Some ideas:
I know you said you weren't doing keycaps but Matias is selling them now. Maybe you could get a deal just for 60%? If the stabilizer matches Matias that simply means it will be ready to go once the thick dyesubs are ready.
Have you thought about Sprits custom Alps spring thread?
Or getting unassembled switches from Matias for modding? Black Alps are probably my favorite due to weight but they don't age well and are hard to find brand new. I'd probably experiment with Matias switches with 80g+ springs.
You may also want to check with JD because I think there was some talk about a Dell-layout plate buy. Maybe it's possible to offer both as part of the same order? I'm not an expert at laser/water jet cutting but since the plates would be almost identical save for a few bottom row cutouts, I'd have to think a shop would be willing to count both towards the same MOQ.
Any chance of adding a case into the mix for the complete experience? :D
As someone who already has two Alps 60% boards, I am so totally in on this for at least one more.
Will you be offering the plates and PCBs as separate items? I'll probably want an extra PCB but I might hold off for a different plate (the PCB supports other layouts).
You may also want to check with JD because I think there was some talk about a Dell-layout plate buy. Maybe it's possible to offer both as part of the same order? I'm not an expert at laser/water jet cutting but since the plates would be almost identical save for a few bottom row cutouts, I'd have to think a shop would be willing to count both towards the same MOQ.
Finally, I'd be down with the idea of paying a bit extra for a powder-coated plate. And maybe some Matias quiets if they're offered (if not, mechanicalkeyboards.com sells them for a reasonable price).
Some ideas:
I know you said you weren't doing keycaps but Matias is selling them now. Maybe you could get a deal just for 60%? If the stabilizer matches Matias that simply means it will be ready to go once the thick dyesubs are ready.
Have you thought about Sprits custom Alps spring thread?
Or getting unassembled switches from Matias for modding? Black Alps are probably my favorite due to weight but they don't age well and are hard to find brand new. I'd probably experiment with Matias switches with 80g+ springs.
As someone who already has two Alps 60% boards, I am so totally in on this for at least one more.
Will you be offering the plates and PCBs as separate items? I'll probably want an extra PCB but I might hold off for a different plate (the PCB supports other layouts).
You may also want to check with JD because I think there was some talk about a Dell-layout plate buy. Maybe it's possible to offer both as part of the same order? I'm not an expert at laser/water jet cutting but since the plates would be almost identical save for a few bottom row cutouts, I'd have to think a shop would be willing to count both towards the same MOQ.
Finally, I'd be down with the idea of paying a bit extra for a powder-coated plate. And maybe some Matias quiets if they're offered (if not, mechanicalkeyboards.com sells them for a reasonable price).
Plates and PCBs will be separate.
I've sent a PM to JD about plates, so I will let you lot know when I have an update. I would prefer to do a plate which would work for as many layouts as possible. A group buy is probably most successful when the variety of items offered is low but the capability is high.Some ideas:
I know you said you weren't doing keycaps but Matias is selling them now. Maybe you could get a deal just for 60%? If the stabilizer matches Matias that simply means it will be ready to go once the thick dyesubs are ready.
Have you thought about Sprits custom Alps spring thread?
Or getting unassembled switches from Matias for modding? Black Alps are probably my favorite due to weight but they don't age well and are hard to find brand new. I'd probably experiment with Matias switches with 80g+ springs.
I could contact Matias about 60% sets if there is sufficient interest. However, I'm not sure it would get us any good discount unless they produced a special round of caps with less modifiers. Then we run into a more complicated problem. If we start changing over to a universal plate, more variety in mods would be needed. I think the GB would be most successful if we don't bother with caps. This lets the user have more choice in the matter of which set to use. ....but this isn't about my opinions alone. If there is sufficient interest in caps, I will look into our options.
A combo GB with Sprits would be brilliant. I'll work on that.
I think finding out Sprit's plan before contacting Matias about disassembled switches would be wise. But I will make a note of this.
Can you make a plate with support for multiple layouts? I'm not sure how that would work.
Can you make a plate with support for multiple layouts? I'm not sure how that would work.
Check out the plate JDCarpe designed for the LeandreN GB. (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=73666.0)
Can you make a plate with support for multiple layouts? I'm not sure how that would work.
Check out the plate JDCarpe designed for the LeandreN GB. (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=73666.0)
Interesting. I would think those wide-open bottom holes wouldn't work with Alps switches, since the retainer clip wings are on the sides of the switches.
I voted other - I only want Matias setup. Thick dyesub of the future!
I voted for Dell ANSI, somewhat selfishly since I already have an R2 AEKII plate.
But I still think there's no reason why the waterjet or laser cutting shop couldn't make both as part of the same MOQ. It would take 5 seconds to switch programs in between runs and that's it. Can we look into this option?
I voted other - I only want Matias setup. Thick dyesub of the future!
Just to make sure we're on the same page, do you mean the layout Matias uses for their 60%?
I voted other - I only want Matias setup. Thick dyesub of the future!
Just to make sure we're on the same page, do you mean the layout Matias uses for their 60%?
