It’s not uncommon for keypads to feature a laser-etched surface. Contrary to what some people believe, laser etching doesn’t affect the performance or functionality of a keypad. Rather, it’s used to create graphics, such as labeling specific keys and their respective function. If you’re looking to buy a new keypad for your business, though, you might be wondering if a laser-etched keypad is a smart investment. In this post, we’re going to take a closer look at laser-etched keypads, revealing how they are designed and whether they are worth the cost.
Laser Etching Explained
Laser etching is a finishing process that involves the application of laser light to selectively remove the upper layer of paint on a keypad. The laser light used for this process is very hot — sometimes in excess of 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit. As the laser is projected onto the keypad, it melts away the keypad’s top layer of paint to reveal an underlying color.
The purpose of laser etching isn’t to burn a graphic or legend into a keypad. Rather, it’s used to reveal the underlying layer of a keypad, thus creating a custom graphic or legend. When the laser removes part of the top layer, the bottom layer of that area is revealed.
Benefits of Laser-Etched Keypads
So, why should you purchase a laser-etched keypad instead of a traditional keypad with a non-etched surface? For starters, laser-etched keypads don’t fade like other keypads. When laser etching is performed, the graphics or legends become almost permanent. There’s little or no risk of the keypad’s graphics or legends fading. Even when used outdoors where it’s constantly exposed to the sun and elements, laser-etched keypads are highly resistant to fading.
Laser-etched keypads can also be used in conjunction with a backlighting solution to provide an unparalleled level of aesthetics. Some laser-etched keypads, for example are made of transparent silicone rubber and then sprayed with a non-transparent coating. Next, laser etching is performed to selectively remove some of the keypad’s non-transparent coating. As a result, only selected area of the keypad are transparent — and these areas are illuminated with a backlight. Laser-etched keypads support several backlighting solutions, including electroluminescent (EL), fiber optics and light-emitting diode (LED).
In Conclusion
The bottom line is that laser-etched keypads offer an excellent choice for businesses and consumers alike. They aren’t susceptible to fading, and they can be used to produce a superior level of aesthetics when used in conjunction with a backlighting solution.
Laser Etching Explained
Laser etching is a finishing process that involves the application of laser light to selectively remove the upper layer of paint on a keypad. The laser light used for this process is very hot — sometimes in excess of 1,300 degrees Fahrenheit. As the laser is projected onto the keypad, it melts away the keypad’s top layer of paint to reveal an underlying color.
Benefits of Laser-Etched Keypads
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In Conclusion
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