Author Topic: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)  (Read 31360 times)

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Offline Hyde

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Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 17:34:28 »
The other day I opened up my Filco to switch the LED.  Then just for fun I lay the bare plate/pcb on my lap and I did some typing.

And man I have to say my keyboard start to sound/feel like those keyboard with aluminum casing + lubed switches.  (I got a chance to test it out another day off someone)

So this raise the question that is it possible to stuff my Filco interior with foam/rubber mat to make it sounds more solid than it is.  (Keep in mind I'm using stock plastic case now)

I heard it was a common practice on Poker since it has such a flimsy case, but anyone know if it's possible on Filco?  Also would the soldering joints get hot enough at any point to burn the foam/rubber?

I'm currently using a cheaper "towel under keyboard" method but I think stuffing the case might work better.  I was tempted to buy a $15 yoga mat today to cut it up and try it out.

Any idea?

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Offline Xenderwind

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #1 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 17:39:43 »
I know some people use the drawer liner stuff(you can just get it at the dollar store) and put it under the pcb.  Photoelectric tried it recently and noticed a difference but I don't remember in what way.  I think it dampened the sound more rather than making it sound more "solid".  But I have never typed on an aluminum case or a cushioned board.

edit:
random google image to show what I'm talking about
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Offline tp4tissue

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #2 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 18:01:23 »
Um.. If you really want a solid feel

Take the rubber feet off the keyboard,
 
knife-flat the protrusions around the keyboard feet if you can, and lay that flat against a BIG rubber sheet/mousepad

Offline Hyde

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #3 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 20:43:18 »
Mmmmmmm I wonder if I should try stuffing my case full of drawer liner first then, at least it's a reversible process so if I mess up I can easily remove it.

My only concern now is if it would "melt" onto the PCB.  If I remember correctly PCBs are designed to dissipate heat fast.  So wouldn't stuffing PCB full of rubber make it store heat?

As for the method tp4tissue mentioned, I'm currently placed my keyboard on a folded face towel.  I'd imagine it has similar effect though maybe your method would work better.

Though I always wonder if those protrusions have any intended functions, I'd avoid shaving it off before I find out what they're for.
« Last Edit: Sun, 18 August 2013, 20:46:46 by Hyde »

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Offline CPTBadAss

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #4 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:02:20 »
I've done this to my FC700R. One of the best mods I've ever done. It feels great and I wouldn't worry about the melting.

Offline Hyde

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #5 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:07:03 »
I've done this to my FC700R. One of the best mods I've ever done. It feels great and I wouldn't worry about the melting.

Sweet this shall be my project next weekend then.  :)

Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).
« Last Edit: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:09:31 by Hyde »

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Offline tp4tissue

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #6 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:15:12 »
I've done this to my FC700R. One of the best mods I've ever done. It feels great and I wouldn't worry about the melting.

Sweet this shall be my project next weekend then.  :)

Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).

y not concrete?

Offline CPTBadAss

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #7 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:19:51 »
I used $2 drawer liner from Target that works great :D

Offline rowdy

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #8 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:26:53 »
I've done this to my FC700R. One of the best mods I've ever done. It feels great and I wouldn't worry about the melting.

Sweet this shall be my project next weekend then.  :)

Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).

y not concrete?

Why not put an Ergo Dox in an industrial blender, and then pack the pieces into a keyboard, held in with some sort of glue?
"Because keyboards are accessories to PC makers, they focus on minimizing the manufacturing costs. But that’s incorrect. It’s in HHKB’s slogan, but when America’s cowboys were in the middle of a trip and their horse died, they would leave the horse there. But even if they were in the middle of a desert, they would take their saddle with them. The horse was a consumable good, but the saddle was an interface that their bodies had gotten used to. In the same vein, PCs are consumable goods, while keyboards are important interfaces." - Eiiti Wada

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Offline Photoelectric

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #9 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:29:42 »
Yup, Ive used that rubbery foamy liner in my Filco, and I do like the result.  I'll add a layer to my other Filco soon as well.  It's such a simple addition that if you open up your keyboard for anything anyway, might as well try the liner ;)
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Offline CPTBadAss

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #10 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:31:26 »
How are you liking it Photoelectric? I never heard your afterthoughts about the mod.

Offline ___q

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #11 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:33:38 »
I've done this to my FC700R. One of the best mods I've ever done. It feels great and I wouldn't worry about the melting.

Sweet this shall be my project next weekend then.  :)

Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).

