Surface acoustic wave (SAW) touch screens are a type of touch screen technology that uses ultrasonic waves to detect finger or stylus inputs on the screen. These touch screens are known for their high resolution, durability, and long lifespan. They are commonly used in applications such as point-of-sale terminals, industrial control systems, and public information kiosks.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the technology behind SAW touch screens and the benefits they offer compared to other touch screen technologies.
How SAW Touch Screens Work
SAW touch screens use a method called surface wave propagation to detect finger or stylus inputs on the screen. Transmitters and receivers, located on opposite sides of the screen, send and receive ultrasonic waves across the surface of the screen. When a finger or stylus comes into contact with the screen, it distorts the wave and this distortion is detected by the receiver.
The touch screen controller then processes this input and sends the information to the computer or device the touch screen is connected to. The computer or device then interprets the input and responds accordingly.
Benefits of SAW Touch Screens
- High Resolution: SAW touch screens have a high resolution, making them ideal for applications that require fine detail such as signature capture or handwriting recognition.
- Durability: SAW touch screens have a long lifespan and are resistant to wear and tear, making them ideal for use in high-traffic areas or industrial environments.
- Good Optical Quality: SAW touch screens have good optical quality and are easy to read even in bright light conditions.
- Good Performance in Indoor Applications: SAW touch screens are highly sensitive to finger touch and work well in indoor applications where the environment is controlled.
Conclusion
SAW touch screens are a popular and reliable choice for many applications due to their high resolution, durability, and long lifespan. They are well suited for applications such as point-of-sale terminals, industrial control systems, and public information kiosks. With the increasing demand for touch screen technology, it is likely that we will continue to see SAW touch screens being used in more and more applications in the future.