How to choose a metal keypad: the 6 KEY factors to identify the best product for your needs

Although keypads are small and seemingly straightforward products, identifying the right one for your projects is not that easy. That's why you should always take these 6 key factors into account before making a purchase.

Here are the 6 key factors to take into account when choosing a keypad

1. Number of keys, key function, and layout

Standard keypads on the market have the following layouts:

• 3X4
• 4X4
• 4X5
• 5X5

The common key functions are:

• numeric keys such as 0-9,
• symbols like *, #,
• Esc,
• PgUp, PgDn
• Enter and Confirm
• Clear, Delete, Cancel, etc.

When choosing a keypad, it is therefore first important to make sure:

• how many buttons you want,
• the function of the buttons,
• whether you need braille,
• whether you need a buzzer (it will make a sound when you press the button)

2. Suitable dimensions

Dimensions play a crucial role in the choice of the most suitable keypad, too. For example, if you need to install it within a specific context, it will need to fit certain measures – in line with your project.

3. Mounting solutions

Generally speaking, there are only three installation methods:

• front panel: the bolts to mount the keypad are fixed under the sheet metal, so they are not visible. This type of mounting is ideal if you want to have a more aesthetically pleasing setting. In this case, the keypad is inserted from above, so you can install it even if you don't have much space under the sheet metal.
• rear panel: the bolts to mount the keypad are fixed from above the sheet metal, so they are visible. To install a rear panel keypad, you have to get underneath the sheet metal, so first you have to check if there is enough space to pass it through.
• desktop: in this case, the keypad is not fixed. Desktop mounting is, therefore, the most suitable if you need to move around with the keypad.

4. Backlighting

Like keyboards, keypads have models integrating backlighting.

Whether or not to choose these models depends on your requirements and application as well. If the keypad has to be worked in a dim working environment, then a keypad with a backlight will be perfect for the job.

It is also possible to select the backlight colour: the preferred colour is usually blue, but you can also choose red, green, yellow, white, etc.

5. IP Grade

The IP rating is a parameter representing the protection rating from atmospheric conditions and dust.

Most metal keypads have a waterproof rating of:

• IP54 – Protection from water spray from any direction
• IP65 – Protection from low-pressure water jets from any direction
• IP66 – Protection from high-pressure water jets from any direction
• IP68 – Protection from long term immersion up to a specified pressure (over 1mt depth)

IP65 is the preferred option; however, the choice of the IP rating depends on the setting in which you will employ your keypad.

The harsher the environment, the more accurate the protective characteristics of the IT components must be.

For instance, if you need to use your device outdoors without any shelter or covering from rain and weather, you should opt for a keypad with an IP rating ranging from IP65 – resistant to water jets – to IP68 – completely waterproof. 

6.  Interface

Most numeric keypads are provided with different kinds of connectors. The most common connection interfaces are:

• Dot Matrix
• USB
• PS2
• RS232

These 6 simple steps are key to understanding what kind of numeric keypad you need for your projects.

By clicking on this link you can find some of the numeric keypads in our catalogue -> Link

***************************************************************

One of the advantages of numeric keypads is that they are very easy to customise. So if you don't know which keypad best suits your needs, or if you would like a customised quote or have any special requirements, contact us for a free consultation. 

CONTACT US

We will advise you on the best solution for your needs.

***************************************************************