Membrane switch

Typical implementations arrange multiple membrane switches across its layered structure to form a keypad interface that allows human interaction to control electronic systems.

These circuits are generally printed on Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) or Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) substrates.

This layer includes ventilation cuts that allow air to flow when the tactile switches are actuated.

The layers of a membrane switch are normally assembled using pressure-sensitive adhesives, although inexpensive designs can be held together by other mechanical means such as a keyboard housing.

Top fire LEDs shine directly upwards and are suitable indicator lights.

In a typical design, two or more layers of woven fiber-optic cloth are used to form a rectangular light-emitting area.

The fibers coming off one end are then bundled into a circular ferrule and coupled to one or more LED light sources.

They are lower priced compared to fiber optics and offer additional design flexibility.

The benefits of membrane switches include ease of cleaning, sealing ability and their low profile.

They are reliable, effective, low-cost user interfaces, suitable for a wide range of products, and available with many creative options.