MX mount SMK clone series

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MX mount SMK clone series

Switch type	Linear
Sense method	Metal leaf
Switch mount	Plate mount

MX mount SMK clone series refers to a series of Cherry MX mount clones of the SMK vintage linear switch from an unknown manufacturer. The switches appear to share the same moulds as HTK switch (including completely identical mould numbering), suggesting that the HTK switch tooling was sold off to another company who removed the "HTK" branding. The branding on the base appears to have been removed with an automated rotary tool, and the poor surface texture and soft edges suggest old, worn tooling.

Design

The design is very similar to SMK vintage linear, with several notable differences. The switch differs from the SMK vintage linear, and matches the HTK switch as follows:

• Two folds instead of one in the cross bar of the stationary terminal
• Recessed area at the base of the movable contact
• Asymmetric slider base (the SMK upright keystem slider is reversible and may have been designed to support DPST)
• Plain hemispherical PCB standoffs

The circular recesses commonly found on the bottom of the switch base are missing in this clone family.

It is possible that it is related to USw LXBB02, which is unbranded and has a black slider, and is depicted in the same eBay auction item.<ref name="eBay-wonderco" /> USw LXBB02 appears to have a different slider design and lacks the spiral square "branding".

Variants

USw LMBW01

Black, with a white slider

USw LMBU01

Black, with a medium blue slider — assumed to be Cherry MX mount as the slider dimensions appear to match those of USw LMBW01<ref name="eBay-wonderco" />

Gallery

USw LMBW01

• 
  Assorted switches
• 
  Top
• 
  Numbering is the same as the HTK switch
• 
  Base removed
• 
  Slider is Cherry MX mount
• 
  Slider profile
• 
  Apparent removal of prior branding
• 
  Switch contacts
• 
  Disassembled, bottom views

Comparison with SMK

Comparison with a typical SMK vintage linear switch from circa 1984 (taken from an Acorn BBC Microcomputer):

• 
  Fronts
• 
  Sides
• 
  Sliders

References

<references> <ref name="eBay-wonderco">eBay — 1 PC White Keyboard 5x5 Keys 5 Keys Metal Panel ^{[Volatile reference]} Retrieved 2015-07-29.</ref> </references>