Computers: Membrane Keyboard Buyer's Guide

Membrane keyboards are a type of computer keyboard which is a flat and doesn't have individual moving keys. Instead, the keys are activated by pressing on different pressure-sensitive parts of the panel which are marked accordingly. Keypads of this type are also used on some kitchen appliances, electronic organizers, and other devices. Membrane keyboards make fast typing difficult, but prevent liquids or small objects from entering the keyboard, are more resistant to damage, and can accomodate some types of disabilities. A few settings where membrane keyboards may be appropriate include homes, businesses which offer food or drinks, and elementary schools.

Examples of membrane keyboards which are currently available new include the IntelliKeys USB, the Adesso AKB-210, and the Grandtec FLX-1000. The IntelliKeys USB is a rather expensive unit which can accept key overlays to be used for different purposes. The Grandtec FLX-1000 is more affordable and connects using a standard PS/2 cable. Not only is it water-resistant, but it is flexible and can be rolled up for easy transport or storage. Grandtec also offers a flexible "Glowtype" keyboard which glows (GLW-1000), a somewhat different black version (FLX-2000), and a smaller 85-key unit (FLX-500U). The Adesso AKB-210 and the Fold-2000 are similar flexible keyboards. Some laptop-style educational computers designed for use by children also have a membrane keyboard, although calculator-style keyboards appear to have become more common on these in recent years.

A few low-cost computers from the 1980s also have membrane keyboards. Such computers include the Atari 400 (fairly large keyboard, color graphics, sound), Timex/Sinclair 1000 (very small computer and keyboard, B/W low-resolution graphics, no sound), Sinclair ZX81 (similar to the T/S 1000), and a few others. The Atari 400's membrane keyboard, TV audio/video output, and "heavy-duty" design make it good for entertaining children (or people who like to eat and drink while using the computer), and it can run some older educational software cartridges as well. These computers are not particularly expensive to purchase on eBay, but their capabilities are limited, especially as most of these computers were considered "lower-end" models even when they were new. Some older computers have keyboards based on combinations of membrane and typical keyboard technology.

Membrane keyboards generally are not preferable for typical computer use and aren't worth the extra cost if there isn't a specific need for them. However, when applied appropriately, they can better accomodate users, reduce necessary maintenance, enable easier transportation, and/or eliminate replacement costs.