Amidst the waves of technology that continually wash over the modern world, keyboards still stand the test of time. They do not, however, remain unchanged. The standard keyboard now stands alongside several types, such as multifunctional, handheld and flexible keyboards, made from different materials. 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 | 800-853-5617At ECI, our silicone keyboards can be manufactured using both compression and injection molding capabilities. We can make the keypads and the individual keys itself in virtually any color, shape, or size. Contact us today with your specifications, and we will design a rubber keyboard tailor-made to your needs. Because the keypads are molded, their designs can vary from super simple to ultra-exotic. Contact us today to learn more about our capabilities.
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.
Silicone Control Keypad - Douglas CorporationOne of these keyboard types is the silicone keyboard. Along with the silicone keyboard stands the silicone keypad, which uses similar technology. Keyboards and keypads made from silicone are common for a number of reasons. Firstly, silicone is considered to be an abundant resource, and as a result, products made with it can be cheaply produced. Secondly, a silicone keyboard can be quite durable, in some ways even more durable than a standard keyboard. Additionally, the silicone keyboard skin can protect the keyboard from many different substances.
Silicone Medical Device Keypad - Douglas CorporationOne type of keyboard that is almost universally made from silicone is the flexible keyboard. Its silicone makeup allows it such flexibility that it can be rolled up or folded, though it must be on a hard surface to work. The silicone is also liquid and dust proof.
Silicone keypads use the compression molding properties of silicone rubber to create angled webbing around a switch center, which, when pushed down, uniformly deforms to produce a tactile response. When the pressure is released, the switch returns to its neutral position with positive feedback.
Silicone keypads are not generally used with computers per se, but rather have applications in TV remote controls, video and HIFI units, mobile handsets, low current switching in automobiles, electronic games and toys, and industrial control equipment. Such equipment is used in the marine, medical, and military industries, and is sealed to comply with specific industry standards for protection against elements like dust and liquids.
A silicone keyboard or keypad can be customized to create several different surface effects. For example, a keyboard or keypad can take one, multiple or flowing colors through the addition of pigment into the natural silicone. Individual keys can also be illuminated by SMT LEDs that are placed on circuit boards after laser etching.
