1. The service life of membrane switches is approximately over one million cycles, significantly exceeding the average lifespan of 200,000 cycles for standard silicone rubber keys. This superior durability stems primarily from the membrane key's circuit contact mechanism. Consequently, the key's longevity is intrinsically linked to the circuit contacts. Typically, applying a protective coating—such as carbon-based materials—to these contacts enhances wear resistance without compromising electrical conductivity, thereby extending the switch's operational lifespan.
2. Contact resistance is the primary factor affecting operational stability in membrane switches. This resistance refers to the electrical impedance between the switch circuit and the downstream circuitry. Technological advancements have seen flexible circuits replace traditional silver paste in membrane switches, significantly enhancing their stability.
3. Membrane switches dominate the market due to their low cost, straightforward manufacturing process, and favourable tactile feedback. Keyboards in everyday use predominantly employ membrane switches, which offer thin, flexible keycaps with excellent protective properties. Moreover, their production costs are comparable to those of traditional silicone rubber switches.
