[IC] Alter - An Affordable (Hopefully) TGR Alice Clone

[anonymous]

Presenting Alter

Alter features a sleek design without any complicated curves  or cutouts. The goal of this case is to be cheaper than previous GBs of Alice clones.



This kit will be sold through kbdfans as an in-stock item. After selling the pre-made units, we plan to run a group buy.


Details about the case:

• 3 piece design (top case, top mount plate, bottom cover)
• Top piece is anodized 6063 aluminum (Tentative)
• Wedge shaped bottom cover with brass weight
• PCB included
• Compatible with top mount usb port ONLY
• Top/Burger mount. Uses the same plate as the original Alice + regular caps lock support (not reflected on renders but will be edited)
• 7 degree typing angle
• 18.5mm front lip height (not including the height of bump-ons)

Tentative Price: 300$ or less for kit with PCB

Colors: TBD

Renders (Bottom case design render is outdated) :

More

IC Form: https://forms.gle/sKfatv4w195uzqoW8

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/hMtt7BU


May 14,2020 Update

Just a small update, there's a potential partnership with KBDfans. This means that the keyboard will be an in-stock item and will not be offered via GB. This ensures that it will be sold at the lowest price possible and with minimal logistical issues. At this point, the quantity is to be determined but it will be based on the demand during the IC phase.

With regards to the design, I already have a 3D printed prototype as well as a pcb. So far, the plate and pcb fits. An aluminum proto will be produced by KBDfans in the following months. I have a few changes on the case but it's just some small details. Overall look will still be the same.

Since it's an in-stock item, we're planning to just offer one material for the plate and bottom piece. For the plate, it will be brass. Other plate material might be offered as an add-on. For the bottom cover, we're choosing between thick angled aluminum or standard 3mm flat brass. We plan to make a proto of the two types of bottom cover to compare.

Prototype pcb



3D Printed Case

[FinalEleven]

IC form link is broken.

Also should make a render of GMK Alter on Alter

[Pwner]

FINALLY!  Been waiting for a board with this layout.

[anonymous]

IC form link is broken.

Also should make a render of GMK Alter on Alter

IC form fixed!

Hmm, I'll try to make a render of it. Maybe before the GB

[Zambumon]

This is a rather interesting concept...

[konstantin]

Not a fan of the “spiky” front edge; would be nicer if it were flat / squared off like on the Alice. Looks p good otherwise, and could be something I'm interested in (if the front is changed).

The double connectors seem... odd.

[ectoplasmatic]

nice concept, simple design, should reduce price of manufacturing..
re; the double connector render - if it's not clear, this is done in order to allow both 'styles' of PCB that are currently swimming around - the top mounded or bottom soldered usb connectors. It kind of makes this a logical 'upgrade' for anyone with an acrylic alice.

[quadrotiles]

This looks really nice! Personally, I'm not a fan of the squared off front on the alice and much prefer the pointed front or a rounded front lol
Also, I can see the option of getting this with pcb being very popular, considering how fast the pcbs are selling these days
I'm definitely interested! Just please have international proxies or something. I had to pass on the rukia because I'd be paying like 150 euros extra just for being international ;_;

[konstantin]

nice concept, simple design, should reduce price of manufacturing..
re; the double connector render - if it's not clear, this is done in order to allow both 'styles' of PCB that are currently swimming around - the top mounded or bottom soldered usb connectors. It kind of makes this a logical 'upgrade' for anyone with an acrylic alice.

Righto, I didn't know there was a bottom mounted variant. Makes sense then!

[Scucka]

I love it!

[ectoplasmatic]

nice concept, simple design, should reduce price of manufacturing..
re; the double connector render - if it's not clear, this is done in order to allow both 'styles' of PCB that are currently swimming around - the top mounded or bottom soldered usb connectors. It kind of makes this a logical 'upgrade' for anyone with an acrylic alice.

Righto, I didn't know there was a bottom mounted variant. Makes sense then!

yes! btw agree with you on the 'spiky' front edge instead of the flat edge of the original. As in, I prefer the original flat front!

