What is SpaceFN and why you should give it a try
The SpaceFN concept - setting up your space key as a layer switch when held - is probably one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby. Let me explain how it works. My SpaceFN article on kbd.news made some rounds recently - quite surprisingly given the age of this concept. This piece you're reading is a condensed version of the full post. If you're left with unanswered questions, you'll most likely find the info you're looking for in the original write-up. On my imaginary top list of the most useful keyboard features, tweaks and hacks, SpaceFN would deserve a podium finish for sure. But what makes it so special? In short: SpaceFN is easy to implement, easy to learn, costs nothing, can be used with any keyboard, and can improve your productivity instantly. I will list its benefits below, but can state right at this point that the SpaceFN concept, setting up your space key as a layer switch when held, is clearly one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby....
Apr 30, 2024
It IS possible to install them after, though. You just need to use a jeweler's flat screwdriver to push the wire into the clip (or a watch band tool, if you have one, the little notch makes things much easier).
1) Assemble the two sides of the stabilizer so you have them ready 2) Thread the wire under the keyboard plate and up through the top of both sides of the switch 3) Thread the two stabilizers on each side of the wire. Wire snap faces you, wire goes under the WHOLE post (part that connects to keycap), not any of the holes in it. 4) While holding the wire in place with your watch band tool, finagle the two plastic parts into place. You will have to snap the wire into the wire snaps while doing this, otherwise the plastic parts won't clip into place. 5) Drink a few shots of whiskey after you finally get it, to recover from the stress
The hardest part for me was realizing that the wire goes under the whole post, instead of what looked like a guide for it in the post. It goes under.
https://deskthority.net/w/images/thumb/9/96/Cherry_MX_levelling_mechanism_--_PCB_mount%2C_front.jpg/1199px-Cherry_MX_levelling_mechanism_--_PCB_mount%2C_front.jpg
My 2nd stabilizer is sticky too when I first installed it. Then I took the keycap out and pushed stabilizer firmly against the board. And the problem went away. Not sure what happened.