[IC] The 62/60: a full-RGB, hot-swappable 60% [Moved to GB thread]

[iss]

More

Round 0: Closed

Features:

• Fully programmable per-key and underglow RGB LEDs
• Fully programmable layout- compatible with EasyAVR and QMK
• Hot swappable switches- simply pull them out and replace
• Acrylic sandwich case with 8^o tilt

Round 0 details:

• 12 boards available, selected via lottery
• Will run from now through Sunday night
• All boards will definitely be shipped by May 20th; they'll likely be shipped by May 13th

Pricing:

• PCB + case w/ plate, assembled: $125
• Tentative Gateron pricing: $18 for a set of 65
• Tentative Stabilizers: $10 for a PCB-mount set

More info (and reviews) coming soon! Ask away with any questions

[Chewypost]

Ohhhh man this looks great! Definitely looking out for this. That price is just too good

[Dernubenfrieken]

Would love to see pictures of the bottom.
This is acrylic plate, no?

[njbair]

Wow. This is a really good idea, and a pretty well thought-out design in lots of ways. I like how you've managed a 60% layout with arrow keys, and yet you're only using one nonstandard key--the short right shift--which is not even all that obscure. I like the shorter bottom row, reminiscent of the HHKB.

It looks like you've got HHKB backspace support, which is a huge bonus. And support for stepped and non-stepped caps lock, also good.

The only thing I don't like about the layout is that right shift. I use it all the time and I always hit it on the left. Having an up arrow there would ruin my day. Since it seems like your SIP socket design can support alternate layout options, any chance of adding support for a full-size right shift? And secondarily, the option for the short right shift with the 1U key on the right, HHKB-style. You could still have arrow keys, something like this:



If you had that option I would not be able to pass this one up.

[ideus]

I love it, very tempted. I have some questions:

How secure are the switches on their sockets?
How well they keep tighten on them with no wobbling?
ISO Support? At least the ISO enter, I really do not care about the short left ISO shift, it is a pain.

[daviswalkers]

Wow this is honestly one of the few small keyboards w/ integrated arrow keys that I actually like. Color me interested

[WinterIsle]

I would still prefer without sip sockets as soldering the switches are more secured to me.
Hope there will be an option to choose with/without sip sockets.

[Radlife]

Will it be possible to get the pcb and the plate alone?

[ideus]

Will it be possible to get the pcb and the plate alone?

It seems that the plate is an integral part of the case, which is a sandwich type whose top part is the plate itself, besides, it does not seem to fit any other standard sixty case, but the spacer and bottom designed to fit it.

[FoC_Tow]

This is actually a huge dream come true to me.

Been a big advocate of Khaannn's alternative arrowed 60% layout from the beginning (as some of you might know) and was already planning to risk sacrificing a rather high end pcb to build one.

So naturally an absolute must buy for me!

Is there any chance for supporting a 6.25 space and 1.25 mods bottom row?

This would be my absolute dream layout:


Also the question still remains if this would fit standard 60% cases if you get a (preferably acrylic) plate cut by yourself?
I image since switches are swappable the pcb is standoff mounted, right?

[biocalves]

This looks great. I'll definitely keep my eye on it. Keep up the good work!

[hkf]

Interested oh god

[Vadurr]

INNN

[gain]

aw buddy arrow keys
gibsmedat

[ideus]

I do not need dedicated arrow keys on my sixty, but it is good to have them for those rare cases when having them is more convenient.

[Hypersphere]

I'd be interested, mostly for the programmability and hot-swappable aspects. I am accustomed to the HHKB layout, so I don't want/need arrow keys. I would prefer to have the customary mods on the bottom row. I also like a split right-shift with a 1x Fn key to the right of the right shift.

It would be really sweet if it could accept Alps / Matias switches.

[ideus]

I'd be interested, mostly for the programmability and hot-swappable aspects. I am accustomed to the HHKB layout, so I don't want/need arrow keys. I would prefer to have the customary mods on the bottom row. I also like a split right-shift with a 1x Fn key to the right of the right shift.

It would be really sweet if it could accept Alps / Matias switches.

It appears that you want a totally different board.

[Latin00032]

I really want this. It's almost a hhkb layout with arrow keys.

My first concern is that I'll hit the up arrow key too much. I think I can get used to it though.

Is this a raffle style gb?

[Kirfloof]

I've absolutely no use at all for a 5th kb, yet why do I want one of these so much?

[chuckdee]

I've absolutely no use at all for a 5th kb, yet why do I want one of these so much?

I know what you mean.  I want one too!

[GL1TCH3D]

Looks like the perfect layout for me

[iss]

Typing these responses from board 1!

