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Gazzew U4T switches too tight? Getting 'caught' before bump. (self.mechanicalkeyboards)

submitted 4 months ago by WatTyler to c/[email protected]

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Hello,

My apologies if I use the wrong terminology, I'm pretty new to this. This week I installed Gazzew U4T switches into the Sofle V2 keyboard I put together. I used Cherry MX Blues in it before and had no issues.

Some of my switches, as I press them, feel as if they get 'caught' on the tactile bump. There's a great deal of resistance at the level of travel the bump begins. I either have to apply more pressure or change the angle of the pressure my fingers exerts to 'uncatch' it and depress it.

The odd thing is that it doesn't appear to be an issue with the individual switches but rather the position they sit i.e. I can replace a switch working as expected with a 'catching' switch and the previously working switch now catches and vice versa.

It appears the respective gaps on the PCB are too tight and it 'chokes' the switch.

Has anyone encountered this? Does anyone know of a solution? Would lubing my switches solve the problem?

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[–] [email protected] 3 points 4 months ago (3 children)

How hard are you having to press to install these switches on the PCB? I imagine if the PCB is pressing on the switch housing hard enough to deform it and interfere with the keystroke, then it must be absurdly difficult to install in the first place.

Any pictures you can share? Can you maybe install a switch without the top housing to observe what’s happening inside?

[–] [email protected] 2 points 4 months ago (1 children)

Also, did you install switch films by chance?

[–] WatTyler 1 points 4 months ago

I'm unsure what these are, sorry.

[–] WatTyler 2 points 4 months ago

FYI I have posted an update.

[–] WatTyler 0 points 4 months ago

Much harder than I had to with the Cherry switches. I've been experimenting with applying pressure outside of the PCB and cannot replicate the issue. It's only when the switches are inserted.

However, after some experimentation last night, I did realize this is indeed an individual switch issue. The problem is that they work perfectly fine until they're fully inserted into the PCB. Then they got choked. I've identified a couple of problematic switches and re-assembled them but the issue is still there.

I'll try and remember to share some media later. I like your idea of installing without the top housing. I'll try that later. Thanks for commenting.

[–] [email protected] 1 points 4 months ago (2 children)

Quick personal note on the U4T’s, after about a year, I’ve had multiple fail on me, they’ll require multiple taps to work. I’m going to look for a new tactile switch soon.

[–] WatTyler 1 points 4 months ago

Looks like this is a QC issue on my end too. Might switch to Cherry MX Ergo Clears.

[–] WatTyler 1 points 4 months ago

FYI I have posted an update.