Membrane Switches
A low-profile, durable interface used to control electronic devices, consisting of multiple layers that create an electrical connection when pressed.
What is Membrane Switch?
A membrane switch is a custom electrical switch assembly that uses pressure or contact to open or close a circuit.
It consists of multiple flexible layers of polymer films and adhesives. The layers typically include a graphic overlay, a spacer layer, and a bottom membrane layer with conductive traces. When a user presses a button on the graphic overlay, the button contacts the conductive traces on the bottom layer, completing an electrical circuit and registering the input.
Extensive Design and Manufacturing Capabilities
With nearly 50 years of HMI design and manufacturing expertise, partnering with VCC ensures your membrane switch is designed and manufactured to your exact needs, with the quality you expect from a trusted partner.
Whether your design is for consumer appliances, medical equipment, surgical devices, smart home technology, or industrial controls, VCC offers high-quality membrane switches to meet your application needs.
Benefits of Using Membrane Switches
Thin and Lightweight:
The low profile and compact design make membrane switches ideal for space-constrained designs.
Durability and Long Lifespan
Sealed design provides superior moisture resistance while being easy to clean and maintain.
Flexible Design and Integration
Custom graphics, backlighting, and tactile feedback enhance usability with clear visual and tactile cues.
Cost Effectiveness
Offer lower entry costs than mechanical switches or touchscreens, with attractive pricing and minimal tooling.
Membrane Switch Design Process
Our engineers work with customers to determine the application, environment, dimensions, and number of buttons needed. This process includes selecting appropriate materials for each layer, designing the circuit configuration and termination method, defining the visual interface, including colors, symbols, and textures, and finalizing additional features, such as tactile feedback, backlighting needs, and any integrated components like LEDs or displays.
Based on a defined specification, a prototype is produced and tested to evaluate its functionality, aesthetics, and durability.
The prototype phase is imperative to ensure the design meets the exact specifications. If any necessary adjustments are needed, we conduct a design iteration to ensure it meets the customer’s requirements.
Once the design is finalized, the details are documented and approved by the customer, and mass production begins.
