Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW) Sensor Technology

Surface acoustic wave (SAW) technology uses ultrasonic, acoustic waves that pass over the touchscreen panel. Piezoelectric transmitters on the sensor generate acoustic waves on the surface of the glass substrate on alternating X-axis and Y-axis patterns. The acoustic waves are reflected by a pattern of edge ridges directing the energy to piezoelectric receivers.

When the panel is touched, a part of the wave is absorbed. This change in acoustic waves registers the X-Y position of the touch and sends this information to the controller for processing. Touch location is based on the time delay from the transmitted pulse to the center of the area where the attenuation, or touch induced reduction of wave strength has occurred.

An engineered and processed glass substrate is the actual touch sensor and also provides a UL approved protective layer for the display itself.

 

Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW): Key Points

• superior image clarity and resolution
• excellent light transmission
• touch with bare finger, some gloves or conductive stylus
• high, field-proven reliability in 24/7 use
• on-glass construction
• SAW touch sensor substrates acts as protective layer