Everything you need to Know about Silicon Rubber Keypad

In this Article, we will take you through brief detail about Silicone rubber keypad its features, benefits, why it is good for business purposes; you will get to know everything about it.

Before getting into brief discussion first we are going to introduce its main definition of Silicone rubber keypad then we will talk about its features, benefits.

Silicon Rubber Keypad Overview

Silicone rubber keypad second name is elastomeric keypad, it is also a type of keypad, it is designed by using a webbing material which is composed of silicon material, for instance Silicone rubber always webbing around a switch.

After pressing a key, rubber deforms itself because of having elastic properties as a result key touches the top of PCB. In simple words we will says that this keypad has a user interface design which plays an important role in creating connection  b/w user and the device, in short it helps in the functionality of product.

Silicone rubber keypads have widely been used among business owners and mechanical engineers. There are many keypads available in the market which features plastic, but silicon rubber keypad comes up with its own benefits.

They have been around since decades, their mostly usage has been seen in the countless industries like health care, retail, aero scope and business.

But if you are not familiar to it then first you have to know that how they work and why they are so popular.

Construction of Silicone Rubber Keypad

There are many keypads which has been designed differently, but 90% construction is same.

There is a switch button on the top of keypad and there is a conductive material at the bottom of rubber, mostly manufacturer uses the material like carbon or gold.

There is a pocket of air or inert gas under this material (carbon or gold) so when a person press the pad with its finger the material deforms and creates a direct contact with switch.

This pads also has compression molding properties that is why it can easily provide a tactile feedback.

Why to use Silicone Rubber Keypad

Because of soft quality and flexibility they are widely been used, if we compare silicone rubber keypad with other keypads than we can see a major difference b/w them, other keypads are very hard and difficult to use but silicone one is very rubbery and soft.

Their quality is really worth mentioning that these pads can easily tolerate harsh outdoor temperature and environment but other pads cannot tolerate hard environment.

Their another good thing is that they not only tolerate high temperature but if the temperature is too cold it will still keep itself perfect without losing its originality.

In short we can say that it is a perfect choice for factories where heat is everywhere.

As we can see that lot of research comes up with a studies that tactile feedback is the reason of typing accuracy so for typist and office workers silicon plays an important role in the typing accuracy.

Silicone and plastic are the materials that commonly been used for manufacturing keypads but silicon is a perfect choice for soft textures, this is the reason keypad-FD gives first preference to silicon pads in order to satisfy customer needs.

Is Silicon Rubber Keypad is a perfect choice for Business?

First of all we really want to thanks to the silicon rubber webbing material, just because of it, keypads creates naturally tactile feedback.

It is good for business purposes because it can easily bear harsh and moisture environment, so if you travel a lot for business purpose then it can be your good companion and can help you a lot in business matters.

It will not lose its originality even after a heavy usage. If you are using plastic keypads in your long business trips because of seasonal changes your keypad can destroy your time, meetings etc. We have tested and have found that ingress of moisture easily damages the keypad circuit.

But when we tested silicon then we got to see that it shows itself waterproof, moisture free, dust & dirt free material.

Another good thing about it is that you can easily eat your lunch or dinner on the same desk where your keypad is placed without any cleaning fear because it comes up with a surface which can easily be cleaned.

The last and the most amazing benefit of utilizing silicon rubber keypad for business purposes is that it comes up with lot of backlighting option which includes electroluminescent (EL), light-emitting diode (LED).

You will not believe but yes it even includes a laser engraving though it’s not a backlighting option but it works in conjunction with a backlight to help in illuminating the legends.

Advantages of utilizing a Silicone-Rubber Keypads

Are you having a difficulty in deciding a right kind of keypad? If yes then go through the below content we are listing below a few good advantages of it that will help you a lot in choosing. Silicon is one of the most popular and good choice because of its advantages.

Waterproof and Dustproof

Yes they are naturally water proof and dust proof, silicon membrane is really ultra-durable and keeps the keypad safe from intrusion of moisture, dust, and micro-particles. Just because of this feature device remains safe from lot of damages. This feature is the reason of their popularity in factories and medical equipment’s.

Comfortable

As we all knows that reliability is first thing that customers look for, it is one of the key selling point which choosing keypads.

If keypad material is tough and hard then customer will not be happy at all. If it is not designed in a correct and organized manner then it will not serve its intended role. But this is not the case with silicone rubber keypad they are extra ordinary in providing 100% comfort and reliability. Silicone rubber keypad composed of smooth keys which give comfort to fingers and even after a long usage or a heavy work it will still calm your fingers. If you test it yourself then you will also see that this keypad is more comfortable than the plastic one.

Cost-Effective

Yes! It is 100% true that they are really less cost effective as compared to other keypads in the market. Their prices are very less, so we can say that they are available at favorable prices.

