Touchscreen types: a comparison of the different technologies

It has become an integral part of our lives: the touchscreen. Not only do we all have a smartphone equipped with this technology in our pockets these days, which connects us to the whole world with just one touch, the touchscreen has also found its way into our computerdisplays, video and conference displays, in ATMs or ticket machines and much more. However, it is not always the same technology. We present a comparison of the four different touchscreen types.

 - Touchscreen types: a comparison of the different technologies

What is a touchscreen?

Before we can introduce you to the various technologies, it is first important to define what a touchscreen is. Basically, the name says it all: it is a screen that recognizes and processes commands by touch. This can be done with a finger, a specially designed stylus using increased pressure or a very gentle touch. Many models also allow you to touch the display with several fingers at the same time to execute commands.

Touchscreen types: the four different models at a glance

Many people mainly differentiate between capacitive and resistive touchscreens when differentiating between touchscreen types. In addition to the projected capacitive and resistive touchscreen, we would also like to introduce you to the function of the infrared touchscreen and the optical imaging touchscreen.

 

1. the optical imaging touchscreen

An optical imaging touchscreen has several infrared cameras that detect when a shadow interrupts the infrared field. To do this, you must be close enough to the screen; shadows caused by clouds, for example, do not hinder the functioning of the Optical Imaging Touchscreen.

The touchscreen can use the shadow to determine where you touched the screen and how big the object you touched is. Optical imaging touchscreens are increasingly being used for large displays, such as interactive whiteboards in schools, but also for presentation purposes in conference rooms.

 

2. infrared touchscreen

Infrared touchscreens also create a field of infrared rays on the display. You can imagine this field as a grid of light beams. As soon as you move your finger on the screen, you interrupt the grid. The position of your hand can thus be determined. However, infrared touchscreens do not tolerate strong sunlight, as this interrupts their infrared field and they perceive a touch where there is none.

 

3. resistive touchscreen

Resistive touchscreens require firm pressure on the touchscreen to issue a command. You are probably familiar with resistive touchscreens from receiving parcels, when the small pen is pressed into your hand to sign on the resistive display. The sensors in resistive touchscreens detect pressure applied either by the stylus or by your finger and pass on the command.

 

4. projected capacitive touchscreen (PCAP)

Projected-capacitive touchscreens also create a grid that is interrupted by the touch of your finger. There is a conductive layer on the back of the display's glass screen that creates an electric field.

Since the human body also emits electrical voltage, this field is interrupted when you touch your finger, without you having to apply pressure to the touchscreen. Our smartphones today all have projected-capacitive touchscreens. Here too, touching several points at the same time is not a problem.

The four touchscreen types: a comparison of advantages and disadvantages

Touchscreen types

Advantages

Disadvantages

Optical Imaging Touchscreen

Versatile in use; ideal for large touchscreens (up to 100 inches); durable; multi-touch

 

Mainly for use with large displays

Infrared touchscreen

Suitable for large touchscreens (up to 150 inches);
durable; multi-touch

 

does not work as well in direct sunlight

Resistive touchscreen

can be operated with numerous objects;
low-cost production

 

not as durable; can only be used with displays up to 20 inches

Projected capacitive touchscreen

sensitive touchscreen; fast processing of the signal;
multi-touch; durable

 

Costly to produce; rarely used for large devices

Finding the right touchscreen with ComPeri

Are you still looking for the right touchscreen for your company, your educational institution, your museum or restaurant? Then ComPeri is the right place for you! With over 25 years of experience in the fields of conference room and media technology, we are the ideal contact for questions about suitable touchscreens. We will be happy to advise you on all the touchscreen options available to you and go through all touchscreen types with you in person.

Our services include design and advice as well as the installation and regular maintenance of all your technical devices. Especially in the field of presentations and video conferencing technology, touchscreens have become indispensable and the choice of the optimal touchscreen is essential for ;r companies in the Working World 4.0. Contact us today and we'll help you choose the best touchscreen for your requirements