What are the different categories of membrane key switches? (Part 1)
Release date:
Www.zdxtt.com
2020-12-11
Thin-film panel switch Detailed Type Introduction
Flexible Thin Film
Flexible membrane panel switches are a typical form of membrane switch. This type of membrane switch is referred to as "flexible" because its face film layer, isolation layer, and circuit layer are all constructed from flexible films with distinct properties. In soft-film switches, the circuit layer uses PET film—known for its excellent electrical performance—as the substrate for the switch circuit pattern. Additionally, this layer incorporates tactile spring contacts and connects both the upper and lower circuit layers.
Due to the inherent properties of polyester film, the membrane switch exhibits excellent insulation, superior heat resistance, outstanding flexural strength, and remarkable resilience. The switch circuit pattern—including both the switch itself and the lead wires—is printed using a low-resistance, low-temperature-curing conductive coating. As a result, the entire membrane switch boasts a certain degree of flexibility, making it suitable not only for flat surfaces but also adaptable for use with curved or contoured surfaces. When combined with a flexible membrane switch, the soft film switch can be strategically positioned at specific areas within the overall structure. It extends outward according to the predetermined design specifications and standard wire spacing, seamlessly connecting to the rear-mounted circuitry of the device. This design allows the soft film switch to bend freely while maintaining a secure, hermetic seal.

Hard Film
Hard-film panel switches refer to switches whose patterns and circuits are formed directly on ordinary printed circuit boards with copper cladding.
The hard film switch features convenient material sourcing, stable manufacturing processes, low resistance, and can be directly soldered behind certain components in the circuit. This eliminates the need for a rigid backing layer, keeping the overall size compact. Typically, hard film switches utilize metal conductive plates to form labyrinthine contact points, enhancing the tactile feedback. However, a drawback is that soft film switches cannot be easily integrated into the device; often, after soldering, the leads must be routed externally using straight cables. In addition to providing audible buzzer signals and LED indicators, the hard film switch also offers universally compatible metal tactile spring contacts.
Flat Thin Film
Thin-film panel The buttons on the switch, distinguished by different colors to indicate their position, shape, and size, were once a common feature in early film switches. Stereo-type membrane switches: On these switches, the buttons are typically color-coded to visually convey their location, shape, and dimensions. This allows operators to easily assess the accuracy of their actions purely through visual cues. However, due to the lack of adequate feedback mechanisms—such as tactile signals indicating whether the fingers have pressed within the switch's effective range—the reliability of the entire monitoring system and the speed of operation can be compromised. To address this issue, a type of membrane switch known as the "stereo key switch" features a slightly raised key body that protrudes slightly above the panel, creating a three-dimensional appearance. This design not only enables precise identification of the key area, enhancing recognition speed and improving the operator's tactile sensitivity but also elevates the overall aesthetic appeal of the product.
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