[Jaltr]

Yes, please! 

Is the country question more for Paypal fees?

[Zeelobby]

FINALLY!  Been waiting for a board with this layout.

[Vigrith]

FINALLY!  Been waiting for a board with this layout.

Relax with the sarcasm there buddy, I think this is actually the first Alice IC/GB to pop up this week.

This is a rather interesting concept...

Show Image

I was gonna say. Not to knock the rest of the project, but this is (unintentionally?) the coolest thing here.

[Zeelobby]

FINALLY!  Been waiting for a board with this layout.

Relax with the sarcasm there buddy, I think this is actually the first Alice IC/GB to pop up this week.

This is a rather interesting concept...

Show Image

I was gonna say. Not to knock the rest of the project, but this is (unintentionally?) the coolest thing here.

The only way it could be cooler is if there was some reversible insert which blocked off the unused half.

[eniigma]

Hoping to see a sound test with a prototype; the gap between the bottom of the PCB to the top of the bottom cover seems pretty huge. You might want to make that thicker to optimize it for acoustics

[BigBabyJesus]

Wooow! It's beautiul! 

[mrpetrov]

Pretty sweet, especially if you can deliver on that price!

Also, first custom I've seen with two holes and a taint:

[mchanneh]

I'm in the market for a Alice keyboard, so sign me up!

[hottrout]

Yes please.

[LevelSteam]

I've wanted to try this layout for a while so I'd be in for one for sure. Using both USB connectors seems like it could become problematic though. I'd probably just pick one and go with it. Realistically you're not going to please everyone regardless of which option you choose anyway.

[beekey]

Is the front the same as Alice? Would the original wrist rest fit? There is an IC going on right now: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=105007.0

[zerofltexx]

Signed up! Also I second the flat front, want to get Alice wrist rest for this

[yicaoyimu]

I have a 3d printed Alice case with "spiky" front and I prefer the flat front on OG Alice too.

[delet_d]

Would get if it fit the original wrist rest: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=105007.0

Also not a big fan of the double usb, I would prefer usb-c only.

[Zytyx]

Would be pretty nice if the front profile fit all of the existing Alice wrist rests. Also surprised how people haven't caught on that the render is just showing that the hole supports clone pcbs that have connectors on the bottom rather than the top of the pcb.

[konstantin]

Also surprised how people haven't caught on that the render is just showing that the hole supports clone pcbs that have connectors on the bottom rather than the top of the pcb.

It was cleared up near the start of the thread after I had wondered about the same thing. I guess it isn't obvious enough form the OP — the picture with the two connectors is much more conspicuous and eye-catching than the little bullet point that reads:

• Compatible with top mount and bottom mount usb port

and people have a tendency to skim.

[Sup]

Pointy ass chin thoughhhh

[anonymous]

Re: Conpatibility with existing wrist rests

It's hard to make it compatible unless I have the model for the OG Alice. If people want a wrist rest, I can also make one that is compatible with my design

[MeloDet]

I'd be in for a wrist rest!

[yicaoyimu]

Re: Conpatibility with existing wrist rests

It's hard to make it compatible unless I have the model for the OG Alice. If people want a wrist rest, I can also make one that is compatible with my design

Yuktsi posted a file for wrist rest

Edit: here's the link: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=95054.msg2605311#msg2605311

[Tree_]

Gonna be honest, as nice as this is: When I see "affordable", $300USD is not even close to what I imagine.

[Jaltr]

Gonna be honest, as nice as this is: When I see "affordable", $300USD is not even close to what I imagine.

$300 is way cheaper than all the other Alice-style boards. If you want a cheaper one, the Lisa is the board for you.

[anonymous]

A little update:

Case revisions:

- It now only supports top mount usb ports (USB-C and USB Mini)


- Added a logo on the bottom cover (let me know what you think!)


