Row Lines: Trace Width 0.15-0.3mm, Current Rating 100mA maximum

Component Specifications

Definition

Row lines are essential conductive pathways in a keypad matrix circuit that electrically connect the row-side terminals of multiple key switches. They form one dimension of the X-Y scanning grid, enabling the microcontroller to detect key presses by scanning row-column intersections. These lines are typically printed circuit board (PCB) traces or flexible printed circuit (FPC) conductors designed with specific impedance and current-carrying characteristics.

Working Principle

Row lines operate as part of a matrix scanning system where the microcontroller sequentially applies voltage to each row line while monitoring column lines. When a key is pressed, it creates an electrical connection between the activated row line and a column line, allowing the controller to identify the specific key location through row-column intersection coordinates.

Materials

Copper alloy (typically C11000 electrolytic tough pitch copper) with tin-lead or lead-free solder finish, substrate: FR-4 epoxy laminate or polyimide for flexible circuits, protective coating: solder mask or coverlay.

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Thickness	35μm (1oz) standard
Resistance	<0.5Ω per 100mm
Trace Width	0.15-0.3mm
Current Rating	100mA maximum
Insulation Resistance	>100MΩ
Dielectric Withstanding Voltage	500V AC

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Standards

IPC-2221, IEC 60194

Parent Products

This component is used in the following industrial products

Keypad Matrix

A grid-based electrical circuit arrangement that enables efficient scanning and detection of multiple key presses using minimal wiring.

View Product Details

Engineering Analysis

Risks & Mitigation

Trace corrosion from moisture
Mechanical fatigue from flexing
Electrical short circuits
Signal crosstalk between adjacent lines

FMEA Triads

Trigger: Poor solder joint at row line connection
Failure: Intermittent or complete loss of multiple keys in same row
Mitigation: Implement automated optical inspection (AOI) and X-ray testing of solder joints

Trigger: Trace corrosion due to environmental exposure
Failure: Increased resistance leading to unreliable key detection
Mitigation: Apply conformal coating and specify appropriate IP rating for enclosure

Industrial Ecosystem

Compatible With

Typical Suppliers & Equivalents

Compliance & Inspection

Tolerance

±0.1mm trace width, ±5% resistance value

Test Method

Continuity testing, insulation resistance testing, visual inspection per IPC-A-610

Procurement Evaluation Criteria

A practical evidence checklist for RFQ preparation and supplier evaluation.

Technical documentation

Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.

Manufacturing capability

Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.

Inspection readiness

Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.

Supplier transparency

Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

CNFX does not score or rank suppliers. Buyers must verify all claims and documents with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Manufacturers of Row Lines

Manufacturer profiles associated with Row Lines.

Sourcing Row Lines from China?

Tell us your specification and target quantity — we will match it against manufacturer records and come back with the factories that fit.

Request manufacturers We manufacture this

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review

Related Components

Dielectric Layer

Insulating layer in surface mount capacitors that stores electrical energy through polarization.

Optical Window

Transparent optical component for light transmission in polycarbonate lens housings

PCB Substrate

PCB substrate is the foundational insulating layer that provides mechanical support and electrical connectivity for electronic components in high-speed memory modules.

Edge Connector

Edge connector is a printed circuit board (PCB) connector that mates with the edge of another PCB, commonly used in high-speed memory modules for reliable electrical connections.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between row lines and column lines in a keypad matrix?

Row lines connect key switches horizontally and are actively driven by the microcontroller during scanning, while column lines connect vertically and are monitored for voltage changes. Both work together to form the scanning grid.

Can damaged row lines be repaired?

Minor damage can often be repaired with conductive epoxy or micro-soldering, but extensive damage typically requires PCB replacement to maintain reliable operation.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Preliminary Technical Classification

This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Row Lines