PiDP-1 - Operator circuit board switches

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I started installing switches by placing the larger switches onto the small circuit board. The two lower panel pieces are used to hold the switches in place for soldering; I found this quite straightforward with the assistance of green tape to hold the 'sandwitch'. Soldering was straightforward, taking care to work quickly.

After the switches were in place, I followed later instructions and added two spacer nuts to each switch in preparation for final assembly once the main panel is ready.

I followed instructions with the 44 smaller switches on the main board, but simply could not get all the switches and LEDs to align. I took a day off to rethink, and realized the final circuit can be removed from the display panel and ottopanel, so decided to align and solder one row of switches at a time. This proved quite easy as only one row of switches need be aligned. Continuing on, I was able to install all switches on the main board without difficulty. I found it important to check depth after each row, touching the center pin while pressing gently on the switch from the back. There were a few that popped into place using this method. I then soldered the lower pin before going back to touch up the center pin. I decided to solder all pins as well to complete the switches.

This is simply a photo of the small switch assembly as delivered in the kit. I took it for possible reference as to location of backing nut, washer, spring washer and final nut in the event I would need the information at a later point in the kit build.