Membrane Switches

Tactile Membrane Switches

e2ip has spent more than three decades working with membrane switch design and silicone keypad technology. It is the core of our business, and we have designed and produced thousands of membrane switch units.

Our experience has shown us that while membrane switch technology will act as an entry-level solution, one should not overlook this technology. This is particularly true when membrane switches are configured with additional innovative technologies.

The possibilities are endless when working on technology like membrane switches, and even more so when collaborating with an experienced team like e2ip. Your customized solution will always be functional and flexible, with the signature e2ip guarantee of quality and reliability.

The Classic Control Choice
Structure and Function

Membrane switches are part of a range of tactile switch devices, and are considered to be “user interfaces” or “Human Machine Interfaces” (HMIs). Membrane switches and keypads come in many configurations, and are generally used to control various kinds of circuits.

Membrane switch circuitry can be screen-printed using conductive inks (most often carbon or silver conductive ink), and membrane switch technologies offer complete customization.

Whatever your preference is for membrane switch technology, all emerge from a simple design that consists of a circuit layer, a circuit spacer layer, and pressure sensitive adhesives housed between a strong base and a protective, functional top interface layer.

When working with our e2ip experts, we will recommend the most suitable customization options for your specific application, choosing from a wide range of membrane switch possibilities. This can mean the incorporation of other innovative technologies, or implied visual or tactile designs.

Much of the time, the customizations chosen for projects will involve the outer interface layer and different switch mechanisms.

User Experience

Membrane switches and keypads are found everywhere, and are well known for offering an incredibly smooth user interface and experience. This comes from a combination of intuitive surface layout design and optimization of individual keys or buttons for sharp tactile feedback.

It is this response sensation, or tactile feedback, that distinguishes these types of membrane switches from their alternative, non-tactile switches.

A membrane switch can also be designed to visually disappear into their housings (referred to as a dead-front effect) for additional visual appeal and seamless surface integration – all while still offering clear and accessible functionality to the user.

Streamlined

Like many of the technologies e2ip offers across its commercial repertoire, membrane switches and silicone keypads characteristically contain few components by design. This means added durability, portability, and ease of integration into many applications. It also means these types of units can be easy to clean, simple to maintain, and particularly suitable where sanitation is a critical factor.

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A Classic Solution with a Customized Finish

Key Features
  • Thin build
  • Different button shapes and arrays
  • Embossing options available
  • Various color options
  • Dead-front effect
  • Hermetic seal
  • High-temperature resistant
  • Light diffuser
  • Backlighting
  • Key actuator
Customization Areas
  • Graphic overlay: design and materials
  • Circuits: rigid, flexible, printed, inks
  • Shielding: materials
  • Backlighting: LED, PDT, optical fibre, EL
  • Switching: tactile, non-tactile, domes
  • Component integration: rigid, flexible
  • General integration: backplates and housings
  • Environmental factors: gaskets and sealing
Applications
  • Control panels
  • Remote controls
  • Laboratory instrumentation
  • Fitness equipment
  • Telecommunication devices
  • Household appliances
  • Security systems
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Contact our team and learn more about our full technological specifications including electrical, mechanical, environmental and certifications.

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Capflex®

The CapFlex®is thin and flexible for seamless integration into curved surfaces. It allows interactions to be intuitive and molded to the moment.

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Clicktouch™

Designed for high-performance use in the harshest of environments, the ClickTouch™ tactile switch is a unique and versatile solution that cleverly combines smart form with reliable function

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Non Tactile Keypads

A variation on the versatile, classic membrane switch option, non-tactile switches differ from tactile switches primarily in that they offer less tactile or haptic feedback to the user when pressed to activate.

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