oddly enough since I posted I did that, no visible damage, but the clear protective plastic over the main board (beneath the function keys I suppose) was loose inside the case... to me that's a sign that someone was rough with it at some point (maybe dropped or trying to shake crud out) and matches well with your diagnosis. It's been in a server rack for years that has been basically out of service but kept around for "legacy data" purposes. I knew that the trackball wasn't working, but I was hoping to salvage the keyboard. It's a shame, my first experience with cherry switches, and I have to say I'm quite fond of them. My board collection has grown quickly since I started my model m key dying project and joined here last week, and I have to say I don't see it slowing down anytime soon! Now I really want a board with brown cherry switches that actually works! Bah, you guys gave me your disease.
