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geekhack Community => Keyboard Keycaps => Topic started by: Karura on Thu, 11 September 2014, 15:11:22

Title: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: Karura on Thu, 11 September 2014, 15:11:22

Hey friends.

So I got one of those IBM M13 from that ebay seller just for the caps, and I've been wanting to use them on my SSK.

Kinda like what Tsangan did here:
(http://i.imgur.com/axgYO.jpg)

My only problem is they are VERY pad-printed, like I can tell they are going to fade in no time, and that's stopping me from actually using them.

Are there any solutions to make them wear-resistant?

Title: Re: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: rowdy on Thu, 11 September 2014, 17:05:35

Similar question here (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=62621.0).

No definitive response yet.

Title: Re: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: Puddsy on Thu, 11 September 2014, 19:10:29

Unfortunately, it's pretty much impossible to prevent pad-print keycaps fading if the manufacturer didn't put protection in themselves.

At least, as far as I know.

Title: Re: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: bazemk1979 on Thu, 11 September 2014, 20:46:34

yes there is a way around, don't type on them lol

Title: Re: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: silas1128 on Thu, 11 September 2014, 22:32:55

I started the other thread because I have an M13 on the way for the same reason, except for use on a full size board. I will only be using the like Shift/Crtl/Etc keys and dying the other keycaps blue.

I think some spray on enamel will help significantly, but we'll.

Title: Re: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: Oobly on Fri, 12 September 2014, 04:50:19

Another more temporary option is to try clear Plasti Dip. It will feel different (it's a type of rubber after all), but it's easy to remove if you put enough coats on and you can spray it in place and simply peel it off the parts you don't want it on. Added advantage that it will clean the surfaces you peel it from.

Title: Re: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: SpecTP on Fri, 12 September 2014, 09:37:59

if you want to use an auto solution like PlasticDip, try OptiSeal instead.  http://www.autogeek.net/optimum-opti-seal.html

it won't last forever, but you can re-apply the product every few month.

Title: Re: Keeping pad printed M13 keys from wearing out
Post by: ander on Tue, 16 February 2016, 21:11:15

I know this is an old thread, so ridicule me if you must (though I won't be viewing replies, so ha).

If you want pad-printed legends to last, wash your hands before you sit down to type. Dirt is abrasive. I'm convinced that's what causes most of the wear on PP legends.

Of course some people have acidic skin, so this may not help them. But I've owned many PP boards, and I type a lot—and typing with clean hands, I've never seen any wear, ever.