Building a mechanical keyboard for a PC is very simple, but it can be tricky to get everything working correctly. There are a few things to consider, and it is best to know exactly what you’re doing before you start. Whether assembling a complete keyboard or installing a few switches, this guide will show you how to build a mechanical keyboard doithuong.
Make a PCB
Creating a PCB for a mechanical keyboard requires a thorough knowledge of its mechanical layout. The layout is part of the electrical design as well. It is essential to consider the type of switches and components needed.Keyboards can be separated into three main types: PCB-mounted, plate-mounted, and hybrid. Each has its pros and cons.PCB-mounted keyboards have less complexity but are usually cheaper to produce. They also have a lighter feel. However, they may spring back more than plate-mounted keyboards.
Plate-mounted keyboards are usually sturdier and make the keyboard more stable. Some common materials used in plate-mounting are aluminium and brass.Fritzing is one of the easiest ways to create a PCB for a mechanical keyboard. This software provides users with three views – breadboard, schematic, and top – and is easy to use. Plate-mounted switches are another option. This mounting style uses a metal plate that goes above the PCB. Because the plate is rigid, it can provide a more stable and sturdy keyboard. Unfortunately, removing the plate can be a pain.There are also hot-swappable PCBs, which allow you to swap out switches without having to solder them. However, the downside is that you’ll have to resolder the switches to the PCB again when you want to use them.
Install the stabilizers
When building a mechanical keyboard, it is essential to install the stabilizers correctly. This will allow your keyboard to work properly. The stabilizers are the most critical modification you can make to a mechanical keyboard.Stabilizers come in two types, plate mount and screw-in. Plate mount stabilizers are the most common type. They can be easily installed but are also more likely to rattle. Screw-in stabilizers are more stable but are less commonly used. If your stabilizers have screws, you can use these to attach them to the PCB. Screw-in stabilizers are a great option because they don’t pop out of the PCB when you remove keycaps. They are also more stable than snap-in stabilizers.Optical stabilizers are usually found on keyboards with optical switches. These have small clips that snap into the stabilizer bars.Stabilizers are sold in packs based on the size of the keyboard. Some stabilizers have more than one part, so you’ll need to cut them down.
Most pre-built keyboards use plate-mounted stabilizers. If you choose to use a plate mount stabilizer, you must install it correctly. To make sure it is placed in the correct position, you need to follow the instructions that come with it.For plate mount stabilizers, the first step is to make sure the holes are aligned. It is usually easier to do this with a PCB than a plate. In addition to modifying the stabilizers, you can improve the keyboard’s overall sound by tuning the stabs. These mods require patience, and it is recommended that you read up on how to do it. Some users report better typing experiences, and others have reported worse ones.When modifying the stabilizers, remember that the key is to get them right. Trying to mod them without doing it properly will make the keyboard sound and feel worse.
Add sound-dampening foam
Adding sound-dampening foam to your mechanical keyboard can help to reduce internal keyboard vibration. It can also help to dampen unwanted keyboard sounds. There are many benefits to adding foam to your keyboard, and it’s a simple, inexpensive way to improve your keyboard’s sound.Foam on your mechanical keyboard can also help to minimize the hollow pinging sound. If you’ve ever been in a room where your sound is amplified, you know how frustrating it can be. This is especially true when you are typing.
To add sound-dampening foam to your keyboard, you need first to open your keyboard. Then, you need to remove the plastic clips on each keycap. Once the plastic clips are removed, you can cut the foam.There are numerous types of switches, and they vary in construction.You will also need a soldering iron and a small kit to help you do the job. This includes a pair of tweezers and a screwdriver set.Depending on the type of PCB you purchase, the switch-stacking process might be more straightforward or complicated than the usual keyboard assembly. In most cases, you’ll need to use a plate to secure the switches.
Mount the keyboard
The type of mount a mechanical keyboard uses can significantly affect the overall typing experience. While most keycaps are standardized, a variety of mounting styles exist. Some are simple and easy to install, while others are difficult. Choosing the right one for your needs is essential.One popular option is the gasket mount. This style places a foam or silicone pad between the plate and the PCB. The pad reduces unwanted noise and provides better shock absorption. It also eliminates the need for a separate plate.
Another mounting style is the sandwich mount. The sandwich mount places a thin metal plate between the upper and lower sections of the keyboard case. Professional gamers often use it to provide a stable structure. You’ll need to install the switches if you’re building a mechanical keyboard. They’re a necessary part of the process, and the right ones can make a difference in your keyboard’s overall feel and sound.
Conclusion
If you like the quietness and responsiveness of a mechanical keyboard, you can choose a hybrid keyboard that contains both flat-panel membrane keyboards and mechanical switches. These keyboards are popular with gamers and users who enjoy a tactile typing experience.Mechanical keyboard can be cheap, but they are not as durable as mechanical ones. If you plan to use your keyboard for a long time, you may want to invest in a higher-quality model.
