Many applications would be better suited using a membrane switch (low profile, flat surface keypad assembly) along with a rigid printed circuit board (PCB), replacing screen-printed silver conductors on polyester sheets.
Printed circuit boards with gold plated switch contact pads and gold-plated dome switches greatly improve the reliability of your application, offering longer operating life with lower switch resistance and contact bounce.
When using a custom manufactured PCB membrane switch combo in your design, there is also the ability to use soldered LEDs, other electrical components and a better selection of connectors on the printed circuit board. These options are comparable to the cost of printed silver membrane circuits.
Membrane Switch Designed with a Printed Circuit Board
User interfaces with printed circuit boards perform much better in applications where temperature range, vibration, and extended shock may occur. In silver printed membrane switches, the weakest part of the assembly is the fragile tail and connector.
Perhaps the best improvement over using silver printed membrane switches is to use high reliability, circuit board-based keyboards and keypads with conventional soldered connectors for termination.
Summary
Integrating a membrane switch with a rigid printed circuit board (PCB) provides superior reliability, performance, and design flexibility compared to traditional silver-printed membrane circuits. Gold-plated switch contacts and dome switches enhance durability, reduce contact resistance, and minimize switch bounce. PCB-based membrane assemblies also allow for the inclusion of soldered LEDs, electrical components, and high-quality connectors without significant cost increases.
These designs are ideal for demanding environments with temperature extremes, vibration, or shock, where the fragile tail and connector of a silver-printed circuit are more prone to failure.
Key Takeaways
- Enhanced reliability: Gold-plated contacts and domes extend switch life and improve electrical performance.
- Design flexibility: PCB-based interfaces support soldered LEDs, components, and various connector types.
- Improved durability: Rigid PCBs withstand vibration, shock, and temperature variations better than printed silver circuits.
- Reduced failure points: Eliminates fragile tails and connectors found in traditional membrane switch designs.
- Comparable cost: PCB-based membrane switches deliver greater performance and longevity at a similar price point to silver-printed alternatives.
