Membrane keypads

Q: What is the technical structure of membrane switches?

Membrane keypads consist of several precisely laminated functional layers. Typically, these include a graphic surface (overlay), underlying switching foils with conductive tracks and a spacer with cut-outs at the switching points. Pressing a button establishes a conductive connection between the contact surfaces, which triggers an electrical signal. The conductive tracks are usually made of printed silver or graphite. Tactile feedback, LED windows or embossing can be integrated as an option. The surface is usually made of polycarbonate or polyester and is printed on the back to prevent abrasion. In cooperation with Eltas, ROTIMA distributes technical solutions for membrane keypads that can be adapted to a wide range of requirements. Whether for harsh industrial environments, hygiene-critical medical technology or user-specific device developments - the design can be flexibly adapted to the respective application.

Q: Where are membrane keypads used?

Membrane keypads are used in a wide range of industrial and technical applications where a flat, protected and reliable input solution is required. They are widely used in automation technology, medical technology, machine and device construction as well as in measurement and analysis technology. Their sealed surface protects against dirt, moisture and chemicals, making them particularly durable and low-maintenance. The integration of SMD LEDs, displays or tactile feedback makes it possible to implement even complex operating concepts in a compact space. In the medical sector, membrane keypads are also particularly easy to clean. With the products of its partner Eltas, ROTIMA offers tailor-made solutions for almost every application scenario: from simple operating units to sophisticated HMI interfaces with design customization and functional extensions.

Q: What are the advantages of membrane keyboards compared to other keyboard solutions?

Membrane keyboards are characterized by their flat design, high durability and long service life. Unlike mechanical keyboards, they are completely sealed, which makes them resistant to dust, moisture and aggressive cleaning agents. This allows them to be used in environments with high hygienic or industrial requirements. The ability to customize the layout, symbols and choice of materials is also a clear advantage. Technically, EMC protection, LED lighting, transparent viewing windows or embossed keypads can be integrated. Depending on the design, the mechanical load capacity can be up to several million switching cycles. In cooperation with Eltas, we as a distributor offer individually adaptable solutions for membrane keypads that are both technically and creatively convincing and optimally tailored to customer-specific requirements.

Q: What materials are used for membrane switches?

Technical plastics such as polycarbonate and polyester are primarily used for membrane keyboards. Both materials offer good printability, mechanical stability and chemical resistance. Polycarbonate impresses with its high optical clarity and easy formability, while polyester scores with its excellent wear resistance and laser machinability. The choice of material depends on the planned application, the environmental impact and the design requirements. Printing takes place on the reverse side so that no color abrasion occurs. The surfaces are supplemented by conductive layers (usually silver or graphite) and a carrier foil with precisely fitting cut-outs for contact release. For demanding applications, the design can also be EMC-protected or embossed.

Q: How can membrane keypads be customized?

Membrane keypads offer a high degree of customization. This starts with the graphic design: layout, colors, logos and symbols are implemented exactly according to customer specifications. Embossing for improved haptics or the integration of Braille is also possible. Various switching technologies can be implemented: with or without tactile feedback, with integrated LED window, SMD components or printed circuit boards. In addition, EMC protection can be integrated using conductive layers. The shape, the type of connection cable or special protective layers can also be adapted to the specific project. In cooperation with Eltas, ROTIMA enables the realization of tailor-made operating solutions for membrane keypads, from individual items to series production. The combination of technical experience, modern manufacturing processes and rapid prototype development ensures short implementation times and high functionality in the finished end product.

Individual input solutions with EMC shielding, LED lighting and tactile feedback
Robust design for industrial, medical and hygiene-critical applications
Rapid prototyping and flexible series customization thanks to modular production

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in the electrical engineering and electronics industry

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Our range of membrane switches from Eltas

Membrane keypads

Electrical properties
Tension	25 VDC max *
Electricity	50 mA max *
Performance	0,6 W max *
Contact resistance	< 100 Ohms **
Insulation resistance	5 x 106 Ohms
Response time	< 20 mS max

Mechanical properties
Dimensional tolerances	+/- 0,2 mm
Switching force	2 – 4 N
Key way	0,15 – 0,2 mm
Keyboard thickness	1,5 mm max
Radium of rolling the connection cable	> 3 mm

Service life
Without dome	> 4,000,000 operations
Metal dome	> 1,000,000 operations
Poliesterdom	> 2,000,000 operations

Temperature conditions
Averting temperature range	- 20 to + 70 oC
Storage temperature range	- 40 to + 80 oC