A lot of yoga mats might be too thick -- at least in the alu vortex cases, there is a lot less clearance than you think at the bottom of the case.

I have a manduka yoga mat, and there's no way that a piece of that would fit under the pcb.  Perhaps there is more room in the stock case, though.

Offline chaumeow

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #12 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:43:59 »
Good idea! I think I have some in my kitchen! This looks better than a towel!  :thumb:
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Offline Hyde

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #13 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:47:09 »
I've done this to my FC700R. One of the best mods I've ever done. It feels great and I wouldn't worry about the melting.

Sweet this shall be my project next weekend then.  :)

Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).

y not concrete?

Why not put an Ergo Dox in an industrial blender, and then pack the pieces into a keyboard, held in with some sort of glue?

LOL be nice people, but I have to admit I had a good laugh out of this.

I've done this to my FC700R. One of the best mods I've ever done. It feels great and I wouldn't worry about the melting.

Sweet this shall be my project next weekend then.  :)

Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).

A lot of yoga mats might be too thick -- at least in the alu vortex cases, there is a lot less clearance than you think at the bottom of the case.

I have a manduka yoga mat, and there's no way that a piece of that would fit under the pcb.  Perhaps there is more room in the stock case, though.

lol well I was thinking maybe stuff in those "waffles" area inside the case but maybe I'll try drawer liner first.

Good idea! I think I have some in my kitchen! This looks better than a towel!  :thumb:

Cool let's do this soon then.  :)

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Offline Photoelectric

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #14 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:50:24 »
How are you liking it Photoelectric? I never heard your afterthoughts about the mod.

I swapped most of my ergo-Clears to vintage Blacks when my switch tool arrived, at least in part because I disliked the sound in my Filco.  I have stock Clears in my OH's Ducky Shine, and those feel and sound delightful, quite possibly because the LEDs make the switches completely non-wobbly and add to overall dampening, and something else about that board (maybe the Shine caps) results in a pleasant sound.  On my Filco with thick PBTs, the switch reset was making an annoying clanky sound, and overall, I just didn't like the feel. 

So now that I have the drawer liner in place, I can tell that the Clears I left on the function row and the 6-key cluster are definitely more dampened, and the keyboard overall is quieter (but my lubed vintage Blacks were already super quiet).  It's not a dramatic difference, but I can tell it's there. I'm almost considering swapping back to Clears if I didn't like Blacks so much ;) 
« Last Edit: Sun, 18 August 2013, 21:52:06 by Photoelectric »
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Offline meiosis

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #15 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 22:01:50 »
Koreans use memory foam on their KMAC's, but that seems quite expensive if you can't find a small piece. I guess foam or the yoga mat would work well as well :).
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Offline Photoelectric

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #16 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 22:12:02 »
I couldn't find a thin enough piece or Id try it.
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Offline laffindude

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #17 on: Sun, 18 August 2013, 23:11:48 »
I've done this with most keyboard I type on a lot. Case resonance = evil.

Offline Hyde

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #18 on: Tue, 20 August 2013, 20:41:55 »
lol originally I was gonna wait till weekend but I got impatient and jumped the gun.

So this is layer 1:

3 x sheets top
3 x sheets 2nd row
2 x sheets 3rd row
1 x sheet bottom row

32561-0

This is layer 2:

1 x sheet

32563-1

BUT I noticed layer 1 + layer 2 = too thick and I didn't want to force it.  So I end up only using layer 1 and so far but it turns out pretty good.

However I guess it's still not as solid as laying the bare PCB/Plate on my lap, but I guess that can't be helped.  Maybe I'll try typing with no case one day, and just have my bare PCB/Plate over a towel or something and see if that works.  :P

On a side note, $1 got me 2 sheets of drawer liner and I only used 1 sheet so far.  This is a super cheap mod lol.
« Last Edit: Tue, 20 August 2013, 20:51:16 by Hyde »

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Offline digi

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #19 on: Tue, 20 August 2013, 20:43:46 »
Put some sub-woofers in that bad boy  :cool:

Offline Photoelectric

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #20 on: Tue, 20 August 2013, 20:43:59 »
I only added 1 layer to my Filco--didn't seem like there'd be room for 2.
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Offline Hyde

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #21 on: Tue, 20 August 2013, 20:49:05 »
lol yeah originally I thought since those things are soft and flexible so it might fit.  But in the end I didn't want to force it.

However when I do "layer 1" I actually lay down:

3 layers on top row
3 layers on 2nd row
2 layers on 3rd row
1 layer on bottom row

To fill in the gaps for the incline.

