What is a metal dome switch keyboard?

Dome Switch Keyboard is also called as metal dome switch keypad, tactile dome switch keypad.The dome switch keyboard usually uses two circuit board traces under a flexible or elastomer keyboard using either metal dome or polyurethane formed domes .In other words, dome swich keyboard use two circuit board traces in conjunction with a metal dome.

The metal domes, usually made made from nickel plated stainless steel which provides a very reliable user interface (over one million cycles).

The metal dome of dome switch keyboard are instantaneous switch contacts that provide a tactile or "smap" sound when pressed.  When driven by an electric circuit, the dome becomes a tactile switch that is always on.  

Dome switch keyboard advantages

1.Dome switch keyboard is ideal for harsh environment application such as microwave ovens, vending machines or any application that requires a lot of tactile response, long lifespan and sealed interface.

Custom dome switch keyboard arrays also use adhesive supported spacer material.

Spacer materials are designed to provide appropriate spacing between the circuit board, dome, and device graphic layers.  

2. Dome switch keyboard can be placed directly on the PCB, which will save assembly costs and improve reliability.It requires the backing with high strength adhesives.For example, we have made clear PET backing adhesive 1200g.

3. Dome-switched keyboards is strong and clear tactile feedback compared with other keyboards.Because they're domes made of metal.User feel a clear “snap” tactile response.

4. Dome switch keyboards can be plated in a variety of metals, including nickel, silver or gold.  This allows for a higher level of customization than other types of keyboards can provide.  

Dome switch keyboard actuation force

Actuation force: the amount of pressure needed to depress a key and register a keypress. Different key switch designs allow for different levels of actuation force, which is usually defined in grams (g) or pound force (lbf).

Actuation force of dome switch keyboard is the amount of force required to make the dome snap. 

Metal dome options

Dome plating: can be plated in other metals such as nickel, silver or gold

Dome shapes: four legged, triangle, round, oblong

Dome sizes: standard sizes are 6mm, 7mm, 8.5mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, 16mm

Dome forces: standard forces range from 85g to 700g