A membrane switch is a momentary switching device that is manufactured by using a series of flexible layers of polymer films and adhesives.The upper most layer of the membrane switch is typically called a graphic overlay and is manufactured by printing on the second surface of clear polyester or polycarbonate film. Circuitry is created by a similar process using conductive silver ink. Tactile devices can easily be incorporated into the membrane switch so as to provide feedback to the operator that the switch has been activated. Other electronic components can be implemented such as discrete LEDs, backlighting sources and connectors to take membrane switches a truly integrated option.
A Typical Membrane Switch Construction:
Advantages of Membrane Switches
- Inherent moisture resistance
- Ease of cleaning & sanitizing
- Lower cost
- Ease of customizing
- Ability to integrate graphics including logos
Membrane switches are custom designed to meet your specific application. SSI has used its more than twenty years of experience to compile some of the most critical guidelines to designing and specifying our products.GUIDELINES TO DESIGNING MEMBRANE SWITCHES will help ensure that all aspects of product design are considered to maximize the aesthetic quality, reliability, and efficiency of the final product.