LOL maybe cuz I'm an art student so I'm a bit anal regarding making it neat and organized.  :P

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Offline Dreamre

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #22 on: Wed, 21 August 2013, 21:43:58 »
I did exactly what you did with my Filco. This does feel a lot more solid!


Offline PolaBurrr

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #23 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 18:35:43 »
going to resurrect this old thread here because it seems to be the only thread talking about stuffing the inside of the filco with rubber/foam to minimize hollow sound. So it seems like you guys have just been using one "layer", with different number of sheets in four rows. Even though a second single layer seems tight, would forcing the plate+pcb down on it harm the board? I mean, its rubber... but you can never too sure.

Offline demik

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #24 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 19:09:18 »
wish i could find the picture of that one dude that filled his keyboard with window foam or something like that.

here we go!

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=18886.0
No, he’s not around. How that sound to ya? Jot it down.

Offline PolaBurrr

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #25 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 19:15:31 »
wish i could find the picture of that one dude that filled his keyboard with window foam or something like that.

here we go!

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=18886.0

lolol seems a bit over the top. not quite badass enough to try that on mine lol.

Offline SpAmRaY

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #26 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 19:23:12 »
wish i could find the picture of that one dude that filled his keyboard with window foam or something like that.

here we go!

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=18886.0

That is awesome. I want to bump that thread so bad.

Offline rowdy

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #27 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 21:28:38 »
That's kinda weird - what's the risk of foam getting into the switches?  You'd have to desolder the switch if that happened, but you couldn't, because you'd have to remove all the foam first!
"Because keyboards are accessories to PC makers, they focus on minimizing the manufacturing costs. But that’s incorrect. It’s in HHKB’s slogan, but when America’s cowboys were in the middle of a trip and their horse died, they would leave the horse there. But even if they were in the middle of a desert, they would take their saddle with them. The horse was a consumable good, but the saddle was an interface that their bodies had gotten used to. In the same vein, PCs are consumable goods, while keyboards are important interfaces." - Eiiti Wada

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Offline FrostyToast

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #28 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 21:45:21 »
This sounds like a great mod actually. It's very simple and not costly in the slightest.
I have noticed that my keyboard has had a noticeably higher pitch to it after putting in an aluminium case so I will try this and report back! (hopefully I remember)
Quote from: elton5354
I don't need anymore keyboards

Offline PolaBurrr

  • Posts: 109
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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #29 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 21:54:22 »
I'm getting this really weird high pitched clack on a few of my keys on my filco tkl with reds. These few keys have a much higher pitched clack, almost to the frequency of a rattle, on the down stroke, and sometimes on the upstroke. The location of these keys are mostly near the center of the keyboard (not typing area, the entire keyboard). Has anyone else experienced this? I was wondering if it is a loose switch housing, but I took of my keycaps and it didn't seem any more loose than all the other keys. Maybe it's just how it resonates on that area of the keyboard?

Offline FrostyToast

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #30 on: Wed, 29 January 2014, 22:02:02 »
I'm getting this really weird high pitched clack on a few of my keys on my filco tkl with reds. These few keys have a much higher pitched clack, almost to the frequency of a rattle, on the down stroke, and sometimes on the upstroke. The location of these keys are mostly near the center of the keyboard (not typing area, the entire keyboard). Has anyone else experienced this? I was wondering if it is a loose switch housing, but I took of my keycaps and it didn't seem any more loose than all the other keys. Maybe it's just how it resonates on that area of the keyboard?

I think it's just how the vibrations go through the keyboard. I have noticed some twang on my reds and some when I recently installed an aluminium case for my poker with blues. Try doing this mod and see if that dampens that sound, it should be easy enough to try.
Quote from: elton5354
I don't need anymore keyboards

Offline fohat.digs

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #31 on: Thu, 30 January 2014, 09:05:07 »
Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).

I have used a lot of drawer liner with good results in flat sheets, and also in cylindrical rolls where I needed 3-dimensional thickness along edges.

I have also done exactly the same thing with felt. The rubber works better but in a very thin situation only felt will fit.

The "upgrade" from there, for underlying desk mat, is not a yoga mat but rather the silicone kitchen mat sold in places like Bed, Bath, and Beyond.

http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/real-simple-professional-silicone-baking-mat/1014715754

Since I have access to construction sites, I once grabbed a cut-off slice of EPDM 60-mil roofing membrane that is very nice.
"The Trump campaign announced in a letter that Republican candidates and committees are now expected to pay “a minimum of 5% of all fundraising solicitations to Trump National Committee JFC” for using his “name, image, and likeness in fundraising solicitations.”
“Any split that is higher than 5%,” the letter states, “will be seen favorably by the RNC and President Trump's campaign and is routinely reported to the highest levels of leadership within both organizations.”"

