Author Topic: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%  (Read 44414 times)

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Offline samwisekoi

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GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 21:56:42 »
This is a thread to consolidate all the other GH++ and GH75 comments, discussions, sidebars, and meanderings in a single place dedicated to the design and production of the GH75 keyboard.

The GH75 is a extension of the GH60 concept into a convertible 75% and 65% format.  The GH75 in its normal configuration will be a 6x16 matrix, and will include an arrow cluster, a function key row, the direction-key cluster, a function-layer, and full programmability.  The PCB is explicitly designed to have the top row removed to create the 5x16 GH65.  I have built two prototypes, the latest shown at the NorCal meetup on May 4th, wearing its finest Retro DSA keycaps.

Here is the first version, wearing Imsto and Techkeys:

21770-0
GH75 v.1 in Lysol/Imsto PBT

The_Beast has cut two prototype plates for the GH75, one sized to fit a Race/Pure case, the second flanged to be used "caseless."  The example above was built using the caseless plate.  (You can see more of the caseless plate concept on my Poker Plate in the "Post your Poker" thread.)

Matt3o developed firmware for the Teensy that powers the prototypes.  Because the GH75 has nearly all of the keys of a TKL, the function-layer is very sparse, but it is fully programmable, and could be expanded to enable Dvorak, Colmak, embedded numpad, function keys for a GH65 configuration, or whatever you might like.

So that covers the layout, plates, keycaps, and firmware.  All that is needed is a PCB.  And here is a first look at the GH75 PCB:

21772-1
GH75 pre-alpha PCB by samwisekoi

You can clearly see the cut-line (in orange) to slice it into a GH65.  LED pads are provided for nearly all switches, although they are not yet wired.  You can also see some switch layout options, although not as many as the GH60 offers.  The GH75 as shown provides both Caps Lock positions, as well as the following bottom-row configurations:

Near-ANSI (As shown in the prototype above.  Arrow keys are shown in red.):
1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 6.25 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1

Also available for 1.50 fans (and compatibility with Cherry keycap sets):
1.50 - 1 - 1.50 - 7.00 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1

Also available:
1.50 - 1 - 1.50 - 6.00 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1

[There would be an ISO version listed here if I knew the layout details.  As of today, I do not, but I will.]

I am using the near-ANSI as follows:
CTRL - WIN - ALT - SPACEBAR - ALT - FN - CTRL - LEFT - DOWN - RIGHT
(The UP key is directly and properly aligned one row above the DOWN key.)

I do not think I can make a pair of 1.50 mods fit between the spacebar and the arrow keys, but I will do so if I can.

My goals for this project are threefold:

1) Create a fully programmable 75% keyboard for enthusiasts and hobbyists.

2) Create a DIY kit that is fully human-solderable.  (IMHO, this excludes SMD diodes, so they are not used.)

3) Produce a limited-edition, high-quality, American-made 75% programmable keyboard with enthusiast-grade case, board, plate, keycaps, and keyswitches.


Prototype PCBs are the next logical step.

I hope this is an interesting project to more than just me.  Please comment, question, and offer on-topic advice and opinion below.

Many thanks to everyone who has helped so far!

 - Ron | samwisekoi


« Last Edit: Sat, 11 May 2013, 22:00:19 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #1 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 21:57:03 »
Claim staked on this space.
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Thechemist

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #2 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 22:05:22 »
Keeping an eye one this. Will it have individually programmable leds and a custom plate mount enclosure?

Offline WhiteFireDragon

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #3 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 22:19:45 »
The PCB is fully functional except the LEDs at this point?

Offline whiteduck

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #4 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 22:20:55 »
Perfect layout for sc2... 
-wd

Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #5 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 22:28:17 »
The PCB is fully functional except the LEDs at this point?

Only in CAD so far.


Keeping an eye one this. Will it have individually programmable leds and a custom plate mount enclosure?

No to the LEDs, yes to the plate and enclosure.