I would still prefer without sip sockets as soldering the switches are more secured to me.
Hope there will be an option to choose with/without sip sockets.

I may make this an option, although PCB mount switches are very stable and don't experience any wobble unless you press really, really hard.

Wow. This is a really good idea, and a pretty well thought-out design in lots of ways. I like how you've managed a 60% layout with arrow keys, and yet you're only using one nonstandard key--the short right shift--which is not even all that obscure. I like the shorter bottom row, reminiscent of the HHKB.

It looks like you've got HHKB backspace support, which is a huge bonus. And support for stepped and non-stepped caps lock, also good.

The only thing I don't like about the layout is that right shift. I use it all the time and I always hit it on the left. Having an up arrow there would ruin my day. Since it seems like your SIP socket design can support alternate layout options, any chance of adding support for a full-size right shift? And secondarily, the option for the short right shift with the 1U key on the right, HHKB-style. You could still have arrow keys, something like this:

Show Image

If you had that option I would not be able to pass this one up.

I might consider adding the option. The LEDs would be slightly off-center (in the original positions)- would that be fine?

This is actually a huge dream come true to me.

Been a big advocate of Khaannn's alternative arrowed 60% layout from the beginning (as some of you might know) and was already planning to risk sacrificing a rather high end pcb to build one.

So naturally an absolute must buy for me! :D

Is there any chance for supporting a 6.25 space and 1.25 mods bottom row?

This would be my absolute dream layout:

Show Image

Also the question still remains if this would fit standard 60% cases if you get a (preferably acrylic) plate cut by yourself?
I image since switches are swappable the pcb is standoff mounted, right?

Took a look and I don't think it can happen- the bottom row is already fairly crowded with LEDs and switch holes as is, and there's a bit too much interference. I really would've loved to maximize keycap compatability, but given that a 1.75u right shift is required no matter what, I figured that symmetry was a better goal to aim for.

The PCB is indeed standoff mounted, but I'm not super confident on 60% case compatability. The PCB has a bunch of stuff on the back (sockets and RGB LEDs), so cases need at least 5/32" standoff depth- not sure which cases have that. Additionally, the current (Round 0) PCBs don't have the right standoff holes or reset button position for third party cases; if I can verify support, I'll change that for Round 1.

Will it be possible to get the pcb and the plate alone?

Not for Round 0, at least; see answer to FoC_Tow above.

I love it, very tempted. I have some questions:

How secure are the switches on their sockets?
How well they keep tighten on them with no wobbling?
ISO Support? At least the ISO enter, I really do not care about the short left ISO shift, it is a pain.

PCB mount switches are very secure when typing- no wobbling unless a ton of force is applied. Plate mount wobbles quite a bit, but are still usable- that's what I'm typing on right now, actually. ISO is not supported on the current batch (Round 0), but will be supported on Round 1.

Would love to see pictures of the bottom.
This is acrylic plate, no?

Bottom has text + logos that still need to be cleaned up a bit- will be posting more pics next week. Yes, this is 1/16" acrylic plate.

I'd be interested, mostly for the programmability and hot-swappable aspects. I am accustomed to the HHKB layout, so I don't want/need arrow keys. I would prefer to have the customary mods on the bottom row. I also like a split right-shift with a 1x Fn key to the right of the right shift.

It would be really sweet if it could accept Alps / Matias switches.

The standard split right shift might happen- see response to njbair above. Alps support probably won't happen soon; from a glance at the pinouts, it seems difficult- if not impossible- to support hot-swapping both MX and Alps switches at the same time. (Besides, hot-swapping Alps is already a thing (kinda), whereas MX hotswap was only available on the dead Smart68.)

[decker]

This looks really cool

[njbair]

Wow. This is a really good idea, and a pretty well thought-out design in lots of ways. I like how you've managed a 60% layout with arrow keys, and yet you're only using one nonstandard key--the short right shift--which is not even all that obscure. I like the shorter bottom row, reminiscent of the HHKB.

It looks like you've got HHKB backspace support, which is a huge bonus. And support for stepped and non-stepped caps lock, also good.

The only thing I don't like about the layout is that right shift. I use it all the time and I always hit it on the left. Having an up arrow there would ruin my day. Since it seems like your SIP socket design can support alternate layout options, any chance of adding support for a full-size right shift? And secondarily, the option for the short right shift with the 1U key on the right, HHKB-style. You could still have arrow keys, something like this:

Show Image

If you had that option I would not be able to pass this one up.

I might consider adding the option. The LEDs would be slightly off-center (in the original positions)- would that be fine?

