Creating a custom membrane keyboard involves several steps, from selecting components to assembly and programming. Here’s a general guide to help you through the process:

1. Select Components

Membrane Switches: Choose the type of membrane switches you want (tactile, non-tactile, etc.).
PCB (Printed Circuit Board): You may need a custom PCB or a pre-made one that fits your design.
Microcontroller: Select a microcontroller that can interface with your switches (e.g., ATmega32u4 for USB).
Keycap Design: Decide on the keycap style, shape, and material.

2. Design the Layout

Use software like KiCad or Eagle to create a schematic and design the layout for your PCB.
Plan the arrangement of keys based on your usage needs (QWERTY, Dvorak, etc.).

3. Fabricate the PCB

Once your design is complete, send it to a PCB manufacturer for fabrication.

4. Create the Membrane Layer

You could either purchase a pre-made membrane or have one custom made. This layer should align with the switches and PCB.

5. Assemble the Keyboard

Mount the switches onto the PCB.
Attach the membrane layer ensuring it aligns correctly with the switches.
Connect the microcontroller to the switches and PCB.

6. Programming

Use firmware like QMK or TMK to program your keyboard. This allows you to customize key functions, macros, and backlighting.

7. Testing

Test each key for functionality and make sure everything works as intended.
Debug any issues that arise during testing.

8. Finalize and Encase

Once everything is working, you can encase your keyboard in a housing of your choice, adding aesthetics and protection.

Additional Considerations

Backlighting: If you want backlighting, ensure your design supports it.
Ergonomics: Consider the height and angle for optimal typing comfort.
Customization: Think about custom keycap designs or printed graphics on the membrane.

Specification:

1)Material (for front or face overlay)

Polyester:

1.Highly versatile for embossing

2.Highly resistant to chemicals

3.Better durability

4.For internal and external use, UV resistance

Polycarbonate:

1.Different surface(Glossy, Matt) and thickness(From 0.12mm~2mm)

2. cost-effective in price

3.For internal and external use

2) Embossing

Rim embossing/pillow embossing/dimple embossing

Graphic overlays can be embossed in order to insert domes/LED, leave space for mechanical keys/LED and provide tactile indications and better tactile feeling.

3)Windows(for display function)

1. print different colors windows, As transparent grey/Red/green window for display

2. Clear/Transparent window for LCD display

2. Matt/semi-transparent window for LED

4)Keys/buttons

Tactile keys---with metal dome or poly dome

Non-tactile--silver printing dots with flat key

5) Embeded LEDs

Small, brilliant lights only about 0.02’’ in height. Avaliable in several vibrant colors.

LED colors: white, yellow, orange, green, red, or double colors LED.

6)Cable

It is an extension of the printed circuit and is used to communicate with your device.

7)Types of connector

1.Zero insertion force (ZIF) connector; 2.Female connector; 3.male connector

8) EMI / RFI / ESD Shielding

use an aluminum foil shielding / a clear ITO electrical conductive polyester

9)Adhesive

mostly used are 3M-double-side glue

10)Backplate-

in aluminum, polycarbonate, acrylic, PCB

About Taida.pdf

Product index:

Life expectancy Flat type≥5,000,000 times Tactile type≥1,000,000 times

Switch stroke: 0.1 to 0.6mm

Contact bounce: 5 to 30ms

Actuation force tolerance: +/- 20 to 45g

Tactile ratio: FC > 40%

Operating voltage: 35V DC

Operating current: 100mA 1W

Contact resistance: < 100 Ohms

Open circuit resistance: ≥ 10MΩ at 100V

Operating temperature: Flat/Metal dome:-20°c to +80°c

Storage temperature: Flat/Metal dome:-40°cto +80°c

Operating humidity: up to 95% RH

Female, male connector, solder pins and heat seal connectors are available

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