Metal Domes Silicone Rubber Keypads Customization Factory

Metal dome, also referred to as Stainless Steel Domes or Tactile Metal Domes, is a crucial component used in switches. Constructed from stainless steel, metal domes leverage the conductivity of metal to enhance the functionality of switches.

In a silicone membrane keypad, metal domes are strategically placed on the conductive area of the PCB, typically positioned above the gold finger on the circuit board. Upon pressing, the central point of the metal dome becomes concave, establishing contact with the line on the PCB, thus completing a circuit. This enables the membrane keypad to operate effectively, ensuring seamless functionality.

Metal domes play a vital role in enhancing the tactile feedback and responsiveness of switches, contributing to the overall performance and reliability of electronic devices.

Enhancing Silicone Rubber Keypads with Metal Dome Arrays

Metal domes play a significant role in the design of silicone rubber keypads, particularly in providing tactile feedback and electrical functionality. In certain silicone keypad configurations, components like metal domes and tact switches are employed to achieve desired actuation feel and electrical performance.

Metal Dome Arrays, for instance, consist of individual metal domes affixed to a pressure-sensitive adhesive PET sheet. Each metal dome is positioned at the center of a kiss-cut adhesive square or circle, facilitating easy application. This array configuration offers a distinct actuation feel compared to traditional silicone rubber keypads utilizing conductive carbon pills or conductive printing.

Metal domes typically exhibit a shorter stroke (travel) range, typically ranging from 0.4 to 0.8mm. Moreover, they boast a longer lifespan, often surpassing 1,000,000 actuations, making them a durable choice for silicone rubber keypads.

Advantages of Metal Dome Silicone Rubber Keypads

Incorporating metal dome arrays into silicone rubber keypads offers a key advantage: streamlined assembly processes. By placing all the domes on the PCB at the same time, production time is significantly reduced. Metal dome arrays are taped directly to the silicone rubber membrane keypad according to design specifications.

Metal dome arrays are widely used in various electronic devices such as cell phones, Internet telephony systems, remote controls, MP3/MP4 players, radios, digital cameras, educational equipment, gaming keyboards, microwave ovens, car dashboards, telescopes, and toys. In addition to providing a superior tactile feel, they offer a longer life than traditional membrane switches, improving the overall user experience and product durability.