In a message dated 24/01/02, pete(a)dunnington.u-net.com writes:
Whether you need to unsolder all the keyswitches
depends on the keyboard --
there were 4 types, but only one -- fortunately the least common type --
needs much work. The best, and original, was the type using Futaba
keyswitches, which have a white body. These are easy to remove, one at a
time (desolder the connections, then release the clips which hold the
keyswitch in the frame). I've seen a couple of pictures on the web showing
the different types but I can't seem to find one right now :-(
The normal way to fix faulty ones was to replace them. You can still
sometimes find switches available from people who've dismantled machines.
If not, I'd try removing the faulty keyswitches and cleaning them by
swishing them in a small bowl of iso-propyl alcohol, or squirting IPA
followed by switch cleaner through them. Finish with a good-quality
low-residue switch cleaner. These are generally based on IPA with small
amounts of very light oil (not usually silicone, as it creeps too much and
gets into everything). Do not use anything like WD40!
Pete Peter Turnbull
Network Manager
University of York
Great, thanks for the advice Pete. Did a quick search with Goolge and found
a few tips on BBC keyboard repair. It seems I have a type I keyboard with
Futaba keyswitches fitted. They come out of the frame one at a time.
After a bit of fiddling I discovered that the keyswitch body is held together
by a small plastic clip and two screws. The terminal pins are the screws
and can be removed by gently rotating with a pair of pliers.
Terminal pins are silver plated and show signs of tarnishing on the faulty
keyswitches. The contact leaf springs appear to be OK. A mild abrasive
and some IPA should do the trick :-)
Just wish I'd kept that Cherry keyboard form years ago with the Hall effect
switches.
Chris