Fixing clicky Alps inconsistent actuation point

[M4dn3ss]

I have a batch of clicky SKCM Alps that actuate before the click. I tried "fixing" one by pressing the switchplate leaf to bend it slightly back, and when I tested it, it actuates very close to the click when pressed from directly above. However, if I press the switch from an angle it still actuates before the click.

What is the best way of making the actuation point more consistent (less angle-dependent) on SKCM Alps switches? Which part of the contact leaf should be bent to ensure a consistent actuation point? (see diagram attached)

179px-Alps_internals--CM,_complicated,_grey_switchplate.svg.png (8.9 KiB) Viewed 2325 times

[Wodan]

Holy shit I wouldn't bend around ANY switchplate leaves!

The only thing you I would consider tweaking in an Alps switch is the clicky/tactile leaves

But that's what you get when you use a discrete component to create the click - it potentially decouples from the actuation ...

[M4dn3ss]

I thought bending the leaf was the "standard" way of fixing up stubborn Alps switches is it not? Especially when dealing with old boards that have been heavily used or stored badly where the click/tactile leaf or contact leaf might have gone out of shape.

keyboards-f2/need-help-with-an-alps-whi ... 15732.html

[orihalcon]

If those switches were ever disassembled previously, check and make sure the slider isn’t rotated 180 degrees. It will always actuate before the click if it is. I believe the notched side faces the switch plate, but would have to open a switch to confirm.

[Wodan]

I thought bending the leaf was the "standard" way of fixing up stubborn Alps switches is it not? Especially when dealing with old boards that have been heavily used or stored badly where the click/tactile leaf or contact leaf might have gone out of shape.

keyboards-f2/need-help-with-an-alps-whi ... 15732.html

Hm okay that still sounds like a terrible idea. no way will you be able to consistently bend all the switch plate leaves to a point where they all have a uniform actuation again.

[M4dn3ss]

I thought bending the leaf was the "standard" way of fixing up stubborn Alps switches is it not? Especially when dealing with old boards that have been heavily used or stored badly where the click/tactile leaf or contact leaf might have gone out of shape.

keyboards-f2/need-help-with-an-alps-whi ... 15732.html

Hm okay that still sounds like a terrible idea. no way will you be able to consistently bend all the switch plate leaves to a point where they all have a uniform actuation again.

You would have to adjust very slightly and keep testing after every adjustment