 - Ron I samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline JPG

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #6 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 23:03:03 »
1. AWESOME
2. There's an IC from the beast form the plate that can be bend like in your example, but for 60% design only so far. I assume there would be one to support the 65 and 75 version of this keyboard?
3. Still AWESOME
4. What would be required to make it full backlit (like on/off for all of them)?
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Offline TheQsanity

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #7 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 23:35:34 »
The three goals sound expensive...
I really like the idea. I am more in favor in a lighter more portable case.
This would be an awesome layout for sc2, lan parties!
SmallFry! <3

Offline Thechemist

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #8 on: Sat, 11 May 2013, 23:57:18 »
The PCB is fully functional except the LEDs at this point?

Only in CAD so far.


Keeping an eye one this. Will it have individually programmable leds and a custom plate mount enclosure?

No to the LEDs, yes to the plate and enclosure.

 - Ron I samwisekoi

I like the Epsilon case but would switch the plate from acrylic to metal and wrap it in some chrome vinyl ( just the plate ) ;)
« Last Edit: Sun, 12 May 2013, 03:40:49 by Thechemist »

Offline ApocalypseMaow

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #9 on: Sun, 12 May 2013, 03:21:24 »
I really dig this setup.
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Offline Bullveyr

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #10 on: Sun, 12 May 2013, 13:50:42 »
So you ditched the idea of having 2 extra columns to the left (like the KMAC mini)? :(

Nevertheless, looking forward on this project coming together.
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Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #11 on: Sun, 12 May 2013, 21:37:56 »
So you ditched the idea of having 2 extra columns to the left (like the KMAC mini)? :(

Nevertheless, looking forward on this project coming together.

More that I forgot that discussion.

I think the GH65 would be quite interesting with the function keys on the left.  I'll ponder that after I get this first pass done.

Thanks for the reminder!

 - Ron I samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Jocelyn

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #12 on: Sun, 12 May 2013, 21:47:04 »
So you ditched the idea of having 2 extra columns to the left (like the KMAC mini)? :(

Nevertheless, looking forward on this project coming together.

More that I forgot that discussion.

I think the GH65 would be quite interesting with the function keys on the left.  I'll ponder that after I get this first pass done.

Thanks for the reminder!

 - Ron I samwisekoi

I cannot wait to see this!!!

Offline SpAmRaY

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #13 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 07:34:55 »
Posting so I will remember to keep up with this and see what develops!!

Offline terran5992

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #14 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 07:57:17 »
Holy crap this is amazing.

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Offline inteli722

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #15 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 08:04:43 »
GH65 Still has my vote.
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Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #16 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 08:32:08 »
GH65 Still has my vote.

With or without the function keys on the left?

Also, assuming only ten function keys are on the left, a couple of questions:

1) Which two keys should be relegated to an F-layer from stock?  F7 and F8 are not used during any boot sequence that I know of, so that would be my vote.

2) What about the Escape key?  In the tilde position or in the extreme upper left?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #17 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:27:38 »
How about something like this?  Remove the function key block you don't want.

21876-0
GH75 with choice of function-key block.

And, if desired, you could use neither block for the smallest profile and still have the arrow keys, etc.

NOTE:  All of the resulting configurations would be larger than existing cases.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline esoomenona

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #18 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:30:37 »
Why couldn't you use both blocks? And if you just slap that left block over to the right, we're good enough to have a numpad there, funtion row above the alphas, and remove the very top row.

Offline JPG

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #19 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:30:44 »
How about something like this?  Remove the function key block you don't want.

(Attachment Link)
GH75 with choice of function-key block.

And, if desired, you could use neither block for the smallest profile and still have the arrow keys, etc.

NOTE:  All of the resulting configurations would be larger than existing cases.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


I am still aiming for a 65%, but I think that it's nice to add this option, giving more versatility.
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Offline JPG

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #20 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:34:48 »
Why couldn't you use both blocks? And if you just slap that left block over to the right, we're good enough to have a numpad there, funtion row above the alphas, and remove the very top row.

I see your point, but I think that it's more interesting to add extra keys to the left of the keyboard when possible. The reason is that most people have their mouse on the right of the keyboard, so expending the left side keep your mouse at the same place while adding keys to the right force you to move your mouse farther away if you want to keep your keyboard centered in front of you.

