Fiber Optic Backlighting Panels Slim Down November 2002 Issue Published Date: November 01, 2002
Measuring a mere 0.33" thick, the single-layer UniGlo fiber optic panel is suitable for backlighting a variety of products, including membrane switches, LCDs, keyboards and control panels. It provides a rugged, uniform panel of light that is free of heat and EMI. With an operating temperature range from -40ºC to 80ºC, the plastic optical fiber backlighting panels remain unaffected by humidity or temperature. Shock, vibration and hazardous environments should pose no problems either. In membrane switch applications, the panels have been life tested at more than 5 million actuations. When used to backlight LCDs, the UniGlo panel slides behind the LCD glass and the tail connects to the LED mounted on the pc board. When used to backlight flat panel membrane switch overlays, the panel fits between the translucent keyboard overlay and the membrane switch. And to backlight a control panel display, the panel is placed directly behind the control panel, illuminating the graphics. Pricing for the UniGlo panel starts at $0.50 to $0.70 per sq. in. For more information on the backlighting panels, contact POLY-OPTICAL PRODUCTS INC., Irvine, CA. (949) 250-8557.
