Membrane Switch Manufacturer

Membrane switch panels and the switches themselves are the essential interfaces between machines and operators. Well-designed panels ensure that operation is as simple and intuitive as possible. Their clear instructions and feedback are often essential for keeping workers safe, as well.

We are highly experienced membrane switch manufacturers. For more than 60 years, our company has specialized in membrane switch printing for a variety of industries, including:

• Aerospace
• Medical
• Automotive
• Computer
• Telecommunications
• Food Service

No matter what your unique needs are, our team of experienced experts will work with you to create custom switch panels that make it easy for operators to get the most out of their machines.

While our industry experience is always helpful, we appreciate that no two companies are the same.

So, before walking you through all of your options, we'll start by listening to what you need from your custom membrane switches and membrane switch panels.

Only then will we go over the following aspects of a membrane keyboard's anatomy:

• Graphic Overlay - This is the interface operators will interact with when using your machines. We make these out of polyester instead of polycarbonate because it is a much more chemically resistant material and offers superior flex life.
• Top Circuit Layer - For the initial circuit layer, we use silver-filled electrically conductive and dielectric inks printed on heat stabilized polyester that's between 0.005 and 0.007 inches thick.
• Overlay Adhesive - We utilize an acrylic adhesive to connect the graphic overlay to the switch's top circuit layer.
• Circuit Spacer - This piece goes between the top and bottom circuit, ensuring the switch remains open until an operator presses the keypad. We use polyester for the spacer, applying adhesive to both sides.
• Lower Circuit Layer - Similar to the top circuit layer, this piece includes a flexible stem that interconnects to controller PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards) or other electronic components.
• Rear Adhesive Layer - This adhesive bonds the membrane switch to your machine's enclosure, panel, or housing. Our team will recommend the best option based on factors unique to your equipment (e.g. operating environment), so the adhesive is sufficient to keep the switch in place.
• Rigid Support Layer - Some applications may require additional structural integrity via an extra layer of support. Again, our team of designers will assess the relevant factors and recommend if this extra step is necessary.

While this describes the typical makeup of membrane switch panels, we specialize in custom construction at our membrane switch factory. When designing yours, we'll draw from both our industry expertise and your input.

The function of a membrane switch may be straightforward, but effectively designing them requires an in-depth understanding of the aforementioned features and eight other important considerations.

As part of our custom switch printing services, we'll explain each of these in detail, including making recommendations for your unique machines.

Many applications require switches with much smaller, high-density components. This is when our PCBs and printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs) are essential.

Our designers utilize them to turn even the most complex of interfaces into user-friendly membrane switches and panels.

Adding LED backlighting to your membrane keyboards makes it easier for the operator to see the interface, even when working in environments where visibility suffers.

However, to work most effectively, this backlighting must entail the right light quality, intensity, color, and coverage for the specific environment in question.

Everyone wants an aesthetically pleasing switch for their machines, but visuals also play an important role in improving their operation.

At Hallmark Nameplate, we create practical visuals by leveraging:

• Color Management
• Digital Printing
• Embossing
• Finishes
• Inks

Our technology and approach ensure consistency across all of your machines. We can even color match to a color swatch, the Federal Standard Guide, Pantone Matching System, or your bezel.

We pride ourselves on designing membrane switches that aren't just easy to use but easy to use for years and years. Even if your operators will interact with them multiple times an hour, we can create custom switches that will easily keep pace.

Custom membrane switches should add to your machine's aesthetics, make them safer for users, and ensure that operators can get the most out of every feature.

However, as you just saw, achieving this result means understanding all of your options, including which ones are most important for your specific machines.

That's why we do more than just design and manufacture membrane switches. We also provide expert consultations, so you're 100% confident in what you've ordered long before we start creating it.

Call us today at 352-383-8142 or fill out this simple form for a free quote and to find out more about how we can help your business.