deskthority

TL;DR: How to remove a press-fit model M controller and reattach it without destroying the keyboard?

I use a 2021 Unicomp Classic model M keyboard (the GE healthcare version) with some changes: I replaced the original keyset with Lexmark replacements (normal legends), and removed the GE healthcare labels. Now it's a basic Unicomp Classic. I really like the black case and green LEDs.

Even though the keyboard's only 4 years old, there are a ton of broken tenons (the rivet-like things on the back). It needs a bolt mod. However, the controller scares me. It looks super delicate. I'm afraid if I take the keyboard apart and bolt mod it, I won't be able to get the controller back "in" the proper way. The thing looks like it'll break, or brick the keyboard.

I've bolt-modded IBM model Ms with the standard SDL controllers that sit under the backplate. I've never worked on one of these with a press-fit controller. Is there a guide (text or video) somewhere that shows how to safely remove the press-fit controller and then how to properly reattach it?

I think some of them mount like an old laptop SIMM-- there's pins on the casing that restrain where the controller can fit, and little levers that snap over the board to hold it in place.

I managed to damage the membrane on mine, expanding the holes so they didn't align perfectly, but was able to hot-glue it in place IIRC.

Maybe this video and description will help?

https://www.reddit.com/r/modelm/comment ... a_nos_ibm/

Thanks, Ellipse! This is helpful.

Thanks for your comment, Hak Foo. Hopefully I won't have to hot-glue mine.

Thanks for this reddit link. I was looking for the same.

Hak Foo wrote: 27 Dec 2024, 18:00 I think some of them mount like an old laptop SIMM-- there's pins on the casing that restrain where the controller can fit, and little levers that snap over the board to hold it in place.

I managed to damage the membrane on mine, expanding the holes so they didn't align perfectly, but was able to hot-glue it in place IIRC.

Sounds like a tricky setup! Those little levers can be a pain to deal with. Glad you were able to fix the membrane with hot glue- creative solution!