Quick Answer:

Yes, we can make an X-keys Stick with fewer keys.

The X-keys Stick was designed so that it could be cut down to smaller lengths. The case design for the X-keys Stick allows it to be cut to the desired length, and the endcap simply pops back into the end of the case for a nice clean appearance.

Limitations of shortening your X-keys stick:

PS/2 vs USB:

PS/2:

• Can be cut down to a minimum of five keys.
• Looses the ability to use the backlighting on the device.

USB:

• Can be cut down to a minimum of two keys.
• Retains the ability to use the backlighting on the device.
  

How can it be done?

You can either choose to make these modifications yourself, of for a fee we can shorten the stick for you. The following sections show the pros and cons of shortening your device yourself or having us do it for you.

Have Us Shorten the Stick:

Pros:

• The X-keys device will still be covered by our one-year limited warranty.
• We will test the device before shipping it you, ensuring that it will work.

Cons:

• You will need to pay extra to have your device customized.
• The device needs to go through our production cycle, and may take a few days before we can ship it.

Pricing:

• Please send an email to moc.gnireenigneip@selas for the latest pricing.
  
• Pricing is subject to change without notice.
  

Shortening the Stick Yourself:

Pros:

• Does not cost you anything extra.
• If the device is in stock it will be shipped off to you according to our regular shipping schedule.

Cons:

• Modifying the device will void your warranty.
• We cannot guarantee that your device will continue to work.

How To:

				Disclaimer: Modifying this device will void your warranty. P.I. Engineering is not responsible for any damages done to the device. Proceed at your own risk.	
		

1. Make sure your X-keys device is not plugged into your computer.
2. Examine the large end cap at the end of your device where the cord and programming switch are. You will notice two small holes (one on each side) in the aluminum case near where the endcap meets the keys (see Figure 1 ).
   
3. Using a small object (like a paperclip for example) gently press inward (inside these holes) to release the endcap's latching mechanism.
4. Firmly grasp the endcap AND the printed circuit board (PCB) assembly and slide them out of the case. The easiest way to do this is to press on the first key and slide the assembly out of the end of the case. If you only grasp the endcap you can break off your layer indicator LEDs, so be sure to get the PCB along with the endcap (see Figure 2 ).
5. Remove the small endcap from the other end of the case (see Figure 3 ). This endcap is glued into the case, so you may need to gently pry it out with a screwdriver or pliers.
6. Slowly cut the circuit board with a small hand saw, making sure you do not bend the board during this process, as it may damage the circuits.
   
• Figure 4 shows the shortest point you can cut the USB version of the X-keys stick.
  
• Figure 5 shows the shortest point you can cut the PS/2 version of the X-keys stick.
• Be careful you do not accidently remove any of the components marked in figure 3 and figure 4.
7. Lay the shortened circuit board next to the case and measure out how short you need to make the case. Be sure to take note of how far the small endcap fits into the case.
8. Place the case in a miter box or cutting jig to ensure your cuts are perpendicular to the edge of the case when you shorten it.
9. Once the case has been shortened reattach the small endcap with a dab of glue.
10. Fit the large endcap over the circuit board and slide the assembly back into the case.
11. Congratulations on shortening your X-keys stick. With any luck it will perform just as it did before, just with a few less keys.

Figures:

Figure 1:

Figure 2:

Figure 3:

Figure 4:

Figure 5: