How to Fix Keyboard Keys

One minute you're typing away, and then a key just stops working. The solution is to fix the broken key, rather than buy a new keyboard. No need to go to a professional. Just follow these steps.

One minute you're typing away, and then a key just stops working. The solution is to fix the broken key, rather than buy a new keyboard. No need to go to a professional. Just follow these steps.

Instructions 

1 - Remove key cover from a key that is working so that only the cover comes off, leaving the insides intact. This will aid you in knowing exactly how the key should be put back together.

2 - Identify the "key retainers" which are small plastic parts that hold the rubber gasket in place. There likely will be two pieces that may interlock together and snap in place at four different points. Use tweezers to gently lift the retainers up and make note of how they link and where they snap together.

3 - Use the tweezers to unsnap the retainers you need to replace the rubber gasket underneath. Start by unsnapping the inner retainer from the outer one, one side at a time. Then unsnap one end, again one side at a time. Finish removing the final gasket by softly pulling it out with your fingers.

4 - Assemble the plastic key retainers to resemble the working key if the retainers are being replaced. If the rubber gasket needs replacing, remove the worn piece and replace with the new rubber gasket.

5 - Push the key retainer gently over the rubber gasket until it snaps into place on the keyboard. Follow the reverse procedure, starting with the retainers linked together, snapping one end in, sliding the retainers over the gasket and then snapping the other end onto the keyboard base.

6 - Snap the key cover back on. Gently push until you feel the key cover snap into place. Return to your typing.

Posted in: hardware