If you are those who is looking for keypads which is not only good, comfortable, environment friendly and cost effective than buy only silicon rubber keypad. It is one of the best choices in reasonable prices.

These keypads are also good for manufacturer when they are designing large scale applications, they can easily integrate this affordable keypad with that application. It will not only increase the product efficiency but will be less cost effective for manufacturer.

Supports HMIs With or Without Back Lighting

It’s another worth mentioning advantage is that it has a capability to support HMI’s. There are some HMI’s which use backlight for illuminating the interface. But it is not necessary if the keypad uses backlighting or not the, keypad will continue to perform its function.

Why to buy Silicon Rubber Keypad only from Keypad-FD?

Yes! for buying silicone rubber keypad, keypad-FD must be your first choice, because we not only provide keypad but you can avail benefits of enhanced options like epoxy encapsulation, multi-hardness materials, hard key feeling, laser-etched graphics, and your choice of finishes, including high-gloss.

By these enhancing options your keypad will have a new dynamics to keypads which plays an important role in increasing not only aesthetics but functionality also.

So place your order any time to keypad-FD, we have industry leading engineers, designs and manufacturing group that has been serving our company with their expertise since decades.

We are the top rated and most popular company right now we do our best in providing most complex and innovative human machine interface devices in the world.

has become the most capable global supplier of printing services include printed electronics, flexible printed circuits, instrument dials, Indicator faceplates, multicolor panels, tactile switch, capacitive touch keypads, silicone rubber keypad, touch screens, functional die cuts, backlighting, film insert molding and related custom components and products as well as the leading innovative solutions provider for custom applications.

Our company always comes up with appealing and attractive look products, you can order any color, size of product.

Our prices are very moderate and products are moisture proof, dust proof and anti-corrosion and erosion of harmful gases proof. So what else a customer wants for?

Want to place your order? Simply visit our contact us page and give us a free instant quote, one our team member from customer service will reach out to you and will guide you through our products.

 

Reasons to Choose Membrane Keypad

In this Article, we will walk you through detail about Membrane keypad, but first we are going to put some shed to the main definition of membrane keypad so that you can know exactly what membrane keypad is? This article also covers the topic that why membrane keypad is good for business use.

Membrane Keypad Overview

Membrane keypad is composed of sets of multiple keys within a panel. Panel is flat and its thickness is less than 1mm.

As we can see keypads are used in variety of applications like desktop computers, calculators etc.

Its wide usage has been seen in heavy machinery and industrial equipment.  In simple words, we can say that keypad is used to control the device, because of keypad person can communicate with device.

In market, variety of keypads is available but the most preferable and popular one is a membrane keypad because of its reliability, durability, longevity etc.

Let’s read with us to know exactly what membrane keypad is?

Membrane keypad actually features variety of keys on single platform without separate moving parts. Normally keypads are composed of individual keys each key has a separate moving parts.

But with membrane keypad, case is completely different, membrane keypads are composed of pressure pads on which the keys and symbols are printed.

Techniques used to designed membrane keypads are simple and straightforward, on the bottom keys are composed of conductive metal, so after pressing it opens up the circuit.

Since 1980’s manufacturers are utilizing it widely in computers and electronic devices, but now touch screens and capacitive switches gradually taking its position, but their usage is still high.

Why Manufacturer prefer Membrane Keypads than using Advance technology like Capacitive Switch?

Membrane keypads are very easy to manufacture and can be designed at a very less price, in short we can say that it is one of the option for budget-conscious consumers.

Its reliability and durability is the main reason of choosing it. It has the ability to repel dirt, dust, moisture and debris, it is perfect to use in kind of environment either it’s indoor or outdoor, try it anywhere. Although there are few points from where dust can get into the keypad because keys are not separate moving parts, but this does not matters a lot when one can avail lot of benefits. After going through all its features we can say that membrane keypad is one of the greatest option for outdoor products, either its rain or dust outside it will withstand itself and performs its function without having a single damage. 90% of people still want to try membrane keypads rather than capacitive switch because of breakage fear, yes the capacitive switch always works with a glass, after touching finger one can operate it, though it is very advance and modern technology and gives a very appealing and attractive look but still there are more chances of its glass breakage, touchscreen can be break just with a single fallen. Mostly parents provide only membrane keypads rather than touch screen devices in order to reduce the chance of breakage.

Here in Keypad-FD we take pride to provide you with 100% reliable working product with advance tech and different designs. It would be better if two keypads comes up with unique design, doing this will not only increase product sale but will also appeal the common user.

Few disadvantages associated with Membrane Keypads

As we all knows that every product comes up with few benefits and flaws so here we are putting some shed to the flaws of membrane keyword.

If we compare it with mechanical keypad then we can see a major difference b/w both of them that it has no tactile feedback which can affect your typing speed, this keypad is not good for those who used the laptops keypads heavily.

