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Design considerations for an outdoor membrane keypad application
The ability to incorporate multiple design elements into membrane keypads enables them to be adapted for use in various external environments, across virtually every market sector.
When designing a custom membrane keypad for an outdoor application it is important the customer provides details of the applications intended use during the initial design phase. This allows us to suggest the most suitable material, switch technology and overall construction from the options available to ensure full functionality in a specific environment.
UV and chemical resistant materials
Outdoor membrane keypad applications that are exposed to sunlight and harsh conditions should be made from a UV or chemical resistant material. If a keypad is used outside and is not made from a UV resistant material it will become brittle over time (years) and any windows in the keypad will turn yellow or cloudy.
At Diamond we use MacDermid Autotex XE UV absorbing chemical, this ensures the greatest longevity of an outdoor membrane keypad application against sunlight. To enhance strength, durability, and toughness of a custom membrane keypad we use Autoflex EB, which is also made by MacDermid.
Why choose a membrane keypad?
The design of a membrane keypad means that the keys are embedded together into a single component. Because of this the keys are not separate moving parts, and membrane keypads are more resistant to dirt, moisture, and other elements than traditional mechanical keypads.
Our holistic approach to designing a custom membrane keypad means that your application will stand the test of time. Some examples of outdoor membrane keypad applications include:
- Parking meters
- Outdoor home control panels (security/garage operating systems)
- Electronic gardening equipment
- Outdoor machinery control panels
- Interactive consumer kiosks
Additional features include:
- Waterproof or weatherproof design, for outdoor environments exposed to dirt, dust, and liquids.
- Integrated backlighting.
- Rim, Pillow, Braille, or Dome key embossing – improving aesthetics and helping users to locate keys.
Visit our membrane keypads page for more information on features for incorporation.