Introduction
If your Discipline 65 keyboard (or any soldered mechanical keyboard) switch is not working or registering when you try to type, use this guide to replace the keyboard switch.
A mechanical keyboard switch works by creating a small short which the keyboard can interpret as a keypress. This input is sent to the computer to tell it to type or register a certain letter.
Before using this guide, try cleaning the keyboard and blowing off any dust. Sometimes cleaning the keyboard may fix any issues with the switches.
This guide requires intermediate soldering skills. Ensure that you are comfortable with soldering before attempting this repair.
In step 2 of this guide, the use of a keyboard tester is required.
Ensure that you buy the same switches that came with your keyboard. Refer to manufacturer documentation to determine which switches to buy.
Before beginning, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area.
What you need
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Locate the faulty key or keys by pressing on them. Use an online keyboard tester to determine if the switch is working.
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If keypress is not registered when a key is pressed, that switch needs to be replaced.
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Pull each key off of the keyboard using your fingers or a key cap puller and place in a safe spot.
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There shouldn't be a key left on the keyboard before moving forward.
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Use the soldering iron and desoldering pump to desolder the two pins corresponding to the faulty switch.
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Reinsert the new switch or switches, by lining up the switch pins with the holes in the keyboard and pushing straight down.
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Solder newly inserted switches to the PCB, using the soldering iron and solder.
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Test to make sure the faulty key of keys work again.
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The keyboard should be ready to use again.
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Ask FixBot
Enjoy your typing!
Team
UC Davis, Team 1-7, Morris Spring 2024 Member of UC Davis, Team 1-7, Morris Spring 2024
UCD-MORRIS-S24S1G7
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