What To Know
- Be careful not to damage the ribbon cable connecting the top plate to the PCB.
- Whether you’re looking to replace worn-out keycaps, upgrade to different switches, or simply clean the keyboard, knowing how to disassemble it will give you the freedom to do so.
- However, the Mini has a slightly different layout, so be sure to pay attention to the location of the screws and connectors.
If you’re looking to customize or repair your Ducky One 2 keyboard, you’ll need to know how to disassemble it. While it may seem like a daunting task, it’s actually quite simple with the right tools and instructions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process step-by-step.
Tools You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools:
- Phillips #00 screwdriver
- Spudger or plastic pry tool
- Tweezers (optional)
Safety Precautions
Before disassembling your keyboard, unplug it from your computer and power it off. This will prevent any electrical shocks or damage to the keyboard.
Step-by-Step Disassembly Instructions
1. Remove the Keycaps
Using a keycap puller or your fingers, gently remove all the keycaps from the keyboard. Be careful not to damage the keycaps or the switches.
2. Remove the Top Plate
Flip the keyboard upside down and locate the screws holding the top plate in place. Remove these screws using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
3. Lift the Top Plate
Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the top plate away from the keyboard. Be careful not to damage the ribbon cable connecting the top plate to the PCB.
4. Disconnect the Ribbon Cable
Locate the ribbon cable connecting the top plate to the PCB. Use a spudger or plastic pry tool to gently lift the connector and disconnect the cable.
5. Remove the PCB
Flip the keyboard back over and locate the screws holding the PCB in place. Remove these screws using a Phillips #00 screwdriver.
6. Lift the PCB
Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the PCB away from the keyboard. Be careful not to damage the PCB or any of the components on it.
7. Remove the Switches
Using a spudger or plastic pry tool, gently lift each switch out of the PCB. Be careful not to damage the switches or the PCB.
8. Remove the Stabilizers (Optional)
If you need to remove the stabilizers, use tweezers to gently lift them out of the PCB. Be careful not to damage the stabilizers or the PCB.
Reassembly Instructions
Once you’ve made your desired modifications or repairs, you can reassemble the keyboard in reverse order.
1. Insert the switches into the PCB.
2. (Optional) Insert the stabilizers into the PCB.
3. Place the PCB back on the keyboard.
4. Secure the PCB with screws.
5. Connect the ribbon cable to the PCB.
6. Place the top plate back on the keyboard.
7. Secure the top plate with screws.
8. Replace the keycaps.
In a nutshell: The Key to Keyboard Customization
Disassembling your Ducky One 2 keyboard is a relatively simple process that can open up a world of customization options. Whether you’re looking to replace worn-out keycaps, upgrade to different switches, or simply clean the keyboard, knowing how to disassemble it will give you the freedom to do so.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. What if I break a component during disassembly?
If you break a component during disassembly, it’s important to replace it with a new one. You can purchase replacement components from Ducky or other third-party retailers.
2. Can I disassemble a Ducky One 2 Mini?
Yes, you can disassemble a Ducky One 2 Mini using the same steps outlined in this guide. However, the Mini has a slightly different layout, so be sure to pay attention to the location of the screws and connectors.
3. How often should I clean my Ducky One 2 keyboard?
The frequency with which you should clean your Ducky One 2 keyboard depends on how often you use it and how dusty your environment is. Generally, it’s a good idea to clean the keyboard every few months.