I was referring to a 60% of their fullsize.
I did a quick version of a Dell plate with Swill's generator. I haven't compared it to the PCB yet. I'm looking for obvious errors that others might notice.
Is anyone considering using Cherry stabs? I think it might be cleaner with Costar only, but I want people to have the ability to work with what they want.
I'm not confident about the hole in the center. It looks like that was present on the original AEKII 60% run. Did anyone notice any weakness on the switch edges near that hole?Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/5Ao9vt4.png)
I have no experience in plate design, but, I thought this (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=60268.msg1486047#msg1486047) looked kinda neat. Then you could choose between Cherry and Alps-style stabilizers?
EDIT:
Or, is that just for the cherry and alps-switch compatibility on the same plate? I am confused...
What are the differences between the various layouts?
That is a clear answer. :)What are the differences between the various layouts?
The difference is the bottom row.
Dell ANSI has a standard bottom row: 1.25, 1.25, 1.25, 6.25, 1.25, 1.25, 1.25, 1.25. You can use caps from a Dell AT101W, which are quite common.
AEKII refers to the Apple Extended Keyboard II, which has a unique bottom row: 1.5, 1.25, 1.5, 6.5, 1.5, 1.25, 1.5.
So really your preference would be whichever board you have and are willing to steal caps from.
Oops, I didn't realize I was supposed to express interest in switches. :-[ ;D
I'm interested in acquiring some switches somehow. Any idea what quantities we'd need to achieve some price break? If need be, I can just place an order straight from Matias.
The 200 count box is the baseline price at $50+$10. You can get a better deal at a reseller for that quantity. He also offers a 4800 count carton with a more reasonable unit price.
The 200 count box is the baseline price at $50+$10. You can get a better deal at a reseller for that quantity. He also offers a 4800 count carton with a more reasonable unit price.
A reseller? O.o I poked around a few of the reseller links on Matias' site, but only found keyboards for sale, not switches. Any help on where to find them? :D
Thanks for the info on bulk prices, that basically puts an end to that discussion. :))
The 200 count box is the baseline price at $50+$10. You can get a better deal at a reseller for that quantity. He also offers a 4800 count carton with a more reasonable unit price.
A reseller? O.o I poked around a few of the reseller links on Matias' site, but only found keyboards for sale, not switches. Any help on where to find them? :D
Thanks for the info on bulk prices, that basically puts an end to that discussion. :))
The reseller link for the US is here (http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=52), and the link for Europe is here (http://www.keyboardco.com/keyboard_search.asp?SR=matias%20switch%20module&UI=matias.ca).
I went ahead and requested a quote for the bulk prices. It doesn't hurt to ask, they might be able to hook us up with a mix and match carton of switches.
FWIW, I was able to purchase two Apple M0116 keyboards from ebay for about $30 shipped, each. One has very clean salmon ALPS, an the other has dirty orange ALPS. From my understanding cleaning ALPS switches is kind of a PITA, but you might get lucky and get a clean board.
A bit extra work to get some complicated ALPS, but I'm not crazy about newer Matias switches. They don't feel as good as complicated ALPS, IMO.
I will be working on hunting down some SKCM Blue ALPS for this build.
The 200 count box is the baseline price at $50+$10. You can get a better deal at a reseller for that quantity. He also offers a 4800 count carton with a more reasonable unit price.
A reseller? O.o I poked around a few of the reseller links on Matias' site, but only found keyboards for sale, not switches. Any help on where to find them? :D
Thanks for the info on bulk prices, that basically puts an end to that discussion. :))
The reseller link for the US is here (http://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_list&c=52), and the link for Europe is here (http://www.keyboardco.com/keyboard_search.asp?SR=matias%20switch%20module&UI=matias.ca).
I went ahead and requested a quote for the bulk prices. It doesn't hurt to ask, they might be able to hook us up with a mix and match carton of switches.
Thanks for the links. :thumb: Looks like the resellers are actually more expensive though? O.o 33 cents per switch at reseller vs 25 cents per switch straight from Matias.
FWIW, I was able to purchase two Apple M0116 keyboards from ebay for about $30 shipped, each. One has very clean salmon ALPS, an the other has dirty orange ALPS. From my understanding cleaning ALPS switches is kind of a PITA, but you might get lucky and get a clean board.
A bit extra work to get some complicated ALPS, but I'm not crazy about newer Matias switches. They don't feel as good as complicated ALPS, IMO.
I will be working on hunting down some SKCM Blue ALPS for this build.
Hmm, may consider this. I really should have paid attention when CPTBadAss smothered me with Alps info... :-[ No clue what switches I would want...
Hmm, may consider this. I really should have paid attention when CPTBadAss smothered me with Alps info... :-[ No clue what switches I would want...
What are Alps? :cool:
I vote for Chyros' reviews XD
Can we order just switches in this GB?
What are Alps? :cool:
I vote for Chyros' reviews XD
So a split GB with plates, switches and PCBs? Seems like the best solution.
Also, since this is kind of a concept-keyboard at this point, some custom caps would be awesome. Not a full set, but an "Alps Party" Esc-cap would be sweet.
