MODULAR TOUCH SENSITIVE DATA INPUT DEVICE

A touch sensitive data input device is provided for use with the screen of a cathode ray tube. The device has an annular bezel that loosely supports a firm clear backing plate. A rear transparent sheet element that has a coefficient of thermal expansion different from that of the backing plate is loosely retained against the backing plate to avoid deformations induced by differential thermal expansions. A closely spaced apart front transparent element is placed adjacent the rear transparent sheet, their respective adjacent surfaces having mutually orthogonal electrically conductive strips that make local electrical contact when a force is applied to the front element. An annular frame over the front element is secured to the bezel. In one aspect of the invention, a gasket with both sides coated with a resilient bonding material seals the frame to the bezel. In one aspect of the invention, a gasket with both sides coated with a resilient bonding material seals the frame to the bezel to protect the zone between the transparent front and rear elements from contamination by environmental pollutants.