Title: Gain Better Performance & Reliability with PCB Membrane Keypads
1Gain Better Performance Reliability with PCB
Membrane Keypads
www.elecflex.com
2OVERVIEW
For electronic devices, particularly consumer
goods, the ease of use and feel can make or break
a new product just as much as innovation or
quality. Put simply, the user interface has to
perform and look great. And the PCB keypads are
one among them. One of the major benefits of PCB
membrane keypads is the ability to present a wide
variety of graphics on the top overlay.
3Rigid PCB-mounted keypads are more durable
- The most durable, cost-effective solution to this
is to design the switch circuitry onto a printed
circuit board. The circuit is then mounted to the
metal backing plate with high-performance
adhesives in a way similar to the flexible pad.
The rigid laminate is highly resistant to
cracking related to shock, vibration, or
temperature swings. - The printed circuit type design offers numerous
benefits. A wide variety of connector options can
be utilized and LEDs can be soldered directly to
the board for greater durability. The rear of the
PCB is available for additional circuitry and can
accommodate standard electronic components such
as diodes, capacitors, resistors, and ICs. - PCB membrane switches are a popular option for
commonly used keyboard interfaces. A PCB membrane
keypad combines all membrane switch technologies
in one device. A PCB keypad can be a support
panel for the membrane overlay or supply the
electrical pathways.
PCB Base
4PCB Membrane Keypads offer several advantages
- Variety of plating options
- Tight trace routing capabilities
- LEDs and other components can be soldered
- Single-sided, double-sided, and multilayer
designs available - Higher conductivity/lower electrical resistance
A PCB membrane keypad alike other keyboards do
not have separate keys. The keys of the keyboard
are completely shielded by clear plastic shells,
which safeguard it from dust and dirt. When used
on electrical and mechanical equipment for
commercial use, the PCB keypads require daily
maintenance to keep them in good working
condition. But when are used in a business
environment the keys tend to have a high usage
frequency because of the chances of getting used
by a lot of different people. This then makes the
keyboard more prone to dust and bacteria.
However, the good news being then can get cleaned
much easily and quickly as the crumbs and specks
of dust do not actually get to settle under the
keys.
PCB Membrane Back View
5The Bottom Line
A PCB keypad comes with easy-to-use and cleanable
surfaces which make them well-suited for control
panels in numerous industries like electronic
appliances, industrial computers, hospital beds,
alarm systems, etc.
ElecFlex, a leading China-based professional
manufacturer of PCB based keyboards, custom
membrane switches, graphic overlay, and related
products for customers worldwide. We have over
10-years experience in working closely with
customers overseas making us a reliable
manufacturing partner in China.
Assembled PCB-based Membrane Switch
6CONTACT US
ElecFlex Canada Office
29Oxford,Dollard-Des-Ormeaux Quebec Canada
PH1-514-625-0821
7Thank You