What Makes a UICO Capacitive Sensor Different? 

Not all capacitive sensors are created equal. At UICO, we’ve spent over a decade engineering and perfecting (PCAP) projected capacitive sensor technology that works reliably where others fail — in the harshest, most demanding environments on Earth. Here’s what sets UICO sensors apart:

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🌎 Built for the Real World - Not the Lab

Most PCAP sensors are designed for clean, controlled environments. UICO’s sensors are built for the field - rain, snow, dust, grease, and extreme temperatures are all part of their everyday performance. Our proprietary duraTOUCH® technology ensures accurate and responsive touch performance even when the screen is wet, dirty, gloved, or exposed to the elements.

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🧪 Rugged Reliability in Harsh Conditions

We engineer our sensors to meet the highest durability standards, with options for IK08 impact resistance, IP65+ ingress protection, and proven long-term performance in environments ranging from marine decks to oil rigs. Whether mounted outdoors in blazing sun or embedded in medical or military equipment, UICO sensors keep working without compromise.

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🧤 True Glove & Water Touch Capability

Unlike standard PCAP sensors that struggle when water or gloves enter the equation, UICO sensors are tuned to maintain sensitivity and accuracy under both conditions - no need for mode switching or performance trade-offs. Operators can use the equipment as intended without worrying about environmental interference.

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⚙️ Custom-Engineered for Your Application

We don’t just sell touchscreens -we collaborate with you to design the right sensor for your specific needs. From 1” to 86”+, UICO sensors can be customized for different glass thicknesses, curved or specialty shapes, optical bonding requirements, EMI shielding, and more. That means better mechanical fit, easier integration, and superior performance tailored to your product.

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📈 Proven in Mission-Critical Applications

UICO sensors power products in marine navigation, oil & gas, medical devices, EV charging, outdoor kiosks, industrial controls, and beyond. OEMs choose us not just for performance, but because we act as a trusted engineering partner -supporting every stage from design and prototyping to volume production.

 

UICO capacitive sensor isn’t just another touchscreen -it’s a rugged, field-proven interface designed to work anywhere your product needs to go.

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A PCAP touch sensor, short for Projected Capacitive Touch Sensor, is a type of touch-sensitive technology widely used in modern touchscreen devices. It enables interaction through touch, detecting when and where the surface is touched. UICO offers a range of standard duraTOUCH® PCAP touch sensors so you can build our proven robust touch performance into your touch solution. Let us help you select and integrate the right capacitive touch sensor into your system. 

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How Does a PCAP Touch Sensor Work?

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PCAP sensors rely on changes in the electrostatic field of a conductive surface to detect touch.

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The PCAP System Includes:

• Electrodes: A grid of conductive layers (rows and columns) under or on the surface of a display.

• Electric Field: A low electrical charge is applied, creating a uniform electrostatic field.

• Capacitance Change: When a conductive object (like a finger or stylus) comes close, it disturbs the electrostatic field, altering the local capacitance.

• Detection: The sensor identifies the location of the touch based on these changes.

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Key Features of PCAP Touch Sensors:

• Multi-Touch Support: PCAP sensors can detect multiple touch points simultaneously.

• Durability: They are often made of toughened glass, making them resistant to scratches and wear.

• Precision: High sensitivity allows for precise touch input, even for small touch areas.

• Resistant to Contamination: Works well even if the surface is slightly dirty or covered with a thin layer of water.

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PCAP (Projected Capacitive) Applications:

• Consumer Electronics: Smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smartwatches.

• Industrial Controls: Touch panels in machinery and equipment.

• Point-of-Sale (POS) Systems: Cash registers and kiosks.

• Automotive Interfaces: Touchscreens in infotainment systems.

• Medical Devices: Touch interfaces in diagnostic and monitoring equipment.

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Advantages of PCAP Touch Sensors:

• Sleek and modern appearance.

• Works with gloves (when tuned).

• Can be designed for different environments, including rugged and outdoor conditions.

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Limitations of PCAP Touch Sensors:

• Performance can be impacted by heavy moisture or very thick gloves.

• Requires proper calibration to avoid interference.

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Projected Capacitive (PCAP) technology is a cornerstone of modern touch-based interfaces, offering responsiveness and versatility for various applications.