It is also not good for typist, it will affect their typing speed and it creates a high button noise while typing but the noise is bearable and don’t disturb the person.

Now days, as technology is advance so manufacturer is designing membrane keypads with small tactile feedback, for example small vibration. Though the vibration is small but it is enough to provide tactile feedback, it plays an important role in accuracy and user satisfaction. Its flaws are in minority that is why it is still popular and widely used.

Why Membrane Keypad is perfect for Business Use?

As we all knows that membrane keypads main quality is that they are robust & durable and their 90% usage has been seen in medical equipment’s but now a day business organization utilizing it for variety of products.

Membrane keypads are mostly assembled with membrane switches so these are very innovative electro-chemical assemblies.

They play an important role in controlling machines via UI, so they can easily utilize in industrial machinery as well as aero scope sector.

If you utilize this technology in workspace then you can get a lot of benefits from it. For example its surface is really easy to clean, and comes up with water resistant quality and chemical fire.

It is perfect to use for business purpose because it sends signal to the PC via membrane.  There is lot of standard keypads available in the market but no one can compete membrane keypad.

Good for business because it is easy to clean, available in favorable prices and work very amazingly.

One can easily buy it from the nearest market. It is perfect for office use with multiple cubicles.

Utilizing it will not disturb other employees in the office. If its price is compared with other keyboard then we can see a clear difference, membrane keyword is very cheaper.

We recommend it strongly for those who used to have lunch or dinner on their office desks.

Many business men prefer it because of its compact and small size as compared to mechanical keyboard this is the reason they have long lifespan.

History of the Membrane Keypads

This technology has been developed over 20 years ago. People find it so reliable, simple; economical not only for design but its function is also extra ordinary. Just because of design capability it is still fresh and popular to use in the 21^st century.  Its design still gives a appealing and modern look.

Its manufacturing process has been modern now but if we have a look to its basic principles and basic function then we can see that it has not been change which is why it is still more reliable to use.

Keypad-FD offers many services – Why to choose Keypad-FD?

Panel and Overlays

Our team gives 100% dedication in designing panel and overlays and provides better specification, better design and same flexibility than our competitors.

Labels and Dials

You will not find better supplier than Keypad-FD, volume consistency and services are the basic needs and we are here to fulfill all these requirements.

Domed Labels

It is really easy process to try, but it comes up with most amazing results, make sure to put lens over your image.

Quality and Testing

We always come up with great product but before delivering product to customer first our team test and inspect it. We are top rated and well known worldwide company. Our popularity is just because we value our customer needs and we award winning company not only locally but internationally also.

You will find lot of good things in our products but the best part our team is that they monitored and documented the product during every stage of manufacturing. Yes we strive to meet the customer demands.

Keypad-FD not only provides membrane keypads but membrane switches, capacitive switches, membrane overlays and much more products. Our products are known by worldwide because of 100% reliability even in the hostile of operating environment.

Yes! We have experts and engineers who has been serving in our company since decades, we have provided them a vast array of technical specification and equipment’s that helps them to offer  best designing and manufacturing solution to clients.

Keypad-FD is custom designed and manufactured to meet the exact technical and ergonomic requirements for each customer’s specific needs. We gives a full freedom to our customer in choosing variety of designs.

Our team can provide the full solution to any concept from any market or product. Always remember that we only utilize the high quality material and advance technology and methods to fulfill customer demands.

If you are looking for reliable Membrane keypads, Silicone rubber keypads, Membrane switches, Capacitive switches, LGF membrane switches products with industry leading customer services and reasonable prices then keypad-FD is always here to satisfy you.

From low cost prototypes to full production volumes, you can quote us any time, just visit our contact us page one of our team member will respond you soon and will guide you through our products and company scenario.

As the engineer who designs and produces the membrane switches for over fifteen years, here I would like to share some information about the construction of the membrane switch design.

The main raw material of the membrane switch is the plastic, like the mostly machines & tools that we use. It’s much different from the metal switch, difference from the computer keypads, the difference from the micro-switch, difference from the traditional rocker switch. The membrane switch has a beautiful appearance, the small volume, the lightweight, the low resistance, the easy produce & custom, the complex control integration, and the long lifetime advantage.

For the standard membrane switch, it builds with 6 layers, sees the below 1~6 layers.

Layer1: This is the front layers of the membrane switches, the users directly see and touch such layers directly. Normally, such layer build with the hard coat Polyester sheets or the hard coat Polycarbonate sheets, the front surface can be printed with the different colors, the difference text, the different patterns, the printing is on the backside of such layers (Means you can’t scratch the printing).

Layer2: The layers are the double-side adhesive, it’s been used to stick the top and the bottom layers together. If there has the keys or the windows on the top layer, such a layer will be designing the cut holes.

