Technologies

Communication protocol is a system of rules that allows two or more entities of a communications system to transmit information. In general, the implementation of a chip on a PCB including a layer of software dedicated to the application is used to allow communication. When you have an external partner designing your remote control or complete dashboard, it is important that the custom-designed piece of equipment can just be plugged into your system architecture without a problem. We understand that each industry has its own preference for communication protocols, therefore at APEM, regardless of your industry, you can obtain a protocol that can speak to your system. Below are the most commonly requested communication protocols. Please contact us if your needed protocol is not listed.

Secure your access control or activate your application with biometric verification. A fingerprint sensor ensures that only authorized people have access to your workstation, vehicle, or area.In addition, it allows saving information on who and when someone has accessed the application. Features: Ready when you are Reads fingerprint from all angles Adapts to the changing condition of fingerprints (seasons, cuts, etc.) Low power consumption Application areas: Access controls Material handling machinery Rental Equipment

Control panels created with MEC switches provide high-end performance, like panel sealing, excellent illumination, durability and a touch of elegance. Large selection of standard caps and accessories Military grade robustness Long lifetime with >10.000.000 cycles Customization in one switch, no worry about different behind panel heights APPLICATIONS Keyboards based on MEC PCB switches are used in application areas where both high performance and aesthetic design are important, such as: Communications Medical Food processing CUSTOMIZATION AND INTEGRATION MEC product range is built on modularity. Therefore there a many customization possibilities: Size, shape, height and color of the cap Marking Actuation force Function (NO or NC/NO) Illumination Surface feel Panel sealing Navigational solutions

Mixing the advantages of both capacitive technology and mechanical push in order to provide your HMI a new look - together with the endless possibilities provided by electronics for the control and illumination scenarios. The number and the position of large 18 mm round keys are totally customizable, just like illumination and marking. The customer can create a tailor-made keypad for his application.Customization possibilitiesDimensionsLayout /markingIlluminated halo and function light (color, blinking, … )Back material /coverMechanical fixationsContact: normally close or long press detectionOutputs: Communication protocol, cable and connectorApplicationsThe robust and sealed construction of this control panel ensures reliable use even in harsh environments.Outdoor securityIndustrial processSpecial vehiclesMain featuresMetal front frame (stainless steel 316L)18 mm round keys: number/position, Illumination & marking customizableRobust & SealedMulti keys & Long press possibleLong life: “metal capacitive”

Soft- touch silicone rubber keypads.Our silicone rubber keypads are engineered to deliver an optimal combination of user comfort, durability, and design flexibility. Designed with a soft-touch tactile feel, these interfaces ensure precise actuation and an enhanced user experience, making them ideal for both industrial and electronic applications.Manufactured from high-quality silicone elastomer materials, our silicone rubber keypads provide excellent resistance to environmental constraints while maintaining consistent performance. Their inherent flexibility enables custom silicone rubber keypad design, allowing full adaptation to specific application requirements.

APEM develops and produces capacitive keyboards. These keyboards meet the requirements of industrial and professional markets as well as the trends of the consumer market: Modern, attractive and smooth interface Easy to clean Very robust No mechanical wear Water sealed and immune to wavesMade of polycarbonate or glass filled materials, these keypads meet the strict requirements of critical applications including shock resistance. APPLICATIONSCapacitive keyboards find applications in the following fields: Medical Security and access control Industry High-end equipmentMAIN FEATURES AND CUSTOMIZATION Based on the capacitive technology, with dedicated electronics Technology applicable to individual keys, sliders and wheels Resistant to harsh environments, EMI shielded Protected against flowing or splashing water Dedicated electronics, can be combined with communication protocols (CANBus, USBÉ) Specific interface design, adaptation to customer mechanical constraints

APEM piezoelectric keypads combine pressure-sensitive keys and visually attractive design. Offering the highest level of sealing against water and dust, these keypads have no electrical consumption at rest and require a real touch to be activated. Smooth aluminum front face for a modern design Easy to clean Protected against water, dust and frost Wear-free No risk of unintentional activation by wind or water No consumption APPLICATIONSPiezoelectric keypads find applications in environments requiring absolute sealing when the capacitive technology is not adapted due to the risk of unintentional activation: Public environment, free access terminals Medical Access controlCUSTOMIZATION AND INTEGRATIONOur piezoelectric keypads are highly customizable: Front face dimensions Anodization color Long life marking Backlighting Front or rear mounting Connection, possibility to combine the keypad with an emergency stop, for example Electronics: choice of communication protocols RS232, CAN, USB, LIN...

Flexible or rigid PCBA membrane keypads.Our membrane keypads are engineered to deliver a cost-effective, reliable, and versatile user interface for a wide range of industrial and commercial applications. Compact and fully customizable, these solutions are ideal for environments requiring both design flexibility and robust performance.As a trusted membrane switch manufacturer, we design membrane keypads using either:Flexible printed circuits (FPC) for lightweight, low-profile designs suited to curved or confined spacesRigid PCB structures for enhanced strength, durability, and support of advanced communication protocolsThis dual approach allows us to meet both flexibility requirements and rugged keyboard expectations in demanding applications.

Mechanical, capacitive and piezo metal keypads.Designed for customers who value both appearance and long service life, our metal keypads are ideal for environments where robustness, vandal resistance, and consistent operation are essential. These metallic keypads, including stainless steel keypads, are engineered for demanding industrial and outdoor applications.We offer three customized metal keypad technologies to match different user and system requirements:Mechanical metal keypads – A classic tactile solution based on metal dome membrane keypad technology, providing clear feedback and dependable operation.Capacitive metal keypads – A sleek, modern keypad metal interface with touch-sensitive operation.Piezo keypads – Ultra-durable, fully sealed steel keypads with no moving parts, ideal for harsh or high-use environments.Whether the priority is tactile feel, elegant touch interaction, or maximum durability, our metal keypad range delivers a premium and robust interface solution tailored to professional applications.