Disassembly

Given we can pull an entire switch off the keyboard, at least in theory, and 1STPLAYER includes spare switches to begin with, it is only fair that this section begins with a look at the Outemu Blue switch in use here. Internally, The switch is very similar to the vast majority of clicky and tactile Cherry MX-style mechanical switches in the market today, with a plastic stem and housing combined with metal springs and contacts. The box around the stem is integrated into the stem piece itself, and the slider mechanism works well in combination with the click bar by providing the tactile bump and clicky sound feedback.


There are screws underneath the rubber pads on the back of the keyboard, and a precision Phillips screwdriver comes in handy here. Once all the screws are removed, use a thin and flat object to pry apart the two pieces of the plastic case by loosening interlocking plastic tabs which lock in place as seen above. This will help remove the top panel piece completely, and a closer look at it confirms the ABS plastic construction as well as a thin white diffuser piece for the indicator LEDs.


The PCB/steel plate piece is connected to the bottom case panel via an internal connector for power, with the battery on the plastic case itself. There is a piece of electrical insulation on the battery to prevent any shorting, and 1STPLAYER uses a measly 200 mAh battery here. This is okay for a non-backlit wireless keyboard, but this is another place where the company is saving money. The PCB is blue and, as it appears here, has either the switches or the socket for the switches soldered in place. If the former, and I may be mistaken, it explains why I was not able to dislodge the switches at all.


Solder quality is generally good with components, including the micro-USB port, all soldered on to the multi-layered PCB itself. We can also better see the switch used to turn the keyboard on or off, although the microcontroller itself has its identity concealed on purpose. Given the limited functionality here, the nature of the controller is not critical as long as it does the job.

Before we move on, be advised that disassembly may void the warranty and that TechPowerUp is not liable for any damages incurred if you decide to go ahead and do so anyway.