Duraswitch Keyboards are highly durable, ultra-thin flat-panel keypads that combine the tactile feel of mechanical switches with the sealed, low-profile design of traditional membrane switches. They are widely utilized...
Dura Switch (or Duraswitch) keyboards are highly durable, tactile membrane switch assemblies engineered for industrial, medical, and off-road applications requiring robust reliability.
Manufacturing Process
The production of a Dura Switch keyboard involves several precise layering and assembly steps:
- Graphic Overlay: A custom-printed graphic layer (usually polyester or polycarbonate) is applied to the top. This provides the label, color, and texture.
- Switch/Dome Layer: Either metal snap domes, carbon-pill contacts, or silicone rubber keypads are used to provide tactile feedback and electrical contact.
- Spacer & Adhesive: A die-cut spacer with an adhesive backing is used to keep the electrical contacts separated until pressure is applied by the user.
- Circuit Layer: The contact is made on a flexible printed circuit (FPC), a printed silver/carbon circuit, or a rigid PCB.
Key Features
- High Actuation Life: Designed to withstand millions of presses (often up to 10-50+ million cycles).
- Environmental Sealing: Can be built to IP65 or higher ratings to resist moisture ingress and harsh chemicals.
- Customization: Easily adaptable for backlighting, variable actuation forces, and customized active key areas.
Common Applications
Because of their rugged, low-maintenance design, Duraswitch keyboards are commonly found in:
- Medical Devices (can be safely sanitized or used with gloves)
- Industrial Controls and manufacturing machinery
- Military and Aerospace panels
- Security & Access Control keypads exposed to public abuse
Keetronics ( India ) Pvt. Ltd. : Located in Pune, INDIA, they are a primary manufacturer of custom membrane switches, including heavy-duty Duraswitch push-gate keyboards.
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