All silicone rubber keypads share some common features. Not only do they have a unique and pleasing tactile feel, they are easy to clean and use. With each button adding functionality to your item, it’s easy to see why silicone rubber keypads have become so popular. Let’s go over those common components here:
Water/Chemical Resistance
The beauty of silicone rubber keypads is that they can stand up to harsh environments, which is why they are so great for industrial control panels, handheld devices, and for use in construction and consumer goods.
Let’s take the construction industry as an example. Many of these projects take place outside, which means they’re subjected to weather extremes. That’s OK: silicone rubber keypads can handle it. And in hospital settings, where fluids can come into contact with keypads at any time, silicone is ideal because it resists water and chemicals.
Rubber or Plastic Buttons
The one you choose for your keypads will depend on your personal preferences, usage requirements and industry. Depending on the end-use of your product as well as the look-and-feel you’re going for, you can choose between either. Rubber offers a softer touch, while hard plastic keycaps are more rigid. Keycaps can be molded more easily with images, designs, and shapes that rubber alone may not be able to achieve. In addition, plastic keycaps can be created to allow light to filter through, a good choice when high visibility is necessary.
Tactile Buttons
Every button on a silicone rubber keypad serves a different purpose, increasing its functionality. When depressed, each keypad takes on a varying role. That’s because rubber buttons are three dimensional in nature, crafted that way to ensure a tactile feel, allowing the end user to detect a satisfying physical click whenever pressure has been applied or released – even when donning gloves. This is called tactile feedback and tells the user the buttons are working properly. It’s also possible to adjust the travel, audible click and actuation force as needed.
Printed Circuit Board (PCB)
Silicone keypads feature a circuit layer, which is like the brains of the product that adds function to it. Usually, they’re copper flex circuits but they could be rigid Printed Circuit Boards, or PCBs. An inert layer within the keypad keeps the switches from being activated until pressure is applied. Applied pressure completes the circuits; removal of pressure causes the circuitry to be incomplete, with no functionality.
Lighting
Many keypads require a lighting element in order to operate within low light conditions. You can add backlighting to your keypads, which will illuminate each button.
Quality
Known for their long-lasting quality, silicone rubber keypads are able to last a long time, as well as withstand moisture, chemicals, and harsh weather conditions. These features allow silicone rubber keypads to go through many years of wear and tear.
Contact Si-Tech
We would be happy to go over the components of our silicone rubber keypads as they apply to your specific industry and application. Request a quote today!
