PCB Troubleshooting Guide

PCB Not Being Detected by Computer

When your PCB isn’t being detected by your computer, it can be caused by several factors. Below are the common causes and troubleshooting steps.

1. USB Cable and Ports

• Check Connections: Ensure the USB cable is fully inserted on both ends. Make sure the connections are snug and secure.

• Try Different USB Cables: Some cables may be faulty. Test with a different USB cable to rule out cable issues.

• Use Direct USB Ports: Plug the cable directly into your computer's USB port, bypassing any hubs or adapters, as these can sometimes cause connection problems.

• Test Different Ports: Try connecting to different USB ports on your computer to rule out port-specific issues.

• USB-C Cable Orientation:
  • Some USB-C connectors are reversible, but not all daughterboards support both orientations. If your keyboard isn't detected, try unplugging the USB-C cable and flipping it over before reconnecting.

2. Checking for Bent Pins:

Bent pins can occur when the JST connector is inserted with too much force or at an angle. You may need to check for bent pins if the PCB is not connecting to your computer at all or you’re seeing error messages related to the connection. To troubleshoot:

• Inspect JST Cable and Connectors: Carefully examine the 4 pins inside the JST cable connectors on both the PCB and the USB-C daughterboard for any signs of bending or damage.

• Straighten Bent Pins: If you find any bent pins, carefully straighten them using small tweezers or a pointed tool, taking care not to break them.

• Reinsert Carefully: Reconnect the JST cable gently, ensuring proper alignment to avoid bending the pins again. It may help to support the connector housing as you insert it.

3. Try a Different USB-C Daughterboard:

• If the bent pins aren’t the issue, try swapping out the USB-C daughterboard.

By following these steps, you can identify whether the issue is related to the JST cable or other hardware components.

Troubleshooting a Malfunctioning Switch

If a single switch isn’t working, it's typically an issue with that specific key rather than the entire PCB. Below are the steps to troubleshoot and fix the problem, broken down for both hotswap and soldered PCBs.

Hotswap PCBs:

1. Check for Bent Switch Pins

• Remove and Inspect: Carefully remove the switch and check the metal pins for bends or damage.

• Straighten Pins: Use tweezers to gently straighten any bent pins.

• Reinsert Switch: Reinsert the switch, ensuring it is properly aligned and seated fully into the socket.

2. Test the Hotswap Socket:

• Jump the Socket: Use metal tweezers or a small wire to momentarily connect (short) the two metal contacts inside the hotswap socket.

• Observe Keypress Registration: If the keypress registers on your computer, the issue may be with the switch itself or poor contact within the socket.

3. Swap the Switch:

• Try a Different Switch: Replace the original switch with a known working one to see if the problem is resolved.

4. Check the Contact Leaves:

• Inspect the gold contact leaves inside the hotswap socket. If they are too far apart, they may not be making proper contact with the switch pins. Use tweezers to gently push them back together.

5. Inspect for Lifted Sockets:

• If the hotswap socket has lifted off the PCB, check if the left or right pads are damaged or lifted. If this happens, it’s not covered under warranty. You can attempt to repair it through soldering (covered in a separate guide) or purchase a new PCB.

Soldered PCBs:

1. Check for Bent Switch Pins:

• Before soldering, ensure the switch pins are straight. If they’re bent, carefully straighten them with tweezers and proceed with soldering.

2. Verify the Soldering:

• Check that the switch is properly soldered, with no cold solder joints or loose connections.

• Reflow Solder: If necessary, reheat the solder joint to ensure a proper connection. Add a small amount of solder if needed.

For Both Hotswap and Soldered PCBs:

1. Check for a Missing Diode:

• On both hotswap and soldered PCBs, a missing diode can cause a single key to malfunction. Check the diode connected to the non-working switch. On our PCBs, there are extra diodes near the microcontroller that can be desoldered and used as replacements if needed.

