duraTouch® PCAP Touch Sensor 

A PCAP touch sensor, short for Projected Capacitive Touch Sensor, is a type of touch-sensitive technology widely used in modern touchscreen devices. It enables interaction through touch, detecting when and where the surface is touched. UICO offers a range of standard duraTOUCH® PCAP touch sensors so you can build our proven robust touch performance into your touch solution. Let us help you select and integrate the right capacitive touch sensor into your system. 

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How Does a PCAP Touch Sensor Work?

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PCAP sensors rely on changes in the electrostatic field of a conductive surface to detect touch.

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The PCAP System Includes:

• Electrodes: A grid of conductive layers (rows and columns) under or on the surface of a display.

• Electric Field: A low electrical charge is applied, creating a uniform electrostatic field.

• Capacitance Change: When a conductive object (like a finger or stylus) comes close, it disturbs the electrostatic field, altering the local capacitance.

• Detection: The sensor identifies the location of the touch based on these changes.

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Key Features of PCAP Touch Sensors:

• Multi-Touch Support: PCAP sensors can detect multiple touch points simultaneously.

• Durability: They are often made of toughened glass, making them resistant to scratches and wear.

• Precision: High sensitivity allows for precise touch input, even for small touch areas.

• Resistant to Contamination: Works well even if the surface is slightly dirty or covered with a thin layer of water.

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PCAP (Projected Capacitive) Applications:

• Consumer Electronics: Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches.

• Industrial Controls: Touch panels in machinery and equipment.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: Cash registers and kiosks.

• Automotive Interfaces: Touchscreens in infotainment systems.

• Medical Devices: Touch interfaces in diagnostic and monitoring equipment.

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Advantages of PCAP Touch Sensors:

• Sleek and modern appearance.

• Works with gloves (when tuned).

• Can be designed for different environments, including rugged and outdoor conditions.

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Limitations of PCAP Touch Sensors:

• Performance can be impacted by heavy moisture or very thick gloves.

• Requires proper calibration to avoid interference.

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Projected Capacitive (PCAP) technology is a cornerstone of modern touch-based interfaces, offering responsiveness and versatility for various applications.