Nobody asked, but I recall that sometime ago there was a discussion about
cleaning keyboards by running them through the dishwasher. Being less than
satisfied with the keyboard that came with my new 2.4 GHz Intel Core 2 Duo,
I got out the old keyboard that came with my iMac G4 ("lampshade"; for my
money the best Mac ever, although my new 2.4 GHz Intel is a close second).
I put the keyboard in the top rack of the dishwasher, ran it through, then
let it dry for the prescribed two weeks. No damage, but it really didn't
help the performance much; keys were still stiff and inclined to stick. So,
having nothing to lose, I dug out some powdered graphite and sprinkled it
between the keys. Presto! I've only been using it a couple of days, but it
works better than new. If you attempt this, try to avoid getting graphite
on top of the keys; it can be removed with a paper towel and the 409
All-Purpose Cleaner (or similar stuff), but it's messy and tends to spread,
requiring several applications and lots of rubbing. Only way to remove it
from the sides of the keys is with pipe cleaners and aforesaid 409. For me,
it's not worth the effort; I don't mind some black on the edges. (I
probably don't need to point out that you should disconnect the keyboard if
you try this; it won't hurt anything if you don't, but you'll get lots of
"beeps" and letters chasing themselves around the screen.)
Nolan
_______________________________________________
The next Louisville Computer Society meeting will
be January 27 at MacAuthority, 128 Breckinridge Lane.
Posting address: [email protected]
Information: http://www.math.louisville.edu/mailman/listinfo/macgroup
