Capacitive Switches: 5 Reasons to Choose LED Backlighting

You can’t go wrong with light-emitting diode (LED) backlighting for capacitive switches. Capacitive switches are touch switches that, like other touch switches, use a touch-based method of operation. They don’t have moving parts. When you touch the surface of a capacitive switch, it will sense a change of capacitance. The capacitive switch will then open or close the circuit. While they support multiple types of backlighting, though, capacitive switches often perform best with LED backlighting. Here are five reasons to consider LED backlighting for capacitive switches.

#1) Low Energy Consumption

All backlighting technologies consume energy. Backlighting consists of bulks that illuminate when powered by electricity. Fortunately, some backlighting technologies are more energy efficient than others. LED, for instance, is known for its energy-efficient characteristics. It consumes less energy than many other backlighting technologies, making it a popular choice for capacitive switches.

#2) Minimal Heat Production

In addition to being energy efficient, LED backlighting produces little or no heat. Heat is a byproduct of illumination. Nearly all backlighting technologies, as well as other lighting technologies, produce heat as they illuminate. But LED backlighting produces very little heat. LED bulbs remain relatively cool while they illuminate.

#3) Longevity

You can rest assured knowing that LED backlighting will last a long time. If the backlighting in a capacitive switch fails, you may have to replace the burned-out bulbs or the entire capacitive switch itself. This isn’t an issue with LED backlighting. LED bulbs can last for hundreds of thousands of hours.

#4) Eco-Friendly

Another benefit of LED backlighting for capacitive switches is eco-friendliness. It’s considered an eco-friendly backlighting technology for several reasons. First, LED backlighting doesn’t consume a lot of energy. With its low energy consumption, it’s better for the environment than other, more energy-intensive backlighting technologies. Second, LED backlighting doesn’t contain any toxic gases. Some backlighting technologies contain toxic gases, such as mercury vapor, in their respective bulbs. If one of the bulbs cracks, these toxic gases will be released into the surrounding environment.

#5) Supports Light Guides

You can choose LED backlighting with light guides for capacitive switches. Light guides consist of a reflective foil material. As their name suggests, they are designed to distribute or “guide” the light. The LED bulbs will still be responsible for producing the light. The light guides, on the other hand, will distribute the light. With light guides and LED bulbs, you can expect a more even level of brightness across the capacitive switch.