OEM Welcomed conductive silicone rubber keypads

Conductive silicone rubber keypads provide flexible key surfaces with contact features for an electronic control. Their dimensions, colors and logos can be customized around an OEM product. Successful integration depends on the relationship among the rubber, circuit board and front housing rather than the key layout alone.

Locate the contact areas beneath the keys relative to the board. Each key needs enough movement to reach its intended contact and enough clearance to return without rubbing the housing. Check the assembled fit after fasteners are tightened, because panel compression can change the resting position.

Hardness options are available from 20 to 80 Shore A. Compare the resulting feel on the actual assembly: geometry and support affect operation along with material hardness. Printed or molded identification should remain centered within the visible key openings.

Keep the conductive underside free from fingerprints, adhesive and dust during assembly. Handle the keypad by areas that do not form the switching interface. Verify individual key response, including presses near the edges, before closing out the control assembly. If a key behaves differently after the enclosure is closed, investigate alignment and compression before changing its contact surface.

Material options

Silicone. Custom formulation and color for the intended contact conditions.

Hardness selection

Silicone: 20–80 Shore A. Verify individual key response, including presses near the edges, before closing out the control assembly.

Custom dimensions

Each key needs enough movement to reach its intended contact and enough clearance to return without rubbing the housing.

Fit & assembly

Check the assembled fit after fasteners are tightened, because panel compression can change the resting position.

Use & inspection

Successful integration depends on the relationship among the rubber, circuit board and front housing rather than the key layout alone.

Photos illustrate structure or material only. If a key behaves differently after the enclosure is closed, investigate alignment and compression before changing its contact surface. ETOL directly manufactures custom-shaped silicone and rubber parts to your requirements.