How to Unlock a Royal Electric Typewriter Keyboard

Royal typewriters are vintage machines.

If you have a Royal typewriter, then you have a vintage machine. The Royal company began making typewriters in 1906 with the Royal Model Number One, and it continued making typewriters under the Royal name until the 1970s. Today, the company is part of the Olivetti company, which still makes typewriters. However, a true Royal hasn't been made in nearly 40 years. If your Royal Electric typewriter's keyboard is locked, you can try a few things to fix it on your own.

Things You'll Need

• Compressed-air canister for dusting
• Cotton-tipped applicators

Instructions

Unlock Your Royal Electric Typewriter Keyboard

1. Check that the typewriter is plugged into a live socket and turned on.

2. Find and press the "Margin Release" key. This should clear any jammed key bars and unlock the keyboard. If key bars remain jammed, gently maneuver them back into place.

3. If the keyboard is still locked, look for any foreign objects stuck under the keys or between the key bars and the ribbon.

4. Remove any debris or foreign objects with the cotton-tipped applicators and the compressed air.

Tips & Warnings

• If these steps do not unlock the keyboard, you will need to take the typewriter to an authorized service provider.

References

• Machines of Loving Grace: The Care and Use of Your Royal Portable