The FSR402 Force Sensing Resistor is a thin, flexible sensor that changes its electrical resistance proportionally to applied force. It is designed for simple integration into electronic systems where detection of pressure, touch, or weight is required. The sensor is low-profile and can be mounted on flat or slightly curved surfaces, making it suitable for prototypes, user interfaces, robotics, industrial controls, and wearable devices.
Key characteristics include a variable resistance response that decreases as force increases, ease of use with basic circuitry such as a voltage divider and analog input, and a durable sensing area tolerant of repeated presses. While the FSR402 provides good sensitivity for presence and relative force measurements, it is not intended as a precision force transducer; its output is best used for threshold detection, proportional control, or comparative sensing rather than exact force quantification.
Integration tips: use a pull-down or pull-up resistor to create a measurable voltage change, sample the signal with an analog-to-digital converter, and apply simple filtering or averaging to reduce noise. For stable readings, mount the sensor on a firm backing, avoid sharp bending at the sensing region, and protect the leads from mechanical stress. With its slim profile and straightforward interfacing, the FSR402 is a practical choice for adding responsive force detection to a wide range of projects and products.