Layer3: This is the metal dome retainer layer, for the membrane switch that with the keys design, the metal domes will be used for help to get good keys tactile feelings. The dome retainer layer can help to hold on the metal domes permanent, even though the membrane switch used at the very bump environments.

Layer4: This is the double-side adhesive layer, it’s used for stock the top layer and the bottom layer together.

Layer5: The layer for the circuits design. Normally, it can design the Polyester sheet that printing the silver as the circuits, it can be designed with copper flexible circuits, it can be designed with the PCBs circuits.

Layer6: The layer is usually designed with the double side adhesive, such as the 3M 200MP series, the 3M 300LSE series, the 3M 300VHB series, the adhesive can be a very good stick to the plastic material (Like the ABS, the Acrylic, the Makrolon, the PVC) the metal material (Like the stainless steel, the aluminum plate), the glass material (Like the glass, like the PMMA) and etc., the such adhesive can be work at the temperature at -40℃~80℃.

Layer7: The layer here is the circuits tail connection, it can design the ZIF contacts, design with the male pins connection, design with the female pins connection, also can design with the connect solder pads.

Foundation Industries have many years of experience in design with the membrane switch. We produce over ten thousand different membrane switches for our customers, and each switch is with different designs (Difference shape, difference keys, difference printing or colors, difference function). We are very proud that so many services for many famous companies, such as GE the Siemens, the Bosch, etc., We provide all our customer high-quality products. Also, we are very welcome the more business from anyone.

Controller design with the smaller volume: How technology and process can help design the controller smaller and beautiful.

Foundation Industries produces more than tens of thousands of switches for the difference controllers, the controllers may be used on many filed. Such as the aerospace, the military, the industrial, the consumer electronics applications, the automotive, etc., Our switches can design to be very thin, very light, and also with very beautiful appearance. Also, our switches are very easy to be been assembly to the plastic enclosure. Below are some points that show the advantages for the membrane switches:

1. Design free

• Design the shape and thickness per your suggestion, design the dimensions of the outline per your request.
• Design the text, the patterns, the colors as you like, you also can design the colors per your plastic housing. The printing colors, text, patterns are on the membrane foils bottom, and the colors can keep permanent.
• Design with the liquid proof very easy, the gasket waterproof can be designed together with the membrane switch, and there is no need for the extra gasket rings design.
• Design with the LED lighting indicator very easily. We can design with the “point-indicator”, also can design the “area-indicator” (Backlighting design for the switches).

2. Use free for the manufacturer

• For the membrane switches, it can be very easy to assembly to the different machines. The flat surface mostly will be OK to assembly the switches. Therewith the adhesive design on the bottom of the switches, and you just need to paste such switches to your machine, and connect tails to your control PCBs, then it can be work.
• The membrane switch can be suite to the sunny outdoors, can be suite to the rainy environment, can be sure to standard indoors, can be suite high temperature outdoors, can be suited to the high-pressure environment, can be suite to causticity environment, can be suite to vibrate environment, etc.
• The membrane switch with low working voltage and current, low loop resistance. The material also the insulation layers, always Can be safe for users.

3. User free for the terminal users

• The membrane switches have a good tactile feeling for the users, the simple and beautiful appearance also makes the users happy.
• Easy clean, Clean the membrane switch more easer than a standard glass.
• Good scratch resistance, the users don’t care the very easily broken after a long time using. Good acid and alkali resistant during the using.
• Don’t have the fingerprints leaves, can be suited to the different kinds of touch and press fingers.

Foundation industries produce the membrane switches for over 13 years, and we provide our service all over the world. From the original standard membrane switches design, now our switches design to be very diverse. Our design main idea is not “Simpler is better”, Our design main idea is to try the best that catch the customer requires, Our design main idea is that customers give us the ideas that what they want to design the “achieve” and we give them the solutions. We doing the business always good, and we will keep our advantage that doing the business better in the future. Welcome to email us about your problems!

Few Things that you may have not known about Capacitive Switch

Keypad-FD is one of the most and top rated company providing capacitive switch services, we are always here to enhance your product user interface without tipping the scales out of your budget. Keypad-FD is a well-known company worldwide because we always gives value to our customer requirement, before placing an order read below content, first we are going to put some shed to few amazing things about capacitive switch, so that you can have a complete overview and main definition about capacitive switch and decide yourself a better place to buy these switches. So must read the below content it will walk you through the fundamentals of capacitive touch technology including different construction, you will also read about technical consideration that will plays an important role in optimizing your device.

Capacitive Switch Overview

This switch is a type of touch controlled electrical switch which works because of changing in capacitance. Its functionality is as same as capacitive smartphone, when human touch a phone screen, from human body a tiny electrical charge transferred to switch because of this we can see a change in the capacitance.

After touching the switch the electrical charge which has been transferred from human body disturbs the capacitive switch own electrical charge, because of this capacitance change switch determines where the touch occurs. In such a capacitive switch performs its function.

