Can Spilled Liquid Cause Hard-to-Press Keys on a TI Calculator?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the issue of keys on a TI calculator becoming hard to press after a liquid spill. Participants explore potential solutions for restoring functionality, including cleaning methods and the use of solvents.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant notes that the top keys on their TI calculator are hard to press due to a spill and seeks advice on how to fix it.
  • Another suggests using a solvent to clean the keys, emphasizing caution to avoid damaging the plastic.
  • A participant requests clarification on what type of solvent to use, as they cannot disassemble the calculator.
  • It is advised to ensure the calculator is without batteries before attempting any cleaning.
  • One participant humorously suggests using a bigger hammer, while also questioning if there are hidden screws that could allow for disassembly.
  • Rubbing alcohol is mentioned as a good cleaning solvent that evaporates quickly and does not leave residue, although one participant warns that it is mostly water and conductive.
  • Another participant shares their experience of regularly cleaning their calculator by disassembling it and washing each key individually.
  • A later reply acknowledges a previous clarification about the non-conductivity of alcohol, correcting their earlier statement regarding its properties.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various methods for cleaning the calculator, with some advocating for disassembly and others suggesting solvent use without disassembly. There is no consensus on the best approach, and some disagreement exists regarding the properties of rubbing alcohol.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the potential risks of using solvents and the importance of ensuring the calculator is powered off during cleaning. There are also concerns about the disassembly process and the possibility of damaging the device.

Who May Find This Useful

This discussion may be useful for individuals experiencing similar issues with TI calculators or other electronic devices affected by liquid spills, as well as those interested in maintenance and repair techniques for electronics.

rocomath
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Well the top keys on my TI are really hard to press, I obviously spilled something but do not remember. Is there a way to make them easy to press again? It's getting really annoying :-[
 
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Spray in some sort of solvent, be careful not to use one that will take the plastic with it.

Or disassemble it and wash it out carefully.
 
dst said:
Spray in some sort of solvent, be careful not to use one that will take the plastic with it.
What type of solvent b/c I can't disassemble it :-[
 
make sure it has no batteries in it at the time...
 
rocophysics said:
What type of solvent b/c I can't disassemble it :-[

You're not using a big enough hammer.
Are you sure that there aren't assembly screws hidden under little rubber feet or labels?

Anyhow, I've cleaned all sorts of things with just rubbing alcohol. It's a good solvent, evaporates quickly without residue, and doesn't conduct electricity.
 
take it apart and wash and dry each key individually, then clean the frame.

if you mess up the orientation of where which button goes, it's not a problem... the manual should have a closeup... then reassemble.

to open, you got to unscrew... and then carefully (will probably mar the plastic), pry it... cause it's popped closed aswell.

I do this like every year... my ti89 gets gunky over time lol
 
Danger's suggestion of using rubbing alcohol is probably the best you can do without taking it apart. Be aware that rubbing alcohol is mostly water, and is conductive. Take all the batteries out (including the back up battery) before doing anything, and allow it to dry for several hours before putting the batteries back in. A little squirt of rubbing alcohol, some dabbing with tissue, and a good hard shake may well solve the problem. Try to use as little alcohol as possible.

- Warren
 
Thanks for the clarification, Chroot. I was careless with my wording about the non-conductivity of alcohol. What I meant was that it won't leave conductive traces behind. My bad.
 

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