ElongateUPDATE 09/24: So the GB was a major success. We sold around 250 units so wanted to thank you all for playing. The order has been placed and as soon as I learn more or have any progress I'll post another update. Also, for everyone that asked on the past weeks: there will be extras!
UPDATE 07/06: GB Live at ProjectKeyboard (US_) iLumKB (Asia), DailyClack (OC) and MyKeyboard.eu (EU).
UPDATE 05/25: We continue to hear your feedback. Moving to ARM processor to allow us to also add in-switch LEDs. So it's happening.
UPDATE 05/23: This Tuesday (05/26) Gondo will be streaming the PCB port to USB-C -
https://www.twitch.tv/gondolindrim_UPDATE 05/22: Due to the HUGE demand and overwhelming feedback requesting USB-C we're definitely committing to that change! <3
Hello GeekHack! MisterKeebs here to share a project I have been working on for a few years now. In partnership with the gifted and awesome Gondolindrim (or Gondogod), along with 159 from ProjectKeyboard, I'd like to present the Elongate board, that combines the versatility of a 40% with the aesthetic inspired on a 1800 layout.
Please provide your feedback here:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1xOQJRbzpbH5Ga5q6eFHe2yqL55rzjZbdXeLaXQBPJl8
IntroductionThe Elongate is a custom mechanical keyboard that falls in a random place of the 40-50% range. It was designed as a new take on the mini 1800 layout, combining the versatility and portability of a 40% with the ability to have that dedicated numpad cluster, with Home, Page Down/Up, End, Insert and Delete keys.
The main and unique features of the Elongate are:
- The protruded arrow cluster, allowing for fast navigation;
- The blocked split space, which helps accessing a second or third layer of the 40% layout -- making it more comfortable and quick to use;
- A solid midlayer that can be either polycarbonate or brass, that improves the sound profile a lot.
- On the spacebar blocker there are also a three-LED indicator cluster, which can be used for layer indication, Caps/Num/Scroll lock and every feature QMK allows. These indicators are fully programmable and, in conjunction with SIP sockets, allow you to hotswap LED colors.
- As if that wasn't enough, there are three more indicators between the numpad and the alpha cluster to indicate whatever you want it to.
All of these characteristics really make for a very pleasant typing experience. The user is able to get the full utility of the 1800CP layout in a very compact form and have enough space in the sides to use the mouse.
What is included- Case: Top and Bottom Polycarbonate or Aluminium (vote for colors on the link below)
- Middle layer: Brass or Polycarbonate
- Plates: Brass or Polycarbonate
- PCB: QMK and Via compatible (see above)
- Extras: See below for more info
The PCB
The PCB was designed by my good friend Gondolindrim and features RGB underglow for those sweet lights with the polycarbonate version. It's powered by the ATMEGA32U4 microcontroller and uses a USB mini-B connector. It also features ESD protection, connector shielding, power rails filtering and a sweet, sweet Brazilian flag. All that we learned to expect from Gondo.
We have had until now many requests to port the PCB to USBC connector, since as it stands right now it has a mini-USB connector. Please give us a feedback on the IC form!
The PCB is QMK and VIA compatible. Since Gondo is also a big open-source hardware advocate, the ElongatePCB is also open-source! -- see the
GitHub repo for the files.
Price and vendors
This GB will be run by
ProjectKeyboard in US (big kudos to the awesome 159 for all the support along the way) and, depending on the interest, we will be considering EU/Asia proxies.
DISCLAIMER the prices below are tentative based and can change before GB opens. We'll try to be super transparent if they change.
The kit/pricing breakdown will be as follows (all prices excludes shipping and other PP/trasaction fees):
Base Kit: Anodized Alu Top and Bottom, Brass Plate, Brass Midlayer and PCB - $325-350
Extras:- Brass Plate - $40
- Anodized Alu Plate - $35
- Polycarbonate Plate - $40
- POM Plate - $35
- Carbon Fiber Plate - $30
- FR4 Plate - $20
- PCB - $35
We also do not know if we are going to do a limited or unlimited run; all depends on the results of this IC, so please please give us your feedback on the IC form!
Streams, glamour shots and the likesYou can find the complete album on
this Imgur post.
Build Stream
Elongate Alu Sound Test
Elongate Polycarbonate Sound Test
