The Benefits And Functions Of PCB Keypad!

Printed circuit boards or PCB have become the quintessential components in a number of electronic devices. And this is why PCB keypads have taken all the modern appliances to a new level of success. Today one can find a dozen of complex and complicated mechanical equipments conveniently coming in small sizes. This is definitely because of the emergence of the Printed Circuit Board designs. 

So, if you are still oblivious about the myriad benefits of these keyboards and how it can help you with this business then this post is dedicated to you. Read on as I will be telling you all the benefits of these keypads that have made it the favorite in a spectrum of industries. But before we get into the benefits, let’s just look at how these keypads work. Let’s get started.

How Does A PCB Keypad Works?

 Compared to older ways a Printed Circuit Board, or "PCB," has several major advantages in the ways of building electronics. In the past days, every single component inside of an electronic device used to be connected with large wires and was placed anywhere they could fit according to the space. If you see the inside picture of a 1948 television, you can see that the process is very "messy," also a huge space is used. Compared to this, the PCBs use a different approach. On it, all components remain mounted on a board that’s non-conductive which are connected with small pathways, named as "traces." Since they are usually designed on a computer, printed circuit boards fit many components in a minimum amount of space.

Benefits of buying PCB Keyboards from ElecFlex

I am sure that these beneficial factors will help you. If you are looking to find the right product for your unit, read on to know more.

1.       You Can Make Your Own Circuit Diagram:

This is a great option for anyone to explore. Even if you are not really acquainted with software like Coral Draw or AutoCad, you can simply try and draw your design on pen and paper. 

It’s obvious that only you and your team will know about the requirements. Hence, before you place your order with any web store offering such keypads, it’s always advisable for you to provide them with a circuit diagram and take a sample. If you get the sample in place then you can easily where and how much you can order.

2.      You Can Cut Down Manufacturing Cost!

Now, if you are just starting your own venture, it’s obvious that you’ll be a bit short on cash. It’s not about bargaining for lowering the prices. But if you can do your research you can get to know excellent manufacturing procedures for lowering costs. A lot of manufacturers often manipulate certain layers on the circuit board without degrading the performance. In this way you can get a lightweight product which is at the same time very effective.

3.      Select The Design You Find Convenient

If you want to have a specific design in place then both the designer and the manufacturer must be on the same page about what’s required and what needs to be delivered. Now it might happen that you might not always have the best ideas in mind at one place. But in such situations, relying on a professional manufacture will always help you find the perfect style and look for the PCB keypads so that it can give your end product an appeal and elegance. 

In a Nutshell:

So, these are the exciting benefits that you can get from the PCB keypads. There are tons of websites offering similar products so make sure you keep these facts in mind and choose accordingly. Also, if you have any further queries about this post feel free to mention them in the comments section and I will be addressing them in the upcoming posts. Till then keep following this space for more related writings.

Membrane Keypads Or Other Keypad Variants? A Complete List

Membrane keypads are important pieces of equipment used to control electronic devices. But, the vast range of keypads and accessories available on the market makes it tough to pick the right one.

This post will take you through some of the most available types of keypads. The following list will help you know which type of keypad will suit your appliance the best.

     1.    Laser Etched Keypads

     This variety is made out of a type of clear silicon. The key-tops are then printed with silicon paint and cured. Laser etching over the paint allows it to expose the paint below. They are beneficial when there is an excess of shining light from underneath the keypad.

Expert's View: Laser etched keypads are available in many styles and colors. As per your needs, you can also get them customized from a manufacturer.

     2.    Multi-Colored Keypads

     Well, the name says it all. Isn't it? These types of keypads can have a combination of different        colors printed on the key-tops. Using an attractive graphic overlay for your membrane switches can even attract buyers!

Expert's View: As per your needs, you can provide your desired color swatches for producing a high-quality colored keypad.

     3.    Wear-Resistant Keypads

     Spraying a special type of coating after the printing process gives you wear-resistant keypads. This cover prevents the keypads from wearing and getting damaged over time.

Expert's View: Opt for this type of keypads if your appliance is bound to undergo lots and frequent usages.

     4.    Plastic Feel Silicon Keypads

     While these keypads may not give that premium look but it can serve the purposes pretty well. Made from silicon and vitalized to make it feel like plastic, they can lower production costs. The plastic feel is often brought by spraying a special epoxy coating onto the keypad tops.

Expert's View: If required, these keypads can also be laser etched. Moreover, they are available in a wide array of colors for you to choose from.

