If you are interested in learning how to build a mechanical keyboard, you are in the right place. In this article, we will explore a number of the steps involved in constructing a new keyboard. We will also provide some valuable tips and suggestions to improve the performance and appearance of your keyboard.
Lube the switches
If you want to use a mechanical keyboard, you should consider lubricating your switches to reduce their friction and increase their smoothness. This will also help with the sound and acoustics. You can do it easily without removing the PCB. Testing the switch after it is installed is also a good idea. Several types of lubricants are available, but choosing a less dense one is best. This will allow the keys to operate smoothly and give them a longer life.
When lubricating your keyboard switch, you should use a non-flammable and phosphate-free product. The lubricant should run through the switch housing. One option is to squirt a drop of lube into the gap between the switch stem and the upper housing. Another method is to apply lube to the cross point contacts. If you are using a tactile keyboard, you may have noticed that your switch is scratchy or has a rough feel. This can be a result of an excess of lube. Using the right lube will minimize these problems.
Install stabilizers
If you’re planning to build a custom mechanical keyboard, you’ll need to install stabilizers. These add an extra support layer for larger keys, making your keyboard more reliable. Stabilizers come in a variety of designs and sizes. It’s essential to find the right stabilizer for your keyboard’s layout. A plate-mounted stabilizer is easier to install than a screw-in stabilizer giving you plenty of access to the keys. However, they are also more likely to rattle and vibrate. You can choose to lubricate your stabilizers to make the keyboard feel better. Adding a little grease to the wires will also help.
Before installing stabilizers, you should check your PCB for compatibility. Several vital parts will need to match. For example, if you’re installing a space bar, you’ll want the keycap to line up with the switch. And, of course, you’ll want your PCB pads to be the same colour as the key’s colour. Once the PCB pads are aligned, you can begin assembling the stabilizers. The stabilizers themselves are divided into three parts. Each part has a stem, a pair of spring-like legs, and a housing.
Mount the keyboard
Choosing the right mechanical keyboard mount can significantly affect how you type. This is because how your PCB is mounted can affect how it feels, the sound it makes, and the stability of the overall keyboard. Some mounting styles have advantages, while others have disadvantages. One of the most common is the Gasket Mount, which isolates your PCB from the rest of the keyboard. It adds more stability and durability to your keyboard. Aside from being easier to install, it is also quieter.
Another mounting style is the O-ring mount mod. Using an O-ring instead of a gasket can help reduce the sound produced by your keyboard. However, the downside is that it can detract from the tactile feel of your keys. The O-ring mount mod is a more affordable alternative to the Gasket Mount. While it may not be as stable as the latter, it provides superior vibration-damping performance. Another popular type of mounting is the tray mount. Although it is the cheapest, it does not provide the most vital support. In addition, it can cause your keyboard’s PCB to flex. If the tray is removed, you may have to resolder the switches to the PCB.
Modify stabilizers to improve feel and sound
If you want to enhance the feel and sound of your mechanical keyboard, you may want to try modifying your stabilizers. They are designed to keep your keys from seesawing around the switches. Stock stabilizers can be noisy and scratchy. The following guide will show you how to make these modifications. First, remove your keycaps. This will reveal your stabilizers and allow you to clip them off. You may find that your stabilizers have nubs, which you can trim off with a flush cutter.
Next, resole the PCB. Make sure that the resoldering is done correctly. Otherwise, you could damage the PCB. Also, this may alter your warranty. Stabilizers can also be lubricated like switches. You will need a small brush to apply lubricant to your stabilizer stems. Lubrication will reduce friction inside the housing, which will help the keys feel more comfortable. Another mod you can try is the Holee Mod. You can place a bandage inside your stabilizer stem to minimize movement within the housing. It will also improve the sound of your stabilizers.
Customize your keyboard
Whether you’re looking to upgrade your old keyboard or start from scratch, there are many ways to customize your mechanical keyboard. These modifications can improve your typing experience or add a personal touch. You can choose different keycaps and switches to suit your style and type. Choosing high-quality materials is one of the most important things to remember when customizing your mechanical keyboard. This helps ensure that your keyboard will last for a long time. Adding foam to your keyboard can also help you reduce high-pitched resonances when you’re typing.
If you want to change the appearance of your mechanical keyboard, you can paint the keys. Some manufacturers offer a variety of colours to choose from. Other options include patterns, symbols and even pieces of art. Painting individual keycaps are also an option. Using LEDs is another popular customization for mechanical keyboards. LEDs come in single-colour or RGB variants. The current hot option is RGB LEDs. However, single-colour LEDs are still a popular choice. Other keyboard customizations include a silent mechanical keyboard, which can help reduce keyboard noise. You can also lube your keyboard switches to improve the sound.
Conclusion
To custom your mechanical keyboard can be intimidating. There are hundreds of different parts to choose from. Choosing the right one is a time-consuming process. With so many possibilities, you might spend more money than you bargained for. But with some planning and patience, you can achieve the look and feel you want. Depending on what you’re planning to customize, you may have to remove or install specific components. Keycaps are some of the most common customizations for mechanical keyboards. Aside from choosing the right colour and shape, you can also paint them.
