June 22, 2026 @ 11:08 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: * (optional) rotary cutter * 2mm hex bit * razor knife * EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) * (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help. [image:https://gamerepair.info/images/153_nostalgia]
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up removing the acrylic sheet from the housing and using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water before the acrylic could be damaged by the IPA. I lightly washed it with just my hands and was able to remove the rest of the foam from the acrylic piece. You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
You will also need to replace the piece on the side piece but this one will absolutely have to be cut down to size. I used a rotary tool to carefully cut the strip roughly in half and put one strip in each top/bottom piece.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic. Remember to test the keys in the operator menu!
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: * (optional) rotary cutter * 2mm hex bit * razor knife * EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) * (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help. [image:https://gamerepair.info/images/153_nostalgia]
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up removing the acrylic sheet from the housing and using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water before the acrylic could be damaged by the IPA. I lightly washed it with just my hands and was able to remove the rest of the foam from the acrylic piece. You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic. Remember to test the keys in the operator menu!
June 22, 2026 @ 11:05 PM UTCtyam updated an image caption from "" to "Top side piece" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 11:05 PM UTCtyam updated an image hidden attribute from "visible" to "hidden" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 11:05 PM UTCtyam added an image to NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 10:35 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: * (optional) rotary cutter * 2mm hex bit * razor knife * EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) * (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help. [image:https://gamerepair.info/images/153_nostalgia]
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up removing the acrylic sheet from the housing and using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water before the acrylic could be damaged by the IPA. I lightly washed it with just my hands and was able to remove the rest of the foam from the acrylic piece. You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic. Remember to test the keys in the operator menu!
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help. [image:https://gamerepair.info/images/153_nostalgia]
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up removing the acrylic sheet from the housing and using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water before the acrylic could be damaged by the IPA. I lightly washed it with just my hands and was able to remove the rest of the foam from the acrylic piece. You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic. Remember to test the keys in the operator menu!
June 22, 2026 @ 10:35 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help. [image:https://gamerepair.info/images/153_nostalgia]
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up removing the acrylic sheet from the housing and using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water before the acrylic could be damaged by the IPA. I lightly washed it with just my hands and was able to remove the rest of the foam from the acrylic piece. You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic. Remember to test the keys in the operator menu!
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help. [image:https://gamerepair.info/images/153_nostalgia]
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up removing the acrylic sheet from the housing and using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water before the acrylic could be damaged by the IPA. I lightly washed it with just my hands and was able to remove the rest of the foam from the acrylic piece. You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
June 22, 2026 @ 10:34 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help. [image:https://gamerepair.info/images/153_nostalgia]
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up removing the acrylic sheet from the housing and using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water before the acrylic could be damaged by the IPA. I lightly washed it with just my hands and was able to remove the rest of the foam from the acrylic piece. You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
June 22, 2026 @ 10:32 PM UTCtyam updated an image caption from "" to "Dirty keys" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 10:32 PM UTCtyam updated an image hidden attribute from "visible" to "hidden" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 10:32 PM UTCtyam added an image to NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 10:29 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
June 22, 2026 @ 10:25 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will (optionally) need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this. The colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through as intended.
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
June 22, 2026 @ 9:48 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that foam will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
June 22, 2026 @ 9:48 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
Reassemble everything and take care to tuck the JST connector back under the clear plastic.
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
June 22, 2026 @ 9:46 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/151_nostalgia]
[https://gamerepair.info/images/149_nostalgia]
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
June 22, 2026 @ 9:45 PM UTCtyam updated a repair tip on NOSTALGIA
New Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/151_nostalgia]
[https://gamerepair.info/images/149_nostalgia]
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with.
[https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
Old Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well. [https://gamerepair.info/images/151_nostalgia] [https://gamerepair.info/images/149_nostalgia]
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs. [https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with. [https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
June 22, 2026 @ 9:44 PM UTCtyam added a repair tip to NOSTALGIA
Original Tip Contents
Replacing the foam inside the panel
Tools needed: (optional) rotary cutter 2mm hex bit razor knife EPDM foam (Thickness: 2mm, Width: 10mm) (optional) bucket of warm soapy water
nostalgia uses hall effect sensors in the keyboard panel (magnet in the physical key, sensor in the board under) and between them in a piece of plastic with foam strips to help with debounce.
Often that form will be degraded and require replacement. 2mm by 10mm flat self-adhesive EPDM foam can be used but will optionally need to be cut into the correct width for one step of this (the colored LEDs are on the same board as the hall effect sensors and are under the foam piece so cutting them to the correct width will ensure the light can make it through)
To disassemble the keyboard panel will require removing two screws on either side of the panel as well as three screws on a metal bracket between the screen and the panel (this is not strictly required but will make it easier to get the panel out).
The 7 screws on the palm rest, as well as the palm rest itself, may also be optionally removed but will make it easier to remove the keyboard panel if you remove both of these. Unplug the JST connector that is tucked under a piece of clear plastic and remove the panel.
Once you have the panel removed, there are strips along what would be the top and bottom (sides) of the panel, once those are removed you will be able to VERY CAREFULLY press your finger into one of the clips on either the top or bottom and gently press in the tab. It may be easier to do from the underside of the panel as well. [https://gamerepair.info/images/151_nostalgia] [https://gamerepair.info/images/149_nostalgia]
Once this is done the key should be removable. Take care not to lose the springs. [https://gamerepair.info/images/148_nostalgia]
This is an excellent time to clean the buttons if you have never done so. You can use a mild soap (like Dawn if available) and just get all the gunk out. There's no need to keep track of which keys are which, aside from putting them back together in the correct piano design, so soaking them in a bucket of warm soapy water before cleaning them off may help.
Removing the foam is, quite honestly, terrible. On mine, the original foam was degraded to the point where I had a very difficult time removing it. I ended up using some isopropyl alcohol to soften it, quickly removed as much as I could, and then took it to the kitchen sink to wash all the IPA off with slightly warm water. I also used the same soap to wash it and was able to remove the rest of the foam.
You will also need to do this to the two side rail pieces (the ones that go on the top and bottom sides of the panel) but I did not get a photo of this.
Once that's done, you should be able to dry them and place the new foam. I used a rotary cutter to trim down the foam for the side pieces but opted not to do the same with the foam inside. This will change the quality of the lighting in the panel but the extra effort was not something I bothered with. [https://gamerepair.info/images/152_nostalgia]
June 22, 2026 @ 9:39 PM UTCtyam updated an image caption from "" to "New foam in place" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:39 PM UTCtyam updated an image caption from "" to "Panel side showing gap to remove buttons" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:38 PM UTCtyam updated an image caption from "" to "nostalgia keyboard panel" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:38 PM UTCtyam updated an image caption from "" to "Underside of panel" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:38 PM UTCtyam updated an image caption from "" to "Button removed showing springs" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:38 PM UTCtyam updated an image hidden attribute from "visible" to "hidden" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:38 PM UTCtyam added an image to NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam updated an image hidden attribute from "visible" to "hidden" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam added an image to NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam updated an image hidden attribute from "visible" to "hidden" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam added an image to NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam updated an image hidden attribute from "visible" to "hidden" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam added an image to NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam updated an image hidden attribute from "visible" to "hidden" on NOSTALGIA
June 22, 2026 @ 9:36 PM UTCtyam added an image to NOSTALGIA