Boy howdy, it sure would be a relevant time for someone to put a link to the thread with a bunch of Alps reviews. You wouldn't happen to know someone who would have a bunch of those reviews, would you CPT?
Matias Switch update:
So I just got off the phone with the charming Steve McGowan, one of the co-founders of Matias, and he gave me a price breakdown of what he can offer for our GB.
For orders of
200-1000 switches, the unit price is $0.25 each
1200-2200 - $0.20 each
2400-4400 - $0.18 each
4800-9400 - $0.16 each
9600+ - $0.14 each
Additionally, if we can breach the 9600 threshold, the 9600 switches can be mixed between the click, quiet, and linear quiet in groups of 200. E.g. if we want 4000 click, 2200 quiet, and 3800 linear quiet - we would get the $0.14 price. However, if we only could reach 2000 click, 2000 quiet, and 2000 linear quiet, we would be paying the $0.20 price.
SO - we can make this happen if we want. If we can collectively decide to buy enough switches, we can get a good deal and spread the gospel of Alps.
All you enterprising individuals that like to squirrel away GB extras for trades - take heed. Your time is nigh!
i'm in for a plate. would it be possible to do a plate that works for both dell and apple?
i'm in for a plate. would it be possible to do a plate that works for both dell and apple?
Unfortunately, Alps switches don't really give us that option. They need to clip into the plate on all four sides.
i'm in for a plate. would it be possible to do a plate that works for both dell and apple?
Unfortunately, Alps switches don't really give us that option. They need to clip into the plate on all four sides.
i'm rapidly learning about alps plate options :)) do you have a plate file for AEKII? me and a fellow NL resident are thinking of getting a few made locally but i dont have the right bottom row for the spacebar.
i'm in for a plate. would it be possible to do a plate that works for both dell and apple?
STH, I never knew you were Dutch?i'm in for a plate. would it be possible to do a plate that works for both dell and apple?
Unfortunately, Alps switches don't really give us that option. They need to clip into the plate on all four sides.
i'm rapidly learning about alps plate options :)) do you have a plate file for AEKII? me and a fellow NL resident are thinking of getting a few made locally but i dont have the right bottom row for the spacebar.
i'm in for a plate. would it be possible to do a plate that works for both dell and apple?
Not one plate that does both, but BlueNalgene is looking into making both styles count towards one MOQ.
STH, I never knew you were Dutch?
STH, I never knew you were Dutch?
not Dutch just living here
STH, I never knew you were Dutch?
not Dutch just living here
For what? The levees? The bike paths? The windmills? Clogs?
i'm in for a plate. would it be possible to do a plate that works for both dell and apple?
Not one plate that does both, but BlueNalgene is looking into making both styles count towards one MOQ.
Is there's any chance a Dell AT101 (without winkeys) plate option can be offered also?
STH, I never knew you were Dutch?
not Dutch just living here
For what? The levees? The bike paths? The windmills? Clogs?
for pooping, silly
Whether hasu runs a round 3 PCB or this one I'm probably in on both for a PCB.
STH, I never knew you were Dutch?
not Dutch just living here
For what? The levees? The bike paths? The windmills? Clogs?
for pooping, silly
Hmm...I didn't know the bathrooms and toilets were so great over there. I'll have to plan a visit to The Netherlands.
Do we have an ETA for when this groupbuy might start? Really interested in a 60% Dell-style board with quiet clicks (and I could probably buy an extra 100 switches)
Do we have an ETA for when this groupbuy might start? Really interested in a 60% Dell-style board with quiet clicks (and I could probably buy an extra 100 switches)
Hard to say. I'm still waiting on some quotes from machine shops at the moment. I still need to find time to perfect the CAD files too. If I had to venture a guess, I would say it will go life in 1-2 weeks, but don't hold me to that.
Do we have an ETA for when this groupbuy might start? Really interested in a 60% Dell-style board with quiet clicks (and I could probably buy an extra 100 switches)
Hard to say. I'm still waiting on some quotes from machine shops at the moment. I still need to find time to perfect the CAD files too. If I had to venture a guess, I would say it will go life in 1-2 weeks, but don't hold me to that.
It sounds like this may end up running side-by-side with my Alps keycap GB (IC here (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=74783)). I don't think of these as competing against each other, since you are not offering caps, and I think running them in tandem will probably only help us both out if anything. Are you OK with this?
Im interested. I'd just want one of each the board and the plate I think. What all does the pcb come with? would I have to buy the BOM too? Trying to get an understanding of the total cost.
Update -
At least one successful :llama: has been produced. Can confirm that there will be a raffle for at least one :llama: in the official group buy.
Update -
At least one successful :llama: has been produced. Can confirm that there will be a raffle for at least one :llama: in the official group buy.
Uh, what will there be a raffle for?
Update -
At least one successful :llama: has been produced. Can confirm that there will be a raffle for at least one :llama: in the official group buy.
Uh, what will there be a raffle for?