Yes! Day by day technology getting more advanced and our future is going to rely on capacitive sensing technology. Now everybody is so close to touch screen, now 90% people prefer touch screens as compare to membrane switches.

Here we are going to list down few amazing advantages of capacitive switch with the glass

Usage of this technology is increasing day by day because it is very easy now to clean the glass.

1: This technology comes up with highly decorative solutions which include full printing colors like transparent and light blocking.

2: This technology comes up with back light option.

3: It comes up with multiple fond printing options.

4: It let you insert variety of labels into the glass; it also let you integrate multiple displays.

There are many manufacturers that utilized membrane switches technology which is composed of polyester graphical overlay and switching layer beneath. But the main disadvantage of utilizing membrane switches technology is that its usage is not appropriate with a glass lenses, only the capacitive switch technology is solution to get rid from this problem. Usage of a sensing layer and a microcontroller makes possible that now one can operate switches behind glass.

Let’s have a quick overview to the design of Capacitive Switch

Capacitive Switches are composed of 3 layers.

1: Upper Graphic Overlay Layers (This layer is composed of plastic and glass which is really durable and increase the product durability)

2: A Circuit Layer (Which is of flex PCB or simple PCB)

3: 3^RD and the last layer is the backer layer.

Main dis-advantage of using this Capacitive Switch

1: The main and only one disadvantage of this technology is that there are 90% chances of breakage glass; such technology requires more care and need.

As we all knows that everything comes up with few pros and cons so same the case with this technology.

But its advantages are much bigger than its cons let’s have a look below to its pros.

Benefits of utilizing Capacitive Switch

First and the most amazing benefit of utilizing capacitive switch is that this switch can bear harsh environment either its outdoor or indoor environment it can tolerate both.

If the customer’s main concern is dirt, moisture and dust then capacitive switch must be your first choice. In short we can say that these switches are one of the best choices for electrical switches.

The main thing about these switches is that for performing they need direct contact with object just because of this reason stylus doesn’t work mostly if the stylus you are utilizing is not made up of capacitive.

It’s another plus point is that they support integration of features like light emitting diode LED backlights.

Usage of Capacitive Switch

There are many industries where Capacitive Switches used in a wide range.

1: Vending Machines

2: Smartphones

3: Tablets

4: Human Machine Interfaces (HMI’s)

5: Industrial Control’s

6: Appliances, infotainment centers and much more

Few other Touch Switches

Besides capacitive touch switches there are also two other types exist of touch switch, Resistive and piezo which perform its function by reducing the resistance of two conductive components. So now you can see that there are three types of switches but the most famous and preferable one is only capacitive touch switch because of its performance, 100% accuracy, reliability and its overall versatility.

As you have seen above that capacitive switches comes up with longevity and reliability so whenever you look for an electrical switch then always prefer a capacitive one.

Major Difference between Capacitive and Mechanical Switch

As we all knows very well that switches are the main backbone that plays an important role in operating electrical device. In simple words we can says that it controls an electrical circuit.

When the switch is turned on the electrical circuit closed thus complete but when the switch is turned off the electrical circuit open up thus incomplete.

So in order to control these circuits variety of switches are available but the most preferable ones are mechanical and capacitive. And if we compare mechanical and capacitive then capacitive is more amazing and has future scope. So here we are going to present a major difference b/w mechanical and capacitive switch.

What is Mechanical Switch?

This switch is known as a most basic type of switch. Mechanical Switch is composed of two conductive traces; after pressing the switch there occur a contact b/w upper and bottom conductive trace which plays an important role in closing the circuit. After releasing switch the conductive trace comes back to its original position.

Here are few examples of mechanical switches: Buttons on TV remote control. There are other countless application like calculators, gaming controllers etc where mechanical switches has been utilized. Computer keyboards, human machine interfaces (HMIs), household appliance are also an example of mechanical switches.

What is Capacitive Switch?

Their function is also same as mechanical switch, they used for opening a circuit, but the method used for opening the circuit is completely different than mechanical switches.

As we all knows that mechanical switches features conductive traces separated by air but capacitive switches use a capacitive sensor which plays an important role in changing capacitance.

It continually emits a current across the button, when someone touches the button then its finger absorb a bit current and drop the capacitance which in result closing the circuit.

If we compare capacitive switches with capacitive touch then we get to know that both are used for measuring capacitance.

Using a capacitive switch benefit is that it requires no pressure to operate, mechanical switch button requires a pressure to push the button hard enough but in case of capacitance you just need to touch it with your bare finger and all will done.

Few more great features are listed below

1: It is really easy to use just with a single finger touch, it opens up the circuit.

2: It contains sensors which are adjustable to environment.

