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The world of Quick-release magnetic switch keyboard has evolved beyond a simple choice of switches. Today, it’s an ecosystem of deep customization, where enthusiasts meticulously tune every component to achieve the perfect typing feel, sound, and aesthetic. The ATK EDGE 75 stands as a brilliant canvas for this kind of personalization, and with i ts dedicated modification kits, it invites users to dive deep into the craft. Transforming a stock EDGE 75 into a bespoke masterpiece is an incredibly rewarding process. Let's explore the journey of upgrading this keyboard from the ground up using the official modification package, turning a great keyboard into one that is uniquely yours.

Getting Started: The Art of Disassembly

The first step in any keyboard modification journey is disassembly. Fortunately, the ATK EDGE 75 is engineered with user experience in mind, featuring an intuitive quick-release design that makes this initial step remarkably simple.

By placing your hands on either side of the keyboard and applying gentle, even pressure, the top case lifts vertically with a confident upward pull. There are no tricky clips or screws, an elegant design choice that immediately welcomes you into the keyboard’s interior. Once the top case is off, a small connector cable linking the main printed circuit board (PCB) to the bottom case becomes visible. This cable powers auxiliary functions, so it’s crucial to handle it with care. A gentle pull on the connector is all it takes to completely separate the two halves of the keyboard, granting full access to its inner workings.

Acoustic Foundations: Upgrading the Bottom Foam

One of the most impactful initial modifications targets the keyboard's acoustics: replacing the case foam. This component sits at the very bottom of the keyboard case and plays a critical role in eliminating any hollowness or undesirable pinging sounds, resulting in a cleaner, more refined sound profile.

The official modification kit provides two distinct options to tailor the sound: PORON and EPDM foam.

• PORON: This material is known for its soft, compressive qualities. It excels at absorbing vibrations and helps produce a deeper, more muted, and often-described "thocky" sound.
• EPDM: This is a denser, more rubber-like material. It provides a firmer foundation and can result in a slightly brighter, poppier sound signature compared to PORON.

The upgrade process is straightforward. The original foam peels away from the bottom case, and the selected PORON or EPDM replacement is then carefully aligned with the case contours and pressed into place. It’s a simple change that makes a significant impact on the final sound of the keyboard.

The Heart of the Feel: A Complete Plate Overhaul

The most involved, and arguably most rewarding, stage of the modification is replacing the entire plate assembly. This process will fundamentally alter the typing feel and acoustic properties of the keyboard.

1. Component Removal:

The process begins with removing all keycaps and switches using the appropriate pullers. With the plate now bare, the eight silicone gaskets that cushion the plate against the case are removed. The final step of disassembly here is to unscrew the 25 screws securing the plate to the PCB. It’s always a good practice to keep all screws and small components organized in a tray to prevent loss.

2. Plate and Foam Swap:

With all screws removed, the original plate lifts away from the PCB, exposing the original switch pad (a thin layer of foam, often IXPE). This is peeled off and replaced with the new switch pad included in the kit, which is aligned with the screw holes on the PCB. Before the new positioning plate is installed, the stabilizers must be transferred from the old plate. These can be unclipped and moved to the new plate, ensuring smooth operation for larger keys like the spacebar and enter key.

3. The "Sound-Dampening Pad" and Gasket Selection:

The kit also includes a special "Sound-Dampening Pad," which is placed between the PCB and the plate foam, adding another layer of acoustic refinement. A key part of the customization comes from selecting the desired level of flex. This is achieved by choosing from three sets of silicone gaskets provided in 40, 60, and 80 durometer hardness.

 40 Hardness: Provides the softest, most flexible typing experience with a noticeable "bounce."

 60 Hardness: Offers a balanced feel, a middle ground between flex and firmness.

 80 Hardness: Creates a much firmer, more rigid typing platform with minimal flex.

After installing the chosen gaskets, the new plate assembly is placed onto the PCB, and the 25 screws are reinstalled.

The Final Touch: Switch Installation and Calibration

The final step in the assembly is to install the new switches and calibrate the keyboard. The kit provides 82 ATK Magnetic Jade Pro switches. A crucial detail during installation is the orientation—the ATK logo on the switch should be facing upwards. The switch pins are aligned with the sockets on the PCB and pressed down firmly until they click securely into place.

Once all switches and keycaps are installed, the keyboard is connected to a computer to run the official ATK software. Within the software, the sensor calibration tool must be run. This is a mandatory step, as it ensures the keyboard’s firmware accurately reads the travel distance and actuation point of the new magnetic switches. Once calibration is complete, the modification is finished. The ATK EDGE 75 is now transformed into a keyboard that is truly a personalized masterpiece.