:llama:
In the OP he mentioned a surprise, super secret incentive. He used a bunch of those llama things then. So he's not going to tell us what it is.Update -
At least one successful :llama: has been produced. Can confirm that there will be a raffle for at least one :llama: in the official group buy.
Uh, what will there be a raffle for?
:llama:
Oh wow, for a moment there I thought it was a joke :thumb:
In the OP he mentioned a surprise, super secret incentive. He used a bunch of those llama things then. So he's not going to tell us what it is.Update -
At least one successful :llama: has been produced. Can confirm that there will be a raffle for at least one :llama: in the official group buy.
Uh, what will there be a raffle for?
:llama:
Oh wow, for a moment there I thought it was a joke :thumb:
Oops, I didn't realize I was supposed to express interest in switches. :-[ ;D
I'm interested in acquiring some switches somehow. Any idea what quantities we'd need to achieve some price break? If need be, I can just place an order straight from Matias.
Update -
At least one successful :llama: has been produced. Can confirm that there will be a raffle for at least one :llama: in the official group buy.
Any updates on this possible buy? I'm dying to tear up this board lol
Any updates on this possible buy? I'm dying to tear up this board lol
No updates yet. Still working on final tweaks on the plate. I'm aiming for this weekend though.
Any updates on this possible buy? I'm dying to tear up this board lol
No updates yet. Still working on final tweaks on the plate. I'm aiming for this weekend though.
Any updates on this possible buy? I'm dying to tear up this board lol
No updates yet. Still working on final tweaks on the plate. I'm aiming for this weekend though.
Speaking of the plate, I'm still eager to learn if you've found a vendor that will do multiple layout options, and if so what our layout options will be.
Any updates on this possible buy? I'm dying to tear up this board lol
No updates yet. Still working on final tweaks on the plate. I'm aiming for this weekend though.
Speaking of the plate, I'm still eager to learn if you've found a vendor that will do multiple layout options, and if so what our layout options will be.
Multiple layouts can happen with some places. Right now, there are two options. A local place can do laser cut plates at a good price, and BigBlueSaw can do water cut plates at a less good price. I'm leaning toward the local one, since it would be cheaper to start with, and there would be no cost to ship the plates to me either. The cost difference of my rough quotes was about $15. Both of these places will do the combined order for multiple layouts. I have made plate designs for the AEKII, AT101, AT101W, and AT102W layouts. JDCarpe has kindly agreed to check my work and give me advice on stabilizers.
Why am I even waffling on this if the cost is so much different? Waterjet looks prettier. Laser cutting causes/suffers from something known as the heat affected zone. This zone can deform and melt during the cutting process. Waterjet does not have this issue since it is an abrasive cutting process. Waterjet cut steel edge will look like a smooth dull face, with some burrs on one side. A laser cut steel edge can start to develop moderate burrs on both sides of the cut edge based on the speed and cooling method of the laser. See here (http://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/published-papers/the-effects-of-steel-composition-on-the-laser-cut-edge-quality-of-carbon-and-c-mn-steels/) for some comparison shots of the speed effect on the edge. A comparison of waterjet vs laser edge can be seen on this (http://www.flowwaterjet.com/en/waterjet-technology/comparative-cutting.aspx) site. If we want to go with a really nice edge from the water cut, we can add an additional $5 per unit for a basic finish.
If the big difference is edge effects, what do we want? I'm not sure of the edge quality of the laser cutter I got the quote from. I have sent them an email tonight asking for some info on this, and how much finishing work they do, but I don't expect a response until tomorrow.
What's more: does it even matter? As thin of steel as we are going to be using, the HAZ area may contribute so little to the burrs that it isn't an issue.
This is an IC, so input is welcome on this area. However, if the laser cut guy can show me a sexy edge from things they have done in the past, I won't be above making an executive decision.
Then there is the powder coat finish. Nubbs suggested it originally, and other members of the IC have expressed interest in it. BigBlueSaw does not offer it. My local place doesn't offer it, but they can send it to the shop down the street that does it. I'm still waiting for a quote on that.
edit: fixed link
My thoughts exactly.Any updates on this possible buy? I'm dying to tear up this board lol
No updates yet. Still working on final tweaks on the plate. I'm aiming for this weekend though.
Speaking of the plate, I'm still eager to learn if you've found a vendor that will do multiple layout options, and if so what our layout options will be.
Multiple layouts can happen with some places. Right now, there are two options. A local place can do laser cut plates at a good price, and BigBlueSaw can do water cut plates at a less good price. I'm leaning toward the local one, since it would be cheaper to start with, and there would be no cost to ship the plates to me either. The cost difference of my rough quotes was about $15. Both of these places will do the combined order for multiple layouts. I have made plate designs for the AEKII, AT101, AT101W, and AT102W layouts. JDCarpe has kindly agreed to check my work and give me advice on stabilizers.