Offline CPTBadAss

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #32 on: Thu, 30 January 2014, 09:08:10 »
Did you use drawer liner?  I'm debating to use drawer liner or yoga mat (since it's pretty cheap too and are typically thicker/denser).

I have used a lot of drawer liner with good results in flat sheets, and also in cylindrical rolls where I needed 3-dimensional thickness along edges.

I have also done exactly the same thing with felt. The rubber works better but in a very thin situation only felt will fit.

The "upgrade" from there, for underlying desk mat, is not a yoga mat but rather the silicone kitchen mat sold in places like Bed, Bath, and Beyond.

http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/real-simple-professional-silicone-baking-mat/1014715754

Since I have access to construction sites, I once grabbed a cut-off slice of EPDM 60-mil roofing membrane that is very nice.

That thing from Bed Bath and Beyond is just a Silpat right? That's a damn good idea regardless fohat.digs.

Could you get the EDPM roofing membrane at Lowe's or Home Depot?

Offline fohat.digs

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #33 on: Thu, 30 January 2014, 09:17:56 »
Could you get the EDPM roofing membrane at Lowe's or Home Depot?

No, it comes from roofing supply companies in $500+ rolls.

If I find more scraps I may snag them and cut up more pads.
"The Trump campaign announced in a letter that Republican candidates and committees are now expected to pay “a minimum of 5% of all fundraising solicitations to Trump National Committee JFC” for using his “name, image, and likeness in fundraising solicitations.”
“Any split that is higher than 5%,” the letter states, “will be seen favorably by the RNC and President Trump's campaign and is routinely reported to the highest levels of leadership within both organizations.”"

Offline nickatnite

  • Posts: 27
Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #34 on: Thu, 30 January 2014, 10:01:54 »
Could you get the EDPM roofing membrane at Lowe's or Home Depot?

No, it comes from roofing supply companies in $500+ rolls.

If I find more scraps I may snag them and cut up more pads.

I'm not sure about Home Depot but Lowes sells them by the feet. It's not the heavy duty 45mm thickness but good enough. It's in the pond/pool area in the Garden Center.
****ty Keyboard

Offline fohat.digs

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #35 on: Thu, 30 January 2014, 10:09:54 »
It's not the heavy duty 45mm thickness but good enough. It's in the pond/pool area in the Garden Center.

I had not thought of pond liner. I think it is about 30 mils, about 1/32" thick.

Art foam from a craft store like Michaels might be better, both thicker and softer. Also very cheap.

PS - mils are thousandths of an inch. 45mm would be impressive indeed!
"The Trump campaign announced in a letter that Republican candidates and committees are now expected to pay “a minimum of 5% of all fundraising solicitations to Trump National Committee JFC” for using his “name, image, and likeness in fundraising solicitations.”
“Any split that is higher than 5%,” the letter states, “will be seen favorably by the RNC and President Trump's campaign and is routinely reported to the highest levels of leadership within both organizations.”"

Offline FrostyToast

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #36 on: Thu, 30 January 2014, 23:33:32 »
Well I just went to Home Depot and grabbed a roll of this foam mat sort of thing and cut it out and shoved it under the PCB of my keyboard and it feels much more solid. Before the keyboard sounded a bit hollow however the foam really dampened that out and I am quite liking this mod.
Quote from: elton5354
I don't need anymore keyboards

Offline Jumpjet

  • Posts: 59
  • Location: Edinburgh, Scotland
Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #37 on: Fri, 31 January 2014, 04:02:39 »
My filco doubleshots made a huge difference to the feel and sound of my Majlstouch 2. The thickness of the caps insulates the sound and mutes any bottoming out impact. Combining theses doubleshots with a modded PCB would really transform the typing experience.

Offline Kamen Rider Blade

  • Posts: 119
Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #38 on: Fri, 31 January 2014, 05:16:09 »
So did the expanding foam under the keycaps really dampen that much sound?

Which modification works the best for sound dampening?

Rubber Grip kitchen mat in casing?

Sound proof matting in casing?

Silicone bake sheet mats in casing?

Expanding sealing foam under keycaps?

Rubber O-Ring under keycaps?