But that's only my opinion.
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Offline esoomenona

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #21 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:38:35 »
And that's why people choose to use TKL over fullsize, right? But this would be even shorter than TKL. And with the functionality of a fullsize board.

Offline Moosecraft

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #22 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:42:36 »
If someone designs a sexy ass aluminum case for this it would be the last keyboard I will ever buy!(hopefully :P)
I am bigfatmc over at other places!

Offline JPG

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #23 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:44:08 »
And that's why people choose to use TKL over fullsize, right? But this would be even shorter than TKL. And with the functionality of a fullsize board.

I use a tkl right now, and I would still like it shorter on the right. But I use my arrows, page up/down and home/end a lot. The 65% design would let me save around 2 or 2,25 key width on the right while still having those precious keys on my primary layer (very important since I use them in combination most of the time)

But anyway, since the design let us cut the unwanted part, I don't mind if it's on the left or right since I intend to cut it anyway.
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Offline NthTier

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #24 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 09:54:55 »
wow, GH75 is where it's at!!  :eek:

Offline ApocalypseMaow

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #25 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 10:38:30 »
GH65 Still has my vote.

With or without the function keys on the left?

Show Image

Function keys!
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Offline inteli722

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #26 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 11:49:30 »
GH65 Still has my vote.

With or without the function keys on the left?

Also, assuming only ten function keys are on the left, a couple of questions:

1) Which two keys should be relegated to an F-layer from stock?  F7 and F8 are not used during any boot sequence that I know of, so that would be my vote.

2) What about the Escape key?  In the tilde position or in the extreme upper left?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


We're talking the Function block KMAC-Mini style?

If so, then yes, definitely. I love the way that looks.

1) F7 and F8 would be fine, considering I never use them, and

2) Tilde position for the Escape key. It makes a lot more sense to me, and you could relegate the Tilde to a function of Escape, vice versa, or put Tilde on one of the unbound right-side keys.
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Offline inteli722

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #27 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 11:50:27 »
If someone designs a sexy ass aluminum case for this it would be the last keyboard I will ever buy!(hopefully :P)

Fat chance.
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Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #28 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 12:01:34 »
Why couldn't you use both blocks? And if you just slap that left block over to the right, we're good enough to have a numpad there, function row above the alphas, and remove the very top row.

Let me run some traces and see, however, pending that, here are some points to consider in the design:

1) Depending on the matrix used, I likely won't have enough pins/traces for both blocks.

2) In order to have a clean cut-line, I need to minimize the "embedded ribbon cable" connecting the function key blocks.  My plan is to have both blocks use the same traces, and have the northbound and westbound "bridges" near the tilde position.

3) Because this board is designed to be cut, I have to have an edge that won't be cut for the USB connector to exit.  Right now, that is to the right of the backspace key, so it would be problematic to have more board on that side as well.

Regarding folks who only want the 65% option, there is no reason that actual PCBs couldn't be made without either of the function blocks.  We'd just have the fab make a smaller version, and do the cutting in advance in CAD.

Also, I will attempt to make the top function block modular enough that it can be pulled down the .25u so it would then fit into a Race/Pure case.  No promises yet.

I have determined that I should be able to support a pair of 1.50 mods instead of three 1.00 mods to the right of the spacebar.

Finally, could someone please send me layout specs for the ISO enter and surrounding keys?  I do not have an ISO keyboard to check myself, although clearly that is an omission I shall have to correct.

Thanks everyone for the input!  Now, I am back onto the Retro DSA final shipments, and will pick this thread up later.

 - Ron | samwisekoi


Late entry...

If someone designs a sexy ass aluminum case for this it would be the last keyboard I will ever buy!(hopefully :P)

Fat chance.

My plan is to design at least one case, hopefully in aluminum (or stainless) for a complete keyboard.  The Poker-esque look has been done to death, as has the Korean flat-look.  I have not started any case design work at all but I am thinking about something like a size-reduced XT case with pivoting steel feet.  We'll see.  Maybe Matt30 will do a sexy Italian case design for this keyboard.
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Bullveyr

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #29 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 13:18:18 »
I hope you get it working to have both blocks because that's sounds like my dream Gaming KB. :)
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Offline inteli722

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #30 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 13:20:17 »
...

