Patented Mini Sealed-Switch To Be Introduced At Design Show Micro Contacts anticipates dramatic cost reductions for miniature applications. * View the Miniature Sealed Switch Ad. Hicksville, NY. Micro Contacts Inc. is introducing a new, low-cost patented miniature sealed switch at the National Design and Engineering Show this year. The switch is the production version of the prototype shown last year. Designed in anticipation of the need for the newest closed waterproof systems, the Micro Contacts miniature switch is the completely (terminals included) sealed stock switch that does not need any additional material or processes for operation. It uses a simplified design eliminating as many as 6 or 7 parts that are found in conventional snap-action switch technology. First applications are expected to be in the automotive industry. This will be followed with versions for non-automotive applications.  The switch will be manufactured in one automated operation with multiple terminal configurations offered to customers. It will also be custom packaged to match customer production requirements. Switches can be delivered on spools for automated assembly lines, on strips, in special packaging or in bulk. Because of the simplified assembly and ease of integration Micro Contacts considers the product to be a more flexible, dynamic design. The miniature sealed switch is constructed of stainless steel, gold-plated base metal and thermoplastic polymer. It uses a molded gasket and silicone waterproof cover that is forced against the customer's product to complete the watertight seal. It does not require the use of potting materials, as do competing products. Instead of the many hand operations normally used in manufacture, the Micro Contacts switch can be manufactured at a single automated, or semi-automated assembly station. The result is consistent quality, reliability and a substantially lower total cost unit.  The patent for Micro Contacts' waterproof miniature sealed switch is held for the product design and the manufacturing process as well. It was planned and tooled completely in-house and is not proprietary to one customer. The company plans to market the switch as a generic product available industry-wide. For further information, contact Bob Schaeffer, Manager-Sales Administration at 516-433-4830 x226. Micro Contacts, Inc., 62 Alpha Plaza, Hicksville, NY 11801