Square Dampeners under keycaps?

Has anybody thought of filling the keyboard case with non conductive putty on all sides to dampen sound?

Offline FrostyToast

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #39 on: Fri, 31 January 2014, 10:35:57 »
So did the expanding foam under the keycaps really dampen that much sound?

Which modification works the best for sound dampening?

Rubber Grip kitchen mat in casing?

Sound proof matting in casing?

Silicone bake sheet mats in casing?

Expanding sealing foam under keycaps?

Rubber O-Ring under keycaps?

Square Dampeners under keycaps?

Has anybody thought of filling the keyboard case with non conductive putty on all sides to dampen sound?

I filled my keyboard with a grip liner and it dampened the sound to the point where the click from my blues were practically the only thing you heard. You can barely hear the bottoming out.
[edit] You can hear bottoming out, but it really sounds like one loud click instead of a click and a thock.
Quote from: elton5354
I don't need anymore keyboards

Offline CPTBadAss

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #40 on: Fri, 31 January 2014, 13:21:43 »
Could you get the EDPM roofing membrane at Lowe's or Home Depot?

No, it comes from roofing supply companies in $500+ rolls.

If I find more scraps I may snag them and cut up more pads.

I'm not sure about Home Depot but Lowes sells them by the feet. It's not the heavy duty 45mm thickness but good enough. It's in the pond/pool area in the Garden Center.

Cool, I'll have to check that out next time I'm at Lowes. Have you compared it to the drawer liners? I have that in a couple of my boards and I think it's nice.

Offline Elrick

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #41 on: Fri, 31 January 2014, 19:23:27 »
So did the expanding foam under the keycaps really dampen that much sound?

Which modification works the best for sound dampening?

Rubber Grip kitchen mat in casing?

Sound proof matting in casing?

Silicone bake sheet mats in casing?

Expanding sealing foam under keycaps?

Rubber O-Ring under keycaps?

Square Dampeners under keycaps?

Has anybody thought of filling the keyboard case with non conductive putty on all sides to dampen sound?

Quite a few ideas here.  Might try some out, but I would go for the silicone tube effect.  Easy to dispense with and it sticks to just about anything permanently without causing any problems.  Also completely non-electrical hence no worries about shorts ever occurring.

You can still by a tube for only a couple of dollars at your local hardware store in clear, black or white colour.

Offline terrpn

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #42 on: Fri, 31 January 2014, 21:40:29 »
i must be a red neck as i used duct tape on the inside of bottom top cases :eek:
More

Luga G80-1865/MX Reds + Dolch G80-1813/MX Blues + G80-3700HQAUS + DK9008G2 Pro/MX Browns Thick PBT + DK9008G2 Pro/MX Clears Thick PBT +  QFR TKL/Ghetto Greens + Cherry G80-1800/MX Blues + IBM Model M SSK Bolt Modded + IBM Model M + IBM Model F + IBM AT F + Cherry G80-1000 (HAD)/MX Vintage Blacks + Razer BWU/MX Blues + Leading Edge DC2214/Blue Alps + Compaq MX11800/Browns + Chicony 5181/Monterey Blues + Chicony 5161/MX Black Cherry Clone + Focus 2001/White Alps + Chicony 5191/White Futabas + Olivetti ANK27-101 + Dell (Old Logo) AT101/Black Alps + NMB RT8255C+/Black Space Invaders + Unitek K260/Green Alps + Apple M0116/Orange Alps + AEK II M3501/Cream Alps + AEK M0115/Orange Alps + NEC  APC412/Blue Sliders + NEC APC410/Blue Sliders + Omnikey /White Alps + Wang/Yellow Alps (Omrons) + Laser/White SMK + Fame/Blue Aruz + AEK II M3501/Salmon Alps + Zenith ZKB-2R/Green Alps + Wang 724/Orange Alps + DK1087/Green Alps + Zenith ZKB-2/Yellow Alps + Dell Old Logo AT101/Salmon-Pink Alps + Leading Edge AK1012/White SMK's + Magitronic SK-1030/White (Linear) Futaba's + Packard Bell/White (Clicky) Futaba's + Datacomp DFK101/White  Alps + SGI AT101/Dampened White Alps + NMB AQ6RT-72511/Grey Space Invaders (Hi-Tek) + Datacomp/Blue Alps + Phillips 2812/White Space Invaders (Linear) + Dah Yang K251/Vintage MX Blues + Chicony 5161/DS Caps/Vintage MX Blue + Archie-NMB AQ659ZRT-725/Black Space Invader (Tactile) + IBM Model M 71G4644 (RD) Bolt Modded with Soarers Converter + IBM Model M Silver Label 1390131 + Cherry G80-1501/Vintage MX Clears + Focus FK8000/Linear Futabas + Gateway 2000 Anykey Programmable/Maxi-Switch + Dell GY13PVAT101/Dye Sub Caps/Salmon Alps + Chicony 5161/White Alps + AST K0B101/Slider over RD + Qtronix QX-32H + Everex/NMB RT8255CW+ Black Space Invaders-Split Erase + Tandon/NMB AQ659ZRT-101A/Beige Space Invaders + Cherry G80-11903 MNRUS/MX Blacks + Apple IIGS A9M0330/SMK Whites + WYSE PCE/MX Blacks + Chicony 5160AXT/Clicky Futaba + Cherry G80-0528/Vintage MX Blacks + Dell AT101/Linear (Modded) Black Alps+Topre 55g

