Patent ID: 8383972

Claim:
An illuminated keyboard comprising: a plurality of keys arranged in a matrix layout; a base plate; a spacer board disposed on the base plate, the spacer board comprising a plurality of units each corresponding to the key thereabove, each unit including two first groove connectors and two second groove connectors; an optically transmissive film circuit board for generating signals in response to a pressing of the key, the film circuit board disposed on the spacer board and comprising a second circuitry, a plurality of switch contacts, and a plurality of first holes each being in a one to one relationship to the first or second groove connector so that the first or second groove connector is adapted to pass through the first hole; a rubber plate formed of optically transmissive plastic and disposed on the film circuit board, the rubber plate comprising a plurality of resilient domes each disposed under the key, the dome having a recessed top for retaining the key, a conductive bottom stem disposed above the switch contact, and a plurality of second holes grouped as a plurality of groups, each group formed as four corners around the dome, the second holes being aligned with the first holes and the first groove connectors or the second groove connectors so that the first or second groove connectors are adapted to further pass through the second holes; and an LED circuit board disposed on the rubber plate and comprising a first circuitry and a plurality of LEDs electrically connected to the first circuitry to be powered therefrom, wherein the keys are disposed on the LED circuit board.