Membrane Switches vs. Discrete Key Switches

I’ve already spent a lot of time emphasizing the benefits of membrane switch use compared to discrete key switch use. Now I’m going to emphasize it some more. If you understand the concept of what a membrane switch is and does, and if you understand the concept of what a switch panel or keyboard with discrete switches is and does, it should be easy to discern the benefits and drawbacks of each variety. Let’s start with the keyboard in front of you (if you’re reading this on a mobile phone, imagine that you’re using a laptop or desktop). If it’s light enough in the room where you are Continue reading

Membrane Switch Manufacturers and Momentary Switches

What is a momentary switch? What makes a momentary switch “momentary?” “Momentary switch” is one of my favorite terms in all of industry. It’s so precise and descriptive, but at the same time if you told someone, “I’m going to Radio Shack to pick up some momentary switches,” they’d either give you a confused look or an affirmation of pretended comprehension. A momentary switch is exactly what it sounds like: a switch that becomes actuated for only a moment. Take a look at your keyboard in front of you. Each of those switches is a momentary switch. You push a Continue reading