Rubber Keypads
Rubber Keypads
Cosmetically appealing, 3-D Rubber Keypads offer the reliability of a membrane or PCB-substrate switch, with the three dimensional look and tactile feel of a silicone rubber keypad for a variety of applications including medical, industrial and commercial products
Overview
Membrane switches incorporate silicone-rubber keypads to improve the aesthetic look and feel of a switch. Designs have a large variety of effects from embossed and debossed features, printed text, painted icons, backlighting and even rocker/toggle actuators. Polyurethane, epoxy and UV coatings available can protect keypads from the environment and abuse.
The keypad utilizes a variety of contact systems ranging from carbon pills, to gold pills, to actuating tactile metal domes in a membrane-switch assembly. Mounting methods used to apply the rubber actuator to the switch may vary. One simple method of mounting rubber actuator is double-sided pressure-sensitive silicone-rubber adhesive. This is applied to a carrier on one side, and the applicable mounting adhesive is applied to the other. Another mounting method includes a simple pull-through molded into the rubber itself. The pull-through is then “pulled” through a printed circuit board substrate, where an interference fit secures the rubber component to the assembly.
Features & Benefits
Combines the reliability of a membrane or PCB-substrate switch, with the three dimensional look and feel of a silicone rubber keypad
Cosmetically appealing 3-D assembly
Raised or recessed text design available
Enhances keypad life cycle
Designs may include actuation technologies such as a highly reliable mini-motion non-tactile switch, to full-travel type rubber keypads utilizing carbon pills as the contact system, to stainless steel snap domes
Reliable, repeatable switch functions
Hard-coated keypad design or printed legends on the keypad may be employed
For a more robust tactile feel
Variety of key legends available
