Membrane Switches
Membrane Switches
Molex's membrane switches provide durable, lightweight and low-profile options for integrating user interfaces and electronic components into a variety of applications including medical, industrial and commercial products
Overview
Molex standard membrane switches are thin, low-profile, micro-motion assemblies, with one or more layers of silver or carbon conductors printed on polyester substrate layers. Pressure-sensitive adhesives are used to bond the layers together. Assemblies can be designed as thin as 1.00mm. Tactile metal domes provide the "snap" or tactile feedback and audible sound when the switch is actuated. Available options include non-tactile membrane switches (ex, microwave ovens, treadmills), poly-domes and silicone rubber keypads with carbon or gold contacts.
Molex membrane switch assemblies incorporate electronic components, such as LEDs, seven-segment LEDs, photo diodes resistors and capacitors that are integrated to the membrane switch substrate using conductive adhesive technology. Molex’s advanced manufacturing can print double-sided silver circuits producing the equivalent of four layer PCBs or the elimination of printed ‘crossovers’ for environmentally exposed applications. These advances are customized in a variety of configurations to fit increasingly smaller, more demanding and cost competitive applications. For higher level integration, Molex has experience and manufacturing to include copper flex circuits and PCB assemblies, LCDs, plastic housings or metal backers and lenses.
Molex's membrane switches are qualified through tests based on the ASTM (American Society of Testing and Material) standards, conducted in Molex's in-house testing facilities.
Features & Benefits
Light-weight and low profile
Permits integration into smaller and thinner packages
Extremely resistant to shock and vibration
Exceptional performance in commercial applications
Superior tactile response that is consistent from switch to switch
Extremely reliable contact system that withstands even the most rugged commercial environment
Snap-dome contacts
Superior tactile feeling
Easy to shield
Offers protection against static discharge and EMI/RFI
Sealed and internally vented
Resistant to dust and moisture
Stainless steel domes, designed by a worldwide company that is experienced in high-speed stamping
Dome designs are produced with auto-placement, ensuring product reliability
Allows addition of simple electronic components onto the flexible switch substrate
Eliminates the need for an additional LED or display board mounted below the switch substrate