I would be okay with that.

[timerwin63]

If I hadn't picked up a Smart 68 on Taobao a couple weeks ago, I would be in for this 100%. To anyone worried about switch stability, I haven't had any problems with my Smart (which I assume uses the same socket system). The plate keeps everything very secure, and I've never had an issue removing and replacing caps, even when I had Clears in it.

I'll see if I can get shots of the socket system on a removed switch as I have a couple of spare sockets laying around for anyone who wants to see it.

[ideus]

If I hadn't picked up a Smart 68 on Taobao a couple weeks ago, I would be in for this 100%. To anyone worried about switch stability, I haven't had any problems with my Smart (which I assume uses the same socket system). The plate keeps everything very secure, and I've never had an issue removing and replacing caps, even when I had Clears in it.

I'll see if I can get shots of the socket system on a removed switch as I have a couple of spare sockets laying around for anyone who wants to see it.

I'd love to see a video of keycaps been swapped.

[hrinfinity]

Interested! Great looking layout.

If I hadn't picked up a Smart 68 on Taobao a couple weeks ago, I would be in for this 100%. To anyone worried about switch stability, I haven't had any problems with my Smart (which I assume uses the same socket system). The plate keeps everything very secure, and I've never had an issue removing and replacing caps, even when I had Clears in it.

I'll see if I can get shots of the socket system on a removed switch as I have a couple of spare sockets laying around for anyone who wants to see it.

Would like to see this as well

[kawasaki161]

Very interested. I hope you ship to germany and that the shipping cost doesn't kill me.

[MOZ]

Great project! Subscribed!

[ideus]

If I understood well, this layout will be available in round one, correct?

[megaforce]

Which mcu are you using? Just super interested.

I also assume that that mounting holes are the same as the popular 60% boards? And the user can directly solder the switches rather than using the sip sockets?

Sweet project you got going here, and the price point is attractive. I'll be down to order a set!

[Prankk]

This is too cool! Definitely interested.

[ideus]

An acrylic plate feels best for typing, metallic ones are just too rigid, at least in my experience.

[timerwin63]

I'd love to see a video of keycaps been swapped.

Interested! Great looking layout.

Would like to see this as well

There's a video shared by Feng on the Smart 68 IC.

Removing Switches

Swapping LEDs

If I can get my hands on a decent macro lens and some lighting, I could probably take pictures of the inside of the sockets, which would demonstrate more clearly how they work.

[ideus]

I'd love to see a video of keycaps been swapped.

Interested! Great looking layout.

Interested! Great looking layout.

Would like to see this as well

There's a video shared by Feng on the Smart 68 IC.

Removing Switches

Swapping LEDs

If I can get my hands on a decent macro lens and some lighting, I could probably take pictures of the inside of the sockets, which would demonstrate more clearly how they work.

Seeing the video made me want to get one of these 60/2's to try.

I think this is like a life size switch tester, the best thing to try any combination of switches, stems, springs, tops and bottoms that you may think of in the MX variety, a keyboard aficionado wet-dream and just in case you need them, arrows in a sixty format, along with RBG leds for your long nights playing with it.

[vivalarevolución]

Wow. This is a really good idea, and a pretty well thought-out design in lots of ways. I like how you've managed a 60% layout with arrow keys, and yet you're only using one nonstandard key--the short right shift--which is not even all that obscure. I like the shorter bottom row, reminiscent of the HHKB.

It looks like you've got HHKB backspace support, which is a huge bonus. And support for stepped and non-stepped caps lock, also good.

The only thing I don't like about the layout is that right shift. I use it all the time and I always hit it on the left. Having an up arrow there would ruin my day. Since it seems like your SIP socket design can support alternate layout options, any chance of adding support for a full-size right shift? And secondarily, the option for the short right shift with the 1U key on the right, HHKB-style. You could still have arrow keys, something like this:

Show Image

If you had that option I would not be able to pass this one up.

This is a type of layout that I have thought about a lot, but it is hard to satisfy everyone.  Having the arrow keys all on the same row is an adjustment, and makes the pinky do more work than it should.  I tried it, but gave it up, and went back to the usual inverted T-cluster on a layer.  The right shift in the OP layout is way out there for the right pinky, and we are talking about a shift key that is way out there is the first place.

Making a 60% with arrow keys requires some adjustments and sacrifice.  I think the best bet is to make a very accessible layer toggle that allows for a quick switch to a navigation layer for heavy arrow usage, and then a quick switch back to the main layer.  Still, it can be annoying to switch layers for such activities.

[WinterIsle]

Typing these responses from board 1!

