Keyboard selector
How the selector works
The selector asks five questions: the device type, the conditions it will face, how it will be mounted, the pointing method and your sector. Each answer is matched against a set of rules written from the standards and the common failure points for industrial input devices.
The result is a shortlist of product categories and guides, each with one sentence on why it applies. A washdown answer points to the high-pressure washdown guide. A hazardous-area answer points to the certification guides before anything else. A panel answer points to the panel mount category and the installation guide.
You can select several environment conditions at once, because real sites combine them. Cold with gloves is a common pairing, as is washdown with disinfectant. Answer the other four questions with the single best fit.
Use the shortlist to decide which ratings, features and standards to look for. Then compare datasheets within the category. If you already have a rating code to check, use the IP rating decoder, and for a side-by-side view of all the main ratings use the standards cheat sheet.
What the selector can’t tell you
The selector narrows down type. It does not confirm that a particular product is suitable for your site.
- Hazardous areas. It cannot tell you that anything is safe in a zone. Equipment must carry a certification for the zone, gas group and temperature class, and your risk assessment decides. Check the certificate.
- Chemical compatibility. An IP code does not cover disinfectants or cleaning products. Ask for the approved list and the strengths.
- Exact specifications. Cut-out sizes, key layouts, interface, cable length, legends and approvals need checking against the datasheet.
- Quantities, lead times and customisation. These depend on the supplier. If you need a layout, legend or interface that is not standard, ask us.
If your answers do not produce a clear fit, or your site has a mix of conditions, use the contact page with a description of the environment. For general principles before you start, read the industrial keyboard buying guide.
Frequently asked questions
Does the selector recommend a specific product?
No. It points to the category and the guides that apply to your answers, so you know which ratings and features to check. The product grids on each category page show a selection, and you can ask for other formats or specifications.
Can I select more than one environment?
Yes. The environment question accepts several answers, because real sites combine hazards: for example washdown with disinfectant, or cold with gloves. Pick every condition that applies and the shortlist will cover each one.
What if my site is a hazardous area?
Choose the hazardous option and read the linked guides before anything else. Equipment must carry a certification for your zone, gas group and temperature class. The selector cannot tell you a product is suitable. Your risk assessment and the certificate decide.
Why does the selector not ask for a budget or quantity?
Budget and volume affect supply, not the type of device you need. The selector sorts by technical fit first. Once you have the right category, contact us with quantities, layout and any approvals needed, and we can advise on options.