Re: Keys Repeat on Apple II+

[Michael J. Mahon <mjmahon@aol.com>]

D Finnigan <dog_cow@macgui.com> wrote:
> 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.

Actually, you should avoid rubbing alcohol, which contains oils to nourish
skin. 

Most drugstores carry 90+% denatured (mostly ethyl) alcohol, which is much
safer. 

Best is contact cleaner!

-michael - NadaNet 3.1 and AppleCrate II: http://home.comcast.net/~mjmahon