Offline sdothum

  • Posts: 17
Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #43 on: Thu, 12 February 2015, 16:36:30 »
I have a Tex case coming for my Poker 2 in a few days  :) and plan to line the inside with "Weather Shield Crack Seal". It's a dense putty like substance and comes in roll as a ribbed ribbon (which you can shape like plasticine). I've used it alot to provide sound dampening to audio equipment (one of those really anal tweaks audiophiles get obsessed with.. have spent a small fortune on isolation devices but this is a cheap tweak). It should add more weight to the kbd and, I'm guessing, dampen any vibrations effectively. Will know in a short while..
« Last Edit: Thu, 12 February 2015, 16:41:12 by sdothum »
Planck - Cherry Black Silent 62g - Signature SA (Primary driver)
Planck - Gateron Brown - Gateron Cherry PBT
Planck - Zealios Tactile 62g - Gateron Cherry PBT
Planck - Matias Quiet Linear - 3D Printed Steno Keycaps
Out of circulation (Ortho all the way!): Poker 2 (MX Red), Filco Majestouch (MX Blue)

Offline sdothum

  • Posts: 17
Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #44 on: Mon, 16 February 2015, 22:33:14 »
Well.. got my Tex. Only needed a single layer of Crack Seal to create a perfect seal between the PCB and the aluminium base. Tearing the ribbed Crack Seal ribbon down the middle (4 + 4 strands wide), it press fit between the milled aisles. The thickness requires seating it firmly to the base, otherwise, there may be a gap in the middle sufficient to preventing screwing down the middle of the PCB. Tightening up the screws and the PCB seats into the malleable but dense putty like sealer (which does not dry out -- I've used it in audio isolation mods and the substance remains malleable for years). It can easily be removed as its surface is only mildly tacky -- doesn't stick permanently. It is dense (adds more weight to the keyboard) and deadens any vibration. My Poker 2 feels like a completely different keyboard: lovin' the Reds even more.

Word of warning: when you get the PCB/plate screwed down tight, it creates a very solid contact with the Crack Seal.. the ribbed material flattens out under pressure, even if it is less than a mm. That makes removing the keyboard assembly tricky as you have to pry it off the semi-tacky material. I don't plan to do any mods requiring access to the PCB to desolder anything so, barring failure of a component, it is staying as is. If I were to do this again, I would line the top of the Crack Seal with tissue paper.
« Last Edit: Tue, 17 February 2015, 06:38:14 by sdothum »
Planck - Cherry Black Silent 62g - Signature SA (Primary driver)
Planck - Gateron Brown - Gateron Cherry PBT
Planck - Zealios Tactile 62g - Gateron Cherry PBT
Planck - Matias Quiet Linear - 3D Printed Steno Keycaps
Out of circulation (Ortho all the way!): Poker 2 (MX Red), Filco Majestouch (MX Blue)

Offline Hyde

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #45 on: Sun, 18 February 2018, 18:31:08 »
LOL sorry to resurrect this thread.

The other day I bought some craft foam sheets from Michaels for some other project, but I had some left over so I tried to find some use for it.

This thing:  http://www.michaels.com/12x18-foam-sheet-by-creatology/M10597609.html

So I decide to lay it under my keyboard just to see what happens.  Keep in mind my keyboard is already filled with drawer liner on the interior so it's already dampened.  So I wasn't expecting much difference.

BUT WOAH what a difference, I think the drawer liner eliminates any noise inside the keyboard and the foam sheet lay under the keyboard eliminates any echo from the desk.

