They are a part of “capacitive sensing technology,” a technology in electrical engineering. Capacitive sensing can detect and measure anything that is conductive or has a dielectric constant different from the air, known as changes in capacitance. Read More…
Leading Manufacturers
ALUDEC USA
Eden Prairie, MN | 800-806-6113Our membrane switches are known for their high-quality and affordable prices. We work hard to find the precise parts that will work with your every need. It is our goal to create a relationship with you that is beneficial to both parties.
JN White
Perry, NY | 800-227-5718JN White is an ISO 9001:2015 and ITAR-certified manufacturer of membrane switches, graphic overlays, and custom labels. We nimbly handle projects big and small and have the uncommon ability to translate what our customers need into high-quality, high-precision outcomes.
ECI Technologies
Watertown, CT | 800-853-5617ECI Technologies is a leading designer and manufacturer of innovative membrane switches, graphic overlays and electronic interfaces. We can produce tactile and non-tactile switches and keypads, as well as add features such as backlighting and environmental protection. We also offer quick-turn prototype design and production. Since 1991, we have been serving industries such as industrial, medical, military, and avionics.
Rapid Keypads
Cape Coral, FL | 239-558-8810Custom capacitive touch keypad and graphic overlay design service specializing in rapid prototypes. Superior to membrane switch, our sub surface touch and proximity sensor technology can communicate via USB, Serial, SPI, I2C and other custom communication protocols. With our rapid prototype service you can have a custom touch keypad, electronics and graphic overlay in 5 days or less!
Hallmark Nameplate, Inc.
Mt. Dora, FL | 352-383-8142We are a membrane switch manufacturer who also produces product ID nameplates, graphic overlays, printed circuit boards and electronic assemblies. You can order nontactile and tactile switches or metal domes if you desire. Hallmark Nameplate has capabilities in electronic contract manufacturing also.
Capacitive Membrane Switches - Douglas CorporationIn the case of capacitive switches, this sensing is based upon the constant monitoring of the electrical capacity of the touch area, which is changed by the touch of a human finger.
Generally under the umbrella of touch switches, capacitive switches are among the simplest kinds of tactile sensors. Some capacitive switches can work without actual touch, simply by detecting an object, such as a finger, in its field.
Capacitive Switch Panels - Douglas CorporationTouch surfaces of capacitive switches can be designed with virtually any material, as long as it is dielectric. This includes glass, plastic, polycarbonate, wood, marble or any rough or smooth surface less than 25 mm thick.
Some capacitive switches are designed to have adjustable surface sensitivity, so that whatever device they are supporting can be operated with or without gloves. This is an especially attractive quality in northern climates or in a setting where an operator needs to wear gloves for protection. Because capacitive switches work through sensing, they do not contain any mechanical components, which eliminates potential mechanical failure.
These switches consist of three main sections: the graphic overlay, the circuit and the backer, or back panel. The overlay displays graphics and can also feature windows, embossings, coatings, adhesives and selective texturing. Overlay materials may be air, formica, standard glass, ceramic glass, PET film, polycarbonate, plexiglass, ABS, wood or gypsum. The circuit is the switch itself, which may be a Flexible Printed Circuit (FPC) or a Printed Circuit Board (PCB).
Capacitive switches are utilized in the aerospace, defense, industrial, medical, telecommunications, data/communications and consumer industries. As interface types, they often work as: buttons, sliders, touch pads, touch screens and proximity settings. Some specific examples of where they may be found include: wireless handsets, PC peripherals, LCD monitors, TVs, laptops, digital cameras, and kiosks.
When considering the design of a capacitive switch, helpful things to consider are: environmental conditions, mechanical requirements, electrical requirements, appearance and certification.