If someone designs a sexy ass aluminum case for this it would be the last keyboard I will ever buy!(hopefully :P)

Fat chance.

My plan is to design at least one case, hopefully in aluminum (or stainless) for a complete keyboard.  The Poker-esque look has been done to death, as has the Korean flat-look.  I have not started any case design work at all but I am thinking about something like a size-reduced XT case with pivoting steel feet.  We'll see.  Maybe Matt30 will do a sexy Italian case design for this keyboard.

let me edit that:

this it would be the last keyboard I will ever buy!(hopefully :P)

Fat chance.

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Offline Skull_Angel

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #31 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 15:52:08 »
Nice to see this project get another thread. I'm definitely in for at least one when they reach production level (though hoping for several, haha).

Offline agodinhost

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #32 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 16:26:40 »
Sorry, didn't got that: the PCB is already designed?

If not I think I can help on it ...
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Offline Leslieann

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #33 on: Mon, 13 May 2013, 20:56:57 »
NOTE:  All of the resulting configurations would be larger than existing cases.
I'm hoping my printer will fill some of that void.
Making a GH60 case was one of the first things I thought of when I started looking into them. I made sure to get a model with a build area big enough for a TKL case (and with some tweaks, a TK). They wouldn't be aluminum, but we could finally get cases to fit these oddball designs for a reasonable price.

Honestly, after having aluminum, it's a mixed blessing. It makes for a great feeling keyboard, but the heft makes it a weapon capable of smashing anything from desks to shelves and toes if it falls. I'm starting to like the idea of a stiff plastic case with some sort weight added, it's just more practical in every day use.
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Offline gimpster

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #34 on: Tue, 14 May 2013, 12:55:40 »
I'd like to voice support for having the same layout of Ctrl, Alt, Super keys on the left and right of the keyboard. It will be very difficult to find properly-labeled keys for the right side of the space. I understand the spacebar may need to be shortened, but I'd rather try to find 1 custom key than 3 and I think a small group buy of spacebars would be a lot easier to run than one for the modifiers.

Aside from that, the layout looks great. It would be great if we could still find a way to keep the USB port in a standard location.
-Ryan

Offline Fred

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #35 on: Tue, 14 May 2013, 16:00:30 »
I shall follow this thread. Is iso left shift possible? 1.25 shift and 1 "<>|" button (same length total as ansi shift).

Offline Skull_Angel

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #36 on: Tue, 14 May 2013, 16:05:01 »
Would it not be possible to keep the USB connector on the back (under the F-row), but pulled back so that it's attached near the break-away point and not on the F-row? It would mean that the 70/75% layouts would have a recessed connector design like many current TKL/104 boards, but the 65% version would be more or less flush with the back edge of the case.

Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #37 on: Tue, 14 May 2013, 16:25:38 »
I shall follow this thread. Is iso left shift possible? 1.25 shift and 1 "<>|" button (same length total as ansi shift).

Working on this now.  I think yes.

[edit]
Done.  ISO left shift +1 and ISO enter +1 added to PCB.
[/edit]


Would it not be possible to keep the USB connector on the back (under the F-row), but pulled back so that it's attached near the break-away point and not on the F-row? It would mean that the 70/75% layouts would have a recessed connector design like many current TKL/104 boards, but the 65% version would be more or less flush with the back edge of the case.

Maybe...

 - Ron | samwisekoi
« Last Edit: Tue, 14 May 2013, 17:11:46 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #38 on: Tue, 14 May 2013, 22:10:54 »
I'd like to voice support for having the same layout of Ctrl, Alt, Super keys on the left and right of the keyboard. It will be very difficult to find properly-labeled keys for the right side of the space. I understand the spacebar may need to be shortened, but I'd rather try to find 1 custom key than 3 and I think a small group buy of spacebars would be a lot easier to run than one for the modifiers.

Aside from that, the layout looks great. It would be great if we could still find a way to keep the USB port in a standard location.

