknown.

The switch was likely introduced between 1983 and 19854) and existed as late as 19945). It is unknown what became of this switch in the third generation of the series.

1)
Alps switch sampler, Alps catalogs 1993 & 1994
4)
Alps sampler pack
5)
Alps 1994 catalog