In some applications and harsh environments, a membrane switch may not fit the bill. You may want a very thick overlay for an application where the front of a keypad may see some abuse or harsh use. Or maybe you need a thick polycarbonate overlay (.060” or greater for example), but often those are too thick for the user to press and short together the membrane switch circuit.
In those cases a capacitive touch interface may then be considered. However, in wet conditions, the capacitive touch sensing can be problematic. So now what do you do?
Microchip has a unique technology that will allow for a thick overlay (even a metal overlay if that is desired) and will have no issues in a wet or harsh environment. This “Metal Over Cap” technology is a good option for some of those difficult applications. There are no layers that are shorting together – the micro is looking for minimal deflection. Since it is not a true capacitive field in play, contact with water has no effect on the function of the keypad.
It’s always good to have options!