Membrane Switches
Membrane Switches
What is a Membrane Switch?
A membrane switch is a momentary electrical contact on/off switch that activates or deactivates an electric circuit. These are sometimes called single pole, single throw, normally open (SPSTNO) switches. Custom membrane switches are manufactured by screen printing the circuit directly onto a plastic substrate with silver or carbon conductive ink. The simple, versatile, durable, and economical design of a custom membrane switch makes it a superior alternative to the mechanical switch.
Industrial and Consumer Applications:
- Medical testing and diagnostic equipment
- Any industrial manufacturing equipment with a control panel
- Household appliances such as microwave ovens and stoves
- Retail/consumer applications such as vending machines, kiosks, exercise equipment, and gasoline pumps
- Military equipment to handle rogue treatments
Membrane Switch Components
Membrane switches typically have the following basic layers:
- Graphic overlay with subsurface printed text/graphics and a polyester or polycarbonate layer with or without embossed keys
- ESD shielding layer (optional)
- Spacer and/or dome retainer
- Polyester printed circuit layer
- Rear adhesive with liner
Membrane Switch Materials
The graphic overlay surface or faceplate material is one of the main considerations in designing a custom membrane switch, with polycarbonate and polyester being the most commonly used materials. Polycarbonate is clearer, easier to fabricate and print but is less durable in constant use. Polyester is more challenging in its manufacturing, yet it is more durable and has better resistance to environmental conditions. Polycarbonate is slightly less expensive than polyester, but the difference is minimal and not usually a major consideration.
Our membrane switch design and engineering team will guide you to help you chose the best membrane switch product based on your needs and the conditions in which the membrane switch will be used. Hard-coated materials are also available to reduce gloss/glare and provide added durability, scratch-resistance, and chemical resistance.
Optional Features:
- Custom printing, logos, and graphics
- Surface texture materials
- Custom shapes
- Backlighting (fiber optic or electroluminescent)
- Multiple tactile dome options for tactile feedback or non-tactile option
- EMI/ESD/RFI shielding options (for electro-magnetic interference, electro-static discharge and radio frequency interference shielding)
- Embossing
- Embedded LEDs and/or resistors
- Multiple connector styles
- Sealed to keep out incidental dust and moisture
- Window lens coating
- Many more options are available