The combination between both basically eliminate ANY noise so now the only noise I heard is when I bottom out on the switch also when the switch come back up and hits the housing (sort of like Topre noise before silencing).


This get you really close to the feel of using aluminum case except I'm still using the stock plastic case.

189133-0 189135-1 189137-2 189139-3

The good news is, the sheets is very close in height to the keyboard legs, so I just cut the groove around the leg and the sheet kind of just wedge itself between the legs (also cut a few slits for the dome looking things under the board).  And when you lay flat on the table it's completely invisible (because it doesn't change the height).  People won't even know you lay a sheet under.

Someone should try this on Cherry MX Red Silent then do the drawer liner mod + craft foam sheet under keyboard to see how silent this gets.

The foam sheet is also super cheap so if you screw up just buy another one.  :thumb:

Archiss ProgresTouch Retro - Gateron Yellow  |  Topre Realforce 104UW - 45g Silent  |  Topre Type Heaven  |  Beige Filco Ninja 104 - MX Red  |  Das Keyboard - MX Brown  |  Poker II - MX Red  |  Race II - MX Brown  |  Matias Quiet Pro - Matias Dampened ALPS  |  Logitech K840 - Romer G  |  Cherry MX Board 2.0 - MX Red  |  Cherry G84-4100 - ML  |  IBM Model M
Roccat Kone Pure  |  Logitech G203  |  Logitech G303  |  Logitech G302  |  Razer Naga  |  CM Storm Xornet  |  Razer Goliathus Mobile Stealth  |  Razer Goliathus Control  |  Artisan Hien  |  Artisan Hayate  |  Artisan Shiden

Offline TheInverseKey

  • Posts: 128
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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #46 on: Sun, 18 February 2018, 18:46:07 »
LOL sorry to resurrect this thread.

The other day I bought some craft foam sheets from Michaels for some other project, but I had some left over so I tried to find some use for it.

This thing:  http://www.michaels.com/12x18-foam-sheet-by-creatology/M10597609.html

So I decide to lay it under my keyboard just to see what happens.  Keep in mind my keyboard is already filled with drawer liner on the interior so it's already dampened.  So I wasn't expecting much difference.

BUT WOAH what a difference, I think the drawer liner eliminates any noise inside the keyboard and the foam sheet lay under the keyboard eliminates any echo from the desk.

The combination between both basically eliminate ANY noise so now the only noise I heard is when I bottom out on the switch also when the switch come back up and hits the housing (sort of like Topre noise before silencing).


This get you really close to the feel of using aluminum case except I'm still using the stock plastic case.

(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)

The good news is, the sheets is very close in height to the keyboard legs, so I just cut the groove around the leg and the sheet kind of just wedge itself between the legs (also cut a few slits for the dome looking things under the board).  And when you lay flat on the table it's completely invisible (because it doesn't change the height).  People won't even know you lay a sheet under.

Someone should try this on Cherry MX Red Silent then do the drawer liner mod + craft foam sheet under keyboard to see how silent this gets.

The foam sheet is also super cheap so if you screw up just buy another one.  :thumb:

Does the sound still sound good if you have the the feet out and the keyboard raised?

Offline Hyde

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #47 on: Sun, 18 February 2018, 19:13:50 »
LOL sorry to resurrect this thread.

The other day I bought some craft foam sheets from Michaels for some other project, but I had some left over so I tried to find some use for it.

This thing:  http://www.michaels.com/12x18-foam-sheet-by-creatology/M10597609.html

So I decide to lay it under my keyboard just to see what happens.  Keep in mind my keyboard is already filled with drawer liner on the interior so it's already dampened.  So I wasn't expecting much difference.

BUT WOAH what a difference, I think the drawer liner eliminates any noise inside the keyboard and the foam sheet lay under the keyboard eliminates any echo from the desk.

The combination between both basically eliminate ANY noise so now the only noise I heard is when I bottom out on the switch also when the switch come back up and hits the housing (sort of like Topre noise before silencing).


This get you really close to the feel of using aluminum case except I'm still using the stock plastic case.

(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)

The good news is, the sheets is very close in height to the keyboard legs, so I just cut the groove around the leg and the sheet kind of just wedge itself between the legs (also cut a few slits for the dome looking things under the board).  And when you lay flat on the table it's completely invisible (because it doesn't change the height).  People won't even know you lay a sheet under.

Someone should try this on Cherry MX Red Silent then do the drawer liner mod + craft foam sheet under keyboard to see how silent this gets.

