Limited Edition Storm mini Tadao switch problem.

[rob_evanson]

I bought a mini off here a months ago, its worked flawlessly until Round 5 of the CPPS. Game 1 it wouldn't switch on, the battery was fresh as of a couple weeks earlier, but I swapped it anyway. Everything appeared alright for the rest of the event.

Day before RND 6, I tested again. Thing wouldn't switch on unless I used an Allen key to really push it down and even then it was hit n miss. Anyway during round 6 it worked fine again with just finger push required. It went to sleep a few times, but I was able to wake it fine. I'm worried the micro switch has become tempramental and I can't trust it. But who do I speak to and will it be covered by warranty. Is it KEE as its a mini, or Tadao because the limited edition storm minis come with that board.

 

[MeDiC]

Tadao is KEE fyi buddy... They should be your first stop in case you're covered by warranty. Maybe as you bought it from here months ago, chances are it won't be I'm afraid.

You can replace the tactile switch (button) if you're handy with a soldering iron.

If you're not, it can be cleaned but that is only a temporary measure and I'm sure it'll be a matter of having to replace it eventually.

It's down to the copper disc that makes the circuit when you push the button. It oxidises over time, causing a build up of black copper oxide on the disc. This stops the circuit from making properly unless you push the switch every which way etc...

Drop me a PM if you want some more info, or my deets if you want me to do the repair for you...

 

[Bigbaddaveyc]

Rob, don't know that much on the technical side but I bought a standard mini from Just in December and had exactly the same issues with the switch, apparently it's a common fault and they are automatically being changed under warranty. Thib from Just changed for me at Round 5 straight away no problems, I can't see you having a problem with. Kee if you talk to them

 

[rob_evanson]

Cheers fellas, I'll drop KEE a line, worst case they'll charge me for a switch or new board.

 

[BDN]

If the power button is similar to that on the original board, it can be taken apart, cleaned & reassembled. Once done, would suggest a strip of light-coloured (eg. yellow) electrical tape over the button to keep dirt out to avoid the problem re-occurring.

 

[rob_evanson]

It looks like a sealed unit unfortunately.

 

[MeDiC]

It can still be taken apart, but it won't go back together fully sealed. You just have to cut the 4 black dots off to get the switch apart.

When I cleaned the last one I did, I used a hot melt glue gun to re-seal it up. Not too much, just around the edges so as not to interfere with the operation of the button and enough to help the top stay on.

To be honest the best bet would be to replace the whole switch, they are £1.09p from Maplins.

I think it's the 5mm/6mm tactile switch. if you get anything longer, it'll just stick out from the grip a bit more.