- Created an alternate bottom cover that is thicker. This is still tentative since this will cost more



PCB Details:

- top mount usb-c
- no in-switch leds
- support for rgb underglow


I will post a major update once I finalize the case design and material options for plate and bottom cover

[bard]

what would be the price for the brass bottom option? :O

[biothermal]

A little update:

Case revisions:

- It now only supports top mount usb ports (USB-C and USB Mini)

Show Image

- Added a logo on the bottom cover (let me know what you think!)

Show Image

- Created an alternate bottom cover that is thicker. This is still tentative since this will cost more

Show Image

PCB Details:

- top mount usb-c
- no in-switch leds
- support for rgb underglow


I will post a major update once I finalize the case design and material options for plate and bottom cover

Wait so you've done away with the cool double-wide hole in the back, added a giant brass weight that needs to be machined, as well as an engraving on that weight? I feel as though that doesn't bode well for trying to keep the board affordable.

I feel like the real win here would be doing a 0° full aluminum board.

[anonymous]

A little update:

Case revisions:

- It now only supports top mount usb ports (USB-C and USB Mini)

Show Image

- Added a logo on the bottom cover (let me know what you think!)

Show Image

- Created an alternate bottom cover that is thicker. This is still tentative since this will cost more

Show Image

PCB Details:

- top mount usb-c
- no in-switch leds
- support for rgb underglow


I will post a major update once I finalize the case design and material options for plate and bottom cover

Wait so you've done away with the cool double-wide hole in the back, added a giant brass weight that needs to be machined, as well as an engraving on that weight? I feel as though that doesn't bode well for trying to keep the board affordable.

I feel like the real win here would be doing a 0° full aluminum board.

There is no assurance that those would be offered once the GB is live. I still need to get quotes for that and if the price is still lower than previous Alice GBs then those will be offered as an option. I just made that as an option.

Also, it doesn't have to be brass. It can be made with polycarbonate or aluminum

[Jaltr]

I'm down for any Alice layouts. The engraving looks sick ngl

[chaos2404]

wow, cool price

no logo on top case?

and other material option for top case?

[freespam]

FINALLY!  Been waiting for a board with this layout.

I've been waiting for an alice offshoot with trackpoint.  Or non-bluetooth wireless with replaceable batteries. 

[kchlam]

A little update:

Case revisions:

- It now only supports top mount usb ports (USB-C and USB Mini)

Show Image

- Added a logo on the bottom cover (let me know what you think!)

Show Image

- Created an alternate bottom cover that is thicker. This is still tentative since this will cost more

Show Image

PCB Details:

- top mount usb-c
- no in-switch leds
- support for rgb underglow


I will post a major update once I finalize the case design and material options for plate and bottom cover

That thicker bottom will definitely help with better acoustics!! How much more are will talking about?

[krey]

ooo that thick bottom. so pretty.

[juaninamilli]

A little update:

Case revisions:

- It now only supports top mount usb ports (USB-C and USB Mini)

Show Image

- Added a logo on the bottom cover (let me know what you think!)

Show Image

- Created an alternate bottom cover that is thicker. This is still tentative since this will cost more

Show Image

PCB Details:

- top mount usb-c
- no in-switch leds
- support for rgb underglow


I will post a major update once I finalize the case design and material options for plate and bottom cover

The wedge case bottom and usb cutout looks clean! Nice job. I noticed the case screw placement. Any reason why you’re not just placing 4 screws evenly on the top an bottom?

[eniigma]

A little update:

Case revisions:

- It now only supports top mount usb ports (USB-C and USB Mini)

Show Image

- Added a logo on the bottom cover (let me know what you think!)

Show Image

- Created an alternate bottom cover that is thicker. This is still tentative since this will cost more

Show Image

PCB Details:

- top mount usb-c
- no in-switch leds
- support for rgb underglow


I will post a major update once I finalize the case design and material options for plate and bottom cover

Just a tip, those bumpons look kinda weird, I would use rubber strips instead

[LevelSteam]

Looking good! Not usually one for logos but that looks pretty nice on the bottom like that.

[MMMike]

I'm not crazy about that logo. First prize would be no logo to keep the cost down, but if you absolutely need to put a logo on, I think it deserves more thought and direction. Looks more like a doodle than a design.

