When you tap a digital key or icon on a touchscreen device, you expect it to respond with the appropriate action. Maybe you’re trying to open an app, or perhaps you’re trying to write an email. Regardless, a touchscreen device should respond to your touch commands by performing the appropriate action. When this doesn’t happen, you won’t be able to effectively use the device. So, why isn’t your touchscreen device registering your touch commands?
#1) The Controller Is Problem
If the touchscreen controller is broken or otherwise faulty, the device may fail to register your touch commands. The touch controller is responsible for interpreting touch commands and relaying them to the device’s operating system or software. Unfortunately, touchscreen controllers aren’t immune to failure, so you should check to see if this is causing your touchscreen problems.
#2) You’re Wearing Gloves
You can control certain types of touchscreen devices while wearing gloves. For others, though, wearing gloves may prevent the device from registering your touch command. Capacitive touchscreens, for example, generally only work with a bare finger. If you try to operate a capacitive touchscreen device while wearing gloves, your finger won’t absorb the device’s electrostatic field, resulting in a failed touch command.
#3) The Screen Is Dirty
Something as simple as a dirty screen can prevent a touchscreen device from registering touch commands. Granted, most touchscreen devices are manufactured with an oleophobic coating, which is specifically designed to repel oils and liquids. But oleophobic coatings aren’t effective at preventing the buildup of dirt and debris. If the screen on your touchscreen device is too dirty, you may notice some of your touch commands going unregistered.
#4) You’re Not Pressing Hard Enough
When speaking about resistive touchscreen devices, you need to press hard enough so that the device is able to register your touch commands. Resistive touchscreen devices rely on pressure to identify and register touch commands. If you don’t press down hard enough, the upper and bottom layers won’t make contact and, therefore, the device won’t register your touch command.
#5) Software Fault
Finally, software faults can prevent a touchscreen device from registering touch commands. All touchscreen devices rely on software to function properly. While software faults can manifest in a variety of ways, some involve the recognition of touch commands. If the software powering your touchscreen device fails, it may prevent you from performing touch commands.
