Choosing the “right” dome for a membrane switch may seem daunting, but rest assured, it is more straightforward than you might initially think. Firstly, what are metal domes? Metal domes are used in membrane switches and keypads to enable and facilitate the electrical connection from the keypad to the product itself. Or in other words, how the user of a device initiates a specific electrical function on the product. 

Electrical switches are necessary in almost every HMI (human-machine interface) device or product. No membrane switch is the same and all are used in a unique environment, therefore it is critical that the most suitable dome is chosen for the specific application and environment. For instance, if the product is used in an industrial setting and the user will be wearing gloves: a dome larger in size with a higher force & stronger tactile feedback would be ideal. Or if the membrane switch will be used in a nursing home setting and the user will typically be older in age: a dome with a lighter force (easier to press) would be best suited.

Our CSI engineers will work closely with you in deciding which dome is best for your application. We understand that the tactile feel of a key is very subjective, so typically will mock up multiple sample keypads with different dome options in the prototype stage of the design. This allows our customers to make a decision through a more “hands-on” approach. It’s also important to understand that the dome happens to be one of the easiest components of the membrane switch design to change-out & replace throughout the design cycle and even after the keypad is in production (ie so you are never stuck with a specific dome).