How can I clean inside an old original Apple wired keyboard

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Level 1

21 points

How can I clean inside an old original Apple wired keyboard

I recently purchased an older Apple wired keyboard, and though the exterior is very clean, I would love to removed the clear plastic base to clean down in there too. But I'm trepidacious, after having almost ruined an even older IBM-type keyboard by removing keys, and having great problems coaxing them back into their correct positions.

Ca I unscrew the three tiny screws seemingly holding the bottom to the keys and clean away, without fear? Would the serial number of this unit help?

iMac, OS X Yosemite (10.10.5)

Posted on Oct 8, 2015 5:46 AM

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Answer 1

Best reply

Allan Jones

Level 9

68,894 points

Oct 10, 2015 3:19 AM in response to cafox513

If very much depends on the model number. Apple has sold a variety of wired boards over the years.

Would the serial number of this unit help?

No, but the model number will. Look on the bottom or back panel for a model number; it will start with either "M" or "A" followed by a four-digit number. Example: M7803

If it is USB, it is probably the Apple Pro Keyboard M7803. Instructions for take-apaprt and cleaning are here:

http://technology.niagarac.on.ca/staff/bgracey/prokeyboardrepair.html#toc

If it is not that model, once you have the model number you can also search YouTube for video tutorials.

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Answer 2

cafox513 Author

Level 1

21 points

Oct 10, 2015 3:19 AM in response to Allan Jones

Thanks so much. Mine is the A1048, but I found various approaches. Will go hunting for a tiny Torx this afternoon.

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Answer 3

Allan Jones

Level 9

68,894 points

Oct 10, 2015 8:10 AM in response to cafox513

Perfect. Here are some really well-illustrated instructions for the 1048:

https://www.ifixit.com/Guide/Cleaning+iMac+Keyboard+PCB+Membrane/15598

The A1048 was one of the few Apple USB boards I could tolerate, We've kept two in service here.

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