Screen Printing Custom Membrane Keyboard Silver Conductive Circuit With 1.25MM Pitch

Creating a custom membrane keyboard involves several steps, from selecting components to assembly and programming. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:

1. Select Components

• Membrane Switches: Choose the type of membrane switches you want (tactile, non-tactile, etc.).
• PCB (Printed Circuit Board): You may need a custom PCB or a pre-made one that fits your design.
• Microcontroller: Select a microcontroller that can interface with your switches (e.g., ATmega32u4 for USB).
• Keycap Design: Decide on the keycap style, shape, and material.

2. Design the Layout

• Use software like KiCad or Eagle to create a schematic and design the layout for your PCB.
• Plan the arrangement of keys based on your usage needs (QWERTY, Dvorak, etc.).

3. Fabricate the PCB

• Once your design is complete, send it to a PCB manufacturer for fabrication.

4. Create the Membrane Layer

• You could either purchase a pre-made membrane or have one custom made. This layer should align with the switches and PCB.

5. Assemble the Keyboard

• Mount the switches onto the PCB.
• Attach the membrane layer ensuring it aligns correctly with the switches.
• Connect the microcontroller to the switches and PCB.

6. Programming

• Use firmware like QMK or TMK to program your keyboard. This allows you to customize key functions, macros, and backlighting.

7. Testing

• Test each key for functionality and make sure everything works as intended.
• Debug any issues that arise during testing.

8. Finalize and Encase

• Once everything is working, you can encase your keyboard in a housing of your choice, adding aesthetics and protection.

Additional Considerations

• Backlighting: If you want backlighting, ensure your design supports it.
• Ergonomics: Consider the height and angle for optimal typing comfort.
• Customization: Think about custom keycap designs or printed graphics on the membrane.

 Specification:

1)Material (for front or face overlay)

Polyester:

1.Highly versatile for embossing

2.Highly resistant to chemicals

3.Better durability

4.For internal and external use, UV resistance

Polycarbonate:

1.Different surface(Glossy, Matt) and thickness(From 0.12mm~2mm)

2. cost-effective in price

3.For internal and external use

2) Embossing

Rim embossing/pillow embossing/dimple embossing

Graphic overlays can be embossed in order to insert domes/LED, leave space for mechanical keys/LED and provide tactile indications and better tactile feeling.

3)Windows(for display function)

1. print different colors windows, As transparent grey/Red/green window for display

2. Clear/Transparent window for LCD display

2. Matt/semi-transparent window for LED

4)Keys/buttons

Tactile keys---with metal dome or poly dome

Non-tactile--silver printing dots with flat key

5) Embeded LEDs

Small, brilliant lights only about 0.02’’ in height. Avaliable in several vibrant colors.

LED colors: white, yellow, orange, green, red, or double colors LED.

6)Cable

It is an extension of the printed circuit and is used to communicate with your device.

7)Types of connector

1.Zero insertion force (ZIF) connector; 2.Female connector; 3.male connector

8) EMI / RFI / ESD Shielding

use an aluminum foil shielding / a clear ITO electrical conductive polyester

9)Adhesive

mostly used are 3M-double-side glue

10)Backplate-

in aluminum, polycarbonate, acrylic, PCB

Product index:

Life expectancy Flat type≥5,000,000 times Tactile type≥1,000,000 times

Switch stroke: 0.1 to 0.6mm

Contact bounce: 5 to 30ms

Actuation force tolerance: +/- 20 to 45g

Tactile ratio: FC > 40%

Operating voltage: 35V DC

Operating current: 100mA 1W

Contact resistance: < 100 Ohms

Open circuit resistance: ≥ 10MΩ at 100V

Operating temperature: Flat/Metal dome:-20°c to +80°c

Storage temperature: Flat/Metal dome:-40°cto +80°c

Operating humidity: up to 95% RH

Female, male connector, solder pins and heat seal connectors are available

 
 
 
 More photos show :
 

 Application:
 

 
FAQ: