deskthority

Hello keeblovers,
I received my Model F Kishaver the other day and spent all day trying to get the firmware working correctly.

Now I have all the keys working and the layers seem to function as I would expect, mirroring as closely to my other keyboards as possible. Content with the configuration so far I decided it was time to install the solenoid.

So I followed the manual found on modelfkeyboards.com and instantly the light came on the solenoid driver and when I pressed keys it was working. I even captured a video of it working! So I carefully put the case back on it and plugged it into my computer, ready for some loud solenoid action and it made a 'click' sound when I plugged in but never did anything after.

Okay, maybe it is off by default. I went to Vail which is what I've used so far with the best amount of success.
I see that my layer key must not have the right key.
But it is the right key!
OK so I tried changing the layer key. Nope, nothing.
So then I decide to put the solenoid toggle on the base layer. Nothing.

Okay maybe it's because it's plugged into a USB hub. Plugged it straight into the computer. Nope.
Okay maybe I need to flash it again. So I did. Nothing. I can get ONE file to work with vail or it's a completely unusable keyboard, not registering any keys.

I've search modelfkeyboards, read and re-read the manual/documentation, I have read through so many threads on this form, I have searched Youtube, I have searched Reddit for answers. Nothing has worked.

Does anyone, anyone have any answer as to how to trigger the solenoid or apply the proper hex or vail file to make it work?
I know its installed properly and every time I plug it in I hear it click in activation.

If you know anything about this please. I'm about to discus throw this object out of my window it's driving me mad.

Do not lose hope: I have an F62 fitted with a working solenoid and configured using Vial.

(1) The Vial action you need to bind a key to is "Haptic Toggle". I use Layer+T. I'd be a bit surprised if using a base key instead of a layer made a difference.

(2) When I fiddled with the throw time options in Vial I managed to stop my solenoid from working. I fixed this simply by giving the whole keyboard a good shake. Shaking the solenoid alone may have the same effect.

(3) If the light on the solenoid driver flashes when you press a key then the problem is not with the keyboard: the solenoid driver is getting the message. Check the solenoid wires are connected correctly.

PM me if you'd like a copy of my Vial keymap.

I received word that this issue was resolved a couple days ago. I have updated the manual to help with solenoid driver placement:

When installing the solenoid driver in the F62 or F77, be sure to position the bottom of the solenoid driver PCB opposite the unpainted bottom inner assembly metal plate inside the keyboard; otherwise the PCB may contact the metal plate and the solenoid will not function. Additionally it is OK to add some tape to the bottom of the solenoid driver PCB through hole pins so that no contact is made with any unpainted metal surfaces. The Round 2 classic Model F F104/FSSK and B104/BSSK keyboards have a post to attach the solenoid driver so the tape and positioning are not needed.