sanchezman
Member
So I recently had the incredibly good fortune to pick up a TRS-80, Model I, level II computer with manuals, cassette programs, and accessories for just $2 at a local electronics swap meet.
Everything about the computer works well. Everything, that is, except for the 'e' key. Pressing it does not register anything. I know that it is a problem with the switch inside, because by shorting the solder contacts behind the key, I can make the computer recognize a keypress. Incidentally, the 's' key also registers two presses for each time I press it, but that is easily remedied by deleting one of the s's.
Anyway, I was looking to examine the switch beneath the key to repair/replace it, but the switches are sandwiched between a metal plate and the circuit board. How can I get to the key in order to fix it? My electronic skills stop at crude soldering (and I lack a soldering iron), so if anything more than unscrewing/detaching is required, I will not be able to do it. If such steps are required, is there somebody in the United States who offers such services for a reasonable price?
It is a shame that such a wonderful unit is rendered virtually unusable because one of the most used letters in the English language is unavailable. I can't even make a simple program, because RETURN (RET.) requires the letter E.
Thanks in advance for any and all help.
Everything about the computer works well. Everything, that is, except for the 'e' key. Pressing it does not register anything. I know that it is a problem with the switch inside, because by shorting the solder contacts behind the key, I can make the computer recognize a keypress. Incidentally, the 's' key also registers two presses for each time I press it, but that is easily remedied by deleting one of the s's.
Anyway, I was looking to examine the switch beneath the key to repair/replace it, but the switches are sandwiched between a metal plate and the circuit board. How can I get to the key in order to fix it? My electronic skills stop at crude soldering (and I lack a soldering iron), so if anything more than unscrewing/detaching is required, I will not be able to do it. If such steps are required, is there somebody in the United States who offers such services for a reasonable price?
It is a shame that such a wonderful unit is rendered virtually unusable because one of the most used letters in the English language is unavailable. I can't even make a simple program, because RETURN (RET.) requires the letter E.
Thanks in advance for any and all help.