Single Touch Technology

PCT™ self capacitive touch sensing technology, provides the same level of sensitivity experienced on smartphones and tablets, combined with the durability needed for the toughest industrial and self-service applications.

About the technology

At Zytronic we are leaders in projected capacitive touch technology, specializing in highly durable and stable products, where our proprietary PCT™ touch sensing products, provide both precision and resilience at the fingertips of the end user. With over 40 years’ experience in lamination, our know-how and processes are unique within the field.

HIGH-IMPACT RESISTANCE

PCT™ touch sensors can be constructed from one, two or even three layers of laminated, toughened glass, up to a total thickness of 20mm or more. As a result PCT™ touchscreens can be designed to withstand whatever abuse the application and environment throws at it.

CUSTOMIZATION OPTIONS

Designed and manufactured at our in-house glass processing facilities, our dedicated and experienced engineers create bespoke products tailored to the exact requirements of our clients and their customers.
PCT™ touch sensors are available in a near limitless choice of sizes, in glass of various thicknesses and types – for example, anti-reflective, mirrored and anti-microbial surfaces are available. Customers can also specify whether their touch screen is flat or curved and request special edge profiles, cut outs, holes and slots, as well as screen-printed logos and borders in a variety of colours.
 
 

SENSITIVITY

PCT™ projected capacitive touch technology will detect a finger, conductive stylus and even gloved hand, through glass thicknesses approaching 20mm. Yet, it ignores raindrops, leaves, dirt, ice, etc., making it ideal for self-service, industrial and public use.

RELIABILITY

With its unrivaled durability, PCT™ provides 24/7 functionality in the most difficult of environments, minimising downtime, reducing maintenance and maximising return on system investment. Its dependability is proven, providing vandal-resistant touch detection that is practically immune to most types of physical, mechanical and chemical abuse.

How it works

PCT™ projected capacitive touch technology works by sensing minute frequency changes in an X-Y matrix of conductive traces. These microscopic traces are laminated to the rear of the sensor, and when a finger or conductive stylus approaches the surface of the screen, capacitive coupling occurs between the finger and the traces immediately beneath, disrupting the sensor’s electromagnetic field and altering the frequency. The touch controller monitors the frequency in each trace and the touch position is calculated by determining which X and Y trace is closest to this peak change, which is then output to the host Operating System as a coordinate. This method is so sensitive that a touch can be detected through very thick glass overlays.
 
 
Unlike conventional capacitive, acoustic and optical touch sensors the active component of PCT™ is embedded behind the front substrate, ensuring protection, long life, and stability.