I would still prefer without sip sockets as soldering the switches are more secured to me.
Hope there will be an option to choose with/without sip sockets.

I may make this an option, although PCB mount switches are very stable and don't experience any wobble unless you press really, really hard.

Yes, that will be great! 
Yea, I know pcb mount switch are quite firm. I think I'm just a little too concern/worry about switch being pull off together with keycaps if the stem is too tight sometimes.

[ideus]

Typing these responses from board 1!

I would still prefer without sip sockets as soldering the switches are more secured to me.
Hope there will be an option to choose with/without sip sockets.

I may make this an option, although PCB mount switches are very stable and don't experience any wobble unless you press really, really hard.

Yes, that will be great! 
Yea, I know pcb mount switch are quite firm. I think I'm just a little too concern/worry about switch being pull off together with keycaps if the stem is too tight sometimes.

If having the option to solder the switches can be offered, that may help some people to get in, which is good, but I think that departs from the main concept of the design: hot-swappability, after all, there are many other PCBs that are for soldering, but this maybe the only soon to be offered with this feature.

[Hypersphere]

I'd be interested, mostly for the programmability and hot-swappable aspects. I am accustomed to the HHKB layout, so I don't want/need arrow keys. I would prefer to have the customary mods on the bottom row. I also like a split right-shift with a 1x Fn key to the right of the right shift.

It would be really sweet if it could accept Alps / Matias switches.

It appears that you want a totally different board.

+1. You got me!

[Liam]

I don't know if you answered it or not but the LEDs are soldered in the bottom right? So switches like original Cherry have black case can't show the LEDs at all. I'm looking forward for this anyway.

Thank you.

[timerwin63]

So after 23 tries, I finally managed to get a relatively clear picture of the inside of this barrel/sleeve/socket/etc with my cell phone, because I couldn't get my hands on a real camera. Picture here because it took up too much space on the page so I didn't want to embed it.

This particular sleeve has had a switch slid into it (the big leg, not the small one) 5 or 6 times because I've been messing around with it a lot. It would seem to me it's a pretty resilient system. In case anyone was actually interested.

[njbair]

So after 23 tries, I finally managed to get a relatively clear picture of the inside of this barrel/sleeve/socket/etc with my cell phone, because I couldn't get my hands on a real camera. Picture here because it took up too much space on the page so I didn't want to embed it.

This particular sleeve has had a switch slid into it (the big leg, not the small one) 5 or 6 times because I've been messing around with it a lot. It would seem to me it's a pretty resilient system. In case anyone was actually interested.

That's pretty cool.

How are the barrels secured in the plate? Glue/solder or just friction fit?

[timerwin63]

That's pretty cool.

How are the barrels secured in the plate? Glue/solder or just friction fit?

Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk

They're soldered. I can get a picture of the backside of my PCB when I get home in 10-11 hours if you'd like.

[whmeltonjr]

Interested

[Damonskv]

Interested

[renzpwns]

Definitely following the development for this one.

[wongie]

Would definitely be interested in getting one, doubly so if there's the possibility of alternative colours and solid, non-transparent, acrylic top and bottom plates (for those of us who don't care about the LEDs)

[SparrowHAWX]

I need this! I have a full set of Zealios waiting for a keyboard to put them in

[StormyMonday]

Subscribed 

[Liam]

Will the case has other color than black? I'm looking for Turquoise or something green.

[iLLucionist]

with programmingz yes? what controller?

[FoC_Tow]

Typing these responses from board 1!

I would still prefer without sip sockets as soldering the switches are more secured to me.
Hope there will be an option to choose with/without sip sockets.

I may make this an option, although PCB mount switches are very stable and don't experience any wobble unless you press really, really hard.

Yes, that will be great! 
Yea, I know pcb mount switch are quite firm. I think I'm just a little too concern/worry about switch being pull off together with keycaps if the stem is too tight sometimes.

If having the option to solder the switches can be offered, that may help some people to get in, which is good, but I think that departs from the main concept of the design: hot-swappability, after all, there are many other PCBs that are for soldering, but this maybe the only soon to be offered with this feature.

+1 would love to get an option for soldered / nonswappable switches.

I can see the appeal in both, but while basically having a giant switch tester is quite nice, swappable switches seem rather gimmicky to me personally.
Prefer the more permanent solution of straight soldering the switches, which would also be required to support standard 60% cases.

I also don't feel like it takes the main concept of the board away to be honest, cause to me the main features would be arrowed 60% layout and the rgb in a 60% which as far as I can tell hasn't been done before.

