Abstract: A programmable membrane switch input/output system is described. The system includes a membrane switch having a matrix layout embedded in a plastic film with a plurality of switches located at specific locations on the film. Output lines from the matrix layout are electrically connectable to a conversion unit which converts the output signals from a first code dependent on the matrix layout and the position of the switches to a second code which is independent of the position of the switches and the matrix layout. The conversion unit can convert the output signals into a serial code which can be transmitted serially from the conversion unit to a processing device located remotely from the membrane switch. By transferring the output signal serially from the conversion unit to the processing device, the cable can have fewer lines and less space is taken on the processing device for the connection.