Abstract: A keypad assembly is described that includes a novel elastomeric membrane keypad (120) sandwiched between a housing (110) and a circuit board 130. Keypad (120) is comprised of a sheet (122) and a plurality of keys (124) protruding therefrom. Keys (124) have carbon pads (220) on the bottom for producing electrical signal continuity between corresponding pairs of contacts on circuit board (130). Then sheet (122) further includes ridges (310) at the periphery of its top surface and surrounding each key (124). When keypad (120) is compressed between housing (110) and circuit board (130), ridges (310) produce a high compression seal around each key (124), thereby improving the tactile response thereof. Sheet (122) of keypad (120) also includes cavities (210) for light sources (410) on circuit board (130). The light from light sources (410) is conducted by sheet (122) throughout keypad (120) for brightly and evenly illuminating keys (124 ).