* electrical conditions for optimum service life: 20 VDC, 10 mA, 0.25 W

** dependent on the length of the lines, resistance of the line: < 8 Ohm for line length 100 mm, width 1 mm

Foil overlays

	Polycarbonate	Poliester
Thickness	0.175, 0.375 mm	0.15, 0.2, 0.28 mm
Surface treatment	frosted	clear, frosted
Optical clarity	excellent	very good
Thixotropy	excellent	acceptable
Cutting and shaping	excellent	acceptable
Laser cutting	acceptable	excellent
Chemical resistance	acceptable	excellent
Stability in outdoor conditions	acceptable	acceptable
Resistance to wear and tear	acceptable	excellent
Service life	50,000 - 200,000 changeovers*	1.0 - 5.0 million switches **
Thermal stability	excellent	acceptable
Thermal expansion	acceptable	excellent

* 50,000 in the case of shaped keys, 200,000 in the case of straight keys

Waterproof membrane keypads with IP protection

Membrane keypads with tactile feedback

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Membrane keypads for industrial electronics with individual design and high durability

Membrane keypads are flat, flexible keypad solutions that are particularly suitable for demanding industrial applications. They consist of several layers, including a graphic surface, conductive switching foils and, depending on the version, integrated LEDs or circuit boards. This design not only enables a space-saving construction, but also high resistance to moisture, dust, chemicals and mechanical stress.

As a distributor in the field of electronic components, ROTIMA, together with the manufacturer Eltas, offers high-quality membrane keypads that can be flexibly adapted to different technical requirements. Whether tactile feedback, embossed keys, transparent viewing windows or EMC protection - our solutions are designed for durability, ease of use and integration into existing systems. Thanks to our many years of experience, we reliably support our customers in the selection, development and implementation of customized input systems for industrial, medical or technical applications.

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Technical structure and function of membrane switches

Membrane keypads consist of several precisely laminated layers, including a graphic cover film, conductive polyester switching films and a spacer with cut-outs. When the buttons are pressed, contact is made between the conductive layers, which triggers an electrical impulse.

Depending on the design, tactile feedback, SMD LEDs or embossed button surfaces can be integrated. The foils are printed on the underside and supplemented by selective windows for LED or LCD displays. This design has proven itself in the electronics industry thanks to its compact shape, resistance to environmental factors and simple integration on front panels or PCBs.

Further input / output elements in our range:

Actuators

Thermistor heaters

Transducer

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Membrane keypads in industry, medical technology and device construction

Membrane keypads are used wherever reliable, durable and hygienic operating elements are required. In industry, they are often used in control panels, machine control panels and test equipment. The robust design protects against dust, moisture and chemical influences, making them ideal for harsh environments.

In medical technology, membrane keypads impress with their smooth, easy-to-clean surface and the option of integrating them flush into devices. Displays, transparent windows and SMD LEDs can be easily integrated without compromising hygiene requirements.

Individually printed front foils with embossed buttons also ensure a functional and visually appealing operating concept in device construction, for example for analysis and measuring devices, cash register systems or household appliances. Thanks to their flexibility in design and technology, membrane keypads can be adapted to almost any application and guarantee reliable and intuitive user guidance.

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Tobias Nuffer

Managing Director & Key Accounting DE

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Sales- and Productmanagement

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Further information on membrane keyboards

Membrane keypads are versatile input solutions that have proven themselves particularly well in industrial, medical and technical applications. Thanks to their flat design, high resistance and individual design freedom, they offer clear advantages over conventional keypad solutions. Whether technical details, typical areas of application or the choice of suitable materials - quality, adaptability and durability are what count when making a selection. The following questions and answers provide a compact overview of important aspects that are relevant when deciding on membrane keyboards: explained in a technically sound and practical way.

What is the technical structure of membrane switches?

Membrane keypads consist of several precisely laminated functional layers. Typically, these include a graphic surface (overlay), underlying switching foils with conductive tracks and a spacer with cut-outs at the switching points. Pressing a button establishes a conductive connection between the con...

Where are membrane keypads used?

Membrane keypads are used in a wide range of industrial and technical applications where a flat, protected and reliable input solution is required. They are widely used in automation technology, medical technology, machine and device construction as well as in measurement and analysis technology. Th...

What are the advantages of membrane keyboards compared to other keyboard solutions?

Membrane keyboards are characterized by their flat design, high durability and long service life. Unlike mechanical keyboards, they are completely sealed, which makes them resistant to dust, moisture and aggressive cleaning agents. This allows them to be used in environments with high hygienic or i...

What materials are used for membrane switches?

Technical plastics such as polycarbonate and polyester are primarily used for membrane keyboards. Both materials offer good printability, mechanical stability and chemical resistance. Polycarbonate impresses with its high optical clarity and easy formability, while polyester scores with its excelle...

How can membrane keypads be customized?

Membrane keypads offer a high degree of customization. This starts with the graphic design: layout, colors, logos and symbols are implemented exactly according to customer specifications. Embossing for improved haptics or the integration of Braille is also possible. Various switching technologies c...

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