Would definitely be interested in getting one, doubly so if there's the possibility of alternative colours and solid, non-transparent, acrylic top and bottom plates (for those of us who don't care about the LEDs)

Also +1 to this!
Love the frosted acrylic, but a more subtle lookin black top (and eventually bottom) would be more suitable for a workspace environment for example.

A black top would probably still allow for clear switches to be illuminated, so rgb light won't be blocked but rather create a different and unique look in this case.

If this becomes an option I would be down for two boards (and one extra pcb) as well!

[ideus]

A summary of some of the requests that have been posted.

SUMMARY OF FEATURES AND REQUESTS:

1. Features already included:
1.1. A layout with arrows in a sixty format.
1.2. LEDs.
1.3. Programmability.
1.4. Hot swappability.

2. Requests that may not increase the cost:
2.1. Option for a PCB with no switch sockets soldered. (Is this feasible?)
2.2. Alternative colors for the acrylic plate and bottom.

3. Requests already considered
3.1. ISO Enter compatibility (Confirmed for round 1).
3.2. HHKB right shift option (Not confirmed yet?).

4. Requests that may not be feasible:
4.1. Extra bottom row options.

Something missing?

[Liam]

Will the aluminum part of the case have more colors than just black?

[FoC_Tow]

A summary of some of the requests that have been posted.

SUMMARY OF FEATURES AND REQUESTS:

1. Features already included:
1.1. A layout with arrows in a sixty format.
1.2. LEDs.
1.3. Programmability.
1.4. Hot swappability.

2. Requests that may not increase the cost:
2.1. Option for a PCB with no switch sockets soldered. (Is this feasible?)
2.2. Alternative colors for the acrylic plate and bottom.

3. Requests already considered
3.1. ISO Enter compatibility (Confirmed for round 1).
3.2. HHKB right shift option (Not confirmed yet?).

4. Requests that may not be feasible:
4.1. Extra bottom row options.

Something missing?

Lookin good ideus, thx for creating a summery!

Non swappable might require a sepperate pcb version, but would be necessary for case compability.


Also another idea that I'm not sure would be feasible or maybe even desirable for most people, but just to throw it out there:

I'm still waiting for the first board to include usb type c, which would make for reversible and in theory more durable connector.

[ideus]

SUMMARY OF FEATURES AND REQUESTS Pending OP confirmation.
(Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the OP-Designer, I am just another interested person that put this together for the benefit of the followers of this awesome idea, in the hope that it may be of some help)

1. Features already included:
1.1. A layout with arrows in a sixty format.
1.2. LEDs.
1.3. Programmability.
1.4. Hot swappability.

2. Requests that may not increase the cost:
2.1. Alternative colors for the acrylic plate and bottom.

3. Requests already considered
3.1. ISO Enter compatibility (Confirmed for round 1).
3.2. HHKB right shift option (Not confirmed yet?).

4. Requests that may not be feasible:
4.1. Extra bottom row options. (May this be moved to the next level?)

5. Request that may be implemented with additional cost / alternate design:
5.1 Option for a PCB with no switch sockets soldered. Alternative PCB with proper pass-through holes for soldering switches. (Pending OP confirmation).


Something missing?

[byker]

Looks like the layout I was messing around with, but haven't had time to prototype: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=78621.0

Looks great, and excited to see how it turns out!

[iss]

Finally back from a long weekend trip to Boston. Just finished up case v1.1- if it works well, Round 0 lottery signups should be open this entire weekend and will be shipped in the following week or two. By the way, look out for reviews from livingspeedbump, LeandreN, and skiwithpete coming sometime this month.

If I understood well, this layout will be available in round one, correct?

Yep- just confirmed compatability for ISO Enter and Shift in KiCad, so it'll definitely be available.

Would definitely be interested in getting one, doubly so if there's the possibility of alternative colours and solid, non-transparent, acrylic top and bottom plates (for those of us who don't care about the LEDs)

Cases are pretty easy to customize. What colors would people want to see? I might end up just providing all available acrylic colors on the form for Round 1, maybe Round 0- MOQ would be 4 for any color. I do think that getting matte acrylic is optimal for the top and bottom, as it's much more scratch-resistant than regular, but if you're fine with that a lot more colors are avilable.

I don't know if you answered it or not but the LEDs are soldered in the bottom right? So switches like original Cherry have black case can't show the LEDs at all. I'm looking forward for this anyway.

Thank you.

Yep, they're surface mount. I actually don't have a set of Cherry switches right now- if someone's got 65 for testing, I'd gladly take a picture to show the effect.

