0.5-inch (12.7mm) Circular Force Sensitive Resistor (FSR) – High-Sensitivity Pressure Sensor for Robotics

Product Description The 0.5-inch Circular Force Sensitive Resistor (FSR) is a robust polymer thick film (PTF) device that exhibits a decrease in resistance with an increase in the force applied to the active sensing surface. This ultra-thin, flexible sensor is specifically engineered to detect physical pressure, squeezing, and weight changes in human-machine interface applications. Unlike a load cell, this FSR is remarkably thin and can be integrated into tight spaces, making it the ideal solution for touch-sensitive buttons, robotic grippers, and automotive electronic controls. Its high sensitivity allows it to detect forces as light as 20 grams, scaling up to 2 kilograms, providing a smooth analog output for microcontrollers.

Key Features

• Ultra-Thin Profile: At just 0.45mm thick, it can be seamlessly embedded under leather, plastic, or rubber surfaces without adding bulk.

• Wide Sensing Range: Capable of detecting a broad spectrum of force from a light touch (0.2N) to a heavy press (20N).

• High Durability: Rated for over 10 million actuations, ensuring long-term reliability in industrial and consumer interfaces.

• Simple Integration: Functions as a variable resistor in a voltage divider circuit, requiring no specialized ICs for basic operation.

• Excellent Environmental Stability: Maintains consistent performance across a wide temperature range and high humidity environments.

Technical Details

• Active Sensing Diameter: The circular sensing zone measures exactly 12.7mm (0.5 inches) for localized pressure detection.

• Resistance Characteristic: Follows an inverse power-law characteristic (Resistance ∝ 1/Force) for intuitive data mapping.

• Non-Actuated Resistance: In an open-circuit state with no force applied, the resistance typically exceeds 10 Mega-ohms.

• Hysteresis Performance: Exhibits low hysteresis (+10% average), ensuring stable readings during repeated compression cycles.

• Rise Time: Ultra-fast mechanical response time of less than 3 microseconds for real-time force feedback.

• Connector Type: Features two solder-tab leads that can be directly soldered or used with female jumper wires.

• Material Composition: Constructed from multiple layers of conductive and non-conductive polymers for flexible tactile sensing.

• Force Sensitivity: Optimized for human-touch applications with a threshold force starting at approximately 20-30g.

• Vibration Resistance: Passive resistive technology makes it highly immune to electromagnetic interference (EMI) and mechanical vibrations.

• Voltage Compatibility: Can be used with any DC voltage (typically 3.3V or 5V) when used in a voltage divider configuration.

• Current Handling: Designed for low-current signal sensing; high-current loads must be switched via a transistor or op-amp.

• Mechanical Integration: Easily attached to surfaces using double-sided adhesive or mechanical clamping.

• Analog Resolution: When paired with a 10-bit ADC (like Arduino), it provides 1024 levels of force sensitivity.

• Tail Length: The flexible tail extends from the circular head to the connection points for easy routing in enclosures.

• Customizability: Can be trimmed carefully (outside the active area) or bent to fit curved ergonomic surfaces.