Abstract: A magnetically coupled pushbutton switch has a coupler magnet layer that normally holds an electrically conductive magnetic armature spaced from a substrate layer. An overlay having an overlay electrical conductor formed thereon covers the pushbutton switch. The overlay electrical conductor, which electrically contacts a crown on the armature, is part of a set of electrical conductors that is normally closed. When a user provided actuation force causes the armature to break away from the coupler magnet layer, the set of electrical conductors is opened.

Abstract: A magnetic detent for devices having at least one moving part. At least one bonded magnet with substantially alternating North and South poles is used which interacts with a magnetic material or another magnet. Where more than one magnet is used, one is located on a stationary assembly and another is located on a moveable assembly. The detent may provide tactile feel for manually operated devices such as rotating and sliding electrical switches including magnetically actuated switches. Bonded magnet such as bonded sheet magnet may be used for one or more magnets. Magnetic poles may be oriented so that as the device is operated, either like poles or opposite poles line up at the same time. With some embodiments, the magnets are allowed to contact when opposite poles line up. With other embodiments, an air gap is maintained between the magnets.