Why am I even waffling on this if the cost is so much different? Waterjet looks prettier. Laser cutting causes/suffers from something known as the heat affected zone. This zone can deform and melt during the cutting process. Waterjet does not have this issue since it is an abrasive cutting process. Waterjet cut steel edge will look like a smooth dull face, with some burrs on one side. A laser cut steel edge can start to develop moderate burrs on both sides of the cut edge based on the speed and cooling method of the laser. See here (http://www.twi-global.com/technical-knowledge/published-papers/the-effects-of-steel-composition-on-the-laser-cut-edge-quality-of-carbon-and-c-mn-steels/) for some comparison shots of the speed effect on the edge. A comparison of waterjet vs laser edge can be seen on this (http://www.flowwaterjet.com/en/waterjet-technology/comparative-cutting.aspx) site. If we want to go with a really nice edge from the water cut, we can add an additional $5 per unit for a basic finish.
If the big difference is edge effects, what do we want? I'm not sure of the edge quality of the laser cutter I got the quote from. I have sent them an email tonight asking for some info on this, and how much finishing work they do, but I don't expect a response until tomorrow.
What's more: does it even matter? As thin of steel as we are going to be using, the HAZ area may contribute so little to the burrs that it isn't an issue.
This is an IC, so input is welcome on this area. However, if the laser cut guy can show me a sexy edge from things they have done in the past, I won't be above making an executive decision.
Then there is the powder coat finish. Nubbs suggested it originally, and other members of the IC have expressed interest in it. BigBlueSaw does not offer it. My local place doesn't offer it, but they can send it to the shop down the street that does it. I'm still waiting for a quote on that.
edit: fixed link
Nubbinator recently found out just how bad laser cutting can look, on his AEKII plate buy. In the end he decided to pay extra to have them refinished to remove the burrs and discoloration.
But at $15 extra per plate, plus $5 for deburring, I'd rather have an uglier plate and get it powder-coated.
Appearance is a potential issue, but I would be more concerned about a burr on the bottom side of the plate interfering with the retention leafs on the sides of the switches.
Do laser cutting and make everyone deburr their own plate. It's fun and really makes you feel like you're doing DIY when you're staring at a plate with a file and sandpaper like DON'T YOU **** WITH ME THIS TIME. Or maybe that's just me...
Tolerance should be as close to +/- 0.001" as possible. But I've always had great plates made by laser cutting. I've never had a plate cut by water jet, and I have a LOT of custom plates.
Tolerance should be as close to +/- 0.001" as possible. But I've always had great plates made by laser cutting. I've never had a plate cut by water jet, and I have a LOT of custom plates.
+/- .001 seems like way overkill for a plate. De-facto standard for non-moving parts is usually +/- .005 for a dimension with three decimal places.
Any updates on this possible buy? I'm dying to tear up this board lol
No updates yet. Still working on final tweaks on the plate. I'm aiming for this weekend though.
Speaking of the plate, I'm still eager to learn if you've found a vendor that will do multiple layout options, and if so what our layout options will be.
Multiple layouts can happen with some places. Right now, there are two options. A local place can do laser cut plates at a good price, and BigBlueSaw can do water cut plates at a less good price. I'm leaning toward the local one, since it would be cheaper to start with, and there would be no cost to ship the plates to me either. The cost difference of my rough quotes was about $15. Both of these places will do the combined order for multiple layouts. I have made plate designs for the AEKII, AT101, AT101W, and AT102W layouts. JDCarpe has kindly agreed to check my work and give me advice on stabilizers.
Barbie Pink with a glossy clear coat.
Jdcarpurple.
Right. The fun plate colors will give a pop to otherwise boring salvaged Alps keycaps. Think phorphorglow plates on his Ms.
Powder Coat discussion time
So I just got off the phone with the powder coating shop near me. He gave me a rough quote for the service and an idea of what they have. According to the guy I spoke with, they have "all sorts" of colors and "a buncha" different textures. There is no MOQ, but each color change costs.
The pricing scheme:
$25 for each color change
~$20 per plate
Candy coating and clear coat costs extra.
The color and texture:
What do we as a group want? Do we want something bold and colorful, like a glossy BlueNalgene blue? Do we want something sedate that would look good with older caps like a beige and gray alps mountaintop mock rock? Do we want some badass metal black and silver hammertone? Suggestions are welcome.
So if you intend to get the clearcoat option, please give me some input.
I'd rather have bare metal
Right. The fun plate colors will give a pop to otherwise boring salvaged Alps keycaps. Think phorphorglow plates on his Ms.
/me dreams of fun colors on Alps keycap sets
This is SS not mild steel. So thin powder coat will be fine.Powder Coat discussion time
So I just got off the phone with the powder coating shop near me. He gave me a rough quote for the service and an idea of what they have. According to the guy I spoke with, they have "all sorts" of colors and "a buncha" different textures. There is no MOQ, but each color change costs.
The pricing scheme:
$25 for each color change
~$20 per plate
Candy coating and clear coat costs extra.
The color and texture:
What do we as a group want? Do we want something bold and colorful, like a glossy BlueNalgene blue? Do we want something sedate that would look good with older caps like a beige and gray alps mountaintop mock rock? Do we want some badass metal black and silver hammertone? Suggestions are welcome.
So if you intend to get the clearcoat option, please give me some input.
