When a supplier replaces the force tester used for a membrane switch, keep the old and new reports separate at first. Confirm that both setups measure the same quantity, then test the same identified samples on both machines. Carry the old baseline forward only within the approved scope, once the differences meet the agreed criteria and do not change the disposition of borderline samples. If the comparison fails, or the old tester has already gone without a valid set of paired results, keep its reports as historical references.
On November 10, 2026, Mark-10 announced the Series T automated torque tester and its EasyMESUR control panel. The manufacturer says the series replaces an older generation of automated torque testers and that EasyMESUR can export results. The announcement concerns torque equipment, not membrane-switch force testing, and does not disclose a Baoshengda supply relationship. In a separate project where a membrane-switch supplier is upgrading a force tester, the buyer can ask for both sets of raw readings from the same samples before the old tester is removed, then decide whether the historical data can still be used.
Run the paired comparison before the old tester comes out
Make this a sign-off point on the equipment change request: the supplier keeps the old setup available through the comparison, and quality reviews the samples, conditions and results before approving the scope of the switch. Use stable samples of the same drawing revision, with individual IDs, that cover the usual force range and points near the project limits. Repeat the measurements on both setups as agreed. If repeated presses can change sample behavior, balance the test order and use the same preconditioning or rest protocol. Otherwise, a test-order effect may be mistaken for an equipment difference.
Define what “actuation force” means in the report: the peak force during the downstroke, or the force when the contact first meets the agreed closure criterion? The public abstract of historical ASTM F2592-16 lists different points that a force–displacement curve can distinguish. ASTM withdrew that edition in 2023; it is cited here to explain the distinction, not as a current acceptance method. Use the project documents for the actual measurement point and assembly conditions. See also the membrane-switch key travel acceptance guide.
| What to compare | What to record for both setups | What to do if they differ |
|---|---|---|
| Same sample, same measurement point | Sample ID, drawing revision and installed condition; force unit, measurement point and electrical closure criterion. | Peak force and force at electrical closure are not interchangeable. Align the method before comparing readings. |
| Equipment and method | Tester and sensor IDs, range used and calibration coverage; probe, alignment, support, test speed and software settings for selecting the reading. | Two valid calibration certificates do not establish that the methods are equivalent. Identify the differences and check again under agreed conditions. |
| Paired readings and limits | Raw readings and differences for each sample, variation in repeated measurements on each tester, and decisions for samples near the limit. | If the average difference is small but a borderline sample passes on one tester and fails on the other, keep the baselines separate and have quality review the affected results under the agreed rule. |
The NIST FAQ on metrological traceability explains that traceability alone does not establish that measurement uncertainty is suitable for a particular use. Ask quality to set the allowable difference, repeatability requirements and borderline decision rule before it sees the results. The new tester's certificate and specifications do not replace the paired comparison. If the old setup has gone and there is no valid overlap record, retest applicable samples using the approved new method, start a new baseline and keep the old reports and cutoff date. For how reports should match shipment lots, see inspection reports and raw-record delivery (Chinese).
The Baoshengda Technology membrane-switch customization page (Chinese) calls for matching drawings and fitted samples to confirm the supply requirements. See the English product page for the product scope. This article covers parts that include switch circuitry. A graphic overlay or keypad overlay without circuitry cannot be assessed at an electrical closure point. The cover is an illustration of an inspection workstation, not the equipment discussed or evidence of a test result.
If you are planning a tester changeover, use the project contact page to share the drawing reference, assembly condition, existing force criteria and changeover plan that you are permitted to disclose. Ask the supplier to state separately whether the quote includes paired testing, raw data and borderline review, and who can approve the changeover.