Force Gauges for Key Switch Resistance

[didjamatic]

The Ripometer is by far the most accessible, reliable (no moving parts) and inexpensive way to accurately measure the resistance of a key switch.  But I wanted to find a gauge that could be used to do the same thing.   At first I wanted a digital gauge, but they are at too high of a price point.  I toyed with modding a $10 digital scale but then discovered you can get these gauges that are normally very expensive for a good price if you keep your eyes open.

I've been using these tension/push/force gauges for a while now and they are very reliable and accurate.  There are many manufacturers and any should be fine, just be sure you get a 100g version.  Preferably 10-100g.

Here's an ebay search you can save that will show you some good ones.  It's pretty broad so it will show a lot of things you don't want but most things you do should be there.  If you look often you'll find they pop up in the $5-20 range frequently.  And those are the Swiss/German/French gauges that are a few hundred retail.  There are some new ones from China that go for $45.




Here's a 10-100g Sherr Tumico like one of my gauges and an Arpo that looks good.

[British]

Do they have some way to memorize the point at which the "pression" is released, or do you have to stare at it to measure the force ?

[didjamatic]

Some models have a needle you can adjust to stay in place at the max measurement.

I've found the same thing varying on boards Ripster, I just went through a Mint, unused blue ALPS board and it varies 60-63g.  Dirty boards can really vary as the switches binding can ad a ton of resistance, or well used boards can be weaker on overused keys vs. less used... or the opposite if the switches bind from overuse.