Membrane keypads enjoy widespread use and application across modern electronics like air conditioner controls, microwave open panels, remote control, etc. But what drives the preference for membrane keypads in modern electronics? Obviously, it is its benefits. So, let’s look at some advantages of membrane keypads in contemporary electronics.

What is a Membrane Keypad?

A membrane keypad is an electric keypad switching an electrical circuit on or off. It is different from a mechanical keypad, usually composed of plastic and copper. Instead, a membrane keypad is an electronic circuit printed on Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Indium Tin Oxide (ITO). The ink membrane keypad manufacturers usually use for screen printing is silver/copper or graphite-filled.

Membrane keypads are interfaces for user equipment tools facilitating command transmission between users and electronic devices. They are classified as a type of interface utility with touchscreens, plastic keyboards and a toggle keypad, and various types of control systems. Interface utilities are as simple as keypads using tactile technology to control lighting. However, they can also be as sophisticated as membrane keyboards or keypad panels used for computers.

Membrane Keypad Layers

A membrane keypad comprises various layers, including the following.

• Graphic Top Overlay: It is the first layer serving as the user interface, as it shows users how to operate the device.
• Space Top Adhesive: It is underneath the graphic overlay and connects the other layers on the membrane keypad.
• Dome Retainer: Beneath the space top adhesive is the dome retainer. It holds the domes of metal or pads for shorting which will be used to turn on the keypad.
• Spacer: It is beneath the retainer for domes and has ventilation cuts allowing air to circulate when tactile keypads are activated. It works as a demarcation between the top and bottom circuits and enables the circuit to remain open until the user keeps the keypad button pressed.
• Circuit Layer: It lets the keypad work. The circuit remains closed and the current doesn’t flow if the keypad isn’t active. When the keypad is turned on by pressing down on the dome or the pad, it eventually shorts the circuit. It leads to the closure of the circuit and enables current flow, leading to an appropriate reaction by the keypad’s membrane.
• Mounting Adhesive: The layer helps connect the keypad’s membrane to the application you want it to be attached to.

Benefits of Membrane Keypads

Let’s look at some advantages of membrane keypads.

• Dust and Debris Protection

Membrane keypads offer natural protection from debris, dust, and dirt. Earlier, in the case of mechanical keypads, it was very easy for dust and dirt to settle underneath the keys. Accumulation beyond a certain point rendered the keypad useless. But that’s not the case with membrane keypads, as they don’t have space for debris to become stuck. No wonder many companies use membrane keypads in their offices.

• Cost-Effectiveness

Membrane keypads cost less than mechanical keypads. Although one cannot generalize this one. You’d find that many membrane keypads are much more cost-effective than their mechanical counterpart. Thus, ordering membrane keypads in bulk can help a company save millions!

• User Comfort

Mechanical keypads incur a significant amount of effort to force press down and activate. Besides, they are usually harder than membrane keypads. A crucial reason for this is that mechanical keypads are made of hard plastic. But membrane keypads, on the other hand, comprise softer silicone rubber material. Hence, the user can use them more effortlessly and comfortably than the mechanical keypads.

The above benefits make membrane keypads a preferred keypad choice across modern consumer electronics. If you also are an electronics manufacturer looking for a steadfast and reputed manufacturer of membrane keypads for your device, connect with Cutek Circuits. Our broad array of membrane keyboard, superior quality, and the use of top-quality components will help you derive optimal value from your investment and deliver an exceptional user experience.  Please write to us at info@cutekcircuits.com to learn more about our membrane keyboards.