Powder coat is great stuff, but not necessarily in a project with tight tolerances. I've seen several projects where the powder film applied was well over 1mm thick and manually sanding/filing powder coat is a massive pain in the a$$. Masking off all of the switch mounting holes would be very tedious, indeed. If on the other hand, the powder is thinly applied, there is a risk that mild steel components will corrode beneath the powder (it happened to me).
I would humbly suggest that Cerakote is a better product for this application and it is available in a multitude of colors..
Expressing interest x10, after reading more than I usually do it appears that this is an IC for 2 IC's which we're HOPING lead to GB's? Ok, got it! :)
Dell ansi plate btw, go away Mac layout plebs. <3
+1
I have faith in you bluenalgene. We more or less did a single gb before between nubbs plate, hasu's round 2 and the AEKII donor buys - they all happened basically at once.
I'm sure this can be pulled of as well.
I wonder if anodising can be an option. Or just raw if the powder coating is a bit too expensive. Raw is also pretty nice.Anodizing is for aluminum, not stainless. And colors will be completely optional since there's no MOQ.
Why not keep powder coating as an option and allow just raw plates as well? There could be a MOQ per color on the coats, and if no colors pass the MOQ then the people have spoken.No need to impose MOQs for colors. If someone is willing to pay $50 for a custom color, they should be allowed.
I'd love a deep dark red plate for instance, and there is no way to get that with anodization afaik.
Would it be possible to build the keybaord without the PCB? I already have a teensy so I could wire it up if the plate supported it.
Would it be possible to build the keybaord without the PCB? I already have a teensy so I could wire it up if the plate supported it.
Would it be possible to build the keybaord without the PCB? I already have a teensy so I could wire it up if the plate supported it.
Take a look at some of the awesome work done by new-ish member Yoe, as example:
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=69841.0
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=74161.0
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=73760.0
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=72577.0
https://instagram.com/trasselfrisyr/
Ah ok I had seen those before but I wasn't sure he was using your plates or not. I know he cuts down the stock plates a lot. Thanks!
The plate will fit in a Pok3r case probably right? Looks like the last one would have...
Do laser cutting and make everyone deburr their own plate. It's fun and really makes you feel like you're doing DIY when you're staring at a plate with a file and sandpaper like DON'T YOU **** WITH ME THIS TIME. Or maybe that's just me...
this GB will go live on Monday.
Pretty sure I'm ready for this.
Now we just need someone to run a GB for Alps keycappers.
Mechanicalkeyboards.com will be selling the Dolch (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1362), and Olivette (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1361) Tai Hao caps that were on massdrop. They are currently available for pre order.Pretty sure I'm ready for this.
Now we just need someone to run a GB for Alps keycappers.
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=74783.0
Wish Granted. Also MD just ran a Tai Hao Alps GB.
Pretty sure I'm ready for this.
Now we just need someone to run a GB for Alps keycappers.
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=74783.0
Wish Granted. Also MD just ran a Tai Hao Alps GB.
Mechanicalkeyboards.com will be selling the Dolch (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1362), and Olivette (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1361) Tai Hao caps that were on massdrop. They are currently available for pre order.
Mechanicalkeyboards.com will be selling the Dolch (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1362), and Olivette (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1361) Tai Hao caps that were on massdrop. They are currently available for pre order.
Just for clarification, these sets wont fit on the bottom row of an AEKII layout, correct?
Oh, I suppose I never piped up about the plate layout I'd like.
It would be an Infinity Hacker, which I know no one is interested in, but I want a true HHKB plate (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/19d1ac10351b119482a6) (so without leftmost and two rightmost bottom-row holes cut). I don't think there's a lot of interest in that particular layout — I may do an IC myself or get a couple made.
At any rate, I have a round-2 PCB waiting for me to figure out the plate and some 6u spacebars (fingers crossed Alpine Winter), so I'm in for at least another PCB w/ components if not plates.
Oh, I suppose I never piped up about the plate layout I'd like.
It would be an Infinity Hacker, which I know no one is interested in, but I want a true HHKB plate (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/19d1ac10351b119482a6) (so without leftmost and two rightmost bottom-row holes cut). I don't think there's a lot of interest in that particular layout — I may do an IC myself or get a couple made.
At any rate, I have a round-2 PCB waiting for me to figure out the plate and some 6u spacebars (fingers crossed Alpine Winter), so I'm in for at least another PCB w/ components if not plates.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Oh, I suppose I never piped up about the plate layout I'd like.
It would be an Infinity Hacker, which I know no one is interested in, but I want a true HHKB plate (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/19d1ac10351b119482a6) (so without leftmost and two rightmost bottom-row holes cut). I don't think there's a lot of interest in that particular layout — I may do an IC myself or get a couple made.
At any rate, I have a round-2 PCB waiting for me to figure out the plate and some 6u spacebars (fingers crossed Alpine Winter), so I'm in for at least another PCB w/ components if not plates.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
*Ahem*
Oh, I suppose I never piped up about the plate layout I'd like.
