Capacitive Touch Membrane Switches

A capacitive membrane switch is a touch sensitive switch that activates when the user makes contact with the sensor. The membrane switch uses capacitive sensing technology to perform the functions of a traditional membrane switch with a simple, light touch.

Capacitive touch membrane switches offer great design flexibility, durability, and a sleek appearance. The technology in this style membrane switches use conductive carbon printed circuitry to create an electrical field. When a human finger touches the key, an increase in the capacitance is recognized by the IC, which activates the output of the key.

Here is a how-to guide for capacitive touch switches [video].

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Advantages of Capacitive Touch Membrane Switches

• Sleek Appearance
• Robustness and Durability
• Ease of Maintenance
• Flexibility in Customization
• Light Touch Activation
• Scroll and Slider Designs
• Multi Touch Capability
• Curved Interface Design
• Flexibility in Functions and Communication Interfaces
• Backlighting Options

Applications Using Capacitive Touch Technology

• Medical Devices
• Portable Devices
• Appliances
• Consumer Electronics
• Personal Computer
• Gaming
• Hospitality
• Industrial
• Kiosk

Mechanical Structure of a Capacitive Touch Membrane Switch

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More Durable Than Traditional Membrane Switches

One of the main advantages of capacitive touch membrane switches is that there are no moving mechanical components that undergo thousands of actuation cycles like metal domes in traditional membrane switches. This key advantage significantly extends the life of the product and makes it much more durable than its traditional alternative. The overlay material can be glass, acrylic, polyester, or polycarbonate. The smooth top surface allows for quick wipe downs and is able to withstand harsh chemicals. These advantages make this solution extremely appealing for medical applications. Find out more with this blog post, Capacitive Touch HMI Overlay and Materials. We utilize our proven design techniques to completely seal the perimeter of the membrane switch from moisture, dust, and other environmental contaminants.

Improved Esthetics

Capacitive touch membranes are an excellent solution for customers who are looking to redesign their existing, outdated product. With a sleek, glossy interface and uniform backlighting options, capacitive touch membranes can provide your existing product a major esthetic and functional improvement. Learn how to incorporate transparent capacitive touch switches.

HMI Design & Integration

At Epec, our focus is on the design and integration of many components, including touch technology, into a high reliability, feature-rich user-interface. We can incorporate everything from micro-processors, embedded controllers; LED, LCD, or VFD displays; and backlighting options to include: discrete LEDs, EL, light panels, or fiber-optic. With our global manufacturing capabilities and our world class clean room assembly facility in New Bedford, MA, Epec can meet all of your capacitive switch needs.

Look into this more here, Smart HMIs - Capacitive Touch Technology for Medical Devices.

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Experience Next-Generation Touch Technology

Upgrade your product's performance and aesthetics with Epec's capacitive touch membrane switches. From medical devices to industrial applications, our switches offer unparalleled durability and customization.

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