By following these steps, you should be able to diagnose and fix the issue with the non-working switch. If the problem involves a lifted socket or pad, if you're not comfortable with soldering, replacing the PCB might be the best option.

Troubleshooting Double-Activating (Chattering) Keys

If a key is registering multiple presses (chattering) when you press it once, this is usually caused by either a damaged switch or a loose connection between the switch pins and the hotswap socket. Here’s how to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Following these steps should help eliminate the double-activating issue and your key should work correctly.

Tips and Tricks for Installing Softer Plates (like POM) and Ensuring Switches Are Fully Inserted

Softer plates, such as POM, offer flexibility, but this can also make installation a bit more challenging compared to rigid materials like aluminum or brass. To avoid issues like sagging or switches not being fully seated, it’s important to follow some specific techniques for a smooth build. Below are our updated tips, including a new "candy cane stripe" technique for switch installation.

1. Start with the Corner Switches:

• Begin by placing switches in the four corners of the plate. This will anchor the plate and help maintain its alignment with the PCB. Securing the corners first provides stability and prevents the plate from moving or flexing too much during installation.

2. Use the Candy Cane Stripe Technique:

• Instead of gradually working inward or along the edges, try our "candy cane stripe" technique for installing switches. Here’s how it works:
  • After securing the corner switches, install switches in diagonal or angled stripes across the plate, similar to candy cane stripes. For example, start by inserting switches in every third column at an angle.
  • Once the first diagonal line is complete, move to the next stripe. This method helps evenly distribute pressure across the plate, preventing sagging in the middle and ensuring the plate stays aligned with the PCB.

• This technique keeps the plate stable while allowing for even pressure distribution, making it easier to fit all switches without stressing the plate.

3. Ensure Switches Are Fully Inserted:

• For each switch, make sure both pins are fully inserted into the PCB and the housing is flush with the plate. Push down on the switch gently until it clicks into place. If you feel resistance, check for bent pins or misalignment.

• If a switch isn't fitting smoothly, don't force it. Gently straighten any bent pins with tweezers, or realign the switch before trying again.

4. Prevent Plate Sagging:

• Softer plates, like POM, are prone to sagging if not installed carefully. As you use the candy cane stripe technique, frequently check that the plate remains level and that all switches are aligned with the PCB. If you notice the plate needs to be adjusted, you can use a popsicle stick or similarly shaped tool to push up the plate onto the switches.

• A foam layer between the plate and PCB can also help reduce sagging and provide extra support during installation.

Setting macOS Layout: Switching Command and Option Key Positions in macOS System Preferences

If you are using your Envoy with a Mac, switch the Command and Option key positions in System Preferences. You will only need to do this one time, and the positions will be correct for both Mac and PC usage. Here’s how to do it:

Steps for macOS:

1. Open System Preferences:

• Click the Apple logo in the top-left corner of your screen.

• Select System Preferences from the dropdown menu.

2. Navigate to Keyboard Settings:

• In System Preferences, click on Keyboard from the list of options.

• This technique keeps the plate stable while allowing for even pressure distribution, making it easier to fit all switches without stressing the plate.

3. Access Modifier Keys Settings:

• In the Keyboard settings window, click the Modifier Keys button. This opens a window where you can customize the modifier keys.

• Select your keyboard from the Select keyboard dropdown menu

4. Switch Command and Option Key Positions:

• In the Modifier Keys window, swap the positions of the Command and Option keys by selecting the appropriate dropdown options.

• Once you’ve made the changes, click OK to apply them.

5. Confirm the Change:

• You will only need to do this one time, and the positions will be correct for both Mac and PC usage.

Multiple Keys Not Working

If several keys in a row or section aren't working, the issue may be with a damaged PCB trace.

• Check PCB Traces: Inspect the PCB for damaged or broken traces, which can interrupt the electrical pathway for multiple keys.

• Repair if Possible: Minor damage may be repairable by soldering jumper wires.

Backlight or RGB Issues

If the keyboard's backlighting or RGB features aren't working: