Rubber Keypads

This construction provides tactile feedback from the elastomer and the carbon puck serves as the shorting element for traces on a printed circuit board.

This construction provides tactile feedback from metal or polyester domes. All of the switching is part of the sealed membrane switch with circuitry exiting via a circuit tail. Having tactile in the membrane switch allows for a thinner construction when compared to a tactile elastomer.

This construction provides tactile feedback from the elastomer. Printed shorting pads on the membrane switch serve as the shorting element for traces on a printed circuit board. The membrane switch is sealed, which is an advantage since the rubber elastomer is porous and oils can penetrate.

Many factors contribute to the life expectancy of a rubber keypad, from the material used to the tactile feedback. The material can also affect printing options.