Many mobile phones and PDAs have recently added software that allows selection from a menu. Furthermore, there is an increasing range of games software available, which requires the user to make a selection from a menu in a 2 or 3 dimensional image on the display. Improved multi directional pointing devices that are easy to use are key to these applications.

Improvement for all-directional pointing devices with ease is key to these applications.

On/off switching and strain gauge methods have been used to date. But, the market is demanding improved sensors, which will deliver precise directional functionality, lower power consumption and thinner modules at lower cost.

The basic operating principle of Sunarrow’s new force sensor module allows the change of capacitance between the electrode on the PCB and the rubber key to be measured. By combining a custom IC (integrated circuit) with the force sensor it is possible to convert the pressure applied into a voltage. This innovative combination sets a new standard for force sensor modules and makes it possible to use the device in applications such as mobile phones and PDAs.

Wacoh, the engineering company specialising in sensors, owns the basic patent and Dialog Semiconductor has designed the custom IC. Sunarrow has overall responsibility for incorporating this novel sensor concept into a keypad. The three companies have contributed their individual skills to the joint development of the sensor module.

Sunarrow has the exclusive rights to sell the combined sensor module and custom IC and is targeting to achieve sales of one million pieces a month by December 2002.