The foam sheet is also super cheap so if you screw up just buy another one.  :thumb:

Does the sound still sound good if you have the the feet out and the keyboard raised?

Hmmmm I just test it I don't think it works as well.

Because I think the idea is that instead of the 4 legs now this spread out the dampening area to the entire bottom of keyboard (basically anywhere the sheet is touching).

With the legs raised you're emphasizing the contacting point to the 4 legs.  I think it still works a little bit but just not as well.

Probably need to put a lot of dampen material into those 4 points and it might increase the keyboard height quite a bit more (say like 2-3 layer of foams as oppose to 1 to get the same effect).

It's like stopping someone from falling using a bed of mattress vs stopping the same force with only your 2 arms padded (LOL not the best example but you get the idea).

But I know it's fairly common for people to use the keyboard with legs raised.  So I'll let you know if I manage to find out workaround around it later.  :)

Archiss ProgresTouch Retro - Gateron Yellow  |  Topre Realforce 104UW - 45g Silent  |  Topre Type Heaven  |  Beige Filco Ninja 104 - MX Red  |  Das Keyboard - MX Brown  |  Poker II - MX Red  |  Race II - MX Brown  |  Matias Quiet Pro - Matias Dampened ALPS  |  Logitech K840 - Romer G  |  Cherry MX Board 2.0 - MX Red  |  Cherry G84-4100 - ML  |  IBM Model M
Roccat Kone Pure  |  Logitech G203  |  Logitech G303  |  Logitech G302  |  Razer Naga  |  CM Storm Xornet  |  Razer Goliathus Mobile Stealth  |  Razer Goliathus Control  |  Artisan Hien  |  Artisan Hayate  |  Artisan Shiden

Offline spiceBar

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Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #48 on: Fri, 13 April 2018, 17:47:25 »
LOL sorry to resurrect this thread.

The other day I bought some craft foam sheets from Michaels for some other project, but I had some left over so I tried to find some use for it.

This thing:  http://www.michaels.com/12x18-foam-sheet-by-creatology/M10597609.html

So I decide to lay it under my keyboard just to see what happens.  Keep in mind my keyboard is already filled with drawer liner on the interior so it's already dampened.  So I wasn't expecting much difference.

BUT WOAH what a difference, I think the drawer liner eliminates any noise inside the keyboard and the foam sheet lay under the keyboard eliminates any echo from the desk.

The combination between both basically eliminate ANY noise so now the only noise I heard is when I bottom out on the switch also when the switch come back up and hits the housing (sort of like Topre noise before silencing).


This get you really close to the feel of using aluminum case except I'm still using the stock plastic case.

(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)

The good news is, the sheets is very close in height to the keyboard legs, so I just cut the groove around the leg and the sheet kind of just wedge itself between the legs (also cut a few slits for the dome looking things under the board).  And when you lay flat on the table it's completely invisible (because it doesn't change the height).  People won't even know you lay a sheet under.

Someone should try this on Cherry MX Red Silent then do the drawer liner mod + craft foam sheet under keyboard to see how silent this gets.

The foam sheet is also super cheap so if you screw up just buy another one.  :thumb:


Thank you for reporting on your technique. I like to reduce the sound coming out of my keyboards as well.

One thing I would like to point out, though, is that aluminum cases do not sound like you think they sound.

Actually in my experience they amplify the sounds. They do the opposite of the dampening you have achieved by filling the case and putting material underneath.

An aluminum case sounds like, maybe, a glass or crystal case. They are extremely noisy, even when you put dampening material inside.

As a general rule, I would say that the stiffer the material of the case, the more sound gets out of it. Plastic or wood is better than aluminum or glass, in this regard.

I have two beautiful aluminum cases for my Pokers, and I have unfortunately stopped using them. I have put the plastic cases back, because they are much more quiet.

Offline bitzie

  • Posts: 33
Re: Fill up keyboard interior for a better sound/feel? (On Filco)
« Reply #49 on: Sat, 14 April 2018, 18:47:23 »
For the BananaSplit V2 build that I did a little while ago I used a chunk of a Lululemon yoga mat. It is the exact height of the standoffs in the aluminum case I used so it completely fills the void between the case and the pcb. Not only that, it's quite dense so it really dampens any sounds and adds a bit of weight to the board. One mat gave me enough material to cover my work table and have enough left over to fill probably a dozen boards.

https://imgur.com/a/eMBLi

« Last Edit: Sun, 15 April 2018, 11:59:50 by bitzie »