Description
The Interlink FSR400 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 . When no force is applied, resistance is greater than 10 MΩ. Under pressure, resistance drops, allowing a simple voltage divider circuit to convert force into a readable analog voltage.
The FSR400 has a dynamic sensing range of approximately 0.2N to 20N (with actuation possible as low as 0.1N), making it suitable for detecting everything from a light touch to a firm press . It is ultra-thin and designed to withstand millions of actuations . The long-tail configuration provides extended connection tabs for easier wiring in breadboards and custom PCBs.
Critical limitations: The FSR400 is not a precision load cell. Its resistance-force relationship is non-linear (second-order polynomial), and part-to-part repeatability is ±6% within a single batch . Academic testing found the FSR400’s signal drift over 2500 seconds was approximately 7.43%, significantly better than the FSR402’s 52.5% but still requiring consideration for long-duration measurements . The sensor tabs are heat-sensitive—direct soldering can damage the substrate.
Features
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Force-Sensitive Resistance: Resistance decreases with applied force; simple voltage divider interface.
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5.1mm Active Area: Compact circular sensing zone for fingertip or small-object pressure detection .
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Ultra-Thin PTF Construction: Flexible, low-profile sensor suitable for tight spaces.
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Wide Force Range: ~0.2N to 20N dynamic range, with actuation as low as 0.1N .
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High Durability: Rated for millions of actuations .
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Long-Tail Variant: Extended connector tabs for easier wiring.
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Two-Wire Passive Interface: No polarity; no power supply required for the sensing element.
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Good Repeatability: ±2% single-part, ±6% part-to-part within a batch .
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification (FSR400) |
|---|---|
| Active Area | 5.1mm diameter |
| Force Range | ~0.2N – 20N |
| No-Load Resistance | >10 MΩ |
| Force Repeatability (Single Part) | ±2% |
| Force Repeatability (Part to Part) | ±6% (single batch) |
| Hysteresis | +5% (RF+ – RF-)/RF+ |
| Long-Term Drift (1kg, 35 days) | <5% log10(time) |
| Response Time | ~3µs (typical for FSR family) |
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