- Understanding Mechanical Keyboard Foam Dampening
Mechanical keyboard foam dampening is a preferred technique applied by many tech-savvy users and gaming enthusiasts to muffle the sound produced by key presses. Besides sound reduction, the method helps enhance the ‘thock’ note that most mechanical keyboard users enjoy. Now to effectively deploy this technique to your mechanical keyboard, you need to understand the types of foam, where to place them and the methodologies of dampening.
1.1 Types of Dampening Foam
There are a variety of foams that can be used for mechanical keyboard dampening. These come in different thicknesses, densities, and materials, which contribute to the overall sound quality.
i. Neoprene: Neoprene comes in various densities and thicknesses, allowing for customisation based on your needs. Its rigid structure effectively reduces noise, as it absorbs sounds while minimizing echo.
ii. Acoustic Foams: Generally used in sound recording studios, acoustic foam is designed to absorb high-frequency noise.
iii. Sorbothane: Known as one of the best materials for sound dampening, Sorbothane combines shock absorption, vibration control, and noise suppression.
iv. EPDM Foam: Short for Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer, this foam is dense, vibration-dampening, and water-resistant.
v. Poron: Commonly used in gaskets and seals, Poron is an excellent shock absorber and sound insulator known for its durability.
1.2 Placement of Dampening Foam
Placement of the foam is essential for perfect dampening. The foam should generally be placed in the keyboard’s bottom part, filling the void beneath the PCB (Printed Circuit Board) and case bottom. Some users also place foam between the plate and PCB.
2. Steps in Keyboard Foam Dampening
Now that you’re familiar with the types of foam and where to place them, let’s walk through the process of foam dampening your mechanical keyboard.
Remove The Keycaps
Using a keycap puller, carefully remove all the caps. This will expose the switches and the plate holding the switches.
Disassemble The Keyboard
Once the keycaps are off, you can move onto disassembling the keyboard. Use the proper screwdrivers to avoid stripping screws. Upon removing the screws, gently separate the keyboard’s top case from its bottom and remove the PCB.
Measure and Cut The Foam
The next step involves measuring and cutting the foam. Base the measurements on the size of the keyboard’s casing bottom. Most foams compress to form-fit this area, hence, ensuring the foam is neither too big nor too small is necessary.
Place The Foam
Once the foam is cut to size, you can place it in the bottom panel. It should cover the entire bottom evenly, without bulging.
Reassemble The Keyboard
Place the PCB back on top of the foam, taking care not to dent the foam. Then reattach the top case and secure it with the screws. Lastly, replace the keycaps.
2.1 Other Dampening Techniques
In addition to foam dampening, you can implement the following techniques as well for sound control.
i. Keyboard Tenting: This practice involves raising the keyboard’s back slightly higher than its front.
ii. Rubber Dampening O-Rings: These small rubber rings are placed over the stem of the keycap and can help reduce noise significantly.
iii. Switch Lube: Misc supplies a lubricant that adds a layer of film between the switch components, reducing noise coming from friction of moving parts.
3. Foam Dampening Precautions
Even as foam dampening can remarkably improve the sound of your mechanical keyboard, caution is necessary to avoid damaging board components.
Avoid Too High-Density Foam
High-density foam may exert pressure on the PCB which may lead to unwanted stress on the solder joints over time. Lighter, compressive foam materials are recommended for safer, effective noise reduction.
Watch For Foam Particles
Foam particles sneaking inside the switch housing can hinder the switch functioning, resulting in sticky keys. Hence, consider foams that don’t shed particles.
Limit Compression Force
Try to avoid disproportionate force when fitting the foam. This may damage both the foam and the keyboard structure.
4. Conclusion:
Foam dampening is a great avenue to explore for those interested in upgrading their mechanical keyboard user experience. It is a cost-effective technique to reduce the noise produced by mechanical keyboards, adding not only to a pleasant typing experience but also enhancing the device’s ‘thock’ sound.