[heyjaykay]

I'm not crazy about that logo. First prize would be no logo to keep the cost down, but if you absolutely need to put a logo on, I think it deserves more though and direction. Looks more like doodles than a design.

It looks like the name Alter is in the logo itself. I'd imagine the designer really tried to make it a part of the logo

Sent from my SM-G973F using Tapatalk

[CrazyAssMonkey]

I'm not crazy about that logo. First prize would be no logo to keep the cost down, but if you absolutely need to put a logo on, I think it deserves more though and direction. Looks more like doodles than a design.

It looks like the name Alter is in the logo itself. I'd imagine the designer really tried to make it a part of the logo

Sent from my SM-G973F using Tapatalk

That's what I thought as well, it really looked like Alter is the logo.

[Jaltr]

Really like the logo myself, kinda like my name, so yeah, I'm biased.

Sent from my SM-J415G using Tapatalk

[orangesoh]

I think if the logo is smaller, it will look nicer (aesthetic) imo

[beekey]

Maybe join the As at the top of the logo. Would look like an arrow / rocket going up. With some fantasy you could also read Alice from the logo.

[MMMike]

Really like the logo myself, kinda like my name, so yeah, I'm biased.

Sent from my SM-J415G using Tapatalk

I don't have any issues with the name, or trying to represent the name. The logo looks out of place compared to the case design. I'm unsure if it's meant to be some tribal, mirror image visual pun trying to be a contrasting statement to the balanced asymmetry of the case, or just the result of messing around with a mirror mode in a mobile graphics app. I can't shake impression I get of it being a doodle - the idea behind it is not necessarily bad, but I think that it can be executed better. It feels in-progress.

That said, this is only one guy's opinion - and it's easier to be a critic. If I had to choose, my preference would be a script logo, but there's no accounting for taste.

[Jaltr]

Really like the logo myself, kinda like my name, so yeah, I'm biased.

Sent from my SM-J415G using Tapatalk

I don't have any issues with the name, or trying to represent the name. The logo looks out of place compared to the case design. I'm unsure if it's meant to be some tribal, mirror image visual pun trying to be a contrasting statement to the balanced asymmetry of the case, or just the result of messing around with a mirror mode in a mobile graphics app. I can't shake impression I get of it being a doodle - the idea behind it is not necessarily bad, but I think that it can be executed better. It feels in-progress.

That said, this is only one guy's opinion - and it's easier to be a critic. If I had to choose, my preference would be a script logo, but there's no accounting for taste.

I mean, everyone has opinions and personal tastes, to which I can say the complete opposite from your comment lol.

I like it that it's different and goes nicely with the name "Alter". Minimal text on a board is a norm, so to speak, and this changes that, making it unique.

To each their own I guess

Sent from my SM-J415G using Tapatalk

[MMMike]

I mean, everyone has opinions and personal tastes, to which I can say the complete opposite from your comment lol.

To each their own I guess

but there's no accounting for taste

We're saying the same thing here

I like it that it's different and goes nicely with the name "Alter". Minimal text on a board is a norm, so to speak, and this changes that, making it unique.

I'm all for changing the status quo, but it can be done aesthetically. Just because something is unique, doesn't mean it is good.

[Jaltr]

I'm all for changing the status quo, but it can be done aesthetically. Just because something is unique, doesn't mean it is good.

This is aesthetic looking to me. Again, depends on pov and tastes.

[Jaltr]

Could you make a discord server, making talking about projects easier?

[myflowsocold]

Definitely interested! Can't wait for more updates

[anonymous]

Could you make a discord server, making talking about projects easier?

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/hMtt7BU

[hotpancakes]

hi there

first post in this website, new to custom keyboards! this design looks tasty!

[Jaltr]

Could you make a discord server, making talking about projects easier?

Discord Server: https://discord.gg/hMtt7BU

Thank you!

