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HMI Technologies that Keep You at the Forefront of Innovation, Ideal for Today’s Rapidly Changing Markets

For almost four decades, Barantech’s research, development and engineering teams have pioneered the development of human machine interface (HMI) system technologies. Applying the company’s extensive knowledge and expertise to ever-evolving product requirements, Barantech offers a range of software and hardware technologies that enhance the user experience and drive commercial success. As the first company to introduce commercially viable piezo switching technology, Barantech continues to set the standard for innovation in advanced switching and control solutions that are suitable for the world’s toughest environments, while also offering comprehensive project solutions composed of software and hardware, cloud and communication capabilities that are custom engineered by our talented experts.

Piezo Electric

Switch on the Piezoelectric effect

Barantech’s Piezo Technology

About the Piezoelectric Effect

Barantech piezoelectric switches and keypads harness the piezoelectric effect – a property exhibited by certain crystals that generate voltage when subjected to pressure, without requiring an external power source.

Application of Piezo Technology Explained

Barantech’s unique piezo switches feature VPM (Versatile Piezo Module) – a mechanical structure containing all the necessary switch components, that are press-fit into a solid metal housing. Thus, when pressed, the piezoelectric crystal material produces a corresponding change in voltage, which passes through a conductive connecting material to a circuit board mimicking a dry-contact switch closure. In addition, our unique modular approach eliminates the need for a solder connection to the delicate piezo ceramic and creates a robust 125 msec. minimum switch closure, which is a significant improvement over market standards of just 20 msec.

Piezoelectric switches, keypads and control panels do not require an external source of power and offer very different advantages over capacitive or membrane switches.

Piezo Vs. Other Technologies

Housing / Fascia Material Barantech Piezoelectric Capacitive Membrane Electro-Mechanical Inductive
Aluminum + - - + +
Stainless Steel + - - + +
Plastic + + + + +
Glass + + - - +
Environmental Barantech Piezoelectric Capacitive Membrane Electro-Mechanical Inductive
Rain, Sleet, Snow, Ice, Humidity + - - Special sealing required -
Submersion + - - Special sealing required -
IP69K Washdown + - - Special sealing required -
ESD + - - + -
RFI/EMI Proof + - - - -
EMP Resistance + - - - -
Hazardous Location + Possible at very high cost. Possible with high set-up costs Possible to find specialized versions +
-40 to +125C + - - + -
Mechanical Barantech Piezoelectric Capacitive Membrane Electro-Mechanical Inductive
No moving parts + + - - +
Completely sealed + + - Yes – but expensive -
Longevity 50 Million 1M 100K 10K-1M 10M
Impact/Shock & Vibration Proof + + - Yes – but expensive Yes – but expensive
Vandal Proof + + - - -
Design & Ergonomics Barantech Piezoelectric Capacitive Membrane Electro-Mechanical Inductive
Self-Diagnostic + - - - -
Tactility + - + + -
Illumination + + + + +
Haptic + Complicated since capacitive field can be interrupted by haptic response. Can dramatically increase the cost of an otherwise inexpensive keypad Yes – but expensive -
Audible Feedback + - + + -
Customization + Yes – but expensive Yes – but expensive Yes – but expensive Yes – but expensive
Gloved Hand Operation + - + + +
Functionality Barantech Piezoelectric Capacitive Membrane Electro-Mechanical Inductive
Power Consumption Zero Constant Minimal Minimal Constant
High Voltage Up to 277V 30A - - + -
Toggle (on/off) + + - + -
Prolonged + - - + -
Data Switches + - - - -
Keypads & Panels Barantech Piezoelectric Capacitive Membrane Electro-Mechanical Inductive
Ability to integrate + + + - Yes – but expensive
ASCII + + + - +
USB + + + - -
SPI + + + - -
I²C + + + - -
CAN Bus + + + - -
Matrix + + + - -
Connectivity + Yes – but expensive Yes – but expensive - Yes – but expensive
Key Spacing (Center to Center) 12mm and up 19mm 8mm and up 30mm typical 19mm
Panel Thickness 9-13mm typical 1-3mm 0.3-10mm - 0.6mm

Barantech’s Touch Metal Piezo Switches Feature Unique Encapsulation Technology Based on the Exclusive VPM Module

Smart Functionality that Gives Users Greater Control

Barantech’s HMI systems and control solutions feature built-in software and proprietary algorithms that expand operability and user functionality. Our smart technologies support a range of functions beyond a simple momentary switch closure – prolonged, toggle, continuous, programmable and slide switch functions. They also provide self-diagnostic reporting capability and switching of line voltages, putting more control in your hands and those of your users.

Software Highlights

  • Full logic within piezo module, no need for external components
  • Real-time compensation for temperature & frequency interferences
  • Self-diagnostic and self-testing capabilities
  • Full control over touch sensitivity
  • Extremely accurate control over touch areas

Built to last – Barantech’s Touch Metal Piezo Switches can be Activated Millions of Times More than Non-Piezo Switches

IoT Ready Technologies for Connected Experiences

Connected devices enable new interfaces with our living and working environments. By providing a full range of connectivity solutions, from Bluetooth to WiFi, Barantech IoT-enabled switches offer a future of connecting anything, anywhere and anytime – while supporting a new level of data-driven user interactions.

Built-In Connectivity Technologies

  • Connect to cloud location, store information as well as usage, power consumption data, etc.
  • Connect and integrate with any smart building automation system and/or smart home automation system
  • Remote or central control from any location
  • Remote monitoring of switch activation (on / off)
  • Each switch acts as an independent node and can connect to another device and transmit a signal on a Bluetooth or Wi-Fi network

Touch-Free Infrared Technology

Barantech’s proprietary infrared technology offers cutting edge, hygienic touchless switching solutions. This IR technology, that offers a motion-activated solution that detects a finger or a hand at a distance of approximately 5 cm, is combined with the benefits and functionality of a fully programmable, customizable and easy-to-retrofit switch. This solution is particularly suited for high traffic applications, and those where hygiene is vital. It enables non-touch actuation for a wide variety of devices used in different public and commercial environments – from public transport through healthcare institutions to retail stores, and more.

Barantech’s touch-free switches reduce the risk of surface virus transmission by 100%

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Building HMI Solutions for a Better Tomorrow

After 36 years as an HMI turnkey solution manufacturer – we have learned a thing or two.
As a recognized leader in its field, we offer our customers an array of tailored HMI solutions and platforms that start from innovation, then R&D and finally production. We partner with you to develop your ultimate HMI solution – which can include cloud integration, communication capabilities, software customizations, all designed with outstanding functionality and appearance.