Keyboard case with metal plate removed for PE foam modding

Você já tentou modificar seu teclado com espuma PE?

Learn how PE foam keyboard mods reduce vibrations and improve sound. Follow the steps, tools, and tips to create a smoother typing experience.

PE Foam modding your keyboard is a popular modification technique aimed at improving sound and feel. The basic idea is to add a layer of PE (Polyethylene) foam inside the keyboard case or between the PCB and the plate. This can reduce vibrations, dampen noise, and provide a softer, more refined acoustic experience for keypresses.

Materials You’ll Need

PE Foam Sheets: You can use 1mm or 2mm thick PE foam sheets. They’re lightweight, durable, and effective at dampening keyboard sound.

  1. Scissors or a Craft Knife: For cutting the foam to size.
  2. Screwdriver: To open the keyboard and remove the screws.
  3. Keyboard Tools: Keycap puller and possibly a switch puller depending on the modification.
  4. Ruler: To measure the foam for the correct size.
  5. Keyboard (Openable): A hot-swappable or soldered keyboard that allows easy disassembly.

Disassembled mechanical keyboard with PE foam installation tools on desk

Step-by-Step Process

1. Disassemble the Keyboard

  • Unplug the keyboard and remove the keycaps using a keycap puller.
  • Unscrew the screws holding the case together. These are usually located on the bottom or inside the keyboard depending on the model.
  • Separate the top and bottom parts of the case carefully.

2. Remove the PCB and Plate (if necessary)

  • If your keyboard has a plate, you may need to remove the PCB (printed circuit board) and plate to access the interior.
  • You may need to remove the switches if you want to fully modify the inside, but it is often not required when only adding PE foam between the PCB and case.

3. Cut the PE Foam

  • Cut the PE foam sheet to fit inside the keyboard case. Make sure the foam sits flat without interfering with the PCB or plate.
  • If placing foam between the PCB and plate, cut the foam to match the size of the PCB.

4. Place the Foam in the Keyboard

Between PCB and Plate: Place the foam layer between the plate and PCB, ensuring it covers the surface without interfering with electrical components or switch sockets.

Inside the Case: Place the foam on the bottom of the case. Some users also add smaller foam pieces around the edges to further reduce resonance.

5. Reassemble the Keyboard

  • Carefully place the plate and PCB back into the case if they were removed.
  • Screw the case back together and ensure everything is secure.
  • Reinstall the keycaps.

6. Test and Fine-Tune

  • Plug the keyboard back in and test the sound and feel. You should notice reduced hollow or metallic sounds with a deeper, more muted tone.
  • If the sound change is not noticeable enough, adjust the foam thickness or add additional layers.

Tips for Best Results

  • Foam Thickness: Thicker foam usually creates a more noticeable sound change, but excessive thickness may make the keyboard feel overly dampened. Start with thinner foam and adjust gradually.
  • Testing the Sound: Compare the keyboard sound before and after modification. Test in a quiet environment to better evaluate acoustic changes.
  • Additional Mods: PE foam can be combined with other modifications such as switch lubrication, different case materials, or additional dampening layers for a customized typing experience.

By using PE foam, you can achieve a more refined keyboard sound with less reverberation and a softer typing feel. It is a simple but effective modification that can significantly improve keyboard acoustics.

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