I just popped in a Cherry switch to test it out- there's actually quite a bit of light that comes through the LED holes, and the LED sits right on the edge of the switch, so there's still light on the plate and it's quite nice. By the way- noticed that Cherry plate-mount is a lot more sturdy than Gateron plate-mount or even Gateron PCB-mount- anyone have insight as to why?

Which mcu are you using? Just super interested.

I also assume that that mounting holes are the same as the popular 60% boards? And the user can directly solder the switches rather than using the sip sockets?

Sweet project you got going here, and the price point is attractive. I'll be down to order a set!

ATmega32U4, as is typical. Mounting holes on the Round 0 (v1.0) PCBs are non-standard. I'm still waiting to see if the board will be compatible with currently available 60% cases- if you've got one, please tell me how deep the standoffs are- I'm very curious.

Very interested. I hope you ship to germany and that the shipping cost doesn't kill me.

Round 1 will definitely be shipping international. I'm not sure how popular Round 0 will be internationally since it lacks ISO support, but if someone gets in I'll still ship internationally.

Will the case has other color than black? I'm looking for Turquoise or something green.

See answer to wongie above. I couldn't find any turquoise acrylic in the right thickness, but something green might be available? No guarantees, sadly.

SUMMARY OF FEATURES AND REQUESTS Pending OP confirmation.
(Disclaimer: I am not affiliated with the OP-Designer, I am just another interested person that put this together for the benefit of the followers of this awesome idea, in the hope that it may be of some help)

1. Features already included:
1.1. A layout with arrows in a sixty format.
1.2. LEDs.
1.3. Programmability.
1.4. Hot swappability.

2. Requests that may not increase the cost:
2.1. Alternative colors for the acrylic plate and bottom.

3. Requests already considered
3.1. ISO Enter compatibility (Confirmed for round 1).
3.2. HHKB right shift option (Not confirmed yet?).

4. Requests that may not be feasible:
4.1. Extra bottom row options. (May this be moved to the next level?)

5. Request that may be implemented with additional cost / alternate design:
5.1 Option for a PCB with no switch sockets soldered. Alternative PCB with proper pass-through holes for soldering switches. (Pending OP confirmation).


Something missing?

Most of this is correct. A few things:

1. HHKB right shift is happening with two caveats: LEDs will be slightly off (they're in the original position) and those two switches will be upside down (which makes pretty much no difference).
2. Alternative colors, as mentioned above, will be available- MOQ of 4 for each, pick colors for top/middle/bottom. (Matte acrylic is recommended for the top and bottom pieces for diffusion and to protect against scratches- probably will be available in clear and black.)

with programmingz yes? what controller?

ATmega32U4, programmable with EasyAVR (and QMK if there's enough interest).

[njbair]

with programmingz yes? what controller?

ATmega32U4, programmable with EasyAVR (and QMK if there's enough interest).
[/quote]

I would be interested in QMK/TMK compatibility. I'll be glad to pitch in and help if you get me the matrix info.

[FoC_Tow]

I'm still waiting to see if the board will be compatible with currently available 60% cases- if you've got one, please tell me how deep the standoffs are- I'm very curious.

So the question is basically how tall the standoffs are and if there is enough room available for pcb components?

Just measured the standoffs on a pok3r case which are slanted ranging from 2.5mm (front) to 9mm clearance at the back.
I guess this is almost like a worst case scenario tho and expect flat case to provide around 4mm of clearance, would be nice if someone could actually provide exact numbers for a flat case.

I would personally love to see standard 60% mounts even if compatibility with all cases cant be guaranteed. 

[Liam]

Will the case has other color than black? I'm looking for Turquoise or something green.

See answer to wongie above. I couldn't find any turquoise acrylic in the right thickness, but something green might be available? No guarantees, sadly.

My question is about the middle plate of the case. Does it have other colors?

[kawasaki161]

Any updates on the board or the progress of round 0?

[iss]

My question is about the middle plate of the case. Does it have other colors?

Some other colors will be available, depending on what acrylic I can get at the right thickness. I'll be posting more detail on that closer to Round 1.

Round 0 should be posted sometime next week- I had originally planned to start it today, but the case is still being a bit wonky and needs a little more work.

[ideus]

My question is about the middle plate of the case. Does it have other colors?

Some other colors will be available, depending on what acrylic I can get at the right thickness. I'll be posting more detail on that closer to Round 1.

Round 0 should be posted sometime next week- I had originally planned to start it today, but the case is still being a bit wonky and needs a little more work.

I really want one, or maybe two units, of this keyboard, thank you very much for the update. It will be very nice to have the OP fully updated with all the final features and options when you have them confirmed and available. I do not know how the lottery for the round 0 may work, but in my case I should wait until ISO option is included.