Sent from my SM-J415G using Tapatalk

[anonymous]

Just a small update, there's a potential partnership with KBDfans. This means that the keyboard will be an in-stock item and will not be offered via GB. This ensures that it will be sold at the lowest price possible and with minimal logistical issues. At this point, the quantity is to be determined but it will be based on the demand during the IC phase.

With regards to the design, I already have a 3D printed prototype as well as a pcb. So far, the plate and pcb fits. An aluminum proto will be produced by KBDfans in the following months. I have a few changes on the case but it's just some small details. Overall look will still be the same.

Since it's an in-stock item, we're planning to just offer one material for the plate and bottom piece. For the plate, it will be brass. Other plate material might be offered as an add-on. For the bottom cover, we're choosing between thick angled aluminum or standard 3mm flat brass. We plan to make a proto of the two types of bottom cover to compare.

Prototype pcb



3D Printed Case

[LevelSteam]

With all due respect if this is going to be offered as an in-stock item through kbdfans then I'm not interested. They seem to be having a lot of logistical issues these days, as well as some qc issues based on the polaris group buy. I also have concerns regarding overall availability if this is going to be offered as an in-stock item, since that's the road they're taking with the Bella 75%, which according to their site they plan on producing approximately 100 of each type of, with the waiting list for purchases sitting at 6594 people right now.

Personally I think the best approach would be to go through an initial group buy period, and if the demand still exists then offer it as an in-stock item from whatever vendor. That would ensure that people that want one of these boards can actually get one, vs just tossing a couple hundred boards up on their site and saying "good luck".

[bard]

as well as some qc issues based on the polaris group buy

what has happened with polaris? (I only heard about PC plates)

[LevelSteam]

as well as some qc issues based on the polaris group buy

what has happened with polaris? (I only heard about PC plates)

There were issues with the plates as well as their e-yellow coatings not matching the initial images/photos, but them remaining adamant that it is the correct color despite the previous images. Things like that may or may not be remedied by being offered as an in-stock item, but I know that I've purchased in-stock anodized cases from them that haven't accurately matched the color of the pictures on their site either, so overall I have reservations about their services as they stand right now. And again there's also the issue of meeting demand by offering it as an in-stock item on a popular international site.

[bard]

I had similar issues with kbfans.. purchased a GB item with b-stock marks/scratches 
but I heard that polaris qc was pretty level on each level

[MeloDet]

With all due respect if this is going to be offered as an in-stock item through kbdfans then I'm not interested. They seem to be having a lot of logistical issues these days, as well as some qc issues based on the polaris group buy. I also have concerns regarding overall availability if this is going to be offered as an in-stock item, since that's the road they're taking with the Bella 75%, which according to their site they plan on producing approximately 100 of each type of, with the waiting list for purchases sitting at 6594 people right now.

Personally I think the best approach would be to go through an initial group buy period, and if the demand still exists then offer it as an in-stock item from whatever vendor. That would ensure that people that want one of these boards can actually get one, vs just tossing a couple hundred boards up on their site and saying "good luck".

I can't say whether or not it will actually help, but as far as I know the reason kbdfans is moving toward in stock sales is because of the recent issues with polaris etc. I do agree with some of the other concerns like availability though.

[LevelSteam]

Availability is a big concern as well. If it shapes up to be anything like what the bella is sitting at right now then I'm not interested in following the development any longer for those reasons as well, because realistically I'm never going to get my hands on one for an affordable price.

[anonymous]

Availability is a big concern as well. If it shapes up to be anything like what the bella is sitting at right now then I'm not interested in following the development any longer for those reasons as well, because realistically I'm never going to get my hands on one for an affordable price.

I understand how you feel. However, even if I proceed with the GB format, I would still be not able to meet the demand of 100 boards or more. Organizing a GB for a keyboard is not easy you know. If I will run the GB myself, I would just limit it to not more than 50 spotsS.

[anonymous]

I had similar issues with kbfans.. purchased a GB item with b-stock marks/scratches 
but I heard that polaris qc was pretty level on each level

Did you report the issue to kbdfans?

