Overview

Semtech's force sensing portfolio represents the evolution of Human Machine Interface (HMI) technology. These advanced MEMS-based sensors augment or replace traditional capacitive touch and mechanical buttons with smaller, more reliable, and fully sealed solutions for mobility, consumer electronics, industrial equipment, and wearable devices. Fabricated on a proprietary MEMS process, these sensors provide exceptional design flexibility, enabling smart surfaces that detect user input at multiple pressure levels through any material, shape, or thickness. Whether integrated beneath a display, mounted as a side button, or embedded in a solid surface, force sensors deliver consistent, high-performance pressure measurement in any environment.

Key Features

Semtech's MEMS force sensors combine advanced sensing capabilities with unprecedented design flexibility, delivering reliable performance in any environment or material configuration.

  • Operates through plastic, leather, glass, carbon fiber, wood, metal, and composites
  • Maintains accuracy regardless of surface material or thickness
  • Enables truly seamless industrial design
  • Fully airtight sensor construction
  • Eliminates gaps and openings required by mechanical buttons
  • IP68+ capable designs for rugged applications
  • Precise pressure measurement across multiple thresholds
  • Differentiate between light tap, press, and hard press
  • Programmable force levels for customized user experience
  • Smaller footprint than mechanical alternatives
  • No moving parts for enhanced durability
  • Consistent performance over millions of actuations
  • Reliable operation in wet, dirty, or gloved-hand conditions
  • Temperature and humidity resistant
  • Functions in extreme environments where capacitive touch fails

Supported Sensing Applications

Semtech force sensors enable a comprehensive range of interaction models:

  • Press Detection - Single and multi-level force measurement
  • Smart Surface - Transform any surface into an interactive interface
  • Trackpad XYZ - Three-dimensional position and pressure tracking
  • Slide/Swipe - Directional input with force feedback
  • Multi-Level - Programmable pressure thresholds for complex interactions
  • Edge Detection - Side-mounted buttons and controls
  • 3D Touch - Pressure-sensitive interfaces with depth input
  • Wake-Up Sensing - Low-power activation on force input

Target Applications

From consumer devices to industrial equipment, Semtech force sensors enable intuitive, sealed interfaces across industries where reliability and design innovation are critical.

  • Smartphone side buttons and power controls
  • Smartwatch crown and button replacements
  • Earbuds and hearables pressure controls
  • Tablet edge controls
  • Laptop trackpads and keyboard force sensing
  • Mouse and input device force feedback
  • Gaming controllers and peripherals
  • Drawing tablets and stylus pressure detection
  • Steering wheel integrated controls
  • Center console and dashboard interfaces
  • Door handles and interior surfaces
  • Rugged, sealed control surfaces
  • Sealed control panels for harsh environments
  • Medical device interfaces
  • Industrial HMI terminals
  • Equipment operator controls
  • Home appliances and smart home devices
  • Audio equipment controls
  • Fitness equipment interfaces
  • IoT device interaction

Design & Integration Support

Semtech provides comprehensive support from concept through production:

  • Reference designs and integration guidelines
  • Power consumption optimization
  • Signal processing recommendations
  • Mounting configurations and assembly guidance
  • Material selection and stack-up recommendations
  • Industrial design flexibility consultation
  • Driver support and integration libraries
  • Calibration and tuning tools
  • Application-specific algorithm support
  • Assembly process guidance
  • Quality testing procedures
  • Volume production readiness

Why Choose Semtech Force Sensing?

Semtech's force sensing solutions eliminate the design compromises inherent in traditional mechanical buttons and capacitive touch, delivering sealed, material-agnostic interfaces that enhance both user experience and product reliability.

  • More intuitive and responsive interfaces
  • Tactile feedback through force measurement
  • Context-aware interactions based on pressure
  • Eliminate visible buttons and mechanical components
  • Create seamless, continuous surfaces
  • Achieve waterproof ratings without compromising usability
  • No mechanical wear or failure points
  • Consistent performance across product lifetime
  • Reduced warranty and failure rates
  • Supports emerging interaction paradigms
  • Software-defined force thresholds and behaviors
  • Adaptable to evolving user expectations

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