WE2KT103 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The WE2KT103 is a 12-key non-illuminated keypad switch manufactured by Storm Interface, featuring conductive rubber contacts and Wiegand™ output. This component is classified as Last Time Buy, indicating discontinued production with limited remaining inventory of 736 pieces. The identification of equivalent and substitute parts is essential for design continuity, long-term sourcing strategy, and system compatibility in applications requiring 12-key input interfaces with Wiegand™ protocol support.

Substiute Parts

WE2KT103

Storm InterfaceIn Stock: 746WE2KT103 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

1K120103

Storm InterfaceIn Stock: 8981K120103 Datasheet

SimilarRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution eligibility for the WE2KT103 is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Number of Keys & Matrix Configuration: Both main and substitute parts must maintain 12 keys in a 3 x 4 matrix to ensure physical and electrical compatibility with existing PCB layouts and firmware implementations.
• Switch Type: Conductive rubber contact technology is the defining mechanism for tactile response and electrical switching characteristics.
• Illumination Status: Non-illuminated configuration eliminates power supply and control circuit dependencies.
• Operational Life: Minimum 4,000,000 cycles ensures equivalent durability and field reliability.
• Ingress Protection: IP65 rating maintains environmental sealing requirements across equivalent models.
• RoHS3 Compliance: Regulatory alignment for hazardous substance restrictions.

The substitute part 1K120103 shares these core parameters, establishing functional equivalence despite differences in output protocol, key material, and mounting flexibility.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

WE2KT103 (Last Time Buy Status)

The WE2KT103 remains the primary specification for new designs requiring Wiegand™ protocol output. However, Last Time Buy status indicates production discontinuation. Current inventory of 736 pieces supports limited production runs. Designs currently in development or requiring extended component availability should evaluate the 1K120103 substitute.

1K120103 (Active Status)

The 1K120103 is actively manufactured and represents the long-term sourcing solution. This part maintains core mechanical and electrical compatibility through identical key count, matrix configuration, switch type, and operational life. The extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 100°C versus -20°C ~ 70°C) provides superior thermal performance for industrial environments.

Key Differences Requiring Design Consideration

• Output Protocol: 1K120103 uses Matrix output instead of Wiegand™. System firmware and interface electronics must support matrix-based key scanning.
• Termination: 1K120103 uses Pin Header termination versus Screw Terminal on WE2KT103. PCB connector footprints and assembly processes require modification.
• Key Material: Metal keys on 1K120103 provide enhanced durability and tactile feedback compared to polymer keys on WE2KT103.
• Mounting Flexibility: 1K120103 supports both front and rear panel mounting, offering design flexibility not available with WE2KT103.

Compliance & Certification

Both parts maintain ROHS3 compliance, CE approval, and REACH unaffected status, ensuring regulatory alignment across substitution scenarios.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the 1K120103 directly replace the WE2KT103 without design modifications?

A: Direct physical replacement is not possible due to differences in output protocol (Matrix versus Wiegand™) and termination style (Pin Header versus Screw Terminal). System firmware and PCB interface circuits require modification to support matrix-based key scanning and the alternative connector type.

Q: What is the significance of the Last Time Buy status on the WE2KT103?

A: Last Time Buy indicates that Storm Interface has discontinued production of the WE2KT103. The remaining inventory of 736 pieces represents the final available stock. Once depleted, this part number will no longer be available from the manufacturer. New designs should transition to the 1K120103 to ensure long-term component availability.

Q: Are the 12-key, 3 x 4 matrix configurations identical between both parts?

A: Yes. Both the WE2KT103 and 1K120103 maintain identical 12-key, 3 x 4 matrix configurations. This ensures that physical panel cutout dimensions and key layout remain compatible, provided termination and mounting modifications are implemented.

Q: What are the operational life specifications for both parts?

A: Both the WE2KT103 and 1K120103 are rated for 4,000,000 operational cycles, ensuring equivalent durability and field reliability across substitution scenarios.

Q: How do the operating temperature ranges differ?

A: The WE2KT103 operates from -20°C to 70°C, while the 1K120103 operates from -40°C to 100°C. The 1K120103 provides extended thermal performance, making it suitable for industrial environments with wider temperature extremes.

Q: What packaging and inventory considerations apply?

A: Both parts are supplied in Bulk packaging. The WE2KT103 has 736 pieces in stock (Last Time Buy status), while the 1K120103 has 869 pieces in stock (Active status). For production continuity, the 1K120103 represents the sustainable long-term sourcing option.

Q: Are both parts RoHS3 compliant?

A: Yes. Both the WE2KT103 and 1K120103 are ROHS3 compliant and REACH unaffected, meeting current regulatory requirements for hazardous substance restrictions.