3: It is easy to clean because switch is impervious to dust and dirt, and resistant to harsh chemicals and contaminants

4: It is really durable and reliable because of 50 million cycles.

5: It is also available in momentary.

These switches are new into the industry but still getting lot of fame among people; slowly they are replacing membrane and mechanical switches, and can easily combine with PCAP touchscreen. They are perfect to give a modern look to a device. Its new features are sliders and wheel, in short we can say it an ideal technology.

If you are one of those who only look for cost effective designs then prefer only capacitive switch because only this technology comes up with cost effective designs.

Why to choose Keypad-FD?

Keypad-FD is always here to fulfill your requirement, if you are looking for high quality capacitive switches then jump over to our contact us page one of our team member will you as soon as possible and will guide you about everything. The reason to choose us is that our engineers have been manufacturing switches since decades.

Let’s have a look to out few Mottos:

We always value our customer needs, we always comes up with high quality product, we choose the product material very carefully, and customer satisfaction will always remain our first preference.

If you are interested in our services then give us an instant quote, our customer support team will respond back to you in a short span of time and will guide you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Graphic Overlay – Why Membrane Switch is incomplete without Graphic Overlays

Yes! We are used to of using a variety of control panels in our daily life, like oven push button, it is incomplete without graphic overlay interface.

When the interface does not work then we cannot utilize an oven, now these control panels has a full control into our life’s and all the big industries.

This control panel is known as a membrane switch and without graphic overlay membrane switch is useless.

First of all we are going to briefly explain about the main definition of graphic overlays and then we put some shed to its feature, importance and usage.

An Introduction to a Graphic Overlay:

The very first layer of a membrane switch is known as a Graphic Overlay. It is composed of flexible plastic along printed image, display window and embossed key.

Yes with graphic overlays, membrane switches are of two kinds, first one is membrane switch panel other one is a membrane keypad.

Membrane switch panel is called as non-tactile membrane switch on the other hand membrane keypad is called as a tactile membrane switch.

All the screen printed overlays comes up with function keys as well as text display. Just because of this overlay user can interact with device at ease. It’s another advantage is that it gives extra security to internal units from exposed.

As control panel is the main thing for product so manufacturer always gives first preference to customization of graphic overlays.

 

 

Overlay can be designed more attractive and beautiful by the usage of particular inks, well-designed elements and featured images. Even its up to manufacturer, he/she can also give a variety of shapes and sizes.

While manufacturing, two types of cutting process plays an important role, first one is die cut second one is laser cut.

Manufacturer utilizes the die cuts for general purposes but the laser cut is only utilized for high precision purposes.

It’s all up to the professional designer that which they utilize, keypad-FD first try to meet all the customer demands but in case if customer is unaware of good one then we always utilize the best according to needs because we value our customer needs and we work for repute and value not for money So our main motto always remains customer satisfaction.

Manufacturer can impress the users by designing unique graphic overlays but few users come up with a question, if design is everything for graphic overlays then why good material selection is very important for it?

Well the answer to this question is explained below.

Why good quality material is utilize for Graphic Overlay?

User-friendly interface

User will enjoy using product only if the interface is clear and clean so if the graphic overlay is made by utilizing high quality material then the LCD display will comes up with more pleasant look. Just because of amazing transparency communication can be clearer with user and commands. In short we can say that it increases the product usability this is main reason that why Keypad-FD only utilize a high quality graphic overlay material.

Durability

Durability is the second main reason of utilizing high quality graphic overlays because a single button will be pressed thousands time, button cannot be pressed without giving any stress, so after putting pressure we have to release the pressure so that button can get back to its original shape, all this process requires a lot of flexibility so graphic overlay material must have modulus of elasticity, if the material is not good then there might be a possibility that overlay developed a undesirable deformation because of stress. So the material should have balanced elasticity otherwise button will be stiff to press.

Another reason of choosing good material is the environmental protection, most of the time membrane switches are exposed to humidity environment which shorten the membrane switch lifespan.  If the membrane switch is exposed to very high temperature then there is a possibility of short lifespan of membrane switch.

Both high and low temperature can affect the overlay either its icy place and dessert if the material is of low class then the overlays will be affected easily.

Three things that create high corrosion for overlays for example chemicals, solvents or salty water so in order to keep safe overlays from such environmental issues material selection plays a very important role.

These are the main reasons that keypad-FD always utilize a high class material in order to provide finest protection to graphic overlays.

Desirable shape

Shape is another main factor in giving overlays an attractive look. If the manufacturer is utilizing a right kind of material then it can design infinite looks for overlays.  Designer can easily satisfied the customer only if the material is of right kind. Now the industry technology has become more advanced so variety of printing inks are available now to give overlays a different designs every time. We can say that material selection can help the manufacturer a lot in making unique overlays. If the material is good then manufacture has lot of ways to print overlays via screen or digital printing.

