All About Membrane Switches

Membrane Switches are an important aspect of many machine interfaces. They are used in a wide range of electronic devices, health equipment and home appliances etc. The best thing about this switch is that it is easy to use and works in varying environmental condition, where the machine may be susceptible to humidity, dust, water etc. Fabricated using two main components: polyester and polycarbonate, it is extremely durable. Polyester is anti-reflective, textured and matted, while, polycarbonate is fine textured and coarse.

Membrane Switches: Basic Construction

A Membrane Switch comprises of the following components:

• Graphic Overlay,
• Graphic Adhesive,
• Top Circuit,
• Spacer Adhesive,
• Bottom Circuitry

Membrane Switch comprises of multiple layer of static bottom circuit, graphic overlay. Polyester and Polycarbonate are used for making layers, because they are easy to print on, easy to cut and emboss.

Types Of Membrane Switches

There are different types of membrane switches that serve different functions, some of them are:

• Tactile Membrane Switches : Tactile Membrane Switches are automated switches, generally manufactured using materials such as polyester domes. Polyester dome is used in the manufacturing of membrane layer button of the switch.

• Non-Tactile Switches : Embossed with graphic overlay, these switches are custom made, generally with a rim emboss or pillow emboss.
• Metal Dome Tactile Switches : Metal Dome Tactile Switches can have any type of emboss over them. The shape could be circle or square, however, the minimum size that can be embossed in around 10 mm. These switches are fitted in LCD, LED display screens.
• Standard Membrane Switches : Standard Membrane Switch is used in a standard control panels. Standard Membrane Switches are preferred for applications that require low volume. Being inexpensive, Standard Membrane Switches are procured in different shades.

Membrane Switches offer many advantages over ordinary keypads. First being, that it is extremely affordable. In addition to this, because there is no space between individual keys, membrane switches can withstand dust and dirt far better. In addition to this, membrane switch can be backlit using light emitting diodes (LEDs), led lights or electronic lamp. The most common use of Membrane switch can be observed in a microwave panel, air-conditioner etc.

RSP Inc. specializes in the designing and manufacturing of Membrane Switches, Printed Graphics, Silicone Keypads, Plastic Moldings, Rubber Molds, Touch Screens, Precision Injection Molding and Circuit Boards. In addition to this, the company offers manufacturing assembly turnkey solutions to its clients. For more information, please feel free to visit: http://www.rspinc.mobi/.

Author is representing this article on behalf of RSP Inc., RSP Inc. is a manufacturer & supplier of products like custom membrane switch.