Elastomeric switch for electronic devices

An elastomeric switch for connecting, disconnecting and transferring a current between a plurality of traces on a printed circuit board in an electronic device, the elastomeric switch comprising:

• a housing disposed on the printed circuit board and proximate the plurality of traces;
• an elastomeric pad containing a plurality of parallel strips of conductive material disposed between layers of non-conductive elastomeric material, the elastomeric pad disposed such that a plurality of the parallel conductive strips are aligned in direct contact with each of the traces;
• a deformable shell operatively associated with the housing, the deformable shell having an opening leading to an interior cavity;
• a conductive element disposed within the interior cavity and aligned with the elastomeric pad via the opening;
• and
• a plunger means for moving the conductive element in direct contact with the elastomeric pad such that the conductive element establishes an electrical connection between the traces via the elastomeric pad in response to an externally applied force to the plunger means.