Interlink FSR406 Membrane Pressure Sensor — Short (Original)

Description

The Interlink FSR406 Short is a single-zone Force Sensing Resistor with a square sensing area (approximately 38 mm × 38 mm for the original 400-series), making it larger than the round FSR400 and FSR402 variants. This larger active region is useful for applications where the press location is not precisely controlled, such as seat occupancy detection, grip sensing on robotic arms, or interactive pressure pads.

The sensor is a robust polymer thick film (PTF) device that exhibits a decrease in resistance with increasing force applied to its surface . It is ultra-thin (typically ~0.46 mm) and flexible, allowing integration into tight spaces and curved surfaces. The short-tail configuration provides a compact footprint for installations where the longer standard tail would be inconvenient.

Critical limitations: The FSR406 is not a precision load cell. Its resistance-force relationship is non-linear, and sensor-to-sensor tolerance is approximately ±10% for the original 400-series . It cannot detect where on the square the press occurs—only the total force. The connection tabs are heat-sensitive—soldering can melt the plastic substrate; use a breadboard, clamp connector, or terminal block instead.

Features

• Square Sensing Area (~38 mm × 38 mm for original 400-series): Larger active region than round FSRs, suitable for applications where press location is not precise.

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

• Ultra-Thin PTF Construction: Low-profile sensor for embedded applications.

• Short-Tail Variant: Compact connector tail for space-constrained installations.

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

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

• High Durability: Rated for millions of actuations.

Technical Specifications