Membrane Switches: An Introduction to How They Work

Why Choose a Membrane Switch

Consumers and businesses alike often prefer membrane switches over traditional switches because they are more ergonomic. Ergonomics is important because it affects comfort. Traditional switches, as mentioned above, are made of hard plastic, which isn't exactly comfortable to use. You can still control a traditional switch - typically by pressing a button - but they aren't as ergonomic as their membrane counterparts.

Only membrane switches are made of a soft and elastic material. As a result, they are more ergonomic than traditional switches. If you're planning to use a switch for a long time, you may want to choose a membrane switch for this reason.

Membrane switches also offer a high level of protection against moisture and other liquids. Although they can be designed in different ways, most membrane switches feature a sealed top layer that's made of silicone rubber or a similar soft and elastic material. The presence of this layer prevents moisture and liquids from reaching the underlying circuit.

Another reason to choose a membrane switch is for backlighting. Membrane switches can be designed with one of several backlighting solutions. Electroluminescent (EL) is a traditional backlighting solution that uses EL bulbs to illuminate the switch's buttons from behind. In addition to EL, light-emitting diode (LED) is a common backlighting solution for membrane switches. EL and LED backlighting can even be used with optical fiber to distribute their respective light more evenly across the membrane switch.