So I've got a project that I'm starting to intitial work on.  I'm going 
to need a keypad or similar for the user interface.  I would prefer a 
membrane keypad that I could just stick on the front of a semi-custom 
enclosure (heck I would *love* an enclosure with a standard (2x16 or so) 
LCD opening and a keypad already on it, but no such luck). 

Back in the 'olden days' (about 1985) of computers, it seemed like every 
electronic part catalog had a selection of keypads which were fairly 
inexpensive and fairly standard.  I.E. various array sizes (4x3 was 
rather common - along with other sizes), with 2-3 options for the 
labeling..  I.E. telephone style, or 0-9 with arrow keys around the 
center, or arrow keys only, etc.  AND they weren't all that bad price-wise.

Now I finally need some on an ongoing basis, I can't find any reasonable 
source.  Lot of places to make me a custom one which I would love but I 
doubt I'll like the per-unit cost when I only need 20-50 at a time.

Are standard membrane keypads extinct or is there some secret island 
somewhere where they are all hiding out?

Cheap and easy to design/manufacturer (from my viewpoint) alternatives 
are also welcomed.

Mainly I'm  just looking for something I can adapt for common interface 
needs such as previous/next and numeric entry.  And like I mentioned 
above, already in a standard case is a plus.

-forrest

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