SAW Touch Screen Technology uses ultrasonic wave technology over the touch screen panel. Acoustic waves are sent across the panel with a series of transducers and reflectors, creating an invisible grid across the screen. The waves are broken when a finger pushes on the touch screen; technologies allow for the detection of the specific location, sending the position data to the controller for processing. If sensor detects a link, an executable is launched -- similar to clicking a mouse. SAW Touch Screen Technology panels are the most advanced touch screen technologies available, but are susceptible to environmental damage.
Because this touch screen technology is all glass, there are no layers to be worn down, giving it the highest durability and clarity available. This type of touch screen technology is ideal for medical applications, kiosks, computer-based training, or other high-traffic indoor environments. In addition, this touch screen technology requires the use of a glass layer, making it potentially unavailable for all LCD panels.