DSE Introduces PCAP: Precision Touch for Rugged Applications
At Digital Systems Engineering (DSE), innovation is at the core of our business. From advanced digital inputs and outputs to high-definition LCDs, we consistently look for opportunities to integrate modern technological advancements in the rugged, MIL-Spec electronics space.
Over the past year, we’ve been integrating Projective Capacitive (PCAP) touch technology into our diverse catalog of rugged displays, including our flagship FHDRM line as well as a growing number of OEM-specific designs. These advancements bring improved user experience through added interactive features, as well as optical enhancements, all while maintaining the robust performance you would expect from DSE’s rugged displays.
What is PCAP technology?
PCAP technology is known as the gold standard in modern touch interfaces, and is widely known for its application in consumer electronics such as smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles and much more. PCAP touch screens operate by detecting changes in an electrostatic field. Below the surface of the screen, a series of intersecting rows and columns of electrodes form a uniform electrical field across the touch surface. When a conductive object, such as a finger, makes contact with the screen’s surface it disrupts the capacitance and the screen’s sensors precisely pinpoint the location of the touch point. This technology allows for the detection of multiple touch points at once, which gives the ability to perform actions such as pinch to zoom.
While this technology was originally developed with an eye toward the consumer space, PCAP is rapidly becoming the standard in mission-critical applications. Its enhanced touch accuracy and durability make PCAP touch technology an ideal solution for aerospace and defense, industrial and mining programs that require rugged performance.
Benefits of PCAP touch screen technology
In addition to the added touch accuracy that PCAP provides, it supplies users with the ability to tune sensitivity in order to customize the responsiveness of the display. This, paired with multi-touch support, contributes to a more robust user experience consistent with what we see in modern consumer electronics.
The benefits of PCAP touch technology don’t end with just the interface. In fact, with the integration of PCAP touch technology, DSE rugged displays have added optical enhancements such as reduced glare and reflectivity, plus superior direct sunlight readability. These features are ideal for outdoor and vehicle-mounted applications where extreme environments must be considered. Finally, PCAP continues to prove itself as a durable, reliable technology that is widely compatible among a diverse range of platforms.
Integration of PCAP technology in DSE displays
Integration of PCAP touch technology in any of DSE’s proven rugged displays first starts with optically bonding the touch sensors to the LCD screen. This process of applying the PCAP touch technology to our rugged displays isn’t much different from what you would see in the consumer electronics space. Optically bonding a PCAP touchscreen to the LCD’s faying surface effectively creates a single assembly that reduces reflectivity, eliminates a physical void, and strengthens the components. In industries that rely on durability and optical performance, such as industrial mining or even defense applications, this seamless application is critical.
Ready to Learn More?
If you’re looking for rugged touch screen solutions that combine cutting-edge PCAP performance with field-proven reliability, contact DSE today. Our engineering team is ready to help integrate PCAP touch into your next display system, whether you’re upgrading an existing platform or looking for a custom solution to meet your program specifications.