[FinalEleven]

Availability is a big concern as well. If it shapes up to be anything like what the bella is sitting at right now then I'm not interested in following the development any longer for those reasons as well, because realistically I'm never going to get my hands on one for an affordable price.

I understand how you feel. However, even if I proceed with the GB format, I would still be not able to meet the demand of 100 boards or more. Organizing a GB for a keyboard is not easy you know. If I will run the GB myself, I would just limit it to not more than 50 spotsS.

I think it would be a good idea to run 50 yourself, then do additional rounds. I would assume that additional rounds would have a quicker turnaround assuming the same factories are used due to not needing a prototype.

[juaninamilli]

A GB isn’t the easiest thing in the world to do. No platform will solve everyone’s “problem” of not owning one. I respect someone willing to admit a limit for themselves. Those are the folks that won’t be burned out after one run.

[bard]

I had similar issues with kbfans.. purchased a GB item with b-stock marks/scratches 
but I heard that polaris qc was pretty level on each level

Did you report the issue to kbdfans?

yes, but never got a response - contacted support on discord - the same
after a few tries, I've stopped as they could not be ready for such amount of support tasks
all in all - I do not buy there anymore 

[reaLFX]

Interested

[zekth]

Looking for it

Since it's an in-stock item, we're planning to just offer one material for the plate and bottom piece. For the plate, it will be brass. Other plate material might be offered as an add-on.

I get the point of the "in-stock" constraint, but i also read "might be offered as an add-on". So if it's not possible, would you release the plate files?

[anonymous]

Looking for it

Since it's an in-stock item, we're planning to just offer one material for the plate and bottom piece. For the plate, it will be brass. Other plate material might be offered as an add-on.

I get the point of the "in-stock" constraint, but i also read "might be offered as an add-on". So if it's not possible, would you release the plate files?

Plate files are open source. But sure, I can release the plate file for Alter. The only thing I added on my version are some flex cuts below the two spacebars

[anonymous]

Prototype is under production and should be finished soon. Will post pictures once I have it.

[pleasega]

dont really fancy the sharp bottom edge...

[Ooga Booga]

Looking forward to this

[AspiringMechKeebFan]

Google form could use some updates after recent changes.

[anonymous]

The prototype is on the way to me know. It should arrive by next week

[beebeemboo]

Been looking/waiting for a new Alice forever! Let's GOOOOO

[steelykeeb]

will black  be the only color option

[myflowsocold]

Any updates on the prototype? Really excited to add another Alice clone to my desk rotation 

[anonymous]

I have received the prototype from kbdfans

[bard]

I have received the prototype from kbdfans

Show Image

Show Image

does it have internal slope?

[noorejji]

I have received the prototype from kbdfans

Show Image

Show Image

Nice. Any comments?

[TPSM_00]

This is a rather interesting concept...

Show Image

I would love to see that on a board

[paulgali]

6063 is a must, imho. For the price that will be a low margin but knowing kbdfans and the quality, you'll want 6063 at least.

300 USD. sounds very appealing. I'm happy you have not made the pcb hotswap (but that's just preference). Any plan for a PC plate option?

[atlanticise]

This is the best thing I've seen in awhile!

[youngbaby]

Prototype looks great! I think the KBDfans route sounds like the right move, I'll definitely be picking one up.

[NitPik]

Very interested, but no updates since July? Is there somewhere other than this thread where you post updates?

[Draxion]

Will the QC be done by kbdfans or just used as vendor

[xef]

.

[hiddensong]

Whats the status on this?

[thebreadsaver]

what's the status on this. I was really looking forward to this but this looks dead

[NitPik]

For people like me who are still very much interested in this board, but were discouraged by this thread, it was mentioned in the discord that the final files were sent to KBDFans and he's waiting on their response. (02/20/2021)

[r13lbag]

For anyone who's wondering about how things are going. Join the discord server. Let's go!

[anonymous]

The KBDfans route won't happen anytime soon. We are running a small GB in our website for those who are really interested

https://deskdaily.store/products/Groupbuy-Alter-Aluminum-Keyboard-p376139046