Have a great weekend.

[wongie]

Cases are pretty easy to customize. What colors would people want to see? I might end up just providing all available acrylic colors on the form for Round 1, maybe Round 0- MOQ would be 4 for any color. I do think that getting matte acrylic is optimal for the top and bottom, as it's much more scratch-resistant than regular, but if you're fine with that a lot more colors are avilable.

Personally I'd be happy with plain black or dark grey, just without a transparent top and bottom. I'm sure there are others who would like more vibrant colour options. Now that you mention it it would be even better if all layers were available in matte, as you say it's more scratch resistant, but equally I think a solid matte on all sides looks better than glossy.

[ideus]

Cases are pretty easy to customize. What colors would people want to see? I might end up just providing all available acrylic colors on the form for Round 1, maybe Round 0- MOQ would be 4 for any color. I do think that getting matte acrylic is optimal for the top and bottom, as it's much more scratch-resistant than regular, but if you're fine with that a lot more colors are avilable.

Personally I'd be happy with plain black or dark grey, just without a transparent top and bottom. I'm sure there are others who would like more vibrant colour options. Now that you mention it it would be even better if all layers were available in matte, as you say it's more scratch resistant, but equally I think a solid matte on all sides looks better than glossy.

I'd like to see some of this colors and translucent ones for the middle separator, that may allow glow to get trough it and the top and bottom will have a very elegant look.

[ideus]

This is actually a huge dream come true to me.

Been a big advocate of Khaannn's alternative arrowed 60% layout from the beginning (as some of you might know) and was already planning to risk sacrificing a rather high end pcb to build one.

So naturally an absolute must buy for me!

Is there any chance for supporting a 6.25 space and 1.25 mods bottom row?

This would be my absolute dream layout:

Show Image

Also the question still remains if this would fit standard 60% cases if you get a (preferably acrylic) plate cut by yourself?
I image since switches are swappable the pcb is standoff mounted, right?

+1, not bad, it has some advantages over the OP's proposal: it takes only standard modifiers, but the right shift that in any case would be the hard one to get, the standard space bar is also a plus for most of the users, just those boring old farts like me that prefer 7u and 1.5 mods would have to change, in any case, this layout would be the best one for most, even a TaiHao set can fit this, but the right shift, I suggest the OP to consider this at least as an alternative, if not as the base PCB. Ah, and the space bar look better centered, the slight asymmetry makes it even better, with more style.

[kawasaki161]

Just remembered something mildly important:

Does the kit include stabilizers? If not do we need PCB or plate mount stabilizers?

[livingspeedbump]

so stoked for this 

[Khuya]

This is actually a huge dream come true to me.

Been a big advocate of Khaannn's alternative arrowed 60% layout from the beginning (as some of you might know) and was already planning to risk sacrificing a rather high end pcb to build one.

So naturally an absolute must buy for me!

Is there any chance for supporting a 6.25 space and 1.25 mods bottom row?

This would be my absolute dream layout:

Show Image

Also the question still remains if this would fit standard 60% cases if you get a (preferably acrylic) plate cut by yourself?
I image since switches are swappable the pcb is standoff mounted, right?

+1, not bad, it has some advantages over the OP's proposal: it takes only standard modifiers, but the right shift that in any case would be the hard one to get, the standard space bar is also a plus for most of the users, just those boring old farts like me that prefer 7u and 1.5 mods would have to change, in any case, this layout would be the best one for most, even a TaiHao set can fit this, but the right shift, I suggest the OP to consider this at least as an alternative, if not as the base PCB. Ah, and the space bar look better centered, the slight asymmetry makes it even better, with more style.

For someone who uses Windows as a Operating System, I am not sure what's so popular about win key less approach?

[JDragon]

Beautiful board. Hoping the issues with the case get worked out soon so I can throw my name into the lottery. I'm assuming there's going to be a ton of interest; $120 for this level of functionality and design is incredible.

[ideus]

This is actually a huge dream come true to me.

Been a big advocate of Khaannn's alternative arrowed 60% layout from the beginning (as some of you might know) and was already planning to risk sacrificing a rather high end pcb to build one.

So naturally an absolute must buy for me!

Is there any chance for supporting a 6.25 space and 1.25 mods bottom row?

This would be my absolute dream layout:

Show Image

Also the question still remains if this would fit standard 60% cases if you get a (preferably acrylic) plate cut by yourself?
I image since switches are swappable the pcb is standoff mounted, right?

