Membrane switches can be simple or complex. They can have basic on and off buttons or be a completely custom design. No matter what your final goal includes there are a number of features to choose from when designing your membrane switch.

Membrane Switch Features

The most common features to include on a membrane switch are functional components. As an electrical membrane switch manufacturer, Telamco provides these components to provide a full-service product. We’ll share a bit more about the options here.

• Graphic Overlay – The graphic overlay is the top layer in your membrane switch assembly. It is the interface that connects your device to the end user.
• Embossing – Embossing creates a raised surface that can be completed on many buttons or a single button to provide differentiation.
• Button Response – If your key actuation requires a tactile response, stainless steel domes, embossed polyester domes or tactile embossed graphics can be used to provide the contact ‘snap’ your design demands.
• Back Lighting – When a switch will be used in low lighting adding backlighting can add functional emphasis to your membrane switch.
• Embedded LEDs – Telamco can embed surface mounted LED’s (Light Emitting Diodes) into your membrane switch assembly for high impact visual indicators.
• Screened Silver Circuits – The most common and cost effective circuit for a custom membrane switch is screen printed silver conductive ink on a heat stabilized polyester substrate.
• Flexible Printed Circuits – Telamco can use flexible copper circuits which provide more robust design options when space is limited and circuit density is increased.
• Printed Circuit Boards – Printed circuit boards (PCBs) can allow you to combine your user interface and controller electronics into one assembly simplifying design, reducing space and potentially lowering the total cost of your product.
• HeatSeal® – This technology produces a true hermetically sealed tactile switch/keypad.
• Connectors – Switch connectors allow for smooth communication with your end product.
• Back Panels – A back panel mount or bezel offers support for your assembly providing a rigid surface to push against to actuate the switch.

Some components on your membrane switch design will be easier to choose than others. When you’re looking for advice on the most effective and efficient solution reach out, Telamco Engineers are available to provide answers.

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