What is a membrane switch?
A membrane switch is a momentary electrical on/off switch for activating and de-activating a circuit. Whereas a mechanical switch is usually made of copper and plastic parts, a membrane switch circuit is printed on a heat-stabilized polyester or Indium tin oxide using a copper-, silver- or graphite/silver ink to lend conductivity.
The simplest membrane switch consists of 4 layers:
1. The top graphics panel, a Polyester or Polycarbonate layer with a printed or embossed button pattern
2. Spacer or dome retainer
3. PET with printed circuit layer
4. Adhesive backing with liner
Where are membrane switches used?
Some of the most common applications for a membrane switch include manufacturing (control panels), office equipment (computer keyboards), public facilities (fitness equipment, vending machines, gas pumps), medical equipment (examples) and household appliances (microwaves, ranges/ovens, washers/dryers).
What types of Membrane Switches are available?
SimTechnology: SimTouch/SimScroll/SimSlide
Pannam Imaging is excited to have acquired from White Electronic Designs a unique and innovative patented technology that mimics the light feel of capacitive touch switches – at a fraction of the cost! Light actuation force switches have become a hallmark of high-end appliance and product designs and Pannam’s advanced conductive ink switch technology allows designers to create user interfaces limited only by their imagination. Our SimTouch Keypads are designed to require only a light actuation force, replicating that of a capacitive touch switch. SimScroll Keypads have a circular switch array that utilizes our advanced SimTouch switch technology. SimSlide Keypads have a sliding switch array that utilizes the same advanced SimTouch switch technology.
Flex Circuit Membrane Switches
Our Flex Circuit Membrane Switches include polymer thick film membrane switches with graphic overlays and membrane keypads. Conductive inks are deposited onto heat stabilized polyester film then a dielectric layer is added to insulate the conductive areas leaving open those areas where electrical contact must be made. When pressure is applied to the graphic area, contact is made to the circuitry layer thus activating the membrane keypad.
Tactile Membrane Switches
Often, our customers find it desirable to provide their users with tactile feedback (the snap or pop feel of the button key). A Tactile Membrane Switch switches is created by inserting either stainless steel or polyester domes in the membrane switch construction. Domes for membrane switches are supplied in a variety of sizes and actuating forces.
The significant difference between domes is that stainless steel domes are individual components manually placed above each switch contact; whereas polyester domes require custom tooling because they are formed directly into either the polyester graphics layer or the top circuit layer, eliminating the need for manual placement over individual contacts. Typically, the use of polyester domes is reserved for jobs with higher-volume dome quantities. Our membrane switch design experts can help you select the best solution for your application.
Duraswitch Membrane Switches
Duraswitch is a switch technology that combines the best features of both electro-mechanical and flat panel membrane devices into cost effective, thin design solutions for next-generation products. Duraswitch technology utilizes magnets, eliminating parts that wear out. The thin profile design functions without the scraping, flexing, grinding, or material stress associated with traditional switches providing superior durability and performance, a unique tactile feel. A reduction of switch failure can result in lower associated warranty costs.
Membrane Switch Keypad
A membrane switch keypad is a momentary electrical on/off switch for activating and deactivating a circuit. Whereas a mechanical switch is usually made of copper and plastic, a membrane switch keypad is printed onto heat-stabilized polyester film using silver or graphite/silver ink to lend conductivity.
Touchscreen Membrane Switches/Touch Switches
A touchscreen is a transparent membrane switch; a display which has the ability to detect the presence and location of a touch within the display area, generally by a passive object such as a finger, hand or stylus. The touchscreen is an input device that allows users to operate a PC by simply touching the display screen. The touchscreen has two main attributes:
-
Allows direct interaction with what is displayed on the screen, where it is displayed; as opposed to indirect interaction with a mouse or touchpad.
-
The use of an intermediate device, such as a stylus, is not required.
Other Membrane Switch Considerations
Membrane switch anatomies may also be constructed with multiple circuit layers, and more elaborate graphic design features, such as elliptical button embossing, or an embossing shape that is larger than the dome retainer opening. Designs that are more complex require more material layers for proper construction and reliable operation, thereby increasing unit cost. Pannam has the expertise in membrane switch design to help make sure your project is completed as efficiently as possible.
Pannam understands the need for a membrane switch that stands up to the harshest environment and durability requirements necessary for industrial controls.
Our experienced engineers as well as our ISO 9001: 2000 certified designs and manufacturing processes assure your membrane switch reliability. Let us prove to you that we are the best by Requesting a Membrane Switch Quotation
