Glossary A–ZLetter P
Projected capacitive touch (PCAP)
Capacitive touch is a touch technology in which a fine, transparent grid of conductors behind the cover glass measures the change in an electric field caused by a finger.
PCAP stands for “projected capacitive”. It is the same technology found in smartphones.
Operation feels familiar: a light tap is enough, and swiping and zooming with two fingers work reliably. Because the grid lies behind the glass, the surface stays smooth and closed, which makes cleaning and protection against damage easier. For this reason, capacitive touch is often used on information terminals, ordering terminals and advice screens in retail.
The technology only responds to conductive objects. Thick gloves or an ordinary stylus usually do not work unless the controller has been specially configured for them. Water droplets and cleaning agents on the surface can cause false triggers, which matters outdoors. The thickness of the cover glass is limited; anyone planning additional protective glass should first check whether touch detection is designed for it.