In metal dome keyboards, the tactile effect is obtained by inserting a metal dome with a switch function between the layers.

This type of keyboard produces the classic click when the key connects; the sensation produced when the dome closes is effectively transmitted to the operator (even if wearing protective gloves), meaning that the metal dome solution is particularly well suited in keyboards used in industrial environments.

They can be made with integrated LEDs and have various electrical connections: female connector with 2.54 pitch, graphite contacts for Molex or Zif.

In bubble keyboards, the keys – represented by polyester film – are preformed using appropriate equipment, thus creating the characteristic “bubble” shape. The tactile sensation of the bubbles can be more or less soft according to the customer’s needs; in addition, because they are raised, the end user will find the keys easily identifiable and use of the keyboard intuitive.

The bubble solution is recommended for applications that require low activation force. They can be produced with integrated LEDs and have various electrical connections: female connectors with 2.54 pitch, graphite contacts for Molex or Zif.

The aluminium support is made by our mechanical department with CNC machines that allow us to supply panels through special processes such as milling to obtain frames that make the finished product unique and of the highest aesthetic quality.

The aluminium panel can be supplied with various surface treatments: oxidation, painting, alodine, shot peening, etc.

Keyboards with support can be fitted with a touch screen, display or other devices.

Just as with aluminium, keyboards can be produced with milled plastic supports, creating special frames that give the product a remarkable aesthetic effect.

This technology can be adopted for small quantities to avoid high mould costs.

We can supply keyboards on supports that are manufactured by us or by the customer, supplied in c/o assembly work.

Keyboards with vetronite support are made of FR4 with thicknesses from 0.3 to 3.2 mm, with tin/lead or nickel/gold contacts. It is possible to apply any type of threaded insert for further fixing on thicknesses from 1.6 to 3.2 mm.

Lesser thicknesses can be made adhesive by using the best double-sided adhesives on the market, which are easy to apply to any sort of base. These keyboards are particularly well suited when it is necessary to mount passive, active, optoelectronic devices, connectors, etc. directly on the keyboard.

Keyboards with FR4 support can also be supplied complete with touch screens or other pointing devices.

The use of LEDs is a simple, economical and effective way to backlight the keyboards. The advantages of this method are:

Lighting with an intensity chosen by the customer and the possibility regulate via a special circuit

Low power consumption; LEDs require low power compared with other lighting systems, work at low voltage and do not generate electrical disturbance

Colours available (red, blue, green, yellow, white) let you vary the colour at will, allowing easier and faster customisation

EL (electroluminescent) lamps consists of a polyester sheet that is printed with phosphorus and zinc sulphide based inks that emit light when an alternating voltage is applied.

The main advantages of this technology are the homogeneity of light diffusion, absence of heat emission, low energy consumption, and flexibility.

The technological improvements of the inks used now means that EL lamps are guaranteed an increasingly longer life; however, we advise against using them in any applications where the light source must be constant and permanent over time. The average life of the EL lamps we produce is estimated to be around 10,000 hours.