Individual membrane keypad and decorative foil
Your manufacturer for customized membrane keypads
For over 25 years, we have been developing and manufacturing custom membrane keypads and decorative films for demanding applications. Whether in industrial automation, medical technology, or the automotive industry – wherever reliability, durability, and precise operation are required, our tailor-made keypads are used.
Individual consultation for customized membrane keypad solutions
Every application has unique requirements regarding design, material selection, and functionality. That's why we support you from the initial concept phase through series production, developing tailor-made solutions that are precisely tailored to your technical and functional requirements.
Manufacturer of high-quality membrane keypads
Our own production enables efficient, flexible and precise implementation of your requirements.
Through modern manufacturing processes and high quality standards, we guarantee reliable production – even with complex or specialized specifications. This allows us to easily implement customized designs, special materials, or additional features such as integrated LED lighting.
Keyboard with matching case?
In addition to the production of membrane keypads, we also offer tailor-made Housing, Displays and precise cable assembly This gives you a complete HMI solution – from a single source and with proven quality.
Design Guide Membrane Keyboards
Download our free design guide and get valuable tips on material selection, ergonomics and technology for developing your individual membrane keypad.
References of realized membrane keypads
Our many years of experience are reflected in numerous successfully implemented projects.
Here is a selection of our realized keyboards:
In-house production of membrane keypads
At our subsidiary SNT Technology we manufacture high-quality membrane keypads under state-of-the-art production conditions. We rely on innovative technologies, certified manufacturing processes, and Class 1000 cleanrooms to ensure consistently high quality, maximum cleanliness, and consistent compliance with international standards.
Flexible manufacturing – implemented reliably and with technical precision
Our manufacturing processes enable on-time, high-quality production, even with complex technical requirements. We tailor each project to your specific requirements while ensuring cost-effective implementation.
Your requirements are our focus
Our engineers and designers think for themselves, examine details, and develop solutions precisely tailored to your application. We combine technical expertise with practical thinking to create functional and cost-effective products that meet your requirements long-term.
View the construction of a membrane keypad and our video on YouTube to learn more about our production.
Development & Design of Membrane Keyboards
Our service in the area of membrane keypads
From the first sketch to series production, we are at your side as a competent development partner and Manufacturer of individual membrane keypads to the side.
Our design and engineering experts work with you to develop the optimal solution – tailored to your application environment, ease of use, and technical requirements. We combine innovative materials, precise manufacturing technologies, and many years of experience to create a reliable, durable, and cost-effective keyboard solution for you.
- construction
- Feasibility studies & suggestions for improvement
- Development of technical options for cost reduction
- Creation of the technical drawing
- Prototype creation with digital printing
Feel free to use our inquiry form to quickly and easily submit your requirements. Our checklist also provides an overview for the development and design of membrane keypads.
This is how we start your project
In order to make you an initial offer, we need the following information:
- Technical drawing, sketch or an existing sample
If you do not yet have a technical drawing, we will be happy to create one for you. - Short product description with area of application
The more details you give us, the more precisely we can tailor the offer to your requirements. - Optional additional information
If available, please send us a specification sheet, technical specifications or special equipment details. - Planned quantity or estimated annual requirement
This helps us to optimally align production to your requirements.
To protect your data and ideas, we can conclude a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) in advance. If you do not have your own NDA, we will be happy to provide you with our template.
We look forward to your inquiry.
Personal Meeting
A personal conversation is particularly important to us when it comes to getting to know each other for the first time and discussing complex or new projects. We want to ensure that we fully understand your requirements and needs and can provide you with the best possible solution.
Of course we are also available to you via email Online meeting available. We use various platforms and tools to ensure seamless and effective communication.
In our Showroom you have the opportunity to see for yourself the quality and functionality of our products, to receive individual advice and to try out the different models. Our team of experts is available on site to answer all your questions and to work with you to find the perfect solution for your requirements.
Contact Simply contact us to Appointment to arrange a meeting and get to know each other. We look forward to it!
Membrane keypads – versatile and robust input devices
Membrane keyboards are reliable and durable input devices that impress with both their electrical and mechanical properties. They also boast an exceptionally long service life – even under intensive use or demanding operating conditions.
Thanks to the use of durable materials such as polycarbonate or polyester, membrane keypads are particularly resistant to moisture, dust, and chemicals. This makes them ideal for applications in industrial and medical technology. Whether in harsh production environments or sensitive areas, the keyboards meet the highest standards of quality, reliability, and robustness.
In our Blog You will find exciting insights into the development, technologies and application possibilities of modern membrane keypads:
Technology and equipment
Our membrane keypads combine modern technology, ergonomic design, and maximum reliability. Each keyboard is individually developed according to your requirements – from the key layout and feel to the integration of additional functions.
Depending on the application and operating requirements, different versions are available:
- Metal snap discs provide precise, tactile feedback and an exact switching feel.
- Embossed keys offer improved haptics and facilitate user navigation – even when wearing gloves.
- LED or LGF backlighting ensures optimal visibility in low light conditions or industrial environments.
We can optionally integrate additional components such as displays, touch panels, decorative films or integrated seals to perfectly match your user interface to the application.