+1, not bad, it has some advantages over the OP's proposal: it takes only standard modifiers, but the right shift that in any case would be the hard one to get, the standard space bar is also a plus for most of the users, just those boring old farts like me that prefer 7u and 1.5 mods would have to change, in any case, this layout would be the best one for most, even a TaiHao set can fit this, but the right shift, I suggest the OP to consider this at least as an alternative, if not as the base PCB. Ah, and the space bar look better centered, the slight asymmetry makes it even better, with more style.

For someone who uses Windows as a Operating System, I am not sure what's so popular about win key less approach?

I know it could be confusing, but WKL refers to the size of the modifiers in 1.5u instead of the current 1.25u, not to the lack of a windows key, my board has a window key in 1u size.

[Liam]

When will you go for round 0? So excited. My Zealios are ready

[iss]

Round 0 will start this Friday (April 22nd) and run through the weekend! 12 boards will be available; winners will be chosen on Monday. Base price (PCB+case w/ plate) will be set at $125.

Just remembered something mildly important:

Does the kit include stabilizers? If not do we need PCB or plate mount stabilizers?

The board takes PCB mount Cherry stabs- currently working on sourcing them. They'll be $8-10, depending on how things go.

[kawasaki161]

Just remembered something mildly important:

Does the kit include stabilizers? If not do we need PCB or plate mount stabilizers?

The board takes PCB mount Cherry stabs- currently working on sourcing them. They'll be $8-10, depending on how things go.

In the unlikely case that I am one of the lucky ones in round 0, how are the chances of you being able to source stabs before the boards are sent out? Also, how would international shipping work out (customs, shipping cost etc.)?

[ideus]

Round 0 will start this Friday (April 22nd) and run through the weekend! 12 boards will be available; winners will be chosen on Monday. Base price (PCB+case w/ plate) will be set at $125.

They will sell as pancakes.

[laughatpain]

Will there any difference between round 0 and round 1?

[ideus]

Will there any difference between round 0 and round 1?

ISO compatibility and improved fit in standard sixty cases, this however may be limited by the case depth that should allow enough room for the bottom PCB components.

[Liam]

Round 0 will start this Friday (April 22nd) and run through the weekend! 12 boards will be available; winners will be chosen on Monday. Base price (PCB+case w/ plate) will be set at $125.

Will the case have other color choices or just the original one?

[JDragon]

Round 0 will start this Friday (April 22nd) and run through the weekend! 12 boards will be available; winners will be chosen on Monday. Base price (PCB+case w/ plate) will be set at $125.

Hype!

[biocalves]

Been waiting for this. C'mon Round 0!

[iss]

Round 0 is open!

MOD Edit: GB link removed

[JDragon]

Round 0 is open!

http://goo.gl/forms/EHFGjPbZzN

Yay! Submitted my entry, good luck to me

[kawasaki161]

Aaaand submitted. I highly doubt I'll be drawn tbh. RNGsus was never good with me.

[audax989]

Entered!

Any clue on the pricing for round1 just in case RNGesus is not nice to me this time?

Oh and how do I change my sig to support this IC?

[Tre3Cycl3S]

Entered! Hopefully RNG-sus loves me and bless me for this draw!

But I will probably just get it in Round1 if I don't get it in Round0 

[ideus]

What does "partial priority" for round 1 mean?

[iss]

What does "partial priority" for round 1 mean?

One-third of the Round 1 boards will be reserved for those who didn't make it in during Round 0. (One-third felt like a good compromise: it significantly boosts the chances of those who enter during Round 0 while still making a good number of boards available for everyone.) I'm not sure how big Round 1 will be at this point.

Entered!

Any clue on the pricing for round1 just in case RNGesus is not nice to me this time?

Oh and how do I change my sig to support this IC?

Round 1 pricing will be the same, assuming everything goes smoothly. I'll get a sig banner up shortly- thanks for reminding me.

[ideus]

The only reason I did not get into this draw for round zero is that I really need ISO support, I just hope I can get in round 1.

[GiveCandyy]

Entered looks very promising.

[Zorberema]

Love it! The price is very reasonable and the board looks great; best of luck with the production!

[ghostjuggernaut]

Group Buys are to be held in the Group Buy subforum.  Please create a new thread and the mod team will review it for approval.

Sorry for the trouble to anyone that has filled out the form. 

[ideus]

Keep everything in order is always important, thank you for being watching, it is in the best interest of all.

[kawasaki161]

Sorry for the trouble to anyone that has filled out the form.

I don't quite get that. The same form was also posted on reddit, so why would the form being removed here make any difference for the ones that already filled it out?

[iss]

GB thread is up! If you signed up earlier, you do not need to sign up again. Big thanks to ghost for sorting this out quickly.