Interlink FSR400 Membrane Pressure Sensor — Short (Original)

Description

The Interlink FSR400 Short is a single-zone Force Sensing Resistor optimized for human touch control in automotive, medical, industrial, and robotics applications. It is a robust polymer thick film (PTF) sensor that exhibits a decrease in resistance with increasing force applied to its surface .

The sensor has a dynamic sensing range of approximately 0.2N to 20N, with actuation possible as low as 0.1N . It is ultra-thin and designed to withstand millions of actuations. The short-tail configuration provides a compact 20 mm overall length, making it suitable for space-constrained installations where the longer standard FSR400 would not fit .

Critical limitations: The FSR400 is not a precision load cell. Its resistance-force relationship is non-linear, and part-to-part repeatability varies. The sensor tabs are heat-sensitive—Interlink’s integration guide explicitly warns against direct soldering to the exposed silver traces or applying high temperatures to the clamped pins for long periods . Use a breadboard, clamp connector, or ZIF socket instead.

Features

• Force-Sensitive Resistance: Resistance decreases with applied force; simple voltage divider interface.

• Compact Short-Tail Design: 20 mm overall length, suitable for tight spaces .

• Ultra-Thin PTF Construction: Flexible, low-profile sensor for embedded applications.

• Wide Force Range: ~0.2N to 20N dynamic range, actuation as low as 0.1N .

• High Durability: Rated for millions of actuations.

• Two-Wire Passive Interface: No polarity; no power supply required for the sensing element.

• Fast Response Time: ~3 µs per DigiKey listing .

• Original Interlink Component: Genuine PTF sensor from the company that invented the FSR technology.

Technical Specifications