It would be an Infinity Hacker, which I know no one is interested in, but I want a true HHKB plate (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/19d1ac10351b119482a6) (so without leftmost and two rightmost bottom-row holes cut). I don't think there's a lot of interest in that particular layout — I may do an IC myself or get a couple made.
At any rate, I have a round-2 PCB waiting for me to figure out the plate and some 6u spacebars (fingers crossed Alpine Winter), so I'm in for at least another PCB w/ components if not plates.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
*Ahem*
Oh really? I bet that is what those blanks are for.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
w00t!A new challenger approaches....
Hannibal is at the gates.
Final quote verification received. This GB goes live TONIGHT.
And the GB is up!!!!
And the GB is up!!!!
I'm so excited!
And the GB is up!!!!
I'm so excited!
I'm not. Thread does not exist...?
Oh, I suppose I never piped up about the plate layout I'd like.
It would be an Infinity Hacker, which I know no one is interested in, but I want a true HHKB plate (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/19d1ac10351b119482a6) (so without leftmost and two rightmost bottom-row holes cut). I don't think there's a lot of interest in that particular layout — I may do an IC myself or get a couple made.
At any rate, I have a round-2 PCB waiting for me to figure out the plate and some 6u spacebars (fingers crossed Alpine Winter), so I'm in for at least another PCB w/ components if not plates.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Well, I don't need the whole Hacker layout, since I only want HHKB. The key is the 6u spacebar, which Alpine Winter will supply.
(Also a huge coup to get the 6.5u AEKII spacebars in that GB, too. This may be bigger news (in terms of solving rarity) than Matt3o's Topre set.)
The 8u ALPS spacebar on my NeXT board takes the cake for "Ain't Never Gonna Find a Replacement For That" though.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Well, I don't need the whole Hacker layout, since I only want HHKB. The key is the 6u spacebar, which Alpine Winter will supply.
(Also a huge coup to get the 6.5u AEKII spacebars in that GB, too. This may be bigger news (in terms of solving rarity) than Matt3o's Topre set.)
The 8u ALPS spacebar on my NeXT board takes the cake for "Ain't Never Gonna Find a Replacement For That" though.
i would buy more than one of those HHKB alps plates.
I don't get the HHKB layout. I mean, yes fewer keys, and yes those corners are hard to reach, but why not just stick caps lock and win key there and have them available if you should need them? It's almost like removing features is something you pay extra for now, like one of those cell phones with huge numbers for granny that cost three times what they should.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Well, I don't need the whole Hacker layout, since I only want HHKB. The key is the 6u spacebar, which Alpine Winter will supply.
(Also a huge coup to get the 6.5u AEKII spacebars in that GB, too. This may be bigger news (in terms of solving rarity) than Matt3o's Topre set.)
The 8u ALPS spacebar on my NeXT board takes the cake for "Ain't Never Gonna Find a Replacement For That" though.
i would buy more than one of those HHKB alps plates.
So you guys want this?Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/KiFYvPv.png)
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Well, I don't need the whole Hacker layout, since I only want HHKB. The key is the 6u spacebar, which Alpine Winter will supply.
(Also a huge coup to get the 6.5u AEKII spacebars in that GB, too. This may be bigger news (in terms of solving rarity) than Matt3o's Topre set.)
The 8u ALPS spacebar on my NeXT board takes the cake for "Ain't Never Gonna Find a Replacement For That" though.
i would buy more than one of those HHKB alps plates.
So you guys want this?Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/KiFYvPv.png)
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Well, I don't need the whole Hacker layout, since I only want HHKB. The key is the 6u spacebar, which Alpine Winter will supply.
(Also a huge coup to get the 6.5u AEKII spacebars in that GB, too. This may be bigger news (in terms of solving rarity) than Matt3o's Topre set.)
The 8u ALPS spacebar on my NeXT board takes the cake for "Ain't Never Gonna Find a Replacement For That" though.
i would buy more than one of those HHKB alps plates.
So you guys want this?Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/KiFYvPv.png)
You probably would want to leave it rectangular but with no cutouts, just so it will cover the top of a Poker-style case. Then if someone wanted to use it in a special viper-style case, they could just bandsaw it or something.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Well, I don't need the whole Hacker layout, since I only want HHKB. The key is the 6u spacebar, which Alpine Winter will supply.
(Also a huge coup to get the 6.5u AEKII spacebars in that GB, too. This may be bigger news (in terms of solving rarity) than Matt3o's Topre set.)
The 8u ALPS spacebar on my NeXT board takes the cake for "Ain't Never Gonna Find a Replacement For That" though.
i would buy more than one of those HHKB alps plates.
So you guys want this?Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/KiFYvPv.png)
You probably would want to leave it rectangular but with no cutouts, just so it will cover the top of a Poker-style case. Then if someone wanted to use it in a special viper-style case, they could just bandsaw it or something.
Yeah, then you get to explain to people why there are missing keys on the corners every time...Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/oYqH5mG.jpg)
Well, whatever people want, I guess...but a rectangular plate seems a lot more likely as part of the MOQ than one with a different shape.
Well, whatever people want, I guess...but a rectangular plate seems a lot more likely as part of the MOQ than one with a different shape.