Screen printing plays an important role in providing amazing color matching; screen printing has a wide use in making high class Application because of great consistency on the other hand digital printing plays a key role in making flexible design.

For both kinds of printing infinite no of color choices are available.

Another good thing about choosing different material is that it can give very clear finishes to overlays.

Let’s see below how it gives distinct finishes to product.

For instance, manufacturer can have choices for embossing, matte, velvet or gloss. There are variety of finishes available which plays a key role in reducing fingerprints and scratch for indoor environment.

There is also variety of finishes available for making display window clearer. All this is possible only if the material is of high quality, so after utilizing a high quality graphic overlay material designer can customize it in many ways and can comes up with variety of pleasing looks.

For different Applications, different kind of Materials is required

There are hundreds of materials are available but all cannot create a good one graphic overlay. Choosing a right kind material is a main part of product designing process.

So before choosing any material, there are few things that you need to be considered.

In which environment that overlay is going to be used? indoors or outdoors? The main thing is that where we are going to utilize this product.

As you have read above a brief discussion about graphic overlay material now let’s have a look to main materials that are commonly used for its manufacturing.

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)

PVC is popular because it is very cheap and affordable as compared to Lexan poly-carbonate (PC).

It is good because of good chemical resistance and electrical insulation. It is amazing because for finishing we can try lot of colors and can make the design more appealing.

Its dis-advantage is that it is not environmental friendly, in extreme climate it will not work.  Its popularity main reason is its cheap price, short-run signs and folding boxes.

Poly-carbonate (PC)

It is also called as a Lexan poly-carbonate. It is tough and very clear like crystals.

It is good because of mechanical properties; it has quality of tolerating high flames. It is very good because it is very environment friendly, it can easily absorb harsh climate as well as moisture.

In short, it is such a great option for graphic overlays in such an amazing price with such environment friendly features.

But keep remember one thing that you have to coat it double for extra protection, its usage makes the die and cutting process easier.

This is perfect to fulfill all customer needs.

Polyester (PET)

This one is better than PC and PVC because it is more durable. It is popular because even after 1 million actuation cycles you will not see any signs of wear. It is environment friendly and works awesome even in the harsh environment. It perfectly meets all the needs of medical and army applications. It is MORE amazing than PC and PVC but it costs higher and takes more time in manufacturing.

But for keypad-FD times and money does not matter, thing that matter to us is just our customer satisfaction, we value our customer needs and expectations.

We believe in quality work so our main motto is to design “Quality Product”.

Keypad-FD only use polyester material in order to provide high quality graphic overlays this is the reason we are the top rated and more famous company right now.

If there is anything that you need help related to graphic overlays material then simply go to contact us page and throw your query, soon one of our team member will be available to guide you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Membrane Switch – What are they and How they Works – A Deep Discussion

 

Keypad-FD is one of the most rated and popular membrane switch Manufacturer Company these days, it is well known company in a worldwide switches industry.

Keypad-FD engineers have been manufacturing switches since decades with 90% positive feedback, so if you are looking for amazing switches then just give us a call today, we will respond you immediately to manufacture switches and to meet and exceed your application requirement.

First we want to take you through the main definition of membrane switch then we will put some shed to its brief discussion.

Overview of Membrane Switch

 

Membrane touch switches sometime called as a membrane switches or touch switches. It is momentary electrical on/off switch for turning on or off the circuit.

In simple words, we can say that it act as an interface b/w user and machine, it let the user communication with machine.

A special conductive ink like silver, carbon, graphite is put onto a heat stabilizer polyester film which actually used to manufacture a membrane switch.

Simple membrane switch plays an important role in the application of modern devices. From AC remotes to TV and household applications, it is used in a wide range of applications.

These days all the industrial control system are under control by membrane switch for example keyboard, touch-sensitive toys and phones etc.

Now manufacturing and engineering industry is incomplete without membrane switch because it is the reason of enhancing the aesthetics of human-machine interfaces while costing less.

When membrane switches are compared with other switches then we got to know that it is more durable than other in the market. This is the main reason of it’s widely usage. Mostly people think that mechanical and membrane switches are same but its 100% wrong both are completely different, mechanical switches are made up of copper and plastic parts while membrane touch switches are made up of Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or Indium tin oxide (ITO). Read the below content to exactly know how do they are made? How do they work? Membrane touch switch features, types and much more.

How is Membrane Touch Switches Made?

Keypad-FD design and manufacture membrane touch switch with 100% creativity and care, the design behind the making process is one GGI. On the polyester surface, membrane touch switches are printed by carbon or silver ink according to customers’ demands but we mostly prefer the silver surface.

After applying ink, graphic overlay is then applied to film. At GGI, keypad-FD gives its best in providing variety of graphic layer material which includes polyester, antimicrobial polyester, poly carbonate, blends, and silicone. These materials makes the switches more durable and reliable we always choose the one that customer demands us. We always do our best to make the customer happy by keeping product reliability guidelines in mind.

