Membrane keyboard – the need for modern devices and gadgets

Membrane Keyboard – The Need For Modern Devices and Gadgets

Membrane keyboards are used in different electronic products. A membrane switch functions as an on-and-off circuit, like those mechanical types, but, it is made from a circuit. One can say these switches are the modern version of its mechanical counterparts. Today most of our dailyuse products come with these switches like   

ATMs Microwave ovens Remote controllers and others to name a few

Amazingly, these switches are now preferred over the traditional ones as it comes with many customizable options.

ElecFlex is among many industry-leading companies that offer membrane switches for different purposes. This article will tell you about the construction, industry standards, backlighting, application, and maintenance of membrane switches. If you are way ahead with your research, you can click the link to this website at the bottom of this post. So, snug up and read on.

The Construction

Industry Standards: As per the ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), it is "a momentary switch device where at least, one contact is made of a flexible substrate."

(Wikipedia)

While these switches are usually made up of four layers, some appliances require more layers.

Each layer has a distinct function. Thus, assembling and installing each layer needs careful handling. Here, we will look at the most important two layers that every switch will carry. The others will be adhesives which will keep the entire switch in one piece.

Layer 1 The first or the top layer is the graphic interface. It is that part of the switch that is visible to the naked eye. It functions as the receiver in which the user can press down the button for a specific action.

Layer 2 The printed circuit is another layer. It is where the electronic signals are sent to complete the action. This layer is specifically made out of conductors like copper and other polyimide substances. Each layer has to be installed in a pressure-sensitive process as it has a huge effect on the overall function of the entire membrane keyboard. In some cases, the switch is installed with keyboard housing for practical purposes.

The Backlighting There are three ways on how the membrane switch is installed with a backlight.

1. The first one is by using LED. LED or Light Emitting Diodes are usually seen in many commercial areas and used as indicator lights since it emits a bright light.

2. In some cases, optical-fiber is also used in combination with LED. This is the ideal lighting solution for switches that are prone to humidity and changing temperature.

3. The third option is to install electroluminescent lamps or ELs. These are more affordable than the above two, and it allows flexibility regarding color variation.

Did You Know?

ELs can only emit light for up to 8000 hours. This is way different when compared to the optical fiber which can go for up to 100,000 hours!

Practical Applications And Maintenance As mentioned above, these switches are today used in many electronic devices. These include AC, TV remote control, Ovens, and many more. These switches are now used due to the many advantages it offers such as easy clean-up and maintenance. Usually, for an appliance, you might not find your purpose served by installing only a switch. You will need a bunch of it in the form of a keyboard.

Now, these keyboards are easily cleanable with the use of dry cloth. A simple wipe can keep dust at bay as the outer layer is made up of solid plastic. Apart from that, these keyboards have appropriate sealing ensuring that no other substance penetrates into the electric circuits.

Finally, Membrane keyboard switches can be designed and customized by manufacturers. ElecFlex is one of the leading companies that offer this service at affordable rates with multiple customization options. Every switch from the house of elecflex.com comes with a fine finish and buyers are entitled to excellent customer service. To know more about the deliverables, visit the website today. Also, for immediate queries, dial +1-514-625-0821 (Canada) NOW!