Reset Tactile Switch Selection

Question

Problem: Reset Tactile Switch Selection. Solve this hands-on electronics task on EWskills.

Accepted Answer

1. Component Purpose

During development and testing, engineers frequently need to reset the microcontroller. A tactile push button connected to the MCU’s RESET pin provides a quick manual reset.

The switch is momentary (Off-Mom) — it is normally open and only closes while being pressed. When released, it springs back and the RESET pin returns to its normal high state.

Required: SPST-NO · Off-Mom · 6mm × 6mm · Top Actuated · Through Hole · PC Pin · 120–260gf · ≥100k cycles

2. How to Find It on DigiKey

Go to DigiKey.com → Switches → Tactile Switches

Apply these filters:

Circuit → SPST-NO
Switch Function → Off-Mom
Outline → 6.00mm x 6.00mm
Actuator Direction → Top Actuated
Mounting Type → Through Hole
Termination Style → PC Pin
Part Status → Active

Tip: Operating force (gf) affects how the button feels. 120–160gf feels light and easy; 200–260gf feels firmer with more tactile feedback. Both ranges are acceptable for a reset button.

3. Key Specifications & What They Mean

Specification	Required	Why
Circuit	SPST-NO	Normally open; closes on press.
Switch Function	Off-Mom	Momentary action; springs back on release.
Outline	6mm × 6mm	Standard tactile switch footprint.
Actuator	Top Actuated	Button pressed from above the PCB.
Actuator Height	4.3mm to 5.5mm	Enough height to reach through enclosure.
Operating Force	120gf to 260gf	Comfortable press feel for manual use.
Mounting	Through Hole, PC Pin	Soldered into PCB.
Mech. Life	≥100,000 cycles	Adequate for development/test use.
Temp Range	−40°C to +85°C	Standard operating range.

4. Selecting a Safe, Production-Ready Part

The filtered list will show matching parts. Before you pick one, check: Is it Active? Is stock available? Is the manufacturer reputable? Is a datasheet available?

Full checklist: How to Select a Safe, Production-Ready Component — EWskills Guide

5. Filtered DigiKey Link

➡ View Matching Parts — Tactile, SPST-NO, 6x6mm, Top Actuated, Through Hole

46. Reset Tactile Switch Selection