Strange problem with a keypress

[Frenky]

Hi guys,

I have a strange problem with my 'w' key on my Filco MJ2 which I noticed during gaming (and verified using notepad), I don't know what it's called so I don't know what to google for. Let me explain:

When I press down the 'w' key (and keep it pressed down, to move forward) it sometimes "skips" a keypress which makes my in game character stop for a second. At first I thought it was a problem with the game, but when I tried it in notepad the same thing happened. I would see "wwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwwww<pause 1 second>wwwwwwwww" etc..

Post update: FYI, after some more testing, this seems to be completely random, sometimes skipping multiple times after each other, sometimes working fine for a while. I've removed the key cap and tried cleaning it but doesn't seem to make a difference. 
Post update 2: Just switched to a different keyboard to see if it was Windows, but the problem has gone away so it's definitely the keyboard!

1) Does anyone know what this is called so I can google for a solution?
2) ..Or perhaps anyone here has any idea how I can solve this?

Hope someone can help me, thanks guys!

[tp4tissue]

first try another computer.

[Tactile]

 tp4tissue might have the right idea. It sounds like it might not be a keyboard problem but instead a problem with the key repeat buffer filling. Checking it on another computer would be the first thing I'd try.

[EDIT]
Well, that was the stupidest thing I've said today. If it's one key only it wouldn't be the key repeat buffer. Just forget I said anything. 

[jcoffin1981]

I could guess that trying a different comp didn't work.  I'm far from an expert, but I like the whole troubleshooting process and I often learn as I go along.  There are a few options or things you can try.

1. With the board disassembled (plugged in USB) from the case and bottom PCB exposed, take a wire and touch the two contacts of the switch together.  This accomplishes the same thiing as depressing the switch.  If it does not skip at all then the switch needs to be replaced.

2.  The solder joints are no longer making good contact with the board.  If you press the key and wiggle it and it skips this could be the case.  You can also press the switch and wiggle it from the contacts on the bottom of the board.  Every one should be labeled "W" or whatever.  Unfortunately it may not be easy to differentiate this problem from a bad or worn switch, so it may be best to just swap the switch anyway, but one could try remelting the solder joints to make better contact. 

3. If replacing the switch and/or fixing the joints did not solve the problem it's beyond my knowledge to help you.  By the way, is this a wireless keyboard?  This can cause problems like you are describing.  Maybe you have a friend who can help you.  It's certainly worth trying something instead of replacing an expensive Filco.

[xtrafrood]

I've had a similar issue with my W key on a wireless scissor switch board that I thought was a radio problem. Turns out the scissor switch mechanism is slightly bent and not making contact--I'd imagine that if you've had the board for a while it could be the solder joints like jcoffin1981 mentioned. If it's still under the 30-90 return period or warranty, and you're able to send it back I would definitely consider that option.

[jcoffin1981]

By the way, I assume it's fair to assume this happens with no other keys?  Yeah if it's under warranty than screw it, why fu@% with it?

[ygor]

I had a problem like this with my esc key, turned out I had accidentally bound a function to it to make it act funny, press multiple times, etc. Dunno if that could be a reason (I'm not familiar with the Filco), just throwing out suggestions.

[Frenky]

Thanks for all the help guys (yes its only one key - and no unfortunately no more warranty), I'll be messing around with it and post back when/if I find out what the hell it is. For now I'm using a corsair k65 with mx speed switches - actually quite nice!

Edit: Oh and no it's not wireless, just a stock Filco MJ2.