     5.    Thermoformed Keypads

     Does your machine have relatively small keys? Does your appliance have a little place left for installing the membrane keypads? Then the thermoformed keypads are all that you need. These are made by using a polycarbonate or polyester material and then thermoformed to fit over a keypad.

     6.    Touchpad Systems

     This is the best example of how controlling a device changed its course with modern technology. Touchscreen and Touchpad systems are designed for use with electronic equipment and PC systems. A touchscreen facilitates easy data entry into electronic devices. These types of screens are available in a range of formats, and they can also be resistive and capacitive.

Expert's View: Touch screen systems need the user to touch the keypad with their fingers and not while wearing gloves. If the keypad is for use at places where touchpads won't work the best, try membrane switches with colorful graphic overlay.

     7.    Decals and Membranes

     Decals and membranes are accessories designed to improve the look and feel of your keypad. Unique custom made decals and membranes can be bought or manufactured.

Expert's View: A custom membrane overlay will incorporate artwork and mechanical drawings right onto the final piece.

Where Can You Look For Buying These Keypads?

The best place to buy a keypad from is a keypad manufacturing specialist. They will have the best selection of products available on the market or can create a unique one for you. Plus, they will have trained staff who can help you to choose the membrane keypads for your needs.

How Can You Use This List?

Now that you know the different types, I am sure that this list will get you started on selecting the perfect one. While researching over the web, make a note of the pros and cons. That will help you conclude which type will suit your purposes with ultimate accuracy.

Give this post a thumb up and feel free to share it with your social connections. Also, stay tuned for more related updates.

4 reasons that explain why membrane switch panel stands out

Many people do not realize that the membrane switches technology gave way to companies for developing more convenient gadgets. You will find that microwaves, computer keyboards, and other similar devices have the membrane switch panel. Besides, if you plan to remodel your business operations, consider trying this technology.

Today, this post will help you learn about its capabilities. With it, you will be able to realize its value.

So what is this switch? An Overview

1.    To simply put it, these switches use thin layers of buttons. Instead of the big button functions, these switches are easier to control.

2.    An example is the switch panel on microwave ovens. The flat panel, i.e., the keyboard makes it easier to operate the appliance. You can comfortably press buttons for turning it ON or OFF.

3.    The advantage of it is its flexible design. Product engineers can create different functions and design them as per the needs. You can customize the flat panel according to your preferences. The design and placement of the switches provide a more suitable way to finish tasks.

4.    In general, the membrane switch panel consists of three layers.
•    The top layer is the access part of the keyboard. It makes up the front panel where you see the keyboard labels. Each of them resembles a button function.
•    The next layer is the spacer layer. It separates the top and bottom layers. It also prevents electrical problems by stopping direct contact between the two players.
•    The back layer holds the conductive stripes. It translates the command from the keyboard panel to the internal system of the device.
Note: When you touch a switch on the panel, you press the front and spacer layer. You also push the back layer for closing the circuit.

What makes membrane switches stand out among others?

1.    It offers a softer feel when compared to mechanical switches. They are sensitive, and users can change functions or shift switches easily without much effort.

2.    These switches are also waterproof. That makes the technology ideal for businesses dealing with severe components in harsh environments.

3.    Membrane switch manufacturers didn't just focus on business equipment. They took it to a position where it gets used in assisting people with -
•    Visual
•    Cognitive and
•    Physical disabilities
You can also find these switches in other devices like:
•    Remote Controls
•    Air Conditioners
•    Televisions
•    Induction Cook-tops and so on

4.    Membrane switch also has a low profile, are simple to clean, and lessens the sealing difficulty.

Finally,

Depending on your demands and preferences, you can find manufacturers who customize membrane switch panels. Overhauling your devices with membrane technology can be one of the best investments you can do. But before placing an order, here are some quick tips.

1.    Talk to the product designer for particular configurations on the keyboard panel on the appliance.
2.    Find membrane switches manufacturer with tailoring services.
3.    Analyze the past works or contracts of the provider.
4.    And last but not the least, search for testimonials and ratings to ensure maximum ROI.

Keeping the above tips in mind, you can get an idea of their level of service.

So, if you think that you found what you were searching for, click the share button. Also, if you have more to add, point them in the comments.

What a Membrane Keypad Manufacturer Needs From You?

There is a certain misconception about what a membrane keypad manufacturer asks for. You might think of the payment. But there is more to it before you can actually place an order! This post will aid to all necessary things that you need to know. The thing is, first you need to play your role and only then a keypad manufacturer can work.

What You Need To Do?

Here is the list of things that you need to take responsibility for. These points are related to your requirements and design. In short, it’s a guide to make a membrane keypad manufacturer customize things for you.