Sure, I'm with you. BlueNalgene can easily remove the switch holes from the Infinity Hacker plate drawing I sent him. :)
There have been severalfolkshackers whining about wanting an hacker plate.
Where would you find Alps caps with a hacker layout?
Well, I don't need the whole Hacker layout, since I only want HHKB. The key is the 6u spacebar, which Alpine Winter will supply.
(Also a huge coup to get the 6.5u AEKII spacebars in that GB, too. This may be bigger news (in terms of solving rarity) than Matt3o's Topre set.)
The 8u ALPS spacebar on my NeXT board takes the cake for "Ain't Never Gonna Find a Replacement For That" though.
i would buy more than one of those HHKB alps plates.
So you guys want this?Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/KiFYvPv.png)
You probably would want to leave it rectangular but with no cutouts, just so it will cover the top of a Poker-style case. Then if someone wanted to use it in a special viper-style case, they could just bandsaw it or something.
Yeah, then you get to explain to people why there are missing keys on the corners every time...Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/oYqH5mG.jpg)
Well, whatever people want, I guess...but a rectangular plate seems a lot more likely as part of the MOQ than one with a different shape.
Sure, I'm with you. BlueNalgene can easily remove the switch holes from the Infinity Hacker plate drawing I sent him. :)
Yeah, I will update. There have been several folks whining about wanting an hacker plate.
Well, whatever people want, I guess...but a rectangular plate seems a lot more likely as part of the MOQ than one with a different shape.
Sure, I'm with you. BlueNalgene can easily remove the switch holes from the Infinity Hacker plate drawing I sent him. :)
Yeah, I will update. There have been several folks whining about wanting an hacker plate.
Yessss! Hack me baby!!!
P.S.
Sorry about the whining ...
Ok folks. So you want a Hacker layout with lessusabilitykey holes. If the group can decide how we want to handle the blank space, I will put it up on the GB form.
Your options are:
a) Remove the corner key cutouts so when finished you see lots of plate.
b) Remove the corners so you can see the PCB underneath.
Ok folks. So you want a Hacker layout with lessusabilitykey holes. If the group can decide how we want to handle the blank space, I will put it up on the GB form.
Your options are:
a) Remove the corner key cutouts so when finished you see lots of plate.
b) Remove the corners so you can see the PCB underneath.
My attempt to quell the questions from coworkers didn't work :))Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/ZlNOxXc.jpg)
My attempt to quell the questions from coworkers didn't work :))Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/ZlNOxXc.jpg)
Are you using dummy keys here (like SP has for sale)? Where did you find a 1.5u one?
This doesn't look shabby. I like! An option if the HHKB plate doesn't turn out to be an option.
Ok folks. So you want a Hacker layout with lessusabilitykey holes. If the group can decide how we want to handle the blank space, I will put it up on the GB form.
Your options are:
a) Remove the corner key cutouts so when finished you see lots of plate.
b) Remove the corners so you can see the PCB underneath.
Actually, I'd prefer the Infinity Hacker layout (not HHKB), with all of the usability: http://www.massdrop.com/buy/infinity-keyboard-kit?referer=VF4SNE
Sorry for the misunderstanding ... and the whining.
Ok folks. So you want a Hacker layout with lessusabilitykey holes. If the group can decide how we want to handle the blank space, I will put it up on the GB form.
Your options are:
a) Remove the corner key cutouts so when finished you see lots of plate.
b) Remove the corners so you can see the PCB underneath.
Wow, wasn't expecting this. Is this still an option now that the GB has gone live? Option A, that is?
I'd likely be more interested in the powder coating if the plate is showing some skin...
Oh, and the desire for "less usability" is half aesthetic (i think it looks boss), and half because my HHKB is my daily driver and I'm never going to use those 3 keys.
Ok folks. So you want a Hacker layout with lessusabilitykey holes. If the group can decide how we want to handle the blank space, I will put it up on the GB form.
Your options are:
a) Remove the corner key cutouts so when finished you see lots of plate.
b) Remove the corners so you can see the PCB underneath.
Actually, I'd prefer the Infinity Hacker layout (not HHKB), with all of the usability: http://www.massdrop.com/buy/infinity-keyboard-kit?referer=VF4SNE
Sorry for the misunderstanding ... and the whining.Ok folks. So you want a Hacker layout with lessusabilitykey holes. If the group can decide how we want to handle the blank space, I will put it up on the GB form.
Your options are:
a) Remove the corner key cutouts so when finished you see lots of plate.
b) Remove the corners so you can see the PCB underneath.
Wow, wasn't expecting this. Is this still an option now that the GB has gone live? Option A, that is?
I'd likely be more interested in the powder coating if the plate is showing some skin...
Oh, and the desire for "less usability" is half aesthetic (i think it looks boss), and half because my HHKB is my daily driver and I'm never going to use those 3 keys.
I'm going to add the HHKB Option A style plate to the GB.
And I hope you guys know I was being sarcastic about the usability thing. I was just having a joke ohmygodyouhatemenow :confused:
omgomgomg how do i modify my order!?