Kalvonäppäimistö

Kalvonäppäimistö, often translated as membrane keyboard, is a type of computer keyboard that uses a flexible membrane for its key switches. This membrane is typically made of layers of Mylar or other plastic materials. Beneath the top layer, there are conductive pathways printed. When a key is pressed, it pushes down on the membrane, causing a contact point on the top layer to connect with a corresponding contact point on a lower layer. This connection completes an electrical circuit, registering the keystroke.

There are several common types of membrane keyboards. Dome-switch keyboards use small silicone or rubber domes under each keycap. Pressing a key collapses the dome, making contact. Scissor-switch keyboards, often found in laptops, use a scissor-like mechanism to stabilize the keycap and ensure a consistent pressing action. Flat-panel membrane keyboards, which lack individual keycaps and have a smooth surface, are also common, particularly in environments requiring easy cleaning or water resistance.

Membrane keyboards are generally less expensive to manufacture than mechanical keyboards. They are also often quieter and more resistant to dust and liquid spills, making them a popular choice for general office use, portable devices, and industrial applications. However, they typically offer less tactile feedback and a shorter lifespan compared to mechanical keyboards, and their keypress registration can sometimes be less precise.