Membrane Keypads, Keyboards & Switches are a key part of any Control System

A membrane keypad / keyboard usually forms a functional and aesthetic user interface between the control systems hardware and its software. The basic principle is that a contact behind the tactile key or non tactile key closes an open loop in the flexible circuit which terminates on the flexible tail (FPC). They have been used in domestic and industrial applications since the early eighties. In such time advancements in materials and processes have enabled Customers to benefit from an infinite number of Membrane Keypad / Keyboard design styles and applications and also reducing the set-up costs. These Products are also referred to as:-

- Key Switches
- Keypad Overlays
- Flexible Circuits
- Membrane Panels
- Membrane Keypads
- Membrane Keyboards
- Membrane Switches

Membrane keypads, keyboards & switches are a key part of any control system as they are both functional and informative. The graphic overlay on the front of the membrane keypad is the first item that a Operator's eye is drawn to. Consequently, the overlay has a big influence on the user's first impression. The feel of the membrane keypad is equally as important. The tactile feedback can be engineered as such to give the desired audible and physical click. Attention to detail, intelligent circuit design, precise colour matching and intuitive graphics are critical factors in creating an effective Membrane keypad.

At Customark we have invested a considerable amount of capital expenditure in state of the art finishing equipment which can offer enhanced production efficiency and where possible zero tooling costs.

Our experience and expertise in the technical graphic design, engineering, and manufacturing of custom membrane keypads & switches allows us to ask the right questions up front to encourage and aid our design for manufacture philosophy.

Our membrane keypads, keyboards & switches are used throughout many different industries which include, Electronics, White Goods, Medical, Security and Marine.

If you are looking for features that are specific to your product we can design and manufacture membrane keypads / keyboards that include:

- Wide variety of Polyester and Polycarbonate finishes
- Materials selected for environmental suitability
- Anti-microbial membrane finishes
- UV Stability
- IP65, IP67, IP68 rated
- Tactile or non-tactile feedback keys
- Rim, Pillow of Custom embossing keypads
- Braille Keypads
- Integrated LEDs
- RFI/ESD/EMC shielding
- Fibre Optic backlighting
- Interchangeability of key Legends
- Full turnkey production including sourcing of panels, Aluminium/steel or plastic
- High precision laser cut production virtually eliminating tooling costs

The two main materials that are used in the production of Membrane Keypads, keyboards & Switches are Polycarbonate and Polyester. We have direct supply and support from Companies such as Sabic and 3M allowing is to develop products to exacting standards and supporting our commitments to RoHS when producing our membrane keypads & switches.

Polycarbonate (also known as Lexan) Is very easy to process, ink keying die cutting and forming are very easy with this malleable material. Generally, if the Membrane Keypad / Keyboard is mostly aesthetic then this is the correct choice as it is slightly less costly than PET. If the membrane is going to be in contact with solvent based chemicals then this probably will not be suitable.

Polyester (PET) is a higher grade material and available with more surface finishes and effect. Nearly always used when the Membrane Keypad / Keyboard is more functional. For example, if the membrane has raised keys or push button areas or if the membrane is to have a display. This material can also be laser cut which virtually eliminates the need for tooling. Heat stabilized polyester is always used for the circuit layers as it produces a low resistance perfectly stable keypad circuit.

Membrane Keypad Features & Benefits

Membrane keypads, keyboards & switches are manufactured in an infinite number of shapes, sizes and materials, but share these common features and benefits:

- Durability
- Tactile or non tactile feel
- Integrated LED’s and fibre optic backlighting
- Adaptable design, Totally bespoke to Customers membrane keypad / keyboard requirements
- Sub-surface graphics – Printing is done on the under-side of the membrane keypad so it doesn’t degrade its graphic identity and won’t wear out from use or cleaning
- Short lead times – approximately 2-3 weeks after artwork approval
- Adhesive selected to suit membrane keypad / keyboard mounting application

Customark can also offer a prototyping service if you are just starting out with Membrane Keypads. This way you can get a feel for how your membrane product is going to work before you commit to full production volumes. Always produced to our consitent high ISO approved quality. Why not contact one of our Sales Team today to discuss your Membrane Keypad / Keyboard requirements and see how Customark's competitive membrane prices and years of technical experience can help you with your needs.