Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or Raynaud's phenomenon, can reduce blood circulation and moisture in the skin. This results in lower electrical conductivity of the fingertips, making it difficult to operate capacitive touchscreens.
As people age, the skin naturally becomes drier and thinner. This decrease in moisture and skin thickness lowers conductivity, making older adults more likely to experience problems with the responsiveness of touchscreens on smartphones and tablets.
Dry skin, calluses or scar tissue on the fingertips acts as an insulating barrier. This barrier blocks the electrical current needed for the PCAP sensor to register a touch, preventing the screen from responding.
Cold temperatures and low humidity often lead to drier skin. This can temporarily decrease the conductivity of the fingertips, which can affect the operation of touchscreens in certain climates or seasons.
Projected Capacitive screens are composed of a grid of electrodes that create an electrostatic field. A touch with a conductive object, such as a finger, disrupts this field. A controller then calculates the exact location of this disruption.
PCAP technology depends on the natural electrical conductivity of the human body. If the conductivity of the fingertip is too low due to dehydration, for example, the disruption of the electric field is too weak to be detected by the sensor.
To solve the 'zombie finger' problem, alternative tools can be used. A stylus, special conductive gloves or finger covers allow interaction. Lightly moistening the finger can also temporarily improve conductivity.
Moisture increases skin conductivity and can significantly improve the responsiveness of a touchscreen. A small amount of moisture, such as by breathing on the fingertip, is often sufficient. Too much moisture, however, can lead to inaccurate detection.
At Dytos, we understand that each industry has specific requirements for touch solutions. That's why we offer a wide range of products and services designed to meet these diverse needs.
Dutch Dutch 
English
