Stabalisers for Your KEEB Build

Keyboard stabilisers play a crucial role in the typing experience, especially for larger keys like the spacebar, shift, enter, and backspace.

These components consist of a housing, stem, and wire that connect multiple assemblies. Stabilisers undergo significant movement during use and are often fine-tuned to achieve the desired sound and feel.

Stabilisers come in 3 main variants:

1. plate-mounted,
2. screw-in, and
3. clip-in

Plate-mounted stabilisers are typically found in pre-built and budget keyboards. They attach to the plate rather than the PCB, which can lead to increased movement and inconsistent positioning.

Aftermarket options from manufacturers like Gateron and Durock may offer improved performance over stock plate-mounted stabilisers.

Screw-in and clip-in stabilisers are PCB-mounted and more common in higher-end keyboards. Screw-in stabilisers provide additional security with a screw and washer, while clip-in stabilisers use plastic legs to attach to the PCB.

The difference in performance between these two types is often minimal, though some keyboard designs may require clip-in stabilisers due to clearance issues.

Stabiliser Brands and Performance

Several brands manufacture keyboard stabilisers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses:

1. C3 Stabilisers
   • Available in various colors
   • Smooth operation
   • Decent stability
   • Includes PCB stickers for cushioning
   • Affordable
   • Potential for looser stem fitment
2. Durock Stabilisers
   • Exceptional smoothness
   • Tight tolerances between stem and housing
   • Revised design for improved wire retention
   • More expensive option
3. ZealPC Stabilisers
   • Similar to Durock stabilisers
   • Higher price point
   • Limited availability
4. Cherry Stabilisers
   • Original design
   • Reliable performance
   • Require manual clipping of stems
   • Opaque housing may affect sound profile
5. Generic OEM Stabilisers
   • Often included with budget keyboards
   • Generally lower quality
   • May exhibit scratchiness and rattling

Most modern stabiliser manufacturers pre-clip their stems, resulting in a level bottom surface.

This design choice can lead to more consistent bottom-out feel and sound compared to unclipped stems.

Stabiliser Wires

Stabiliser wires are typically made of steel, with some variants featuring gold plating or PVD coating for improved corrosion resistance. The material choice generally has minimal impact on performance in normal conditions.

The most critical factor for stabiliser wires is balance.

Uneven angles between the wire legs can result in an unpleasant typing experience and increased rattling. To check for balance, place the wire on a flat surface and observe any misalignment. Gently tapping each leg can reveal bends in the wire.

To balance a stabiliser wire:

1. Use two syringes or pens as guides
2. Insert each leg into the openings of the syringes or pens
3. Rotate the legs to align the wire
4. Test on a flat surface to ensure proper alignment

Stabiliser Modifications

Keyboard enthusiasts often modify their stabilisers to improve performance and sound. Some common modifications include:

1. Lubrication
   • Reduces friction and noise
   • Improves overall feel
   • Requires careful application to avoid over-lubing
2. Band-aid mod
   • Cushions the bottom-out impact
   • Can reduce harshness and volume
   • May result in a mushy feel if overdone
3. Wire balancing
   • Ensures even movement of both sides
   • Reduces rattling and inconsistencies
4. Clipping (for Cherry-style stabilisers)
   • Removes excess plastic from the stem
   • Promotes more consistent bottom-out feel
5. Holee mod
   • Involves inserting small strips of material into the stabiliser stems
   • Reduces rattling and improves stability
   • Can be time-consuming to apply

Stabiliser Installation

1. Ensure the PCB or plate is clean and free of debris
2. Orient the stabilisers correctly (wire facing the correct direction)
3. For screw-in stabilisers, use appropriate washers to prevent short circuits
4. Avoid overtightening screws, which can damage the PCB
5. Test each stabiliser for smooth operation before soldering switches

Troubleshooting Common Stabilizer Issues

1. Rattling
   • Cause: Loose wire, unbalanced wire, or insufficient lubrication
   • Solution: Balance wire, apply lube, or try the Holee mod
2. Sticking
   • Cause: Over-lubrication or debris in the stabilizer
   • Solution: Clean and re-lubricate with a lighter touch
3. Inconsistent feel
   • Cause: Uneven wire or stem wear
   • Solution: Balance wire, replace worn components
4. Popping out
   • Cause: Loose housing or incompatible keycaps
   • Solution: Check housing fitment, try different keycaps
5. Scratchy sound
   • Cause: Insufficient lubrication or low-quality materials
   • Solution: Apply lube or upgrade to better stabilizers