Re: Keys Repeat on Apple II+

[dog_cow@macgui.com (D Finnigan)]

Andrew Kochera wrote:
> I did a search for this, and found a couple posts in which a depressed
> key repeats endlessly, and this being tracked back perhaps to a bad
> IC.
> 
> The problem I have is a little different. For a few keys only, a
> single keystroke will give 2 or 3 letters.  For instance: "That'sss
> all folkss!"  Most keys function just fine.
> 
> Any good solution to this problem?
>

To expand on what Mr. Mahon said, I happen to have personal experience with
bad keys on the Apple II Plus. I had some that would repeat, and one or two
that would not work at all. Well, after some hours and much patience, I now
have all keys working.

While it is true that a cause for repeating keys could be a bad IC, it is
best to try exercising the key switch and trying to clear it out first.

What I did was to remove the key cap so that the white plastic stem was
exposed. I then rocked the plastic stem side to side while depressing it. Of
course, you must be careful not to apply too much lateral force, otherwise
you could break it!

I also took a Q-tip, and since I lacked rubbing alcohol, I opted to use
drops of water instead. I deposited about 3-4 drops of water within the key
switch, by letting the water run down the stem. I then repeated the same
procedure.

Eventually, I managed to get all the problem keys to work, but it did take
awhile. Several days, off and on, I think.

-- 
]DF$
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