There are two main types of engineering: forward and reverse. Forward engineering is the prototypical process whereby a product moves from an abstract idea to a physical object. This can involve many processes depending on the final product, including drawing approvals, material selection, and choosing a cost-effective production method. Ideally, documentation is organized and protected at every step of the way.

Reverse engineering, on the other hand, takes a previously-produced product and works backward through the process to create design documentation. Reverse engineering is typically required in instances where there are no available drawings, to replace lost documentation, move a prototype to mass production or recreate a product that is no longer available on the market.

Reverse engineering a membrane switch, molded rubber keypad or graphic overlay starts with taking an existing sample part, extracting design data, and creating an improved copy of the engineered keypad. The new keypad can be placed onto the existing machine or controller and the life of the equipment is now extended for years to come. CSI can even reproduce membrane switches that have been worn from continued use. By providing a sample, CSI Keyboards can recreate a new membrane switch, extending the effective life of the product to which it attaches. The cost for reverse engineering and replacing the keypad is much less than the cost of buying new equipment or the cost of not being able to run your machinery.