Membrane Switches

A membrane switch is a type of electrical switch used for turning on and off a circuit. It is different from a mechanical switch in the sense that while mechanical switches are usually made of copper and plastic parts, a membrane switch is a circuit printed on a PET or ITO.

Manufacturers of membrane switches fabricate assemblies by using flexible membranes, tactile and non-tactile switches and panels and domed or flat switch profiles. Numerical keypads, graphical keypads, control panels, and membrane switch overlays are some of the product capabilities provided.

Materials of construction
Membrane switch and keypad can be manufactured using variety of materials including:

• Polyester
• Polycarbonate
• Rubber
• Silicone
• Metal

Membrane Switch Features
Manufacturers provide a host of features in membrane switches including:

• Backlit switches: These switches are backlit with the help of an electroluminescent panel in the keypad for use in the dark.
  
  
• LED indicators: Light Emitting Diodes or LEDs indicate the operation status.
  
  
• Outdoor environment: There are switches that are specially designed for outdoor use. This involves providing special sealing, resistance to sun light, water and other natural phenomenon. These switches are made of special materials for higher performance standards.
  
  
• Vandal proof: These makes the switches resistant to unauthorized tampering, access, etc.
  
  
• Washdown capable: These switches are resistant to full wash down and made from materials that are resistant to degradation.
  
  
• Embossed switches: These switches have alphanumerical characters or graphics that are either raised or embossed from switch surface.

Manufacturers and suppliers of membrane switches also provide different kinds of texturing including pebbling, knurling, ridges or other texturing for improving the aesthetics or operator tactile identification purposes.


Application of Membrane Switch
Membrane switches are used in diverse industries and areas including:

• Aerospace
• Automotive
• Building controls
• Communications
• Electronics
• Financial services
• Manufacturing or automation
• Medical
• Retail
• Security and identification.

Switch Certifications
There are a number of certifications provided for ensuring the quality of the product. A buyer must look for certifications while purchasing these switches. Some of the certifications are:

• AS 9000
• CE
• ISO 9001
• ISO 9002
• QS-9000
• UL / CSA
• MIL-SPEC / STD.