Durable enough to withstand harsh environmental conditions and low-profile enough to fit challenging form factors, membrane switches are customized to your design constraints. Membrane switches contain a graphic overlay, printed circuit, adhesive layer and an electrical connection that is activated by simply pressing a key.
Used in medical devices, security systems and, industrial controls, as well as the automotive market. Membranes switches can contain backlighting that incorporates LED technology and can be designed with either tactile or non-tactile-feedback (the clickiness of a button). The membrane switch has become the go to technology when a custom, durable and reliable user interface is required.
Since membrane switch are so versatile, they work well with many different applications. The graphic appearance of a membrane switch is limitless. From embossed features and keys, multiple colors, selective textures, integrated windows; the look and feel can meet specific application and market requirements. Polycarbonate and polyester material are used in most applications – but determining which will work better for an application is based on the attributes of the design. For example, for chemical resistant applications, polyester works best, but if something is temperature resistant then polycarbonate should be the material of choice. In an article written by Manufacturing.net, they’ve included a guide that contains parameters for selecting the right material based on certain attributes.
A membrane switch can be designed to fit your requirements for longevity, style, product appearance, and usability. Remember to include Techprint early in your design cycle to help guide your development process for a cost effective, and well designed solution.