FW4a Replacement switch

[Speed2z28]

@Firelight2

You’re right!

A quick Google search for “10mm Dome switch actuator” reveals dozens of links to shops selling them in different sizes and with 3 or 4 legs. Turns out the actuator IS a standard off-the-shelf part.

Note that my Google search was just a quick off-the-cuff thing. I didn’t actually measure the dome switch in the FW3A so it might not be 10mm. Measure before ordering.

But given this, it should be possible to replace the dome with a stiffer one. All you need is to buy an appropriately sized replacement dome and some Kapton tape.

HOWEVER:

• A quick check on Digikey showed their 10mm dome switches go up to about 14 oz of activation pressure. This reminded me that TK mentioned the original batch of FW3As required 14 oz to activate, but later Lumintop switched to 7 oz.

• I have both versions and personally found that even 14 oz activated much too easily in the pocket. I do not know if they are available with activation pressures heavier than 14 oz elsewhere.

• 14 oz activation pressure also means the pressure needed to activate is still less than the 7 oz plus o-ring mod.

• What worked best is a 14 oz dome switch combined with o-ring mod. In one of my FW3As with the original switch, the result was an activation pressure of over 5 lbs! Stiff enough that you could balance a BLF GT on top with batteries inside and not trip the switch. Definitely stiff enough for pocket carry with no lockout and confidence it won’t turn-on in the pocket.

If you look at CRX’s post, LINK, you see that it’s a triangle metal dome switch with no legs, though the holes are there for one with legs, but a circle with dimples should work too.

With a little searching around I came across these, LINK. The 9mm triangle with no legs (part # M9T-1800-D) should work because of the large exposed contact trace that can be seen in CRX’s post, this would give 1800g of force needed to activate. You might be able to place the 11.5mm with no legs (part # M11.5T-2000-D) 2000g activation switch over the 9mm 1800g activation switch to increase the total force needed to activate, but again we’re back at a two item solution to the problem.

The overall problem looks to be the ability to purchase these items. Best technology is the only place that I could find with a high activation force, most others maxed out at 400g, and the only ones I saw on Ali were 350g.