Tempo Fasteners Pack: What's Included and How to Use Them

Quick Answer

The Tempo Fasteners Pack includes all the screws and screwdriver bits needed to assemble your Tempo keyboard. It contains M2.5x6 socket head screws for the case, M2x4 flat head screws for the weight and hotswap standoffs, M2x5 socket head screws for the plate top mount, M2x3 socket head screws for the daughterboard, and PH1 and H1.5 hex ball end bits. Use the included bits with a standard screwdriver handle to avoid stripping the screws.

When you're building a mechanical keyboard, having the right screws and bits on hand can make the difference between a smooth assembly and a frustrating one. The Tempo Fasteners Pack is designed to give you exactly what you need for the Tempo board, so you don't have to hunt for compatible hardware.

In this guide, we answer common questions about the Tempo Fasteners Pack: what's included, how to use each fastener, and what to do if you lose a screw. We'll also point out a few practical tips to keep your build secure and your screws in good shape.

What's in the Tempo Fasteners Pack?

The Tempo Fasteners Pack contains a complete set of fasteners and screwdriver bits for the Tempo keyboard. Specifically, it includes: M2.5x6 Socket Head screws (quantity 5) for the keyboard case, M2x4mm Flat Head screws (quantity 11) for the weight and hotswap standoffs, M2x5 Socket Head screws (quantity 6) for the plate top mount, M2x3 Socket Head screws (quantity 5) for the daughterboard, a PH1 bit for stabilizers, and an H1.5 Hex Ball End bit for the keyboard case.

All fasteners are zinc plated carbon steel and have been magnetized for easy installation. The magnetized feature helps hold the screw on the driver, reducing the chance of dropping small screws into hard-to-reach areas. The included bits are standard sizes that fit most screwdrivers, so you can use your own handle if preferred.

• Keep the pack's original container or a small parts tray to avoid losing screws.
• Use the correct bit for each screw type to prevent stripping.

How to Use Each Fastener in the Tempo Fasteners Pack

Start with the case screws: the M2.5x6 Socket Head screws secure the keyboard case halves. Use the H1.5 Hex Ball End bit for these, as it's designed to reach at an angle if needed. Next, the M2x4mm Flat Head screws are for the weight and hotswap standoffs. These are flat head, so they sit flush with the surface, giving a clean look.

For the plate top mount, use the M2x5 Socket Head screws. These attach the plate to the case, and the longer length provides a secure hold. The M2x3 Socket Head screws are for the daughterboard, which connects the USB port to the main PCB. Finally, the PH1 bit is for the stabilizer screws, which hold the stabilizers in place on the PCB.

When installing, avoid over-tightening. Hand-tighten until snug, then give a quarter turn with the driver. Over-tightening can strip threads or crack the mounting points. If you're unsure about the torque, err on the side of caution.

• Work on a clean, well-lit surface to avoid losing small screws.
• If a screw feels resistant, check that you're using the correct bit and that the screw is aligned straight.

What If You Lose a Screw or Need a Replacement?

Losing a small screw is common, especially during a build. The Tempo Fasteners Pack is affordable, so you can easily purchase a replacement pack to have extras on hand. The pack includes all the screws you need for a full build, so having a spare pack ensures you're never stuck without a critical fastener.

If you're missing just one screw, you might be tempted to substitute a similar size from another kit. However, using the wrong length or thread pitch can damage the threads in the case or plate. It's safer to use the exact screws specified for the Tempo board.

• Store the pack in a labeled bag or container for future builds.
• Check your work area before starting to ensure you can find dropped screws easily.

Tempo Fasteners Pack FAQs

Are the screws in the Tempo Fasteners Pack magnetic?

Yes, all fasteners are magnetized for easy installation, helping to hold screws on the driver. This reduces the chance of dropping small screws during assembly.

Can I use the included bits with any screwdriver?

The bits are standard sizes (PH1 and H1.5 hex ball end) and fit most standard screwdriver handles. You can use your own handle if you prefer.

What should I do if I strip a screw?

If a screw becomes stripped, replace it with a new one from the pack. Avoid using a damaged screw as it may be difficult to remove later. Keep spare fasteners on hand for quick replacements.

Related Fastener Packs

• SixtyFive Fasteners Pack: The SixtyFive Fasteners Pack includes all of the fasteners and screwdriver bits that the board requires: M2.5x6 Socket Head x5 - Keyboard Case, M2x4mm Flat Head x11 - Weight and Hotswap Standoffs, M2x5 Socket Head x6 - Plate Top Mount, M2x3 Socket Head x5 - Daughterboard, PH1 Bit - Stabilizers, H1.5 Hex Ball End Bit - Keyboard Case. The fasteners are zinc plated carbon steel and have been magnetized for easy installation. If you also own a SixtyFive, this pack ensures you have the correct screws and bits for that board, so you don't mix up fasteners between builds.
• encore-fasteners-pack-320376">2024 Encore Fasteners Pack: The Encore Fasteners Pack includes all of the fasteners and screwdriver bits that the board requires: M2x4 Flat Head Hotswap Standoff fasteners x5, M2x3 Socket Head Daughterboard fasteners x5, M2x5 Socket Head Top Mount fasteners x6, Screwdriver Bits (H1.5, H2.0, PH00). The fasteners are zinc plated carbon steel and have been magnetized for easy installation. For Encore owners, this pack provides the right hardware for that model, with slightly different sizes and bit types compared to the Tempo pack, so you can keep each board's fasteners organized.

The Tempo Fasteners Pack gives you everything you need to assemble your Tempo keyboard with confidence. By using the correct screw for each part and the included bits, you'll avoid common issues like stripped threads or loose mounts. Keep a spare pack in your toolkit for future builds or replacements.