Abstract: An electrical switch device includes a thick film switch element having a low temperature co-fired dielectric substrate, electrical conductor tracks embedded in the substrate and having a surface substantially flush with the substrate surface, and wiper contacts in sliding engagement with the conductor tracks. The switch is useful for position sensors, throttle controls, and digital encoders. A method of manufacturing a thick film switch element includes providing a low temperature co-fired dielectric substrate in a green state, depositing an electrically conductive material onto a face of the substrate, pressing the conductive material into the substrate until the material is substantially flush with the substrate face, and then firing the substrate and conductive material.

Abstract: A glass frit for firing in reducing environments includes an unusually large amount of calcium fluoride melted therein. Also, a copper conductive composition includes the glass frit with an unusually large amount of calcium fluoride. This copper conductive composition may be a paste prepared for screen printing, in which case an appropriate screening agent known to one of ordinary skill may be incorporated, or the composition may be a fired film formed upon a suitable substrate. A high power surge resistor also incorporates the glass frit.

Abstract: Fine copper and nickel powders are well mixed in a preselected ratio with bonding agents and carriers as appropriate. The composition then may be patterned upon a substrate by screen printing and subsequent firing in a nitrogen atmosphere to produce a low sheet resistance, low TCR electrical resistor. Various alloy powders, inert materials, and glass frits may be used depending upon the desired characteristics.