Technology In-Depth
GlideTouch Point-of-Sale Sensor Panels
GlideTouch projected capacitance sensor panels are optically clear, touch sensitive panels that can be placed over LCD displays and are designed specifically for integration into point-of-sale (POS) products. GlideTouch panels are produced by authorized suppliers worldwide to exact Cirque specifications.
An ITO two dimensional grid of twelve (12) by sixteen (16) electrodes are deposited on a glass or plastic substrate and bonded to a protective front layer. The protective front layer, either plastic or glass, provides durability limited only by the physical specifications of the material. Hardened glass is typically used. These 28 electrodes are not measurement electrodes but are simultaneously driven with square wave patterns in the 200-500 kHz band. Throughout the grid array a single common analog measurement electrode is placed. This measurement electrode is used by the touch controller to determine the position of a touch.
The electrode patterns refined by Cirque result in a balanced capacitive sensor with excellent linearity and sensitivity.
GlideTouch sensors are extremely robust and will continue to function normally even if the protective surface becomes scratched or dirty. Automatic calibration algorithms compensate for environmental conditions.
Pinnacle Touch Controller
GlideTouch security solutions use the same projected mutual capacitive touch measurement technology invented by Cirque and used in millions of electronic products around the globe. For POS applications, unique algorithms have been added to provide for tethered stylus/pen operation and a PCI compliant secure solution for pin entry devices (PED’s).
The Pinnacle controller is a 5th generation mixed mode custom ASIC that integrates all the functions required to support the secure touch panel and signature capture solution. Few external components allow a small layout area on the main PCB or sensor flex connector tail.
Tethered Stylus
GlideTouch POS signature capture solutions use a passive stylus with no moving or active components. Cirque provides a reference design which is manufactured by approved suppliers and customized to meet specific OEM industrial designs. Tip designs as small as 2mm diameter available.
The stylus interfaces directly with the Pinnacle controller providing up to 300 measurement samples per second. Writing mode -- stylus or finger only OR simultaneous operation -- is controlled by the host application.
