Apple /// Dead keys?

[mcdermd]

My newly acquired Apple /// seems to be having some issues registering a few keys. Namely the right shift, up arrow, return and \. Any tips before I dive right in and disassemble the keyboard to clean it?

 

[mcdermd]

Well, now the return and arrow keys are working but after running the dealer keyboard test, I seem to have dead 0, -, =, \, left and right shift keys.

Would these be effected by loose chips? Dirty mechanisms?

 

[Trash80toHP_Mini]

Probably dirty or worn out keyswitches. Google info on what kind of keyswitches were used on the ///. From the form factor, and estimated date of manufacture, I'm guessing mechanical switches soldered onto a PCB. A quick test would be to pull a keycap and take a peek.

Once you determine the keyswitch type, you'll be ready to source replacements from a donor KBD. IIRC there have been IIe & /// KBDs on eBay, but I only spot that kind of thing in passing, lookin' for MacGoodies! [] ]'>

 

[mcdermd]

[:I] ]'> Keyboard ribbon wasn't plugged in all the way. They all seem to work now.

The only thing left is that the dealer diagnostic's keyboard test indicates there should be a Delete key. I have no idea what to use since there is neither a delete nor backspace key. I'd assume in everyday use, I'd use control+h or left arrow.

 

[Trash80toHP_Mini]

:lol: It's ALWAYS the simplest of things that bite you the hardest on yer' @$$!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :approve:

 

[Dog Cow]

Would these be effected by loose chips? Dirty mechanisms?

Try pressing those keys about 40-50 times in a row, with a bit more pressure than you usually would. It is quite common (as in, I've had this, and so have others) for a keyboard that's been out of use for awhile to get key switches that are no longer making good electrical contact. Giving them exercise is the simplest solution, and should always be attempted first.

 

[mcdermd]

And the "delete" key is control-shift-\

Life is better.