I have added a 1.50 modifier choice to both sides.  So you would be able to use two pairs of 1.50 ctrl-alt keys, which are readily available.  That would still leave you with a 1x spot for a Fn key on the left and normal arrow keys on the right.  In that layout, a really good choice would be a 1.50 RGBY set which would have all the keys you need, including (probably) a little yellow diamond/cherry/horse key for the Fn spot.

Note:  You would then also need to use a 7.00 spacebar, but the board already allows for that.

I am not going to support custom spacebar lengths, because those are in fact MUCH harder to find than custom modifier keycaps.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline rao2100

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #39 on: Tue, 14 May 2013, 22:55:54 »
Though I am only sticking to TKL I can see my self getting this one, small and portable.

i have two questions:
1) I should be able to use standard key caps set right? The only difference with this keyboard is that the right modifiers (Alt,Ctrl,winkey) are single key size?
2) just being curious but will it be possible to toggle like a number cluster?

I am not much of a DIYer, so looking forward to buy a complete keyboard. My first custom? Woot! :)
| KMAC LE Vintage Blues | LZ-S Ergo Clears | Filco TKL MJ2 Ninja Reds | CM QFR - Blues | IBM Model M SSK 1991 |

Offline rao2100

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #40 on: Tue, 14 May 2013, 23:02:55 »
Oops, saw that you already answered the first question in the first post. Sorry.

Though I am only sticking to TKL I can see my self getting this one, small and portable.

i have two questions:
1) I should be able to use standard key caps set right? The only difference with this keyboard is that the right modifiers (Alt,Ctrl,winkey) are single key size?
2) just being curious but will it be possible to toggle like a number cluster?

I am not much of a DIYer, so looking forward to buy a complete keyboard. My first custom? Woot! :)
| KMAC LE Vintage Blues | LZ-S Ergo Clears | Filco TKL MJ2 Ninja Reds | CM QFR - Blues | IBM Model M SSK 1991 |

Offline Fred

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #41 on: Wed, 15 May 2013, 01:16:01 »
Working on this now.  I think yes.

[edit]
Done.  ISO left shift +1 and ISO enter +1 added to PCB.
[/edit]


Came back from sleep, F5'ed and saw this. Moments later i was striking a victory pose.

Offline gimpster

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #42 on: Wed, 15 May 2013, 18:45:40 »
I have added a 1.50 modifier choice to both sides.  So you would be able to use two pairs of 1.50 ctrl-alt keys, which are readily available.  That would still leave you with a 1x spot for a Fn key on the left and normal arrow keys on the right.

That works for me. :)
-Ryan

Offline dko2o

  • Posts: 76
Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #43 on: Thu, 16 May 2013, 20:22:11 »
Really like the design of the 75%. But have noticed that I've been missing the keypad..
Mayb next time we can see a extended version of this with addition of the keypad, I find a full size keyboard to big to lugg around.

Offline gimpster

  • Posts: 416
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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #44 on: Thu, 16 May 2013, 22:43:51 »
Really like the design of the 75%. But have noticed that I've been missing the keypad..
Mayb next time we can see a extended version of this with addition of the keypad, I find a full size keyboard to big to lugg around.

I'm confused...what's the difference between a 75% + 10-key and a full-size keyboard?  :confused:
-Ryan

Offline dko2o

  • Posts: 76
Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #45 on: Thu, 16 May 2013, 23:17:07 »
hoping to see the keypad next to the body therefore making it much smaller then full sized ones. more on the lines of 65% + keypad. mayb option to cut off...

Offline ApocalypseMaow

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #46 on: Fri, 17 May 2013, 06:41:03 »
I'd like to voice support for having the same layout of Ctrl, Alt, Super keys on the left and right of the keyboard. It will be very difficult to find properly-labeled keys for the right side of the space. I understand the spacebar may need to be shortened, but I'd rather try to find 1 custom key than 3 and I think a small group buy of spacebars would be a lot easier to run than one for the modifiers.

Aside from that, the layout looks great. It would be great if we could still find a way to keep the USB port in a standard location.

