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
Unfortunately I don't have any Tai Hao double shot keys here for attempting to reproduce the issue. However, from what you describe, it sounds like the stabilizer stems on these Tai Hao caps may be slightly out of spec - either too far apart or too close together, or not symmetric about the center key switch stem. Or, it's possible that there are multiple stabilizer stems close together and one is causing interference. There is a small chance too that a stabilizer stem is twisted or skewed.
Cherry style integrated stabilizers are great because they make for easy key cap swaps! But they also provide a challenge because they have exacting dimensional requirements. One long term, permanent fix is to offer a second, more Costar style stabilizer for the board, with key cap inserts. This makes for slower key cap changes but is more forgiving for multiple sorts of caps.
In my own personal keyboard hacking, I've hit all sorts of compatibility issues with key caps, stems, spacers, and stabilizers, and the solution is usually some modification of the plate, the key cap, or both.
I'm afraid I don't have much more to say. If this is an issue for you please contact Massdrop support. If you do, please be sure to include this response!
Remove the back of the board. (Watch out for static damage. I usually work barefoot to stay grounded, this helps.)
Remove the key cap that is on the stabilizers you would like to remove.
Remove the clear switch top assembly between the ends of the stabilizer by pressing and releasing the clips at the back of the board. You should remove a clear housing, a black slider, and a spring in the process.
Now, looking at the stabilizer assembly itself: each side has a small black plastic tab. With a small screwdriver, press the tab back, in the direction of the stabilizer wire. Then, tilt the stabilizer assembly back, away from the tab, until the front part is clear of the board. You will have rotated it up about 70 degrees.
Do this to both sides. Then, slide the entire assembly forward, until the wire is visible through the slots in the board. Lift the assembly from the board.
The stabilizer assembly consists of five pieces: one wire, two housing, and two inserts. The inserts are keyed: one corner has a notch in them. If they are not rotated the correct way, they will grab. (I found this issue on one of my spare stabilizers but have not seen it on a board yet.)
Installation is the reverse of removal. Make certain that the black clips on the stabilizer are fully seated, perhaps pressing them forward with the screwdriver if they need a little help.
Good luck!