PCB Membrane

The PCB Membrane Switch design tends to be the most versatile of the five membrane switch categories.

The PCB is the static layer but also doubles as the rigid layer thus making a very simple assembly.

The PCB can also be used to for soldered components allowing the side opposite of the graphic layer to used for mounting displays, backlighting, or interface electronics. Keys can be made to provide either a tactile sensation or no sensation at all (like on most microwave ovens). Metal domes,formed polyester domes or elastomer snap can be used to provide a tactile response to the keys.

Backlighting can be achieved as well by laminating or inserting discrete LEDs or illuminating large areas using fiber optics or electroluminescents.

Decoration can be a conventional polyester or polycarbonate screen printed layer or elastomer or plastic keys to satisfy a more 3D approach to the graphic layer.

Alan Burk
editor@membraneswitchnews.com
425.889.9417