I have added a 1.50 modifier choice to both sides.  So you would be able to use two pairs of 1.50 ctrl-alt keys, which are readily available.  That would still leave you with a 1x spot for a Fn key on the left and normal arrow keys on the right.  In that layout, a really good choice would be a 1.50 RGBY set which would have all the keys you need, including (probably) a little yellow diamond/cherry/horse key for the Fn spot.

Note:  You would then also need to use a 7.00 spacebar, but the board already allows for that.

I am not going to support custom spacebar lengths, because those are in fact MUCH harder to find than custom modifier keycaps.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image

Wouldn't it be 1.5 1.5 7.0 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0 1.0
Where would the extra 1x fn go? Like this right?

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Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #47 on: Fri, 17 May 2013, 08:25:25 »
I'd like to voice support for having the same layout of Ctrl, Alt, Super keys on the left and right of the keyboard. It will be very difficult to find properly-labeled keys for the right side of the space. I understand the spacebar may need to be shortened, but I'd rather try to find 1 custom key than 3 and I think a small group buy of spacebars would be a lot easier to run than one for the modifiers.

Aside from that, the layout looks great. It would be great if we could still find a way to keep the USB port in a standard location.

I have added a 1.50 modifier choice to both sides.  So you would be able to use two pairs of 1.50 ctrl-alt keys, which are readily available.  That would still leave you with a 1x spot for a Fn key on the left and normal arrow keys on the right.  In that layout, a really good choice would be a 1.50 RGBY set which would have all the keys you need, including (probably) a little yellow diamond/cherry/horse key for the Fn spot.

Note:  You would then also need to use a 7.00 spacebar, but the board already allows for that.

I am not going to support custom spacebar lengths, because those are in fact MUCH harder to find than custom modifier keycaps.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image

Wouldn't it be 1.5 1.5 7.0 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0 1.0
Where would the extra 1x fn go? Like this right?
Show Image


Ah.  Sorry.  If you use four 1.50 keycaps, then you need a 6.00 spacebar.  Did I get that wrong above?  My apologies if so.

1.50 - 1 - 1.50 - 6.00 - 1.50 - 1.50 - 1 - 1 - 1

I like your example; I may see if I can support that layout as well.

Really like the design of the 75%. But have noticed that I've been missing the keypad..
Mayb next time we can see a extended version of this with addition of the keypad, I find a full size keyboard to big to lugg around.

I'm confused...what's the difference between a 75% + 10-key and a full-size keyboard?  :confused:

Three key positions in width is the difference.  Plus the keypad would be optional.

As it happens, I might make a numeric-only 10-key pad as a PCB design test anyhow.  If I do, there would be nothing stopping anyone from making them for real.

 - Ron | samwisekoi


I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline ApocalypseMaow

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #48 on: Fri, 17 May 2013, 08:51:15 »
Sweet! I would love x4 1.5, 7.0 spacebar, and left/down/right arrows.
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Offline samwisekoi

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Re: GH75 Extending the GH60 to 65% and 75%
« Reply #49 on: Fri, 17 May 2013, 13:45:24 »
Sweet! I would love x4 1.5, 7.0 spacebar, and left/down/right arrows.

OK done.  Rev 514J of the PCB now has every bottom row configuration requested, although probably not as many as the GH60.

(Arrow keys in RED.)

1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 6.25 - 1 - 1 - 1- 1 - 1 - 1
1.50 - 1 - 1.50 - 6.00 - 1 - 1 - 1- 1 - 1 - 1
1.50 - 1 - 1.50 - 7.00 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1 - 1
1.50 - 1.50 - 7.00 - 1.50 - 1.50 - 1 - 1 - 1

And probably some other accidental combinations as well.

Also both ANSI and ISO Shift-L and Enter configurations are supported.  And both Caps Lock switch positions.

For this version, left function keys and top function keys share matrix positions, so it remains a "pick one" setup, although it will be modular.

The image of the PCB in CAD below shown the top function-key row elevated, but that is only for illustration.  I will pull those back down to the height of a Race/Pure PCB for production.  The left-side function keys will remain offset by .375".

22389-0
CAD image of GH75 PCB version 514J by samwisekoi

I am going to take some photos of the possible key configurations in a bit.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case