PCAP: The touch technology explained

PCAP touch technology is widely used in smart phones and tablets, but is fast becoming the favoured option for larger touch screen systems, taking over from the old favourite resistive touch. Although there are various different touch technologies in the market, PCAP is proving to be one of the most reliable, and here’s why...

How it works 

Projected capacitive sensors are made up of three major components; the sensor glass, the cover glass, and a flexible printed circuit (FPC) to the controller IC. The sensor glass is made up of a series of electrodes that are configured into rows and columns that are “read” one by one to get an exact reading or count. These electrodes are made of a transparent conductive coating called indium tin oxide (ITO) The DisplayTouch range uses an enhanced Single Indium Tin Oxide Structure. Each electrode is routed back with a metal trace to a connection point where the FPC can be bonded.

The cover glass is optically bonded with an optical clear adhesive on top of the sensor glass, burying the electrodes within the stack of the lamination. The cover glass serves as a dielectric between your touch and the electrodes of the sensor glass. It also acts as a barrier layer, protecting the sensitive electrodes from the environment and any potential damage.

The controller continually scans and monitors the capacitance of the electrodes. When your finger touches the surface of the cover glass it pulls a small charge from the electrodes and using complex algorithms the controller can determine the exact location of your touch, the results are extremely precise.

Projected capacitive touch technology has many benefits, in particular, a multi-touch capability, extreme durability with up to 250 million hours lifespan and superior optics with over 90% optical transmission. 

Benefits include

-          PCAP offers multi-touch capabilities

-          PCAP offers protective shielding and longer life usage

-          PCAP supports drag and drop/various gesture movements 

-          PCAP boasts strong touch accuracy 

How we can help you save money 

Although PCAP can sometimes be deemed as a less cost effective solution, we’ve developed our own range of PCAP monitors that offer a reliable, cost saving solution. The DisplayTouch range covers all types of touch technology, but specialises on PCAP technology. Some of the latest products to be added to the DisplayTouch range include new vandal-resistant monitors and 10 point touch displays. To find out more about the touch technologies available and our DisplayTouch range, visit www.displaytouch.co.uk or contact us directly on 01480 411600.