Technology has moved forward leaps and bounds in a small span. Membrane keypads and switches are innovative inventions of this technologically advanced era. Membrane keypads and switches are the functional and aesthetic user interface between the software and hardware control systems. We use these keypads in our daily lives, washing machines, dishwashers or microwaves operate through membrane keypads. The smaller and less clunky technology is, the better usage it generates. Membrane keypads and switches are examples of such advanced technology, bringing easy solutions to modern-day problems.
What are Membrane keypads and Switches?
Membrane keypads or switches are a whole, non-separate pressure design pads that have only outlines and symbols printed on a flexible flat surface. They function with electrical contact between the keypad surface and underneath circuits when the symbols on the keypads are pressed. The basic principle of functionality is that the contact behind the tactile key or non-tactile key closes an open loop of the circuit which terminates on the flexible tail (FPC). They are used in domestic and industrial applications on a wide variety. It ranges from backlit keypads, embossed versions, capacitive touch fascias and much more. They are customized to the customers’ individual requirements. A number of industries, electronics, white goods, medical, security and marine use membrane keypads and switches.
Benefits of Membrane keypads and Switches
Design: The design of membrane keypads and switches are created in a manner to keep them free of dirt and grime. It is a fully sealed surface, which is easier to clean and maintain. As there is no coagulation of any dirt or grime, the circuits function smoothly, making them more durable and sturdy in nature. Some of the designs are waterproofed. Adaptive designs are created to suit different customers according to their specific needs.
Versatility and Flexibility: The designs are adaptive to the specific needs of the buyer, designs are made to suit a specific product. The graphic overlay, symbols, material of the membrane keypad or switches, functionality, precise color to match the product and other specifics are for the customer to choose. An array of different industries as well as domestic sectors use membrane keypads and switches. From gym equipment like treadmills or domestic appliances like a washing machine to marine machinery, membrane keypads and switches are used on a varied scale. The material used for manufacturing isn’t rubber so they can be easily printed digitally, giving accurate and crisp graphics integrated with LED or with backlit membrane keypads and switches. Tactile or non-tactile whichever suits the clients’ needs. Flexible in size, to fit any machinery or product for use.
Durability: The material used to make these membranes vary according to budget and the functionality in regards to the product. Materials like Polycarbonate (also known to be Lexan) or Polyester (PET) are used for the production. Polyester is a bit expensive and is used where perks like heat stability for low resistance, raised keys, laser cutting is required. Polycarbonate is more an aesthetic choice, Ink keying, dye cutting, and forming are simple to create with this material. Cost-effective Polycarbonate won’t be effective while using solvent-based chemicals. Membrane keypad and switches being completely sealed offer easy cleaning and durability. Some offering waterproof material, some dust and grime free materials ensuring a longer life span. The membrane keypads and switches also have sub-surface graphics (printing is on the underside of the membrane) so that in time the visuals don’t degrade and cleaning won’t fade away the symbols. Keeping the identity of graphics alive for a longer duration. Adhesives are used to keep the material of the membrane keypad or switches in mind as well as the product they will be mounted on.
Enhanced Protection: Other than being extremely durable membrane keypads and switches have the advantage of providing better protection to the product it has been mounted on. Its design servers to be waterproof which can protect your machinery from any water or liquid mishap that might happen. Let’s consider a treadmill, people drink water or protein shakes while workout sessions and the entire machinery is only vulnerable from where it is operated. Using a waterproof material for treadmills membrane keypad can protect the owner from the huge bill for repairing with any liquid mishap. Similarly, membrane keypads and switches can survive harsh UV lights where other types of machinery are damaged by exposure. Also, they are resistant to few chemicals making these a full protection package, ideal for your machine. Guaranteed protection with different materials just to suit your needs.
Cost-effective and Easy Repairs: Membrane keyboards are inexpensive and are resistant to dirt and liquids the other keyboards making them ideal for use. These are much easier to repair in comparison to other mechanical keyboards. The circuit design with an overlay makes the process of the membrane keypads and switches much easier. In case of damages, you can easily remove the overlaying membrane, correct the damages in the circuit and simply place back the overlying membrane to make it fully functioning again. Cost-effective as well as simple to repair or modify where the product has an issue with the membrane keypads and switches. The easy repairing makes it so versatile in so many industries.
Membrane keypads and switches are Cost-effective full package deals, which is getting better and updated day by day to fit the ever-advancing technology. Membrane keypads and switches have brought significant changes in technology since its application from the early 1980s on home computers. Today it is widely used in normal computer keyboard as well with an array of dome switches just to give positive tactile feedback. As widespread the use of membrane keypads and switches is today, we can easily say it is one of the revolutionary inventions of modern times
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