Matrix
Provided by the ASK Keyboard Dictionary
Aka/also known as: key-matrix, switch matrix
A matrix (also called a "key-matrix" to make the context clear) is a form of circuitry arrangement useful for negating the need for having separate circuits for each key on a keyboard. Key-matrices exist as a two-axis grid-like formation of traces where contact points of a key-switch are given at various intersections between the two axes known as columns and rows. For typical ohmic keyboards, keys can be registered on a key-matrix when its controller sequentially energises traces on one axis to see if electricity returns on the other. A key-matrix could be made of traces on a hard PCB or a membrane assembly.
