Description
The Interlink FSR406 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 FSR406 features a square sensing area (approximately 38 mm × 38 mm per distributor listings), making it larger than the round FSR400 and FSR402 variants. This larger active area 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 ultra-thin (~0.42–0.45 mm) and flexible, allowing integration into tight spaces and curved surfaces .
The standard long-tail variant (30-73258) provides extended connection tabs for easier handling and breadboard insertion. The sensor is rated for up to 10 million actuations and has a sensing range of approximately 0.2N to 20N per Interlink’s 400 Series specification .
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% . It cannot detect where on the square the press occurs—only the total force. The connection tabs are heat-sensitive—distributors explicitly warn that soldering can melt the plastic substrate and ruin the sensor; use a breadboard, clamp connector, or terminal block instead .
Features
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Square Sensing Area (~38 mm × 38 mm): Larger active region than round FSRs, suitable for applications where press location is not precise .
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Force-Sensitive Resistance: Resistance decreases with applied force; simple voltage divider interface.
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Ultra-Thin PTF Construction: ~0.42–0.45 mm profile for embedded and low-profile applications .
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Sensing Range ~0.2N–20N: Optimized for human touch control .
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High Durability: Rated for up to 10 million actuations .
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Long-Tail Standard Variant (30-73258): Extended 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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Genuine Interlink Component: Original PTF sensor from the company that invented FSR technology in 1985 .
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification (FSR406 Long) |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 30-73258 |
| Active Area | ~38 × 38 mm (distributor listings); 34 mm² per Interlink page |
| Overall Length | ~83–88 mm |
| Thickness | ~0.42–0.45 mm |
| Force Range | ~0.2N – 20N |
| No-Load Resistance | >1 MΩ (typical for FSR family) |
| Sensor-to-Sensor Tolerance | ~±10% |
| Durability | Up to 10 million actuations |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
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