I was repairing my Yamaha keyboard, and I wanted to share some lessons I learned. Here are a few ways to repair a damaged keyboard contact in a digital keyboard:
- Clean the contact points: Dirt and dust buildup on the contact points can cause connectivity issues. You can clean the contacts with a soft cloth or a microfiber cloth.
- Reflow the soldering: If the contact points are loose or have bad soldering, you can reflow the solder to repair the connections.
- Replace the key switch: If the contact points are severely damaged or beyond repair, you can replace the key switch assembly to restore the keyboard’s functionality.
- Replace the circuit board: If the problem is with the circuit board rather than just a single key switch, you may need to replace the entire circuit board to restore the keyboard’s functionality.
Graphite is often used as a conductive material in electronic contacts, and it can be reapplied to repair damaged contacts. However, it can be difficult to apply graphite evenly and precisely to the small contact points in a keyboard, and the results may not be long-lasting. Additionally, graphite can leave residue on the contacts and surrounding components, which can cause further issues down the line.
Therefore, it may be more effective to replace the damaged contact points with new ones, rather than trying to reapply graphite. This will ensure a more reliable and long-lasting repair.
In digital music keyboards, graphite is typically used in the form of a graphite film, graphite powder, or graphite paste. These materials are commonly used in electronic applications because they have high electrical conductivity and low resistance, making them suitable for use in switch contacts.
When reapplying graphite to keyboard contacts, it’s important to use a high-quality, pure graphite material that is specifically designed for use in electronics. Graphite powders and pastes are the easiest to work with, as they can be applied directly to the contacts with a brush or other applicator.
Note: Before attempting any repair, make sure to unplug the keyboard and take necessary precautions as working with electronics can be dangerous.
I learned some more about contacts from this website: