Indium Tin Oxide Screens
Indium Tin Oxide screens (also known as ITO screens) have become so common-place in the world we live in – you could be using one right now. The majority of smartphones and tablets use ITO to achieve the touch command aspect required to direct the device.
Indium Tin Oxide screens are more far ranging than just the above though. Touch controlled ATMs, medical instruments, military devices and retail touch kiosks may also be using ITO screens.
Another version of an Indium Tin Oxide screen could be the utilisation in transport. Heated windows using ITO as a conductive coating pass a voltage across the glass / screen to provide heat.
Indium Tin Oxide Touchscreens
There are two forms of touchscreens: capacitive and resistive – both are used in different environments for different reasons. A capacitive touch screen has the ability to register multiple touches and gestures at the same time and is therefore the preferred choice for smartphones.
A resistive screen works differently and, in very basic terms, uses different pressure points to register where the touch has occurred.
Indium Tin Oxide Capacitive Touchscreens
Capacitive touchscreens work by utilising a human’s touch which is conductive. By applying a thin ITO coating to the screen, conductivity can occur. Because Indium Tin Oxide is also clear, it is the perfect option for touchscreens.
The benefits of capacitive over resistive screens is that they offer a higher visible transmission, at around 90% as well as offering better touch accuracy. Capacitive screens can, as mentioned above, provide multiple touch commands at the same time. This makes them ideal for use in most tablets and smartphones.
Indium Tin Oxide Resistive Touchscreens
Downward pressure onto a screen allows the touch command on resistive screens. Usually, there are two layers to these resistive screens. The inner layer consists of ITO coated glass or PET film, and the outer layer is often a clear polycarbonate.
When pressure is applied to the polycarbonate, it is registered, and the location of pressure (touch) is identified. Resistive touchscreens are widely used in customer facing applications. This is because they are exceptionally robust and can be used in the harshest of environments.
A benefit of resistive screens is the ability to use them whilst wearing gloves – this is especially useful in medical and military environments.
Diamond Coatings
ITO Coatings is part of the Diamond Coatings family. Diamond Coatings is arguably the UK’s largest manufacturer of both capacitive and resistive touchscreens. We can provide at any volume, from development to production levels and available in a range of sizes.
If you would like to find out more about our Indium Tin Oxide screens or would like to discuss your specific requirements, please get in touch with us today.