More on this:
Design of membrane keypads
The Finishing of keys opens up numerous possibilities for specifically improving both the functionality and design of these input devices. Various processes allow for the implementation of customized solutions that are precisely tailored to your specific requirements.
For example, the decorative foil can be replaced with a robust silicone layer, which significantly increases the keyboard's durability. Furthermore, high-quality, three-dimensional keys can be created by applying epoxy resin, which not only provides an attractive appearance but also noticeably improved tactile feel.
More on this topic:
Structure of a membrane keypad
The keyboard consists of several layers of foil stacked on top of each other. Together, they ensure high functionality and durability. The most important components include the decorative foil, the retaining foil, the switching foil, the spacer foil, and the adhesive foil (carrier layer). Each of these layers plays a crucial role in ensuring optimal keyboard function.
Example: Structure of our N&H sample keyboard
Decorative film, holding film, switching film and spacer film
The decorative film forms the top layer of the membrane keypad and is crucial for its functionality and longevity. It is printed on the back, ensuring high abrasion resistance.
For better user guidance, the surface can be embossed so that the keys are tactilely highlighted.
In addition to classic polyester films, alternative materials such as silicone mats are also used depending on the requirements, which offer even greater robustness and a particularly pleasant feel.
The retaining foil fixes the metal snap-on discs and ensures that they stay securely in place. This ensures reliable keyboard function and prevents unwanted movement of the switches.
The switching foil takes over the signal transmission. It typically consists of two layers:
- Upper switching foil: This contains the contact surfaces.
- Lower switching foil: The conductor tracks, switching points and the connection lug are integrated here.
In certain applications, the contact surfaces are applied directly to the Decorative film applied, eliminating the upper switching foil. This allows for a more compact design and saves space.
The Spacer foil separates the upper and lower switching foil This ensures reliable electrical insulation between the two levels. Targeted recesses are located at the designated contact points, enabling a precise and secure connection between the switching foils. In versions with metal snap-on domes, the spacer foil also acts as a spacer, ensuring a defined and uniform actuation force.
sample set for customized keyboard solutions
With our N&H sample set you will get a comprehensive insight into the Variety and quality of our keyboard solutions. The set includes one Pattern Silicone Keypad and Sample membrane keypad, showing different material options, designs and switching principles.
The sample set is rounded off by our Design Guides – Your compact reference works with valuable information on construction, design, and function. This allows you to quickly identify the right solution for your application and make informed decisions.
Design Guide Membrane Keyboards
Download Design Guide
Before you begin planning your custom keyboard, we recommend downloading our Keyboard Design Guide. This practical guide will support you from the very beginning in developing your bespoke input solution. You'll learn, among other things, which materials are best suited for keys and housing, how to improve ergonomics and usability, and what technical options are available – from classic keypads to modern touch surfaces. The Design Guide offers concise information, illustrative examples, and concrete, practical recommendations. Download it now for free and start your project perfectly prepared.
In addition, the practical checklist at the end of the guide will assist you in the development, design, and production of your membrane keypad. This ensures that all crucial factors are considered early on and your project can be implemented efficiently.
White paper
Current blog articles on membrane keypads
- The sound of membrane keypads
- Sizes and formats of membrane keypads
- Membrane keyboards on printed circuit board
- Abrasion test for membrane keypads
- Lifespan test for membrane keypads
- Is it allowed to bend membrane keypads?
- Membrane keyboards for standard housings
- Illumination of membrane keypads with LED and LGF
- Display window in membrane keypads
- Selection of material for decorative films
- Capacitive membrane keypads
- Embossed keys for membrane keypads
- Integration of RFID technology in membrane keypads
- Connection options for membrane keypads
- Waterproof membrane keypads
- Actuation force for membrane keypads: embossing & snap domes
- Metal snap disks for membrane keypads
- Circuit layout of a membrane keypad (common bus vs. matrix)
- Membrane keyboard or silicone keypad – decision aid
- Membrane keyboards A–Z
More technical articles on keyboards
Multisensory membrane keypads in medical technology
Efficient device operation in medical technology. In medical technology, the selection of individual components is crucial…
Capacitive membrane keypads
Traditional design combined with touch technology. Technical article published in the magazine "Operating & Visualizing" 03/2024. Article as…
Silicone keypad vs. membrane keypad
A decision-making aid for keyboard developers. Published in Meditronic 05/2023. Article as .pdf. In…
Versatility of small membrane keypads and silicone switch mats
Efficient input in a small format: The versatility of membrane keypads and silicone keypads. Smart home applications and their…
Industrial keyboards
Industrial keyboards: Robust, reliable and easy to use. Published in PC & Industry 09/2021. Article…
Keyboards in medical technology
Hygiene, functional reliability and usability – keyboards in medical technology. The demands placed on devices in…
Membrane keyboards – the perfect addition to touch
Technical article about membrane keypads. Published in the magazine "Operating + Visualizing" 06/2021. Article as a PDF. The motto is…
Advantages of membrane keypads in the food, laboratory and medical sectors
Membrane keyboards still have their place. Technical article also in Elektronik Industrie 08/2020: Article as .pdf…
Does the conventional keyboard have a future?
Article about the future of classic keyboards, membrane keypads and silicone keypads. Published in PC &…