---
title: What’s Inside a Membrane Switch?
description: Take a look inside a membrane switch to see how this thin, flexible application works and creates a dependable, user-friendly control panel.
---

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# [What’s Inside a Membrane Switch?](https://www.tapecon.com/blog/whats-inside-a-membrane-switch)

 Written by [Casey Cephas](https://www.tapecon.com/blog/author/casey-cephas) | 3/23/20 11:15 AM

You can find them on TV remotes, treadmills, medical devices, and industrial equipment, just to name a few. But do you know how membrane switches work – or how they can benefit your product?

Let’s take a look inside a membrane switch to see how this thin, flexible application works and creates a dependable, user-friendly control panel.

### **Layers of a membrane switch.**

A typical membrane switch is comprised of six integrated layers with additional components added for specific functionality.

1. Faceplate – Typically screen-printed on durable material, the faceplate is the graphic layer with printed buttons, text, and branding. This part is also referred to as the [graphic overlay](https://www.tapecon.com/graphic-overlays) or fascia.
2. Selective adhesive – An adhesive sheet is customized to the shape of the overlay to prevent the button areas from sticking.
3. Tactile layer – To produce a snap or click when a button is pressed, a round piece of plastic with pressure-sensitive adhesive on one side is placed inside the membrane switch. This tactile feel helps the operator know action has taken place.
4. Spacer – Separating the top and bottom circuit layers, the spacer is typically formed from heat-stabilized polyester in between two layers of acrylic adhesives.
5. Printed circuit – Using conductive silver inks, upper and lower circuits are printed on supporting dielectric substrates. The interconnection of electrical components (traces) is designed to produce a desired result.
6. Mounting adhesive – A final adhesive sheet is placed on the back of the switch to aid in the assembly of the final device.

### **Advanced features and add-ons.**

Depending on your application, membrane switches can be made with an array of optional components and features. Here are a few common add-ons.

- Backer: Sometimes called a support layer, the backer is a rigid platform that is used for free-standing membrane switch assemblies.
- Shielding: To prevent electromagnetic (EMI) or radio frequency interference, a layer of conductive material is added and grounded through a tail trace.
- Protective coating – For applications used in harsh environments, durable coatings can be added to protect the faceplate from abrasion, sunlight, chemicals, moisture, or other factors.
- Embossing – To improve the user experience and accuracy, keypads or buttons can be raised, also known as embossing.
- Window – A selection of the faceplate is cut out and replaced with a layer of clear material to allow for the viewing of interior LCD displays or LED indicator lights.

### **High-quality membrane switches.**

Membrane switches can be an effective, cost-efficient solution for a wide range of products and industries. While the finished product is relatively simple, it must be designed and made with expert knowledge and care. When you’re looking for a custom membrane switch that offers high-level functionality and durability, be sure to choose a manufacturing partner with the experience and capabilities in these applications.

### **Get started with membrane switches. **

At Tapecon, we have over 100 years of experience helping customers solve their complex product challenges. Learn more about our [membrane switches](https://www.tapecon.com/membrane-switches) applications.

[View full post](https://www.tapecon.com/blog/whats-inside-a-membrane-switch)

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