Selecting the Right Circuit and Graphic Overlay Design

It’s the heart of the switch. Start with the circuit. Now you might think, what lies with a simple circuit! There are things that can help you lower production cost.

A membrane switch consists of many layers. One of the layers among them holds the connector. So you can lower the number of layers without compromising its working capacity.

         Graphic Overlay of the Switch

This is the top layer of the switch. You can customize it and also choose whether to have a specific color and design. Now here are certain things that you need to follow. They are as follows.

         The Appearance of the Membrane Switch

Appearance is not limited to color and pattern but also the way it looks. It must match the look and feel of the appliance. Apart from that, if your appliance holds a comparatively small control panel, it is better that you keep it short and simple and with less layers.

         Creating the Final Layout

You might not conclude to the final design on one go. There are times when you will prepare around 3 or 4 layouts and will to have them all. But you need to select the best among them. So make a rough sketch. Play around with strokes and find where things will be like the switch, the border if any and so on.

Keep an eye of the size of the appliance and its colors. If you don’t your control panel might appear visually dull!

Quantity – Number of Units You Need

Quantity plays a major role and your membrane keypad manufacturer will ask for it. More quantity on order, more discounts you enjoy.

This doesn’t mean that you will not get discounts at small quantities! Make sure that you have 10 or 20 pieces extra on order. There might be certain necessity. Also when your product starts attracting customers, you will no doubt use the remaining switches for further production.

Placing an Order

Placing an order is no difficult task and is not rocket science either. Although membrane switch manufacturers asks for images of the graphical layouts diagrams on AutoCAD or PS, you can send them a snap of your hand made diagram as well.

For the customization of layers, connect with your manufacturer. You will find different variants that your manufacturer has on offer. Once you are set with all of these, mention the number of units you need and place an order.

So these are some of the important things that you need to take care of. Stay tuned for further updates. Also share this post if aided some help to you.

How To Find the Perfect Graphic Overlay for Manufacturing Membrane Switches?

Honestly, there are only two ways. Either you manufacture it or get it manufactured by a reliable graphic overlay manufacturer.

In both the cases, you will need to first settle with the design and the pattern. There are many things involved where this post will put on light. Customization might be a distinctive feature that is sought after. But, it is also challenging to get the graphic overlay of a membrane switch customized as per your requirements.

What Are The Factors That Ensures A Perfect Graphic Overlay Design?

Membrane Switches are applicable to most of the appliances in recent times. You can find them everywhere and in almost every device. Depending on your appliance, the 3 important things that you must look for are as follows.

      1.Size of the Control Panel

Control panel in large appliances need not be huge. Also it is not necessary that smaller devices can’t have a large control panel.

For example: membrane switches on an air conditioner might not take much space. In contrary to an AC, an induction cook-top is a smaller appliance. But a cook-top has much more switches!

So it is up to you to decide the size of each switch which concludes as a complete control panel. Make sure that you go with the look and feel. It must not look bulky or clumsy. This can hamper the outer appeal no matter how good your device performs.

               2.The Color of the Appliance

Depending on the color of your appliance in production, you need to decide the color for the graphic overlay of the switch.

The Graphic Overlay will include:

·         Mode of Operation

·         Border or No Border and

·         A distinctive color – dark or light

Expert Tip: Try to select a color that does not get lost with the color of the appliance. It is no touch screen! So it is better that you keep two colors – darker color for the appliance, and a lighter one for the graphic overlay. Also things can be vice versa if it matches the look and feel of the appliance.

Moreover before placing an order with a graphic overlay manufacturer you will need to settle with the final layout! So here is what you need to do.

               3.Preparing Rough Sketches – Homework

Rough sketches can help you reach to a conclusion. Don’t expect to make the final drawing on one go. You might not have trouble preparing the circuit. But buyers are not going to see that. All they will look at are the exteriors of the appliance.

When you start with the rough sketch follow these steps:

·         Do not start with the dimensions

·         Make it rough. Play around with strokes

·         Decide the place of contact (The place for pressing the button)

·         Make 2 or 3 layouts. Try inserting the text if you have any.

·         Decide to have a border or not – thin or thick

When you find that things are pretty fine, leave it for some time. Get back to it after an hour or two and prepare the final one. This time make sure that you have the dimensions right. Once you are happy with the output, take a snap of the same and send it to a graphic overlay manufacturer.

Get it customized your way and create a perfect appliance for the market. For further updates stay tuned. Also share this post if it aided some help to you.

Cheers