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
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.
ALMAX
Kirkland, WA | 888-211-6325With over 30 years of experience, ALMAX is a leading manufacturer of membrane switch assemblies, printed/flexible electronics, and interactive technologies. Our engineering and manufacturing capabilities are implemented and trusted around the globe, and we're proud to offer our clients a complete range of services that meet the highest standards of quality and reliability.
Niceone-Tech Co.
Redding, CT |As a leader in the membrane switches industry, Niceone-tech Co., Ltd. is dedicated to manufacturing high-quality products. We offer a wide selection of products with customization options to meet our customers' needs. As industry experts, we pride ourselves on our high-quality and innovative products.
Design-Mark Industries
New Bedford, MA | 800-451-3275Design-Mark Industries is a membrane switch manufacturer offering custom membrane keyboards, tactile switches, membrane keypads and screen-printed graphic overlays. An ISO 9001-certified company, we meet the specifications for die cutting, shielding and insulators.
Printec
Fullerton, CA | 888-658-3799Since 1992, PRINTEC has earned a Global reputation for its excellence in designing and manufacturing Human Interface Devices. We are fully-owned and self-contained facility, which allows us to direct and control the progress of any project, production, and design. We're a leading manufacturer and designer of custom-built and standard electronic interfaces. We manufacture Membrane switches, Flexible Printed Circuits, Silicon Rubber Keypads, Touch Screens and more.
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.
