Membrane Keypads Provide Simplicity and Flexibility 

Most production equipment sold in the 21st century features tactile switches. These switches are favored by many operators because they feel more responsive than membrane switches. Your business can still make the choice between tactile and membrane controls with the help of Graphic Printing Corp.

If you have used a printer or copier in your office, you are familiar with the basic structure of a membrane switch. The membrane is the top layer of plastic or vinyl that matches up to electric contacts in the machine. While these controls are less costly than tactile switches, membrane controls do not pop back after the switch control is depressed.

Tactile switches feature metal domes stationed between the membrane layer and the electrical contacts. These domes are flexible enough to push down on the appropriate contact when pressure is applied and snap back into place after pressure is relieved. Your company may prefer tactile switches because you want to add another layer of protection between workers and internal parts.

The benefits of both control types are moot without proper protection from high voltage. Each switch is responsible for controlling electrical currents between the control panel and the rest of the machine. You need to find switches with the following elements to protect workers from electrocution:

• Formex insulation
• Spacer
• Backer
• Shorting pad

Technical Specifications

Connectors
 

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