Are Gaskets Necessary for Mounting

[Sonikbotnik]

Finally have time to assemble my first keyboard. I purchased a Tada68 case, pcb, and plate, after being satisfied with the pre-built as an intro into this world. I've read up on some preliminary guides both here and deskthority, and looks like I have what I need.

One thing I've noticed, is there's no mention of using washers on the mount points. Is this something that's common knowledge, and therefore not included in docs, or do people simply not use them? I'm used to seeing washers / gaskets in mechanical components so it seems strange to place the PCB directly onto the aluminum case. Is it a waste of time? Does it significantly affect feel? Does it mess with grounding somehow? Is it used in case mount vs tray mount only etc?

Thanks.

[xondat]

Personally never heard of gaskets being used for a tray mount case.

[pixelpusher]

It's not standard practice to add material.  The PCBs are meant to be mounted directly onto the metal posts.  There is no conductive traces on those spots.  However, some people (myself included) have found that it can produce nice results by adding something to absorb the shock of the PCB against the metal case when typing.

It does effect the feel a bit, but it mostly effects the sound of the board.  I've used something as simple as craft foam on the mounting points in the past.  Just try it out and see if you prefer it with or without.  That's 99% what this hobby is about.

Keep in mind that any height you add from the washers/dampening material above those mounting points will raise the PCB and plate up higher.  This will result in more of the switches being exposed when viewed from the side.   That's not a bad or good thing, it's just something to take note of.  I prefer my switches hidden on cases like the Tada, so that's why I use the thinnnest material I can find.

[Sonikbotnik]

It's not standard practice to add material.  The PCBs are meant to be mounted directly onto the metal posts.  There is no conductive traces on those spots.  However, some people (myself included) have found that it can produce nice results by adding something to absorb the shock of the PCB against the metal case when typing.

It does effect the feel a bit, but it mostly effects the sound of the board.  I've used something as simple as craft foam on the mounting points in the past.  Just try it out and see if you prefer it with or without.  That's 99% what this hobby is about.

Keep in mind that any height you add from the washers/dampening material above those mounting points will raise the PCB and plate up higher.  This will result in more of the switches being exposed when viewed from the side.   That's not a bad or good thing, it's just something to take note of.  I prefer my switches hidden on cases like the Tada, so that's why I use the thinnnest material I can find.

Excellent points, thanks for the thorough feedback!