 

Construction of Membrane Switch

Here few things we are going to list down almost 7 layers which plays a vital role in the construction of membrane switch.

1: Graphic Overlay

This overlay is composed by polyester material, the reason to only choose this material is that it is the most chemical resistance material as compared to poly-carbonate.

For getting right textures, colors and finishes, its CSI requires digital print or screen print even sometimes combination of both can be used.

2: Overlay Adhesive

This layer is actually plays an important role in bonding the graphic overlay to the top of circuit layer.

This layer is actually an acrylic adhesive; it is very important layer for the durability and provides an environmental protection to a switch for example it keeps the switch safe from moist environment.

3: Top Circuit Layer

This layer is printed by polyester with silver filling, electrically conductive and di-electric inks. For achieving tactile feedback, this layer can also absorb metal domes, doing this plays an important role in impacting usability.

4: Circuit Spacer

This layer actually used to separate the top circuit from the bottom one in order to keep the switch open until the keypad is pressed. The spacer is made of polyester which is adhesive on both sides.

5: Lower Circuit Layer

This layer is heat stabilized at 005″ – .007″ temperature, this layer work as a flexible tail in order to control PCB’s. This layer is printed by polyester, with silver filling of conductive and di-electric inks.

6: Rear Adhesive Layer

This layer work as a bond to support the full panel, CSI is used to define thickness and adhesive type to bond your membrane keypad to the device.

7: Rigid Support Layer

This layer plays an important role in adding structural integrity to switch. Material used for this layer can be aluminum, FR-4, steel, etc. Few of the manufacturers also use studs and standoffs.

Few Great Features of Membrane Switch

The main feature of membrane switches is that they comes up with complete sealed surface, it is very easier to clean and sterilized. It’s another good advantage is that it has no crevices that can trap contaminants.

It is affordable and can manufacture in less amount as compared to rubber keypads and capacitive touch keypads assemblies.

It comes up with thin profile which becomes the reason of saving more space in product design.

It is much easier to interface with controller, without any effort and device.

Its interface is made up of very versatile graphics with amazing quality of photos and effects.

Its design is protected from UV radiations as compared to rubber keypads.

Its design another great quality is that it works as a water resistant.

Membrane Switch common few features listed below:

1: Its reliability makes it better than rubber keypads

2: Because of flexibility and high conductivity it gives its 100% performance.

3: It has wide usage in Medical industry because of strong adhesion and fast curing.

Types of Membrane Switch

There are two main type of membrane switch, we are going to put shed to the main definition of these two types.

Tactile membrane touch switches:

Tactile membrane touch switch main function is to provide a response after pressing a finger. There are letters or symbols over the overlay which is used to represent function of switch. In simple words, we can explain that it is composed of metal domes, after pressing button metal domes causes an action to dome. The main usage of tactile switches is in keypads, instruments or interface control panel applications.

Note: Either its Tactile or non-tactile both can be made even without graphic overlays.

Non-tactile membrane touch switches:

Such switch is basically used for more durable applications. When we compare it with tactile membrane touch switches then we get to know that it more reliable and economical. But its features are bit different than the tactile because it is very tough to construct and 100% sealed from external environment.

These are available in variety of shape and sizes manufacturer can easily customize it for active keypad areas because this switch does not comes up with any tactile feedback after user interaction. After pressing key they come up with audio devices and LED indicators. Non-tactile membrane touch switches has an ability to absorb 3 million actuation’s while tactile membrane touch switches has an ability to absorb 1 million actuation’s.

In short, Non-tactile membrane touch switches are more reliable and efficient with many affective features.

What Industries Use Membrane Switch the most?

Well! You got to see its usage in a variety of industries but the ideal markets for Membrane touch Switches are medical and laboratory instruments because these switches has a capability of fighting against moist environment and contamination.  They comes up with anti-bacterial coating to fight against bacteria’s and reduce their growth rate, even they comes up with capability of saving the switch from harsh chemicals. Many electronic test and telecommunication networking equipment’s are made by utilizing these switches.

 

Why to choose Keypad-FD?

Keypad-FD takes great care of their customers’ needs and our team of engineers works very closely with clients.  We provide allowing you to choose the optimal construction so that we can meet all the goals for budget, performance and delivery.

Simply you have to visit out Product page and explore the product feature and learn how we can customize and manufacture your membrane switch.

We assure you that our switches will not only reliable but will 100% efficient, we always prefer good material in product manufacturing. Making money is not our agenda, Customer satisfaction is our main agenda, we always gives value to our customers that’s why we are the most rated now.

Give us a Quote today, one of our team members will get in touch with you soon to provide its best customer services. If you like this informative membrane switch Article then shares it with others.