Custom Keypads
Keypads for membrane switches are, unlike keyboards, one sheet of plastic material with printed outlines and symbols that are tactile when pushed at a switch location. The keys aren't separate like computer keyboards, and are therefore easier to clean and more resistant to liquids and dirt. They are inexpensive options for electronics like remote controls, security systems, appliances like ovens and microwaves, and phones. Since so many different products use keypads, manufacturers offer customizable membrane keypad options. They can vary in design, tactile feeling, color, symbols and text, shape and size. They are mostly used in applications where little and infrequent typing is done, because they are more difficult to type on due to the low amount of tactile feedback they provide.
There are four main popular types of keypads, all of which may be customized to fit specific needs and functions. Non tactile keypads provide no tactile feedback, meaning when they are pressed, no sound or movement occurs. They are used in applications where the life of the keypad must last a long time and money is a factor, as they are the least expensive to produce. They last more than 500 million uses and are popular in data entry. Dome keypads are an inexpensive tactile option. Underneath the graphic overlay, a small, bendable plastic dome provides slight embossing. These live over 1 million uses. Metal dome keypads feature a small metal dome between the graphic overlay and lower circuit. This provides a "clicky" feel and sound when pressed. They last over a million uses but are more expensive because they are more labor intensive to produce. Despite the cost, metal dome keypads are the most popular option for membrane switch keypads.