Ejecting switches from plate

[math225r]

I just got my things for my first keyboard and without thinking i started popping the switches into the plate. Then later i realized that i won't be able to place it into the pcb properly (I have a hotswap pcb). Does anyone know how i most effectively remove the switches again?

[xondat]

Push those pins in and lift out.

[math225r]

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Push those pins in and lift out.

But how tho, the keycaps are so close together so I obviously can't use my fingers...

[itskuroi]

I use a small flathead to do it one at a time.

[Harms]

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Push those pins in and lift out.

But how tho, the keycaps are so close together so I obviously can't use my fingers...

Try using an IC extractor tool :).

[Puddsy]

I use a small flathead to do it one at a time.

Show Image

Push those pins in and lift out.

But how tho, the keycaps are so close together so I obviously can't use my fingers...

Try using an IC extractor tool :).

i've done both of these things and they both work fine

[suicidal_orange]

As you can see the bottom of the switch you can press the sides in below the tabs, bigger target and any scratches will be on the underside of the plate so not visible once the board is built.

[OfTheWild]

I screwed around for a few years before finally buying this... so much easier: https://1upkeyboards.com/cherry-switch-puller.html

[Puddsy]

I screwed around for a few years before finally buying this... so much easier: https://1upkeyboards.com/cherry-switch-puller.html

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this is an IC chip remover, as mentioned above

[OfTheWild]

Ah ok, that makes sense then!
Well definitely get one of these!

[tp4tissue]

you only need to push one side,  then press the little protruding nub from below the pcb

[rich1051414]

If you have problems with ic pullers bending on you, you can use the kind that are bi-directional, they lift towards you as you put extra pressure on them, they are very quick.

They look like this:



I want to point out that these can damage things if not used correctly tho. If you are misaligned so you aren't depressing the clips, it will rip right through the plastic from the mechanical advantage. They also don't spring open on their own, so it can be awkward in tight spaces.

Personally I would like a traditional IC puller that doesn't bend outwards on you on tough to pull switches, but I haven't found one yet.