In the early 1980s, British innovator Sir Clive Sinclair, known for creating the ZX81 and ZX Spectrum personal computers, developed an affordable ‘laptop’ called the Z88. This device was ahead of its time in the realm of portable computing and was not much larger or heavier than Apple’s iPad.
A key feature of the Z88 was its flexible, screen-printed circuit that integrated seamlessly with the keyboard. Produced by ADS at our then European facility, this single-layer membrane switch component worked with the ultra-thin keypad to provide users with a smooth typing experience in a compact unit. The circuit itself is deceptively simple, yet it utilizes advanced technology. The packaging density is enhanced by this early example of crossover (multi-layer) circuitry, and the silver conductive components are protected from oxidation through a combination of printed protective dielectrics and conductive carbon coatings.
Today, ADS continues to apply the insights gained from this project in our innovative touch switch and InMold Electronic products.
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