Two type Membrane Switch keypad Backlighting

Historically, membrane switches have been backlit using discrete incandescent light sources. Though relatively inex-pensive, this method does not allow for backlighting the ac-tual contact areas due to the opacity of the conductive mate-rials that we use. JCF has incorporated both fiber optic and electroluminescent panels, which are embedded between the graphic overlay and circuitry layers of the membrane switch. These panels allow for the complete backlighting of the entire surface of the part. Additionally, because these light sources are very flexible they do not in-hibit the actuation forces of the given keypad positions. Electroluminescent panels typically offer a brighter, more even flow of light. Also, EL offers greater design flexibility because the glowing element is discretely applied. EL, how-ever,has a half-life of approximately 10,000 hours so marry-ing the technology with the proper applicationis critical. EL also requires an inverter to function properly. Fiber optic panels, on the other hand, are powered by LEDs that can easily be replaced.

More recently,JCF technology will guide light through LEDs through conductive films, and thin-film keys will obtain a uniform light source, and greatly reduce production costs, JCF can provide membrane switches with LEDs Backlighting embedded in-side the membrane switch. Due to the profile of a mount LED in relation to the thickness of a membrane switch, it may be necessary to emboss the graphic overlay to accommodate the thickness. which is an effect that EL light-emitting sheets cannot achieve.

In the future, JCF Technology will strive to research new technologies for membrane keypad switch backlight buttons with better quality and lower production costs.

More information:www.jcftechnology.com