Fiber Optic panels backlight computer keyboards with only one LED

UniGlo® panels from Poly-Optical Products, Inc., A Division of Lumitex, Inc. are thin plastic optical fiber backlighting devices that can backlight full-travel computer keyboards and flat panel membrane switch keyboard overlays with a single LED as its light source.

UniGlo devices provide a thin (.010" minimum), rugged, durable and uniform panel of light that is heat- and EMI-free. To backlight full-travel computer keyboards, the UniGlo panel is placed behind the stainless steel keyboard backer that has a die-cut section behind each key for mounting of the key's suspension system. The translucent keys are illuminated by the light from the UniGlo panel shining through the die-cut hole for each key. UniGlo backlighting panels never wear out.

When used to backlight flat panel membrane switch keyboard overlays, the thin UniGlo panel is placed between the translucent keyboard overlay and the membrane switch (metal or plastic domes, or non-tactile switches). A single layer UniGlo panel adds only .2 to .8 ounces of additional snap-through pressure (depending on the type of dome being actuated). Poly-Optical's UniGlo backlighting panels have been life tested to over five million actuations.

UniGlo backlighting panels have an operating temperature range of from –40°C to +80°C and can be lit with a single, low-power (2.1 VDC @ 30mA) LED. UniGlo panels are not affected by temperature extremes or moisture.

For more information, contact Heidi DaSilva at Poly-Optical Products, Inc., 17475 Gillette Avenue, Irvine, CA 92614. Tel: 949-250-8557; Fax: 949-250-1840; E-mail: popi@poly-optical.com. Web: www.poly-optical.com

Poly-Optical Products, Inc. specializes in plastic and plastic optical fiber devices used in a range of backlighting and other illumination applications, including membrane switches, keypads, LCDs, medical devices, light guides, sensors and many others. Poly-Optical serves the following industries: computer, medical, automotive, security, consumer electronics, industrial controls, spa, military/aerospace, sports and toy. Founded in 1965, the company offers unparalleled technical capability for producing plastic optical fiber devices for the transfer of light, data and images. Poly-Optical holds 12 U.S. patents and is QS 9000 and ISO 9001 certified.

Source: Poly-Optical Products, Inc.