Changes in temperature and humidity during shipping, storage or use can affect the visual appearance, mechanical integrity, or electrical functionality of switches. This practice simulates three different environments to which membrane switches may be exposed.

The three industry-recognized switch categories based on performance levels are Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 (see section 7.1).

Additionally, there may be custom requirements that vary by application, therefore, these requirements can be determined by customer and vendor agreement and be established as a Level 4.

This practice defines the duration of a single cycle. Multiple cycles may be appropriate depending on the requirements of the application.