Have you heard of dome-array switches? They’ve become one of the most types of switches. Like all switches, they are used to control a circuit. Dome-array switches can either open or close a circuit. With that said, dome-array switches feature a unique design that distinguishes them from their counterparts. To learn more about dome-array switches, including how they work, keep reading.
What Is a Dome-Array Switch?
Also known simply as a dome array, a dome-array switch is a type of switching solution that’s characterized by the use of dome-shaped keys or buttons. They are typically made of either metal or a synthetic material. Some dome-array switches feature metal domes, whereas others feature polyester domes. Regardless, they all have dome-shaped keys that sit atop a circuit.
How Dome-Array Switches Work
Dome-array switches are designed to control a circuit. Each dome-shaped key is placed directly over a printed circuit board (PCB). In their default state, the keys won’t touch their respective PCB. Pressing a key, however, will result in the bottom of it touching the PCB’s conductive trace. This contact will result in the completion of a circuit.
The mechanics of dome-array switches are relatively simple. Dome-array switches have two conductive contacts. One of the contacts is located on the bottom of the key. The other contact is located on the PCB below the key. Pressing a key will allow the two contacts to meet so that it opens or closes a circuit.
Benefits of Choosing Dome-Array Switches
While there are types of switches available, dome-array switches offer several benefits. They can produce tactile feedback, for instance. Tactile feedback is a physical force that’s generated in response to a command, such as a key press. Dome-array switches produce tactile feedback naturally in response to key presses. In fact, they can be customized to achieve a specific amount of tactile feedback.
Dome-array switches are long-lasting. You won’t have to worry about a dome-array switch failing or otherwise succumbing to the hands of time. Most of them last for a long time. The average life cycle for a dome-array switch is over 1 million cycles.
When compared to other types of switches, dome-array switches are inexpensive. They use a simple design that allows for a lower cost of production. Manufacturers of dome-array switches pass these savings down in the form of lower prices. If you’re on a budget, you may want to choose dome-array switches for this reason.
