Custom made conductive rubber keypads/silicone push buttons

Conductive rubber keypads combine a flexible operating surface with contact features that work against a circuit board. The visible button shape and the electrical contact underneath therefore need to be designed together. A button that fits the enclosure can still register inconsistently if its contact lands partly outside the intended board pattern.

For a custom control assembly, establish the board location before settling the height and profile of each push button. Consider how the molded sheet is located, how the enclosure supports its perimeter, and what stops an unusually firm press from overloading the contact area. The flexible web around a button needs space to move without rubbing against an aperture wall.

Prototype evaluation should include off-center presses, adjacent key operation, and repeated assembly of the housing. These checks reveal problems that a loose keypad pressed on a workbench may hide. Keep the contact side free from dust and handling residue during assembly; an otherwise clean-looking upper surface says little about the condition of the electrical interface below it.

Material options

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

Hardness selection

Silicone: 20–80 Shore A. Consider how the molded sheet is located, how the enclosure supports its perimeter, and what stops an unusually firm press from overloading the contact area.

Custom dimensions

For a custom control assembly, establish the board location before settling the height and profile of each push button.

Fit & assembly

Prototype evaluation should include off-center presses, adjacent key operation, and repeated assembly of the housing.

Use & inspection

Keep the contact side free from dust and handling residue during assembly; an otherwise clean-looking upper surface says little about the condition of the electrical interface below it.

Photos illustrate structure or material only. A button that fits the enclosure can still register inconsistently if its contact lands partly outside the intended board pattern. ETOL directly manufactures custom-shaped silicone and rubber parts to your requirements.