I think I need to do "open switch surgery"

[FKSSR]

Hey guys,

I have issues currently with two Dell AT101W keyboards.

First, and most important, I have a Dell AT101W that I'm currently using at work, but there is an issue with the U key.  Sometimes it just doesn't register correctly.  I end up typing sentences and realizing there are no U's.  I found that if I press really hard on the U key for a few seconds, it will work normally when typing for up to a couple days.

Does this sound like an issue that can be resolved by just switching the switch?  I can take the switch from the Pause key or something and switch it with the U.  Or, does this mean that something on the board is permanently dying?

Second, I have another AT101W in which 2-4 keys aren't registering at all.  Could this also be something remedied by a switch replacement, or is this one really a problem with the board/pcb?  Is there a relatively easy way to tell?

I know there is no certifiable way for you guys to know without looking at it, but I'm just wondering your thoughts.

Thanks!

[itlnstln]

It should be fixable with a replacement (you could use the Pause/Break, Scroll Lock, etc. keys for donors).  You might, however, just want to open the faulty switches, and give them a good cleaning (I would recommend an air duster, but be sure not to inhale it :O ).

[FKSSR]

It should be fixable with a replacement (you could use the Pause/Break, Scroll Lock, etc. keys for donors).  You might, however, just want to open the faulty switches, and give them a good cleaning (I would recommend an air duster, but be sure not to inhale it :O ).

Do you think the second case could be fixed with a switch replacement as well?

I will try cleaning the first one (U problem).  Thanks!

P.S.  I'm seriously covering my mouth and nose when using that canned air from now on!

[itlnstln]

It could be (and probably is), but I would also check for broken traces on the PCB.