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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: online on Wed, 05 September 2018, 18:20:22

Title: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard (Cancelled)
Post by: online on Wed, 05 September 2018, 18:20:22
Cancelled due to the difficulty of running a group buy.


More
Hi there,

I want a keyboard with a numpad on the left to use as a macro broad. Also, split spacebars / dual Fn Minila like layout with navigation keys map to layers on the left.

So I designed a keyboard with numpad on the left, 112 keys, multi-layout, split spacebars supports.

Let me introduce Port.

Design

I decided to keep the keyboard design very simple and minimal (or others call it plain).
4 degree
146 x 21 x 412.7mm

[attachimg=1]

[attachimg=2]

[attachimg=3]

[attachimg=4]

[attachimg=5]

[attachimg=6]

[attachimg=7]

PCB
QMK, Multi-layouts, ISO support
TBC: USB-C / Mini USB

[attach=8]

Let me know what you think, any input would be appreciated, but keep in mind this is my very first attempt at designing keyboard. (go easy on me :p)

Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad
Post by: Paopawdecarabao on Wed, 05 September 2018, 18:50:45
Gonna watch this thread +1. I have a 65% southpaw using for work. Would like to upgrade to this in the future.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: flying1911 on Wed, 05 September 2018, 21:17:37
I would love to see this happen. A few things you may consider:

- A steeper slope. 4 degrees seems a bit too flat.

- Reverse numpad support

- Spicing things up a little in terms of design; but again, if this keeps cost down then be it. Based on the render, option for a translucent bottom would be nice.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: LightningXI on Wed, 05 September 2018, 21:57:32
All that split spacebar support is gonna end up in a hell of a swiss-cheese PCB... :(

I agree -- Reverse Numpad support and a steeper incline (personally 6-8 degrees) would be nice.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: speaktobrett on Wed, 05 September 2018, 22:04:54
Very nice design! I love the simplicity of it all.

Also, 4 degree angle suits me fine :) ... i don't need carpal tunnel!
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: rymnd6c28 on Wed, 05 September 2018, 22:12:02
LOVE IT! Perfect layout for me, and the design is a no BS no gimmick one. Although you may want to consider a spaced arrow key and thicc plate like 3mm. Would definitely join if the price are sub 250USD
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: SomePunkassKid on Wed, 05 September 2018, 22:33:58
I'm very interested.
I like the convenience of a numpad on the left.

Sent from my Potato using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: MatchstickMan on Thu, 06 September 2018, 07:09:41
Yeah, +1 for being able to mirror the numpad would be great.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: portbaron on Thu, 06 September 2018, 07:39:09
Looks good, no more than 6 degrees though.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Laughmaster on Thu, 06 September 2018, 08:08:08
I like it! Sort of like a compromise between the Southpaw 65+ and fullsize. Personally I'm partial to having a dedicated F-row and the bit of separation between the numpad and the main part of the board, so I'd almost certainly be in if this goes to GB :)

I'd also like a mirrored numpad option, and the front bezel looks a bit too tall to me (might just be because of the angle?). It also looks like you only put in a space for one indicator light; and TBH I don't really like the position of it. Stepped capslock support would also be nice.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: HardcoreDesk on Thu, 06 September 2018, 08:12:25
I'd rather have a board that supports the more common WKL/7u spacebar layouts than one that supports so many different split space options
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: ErgoMacros on Thu, 06 September 2018, 10:19:51
@Laughmaster -- Looks to me like a stepped CapsLock is indicated, that key is in the key map, off to the right.
Enjoy!

Agree nice layout, and agree more than 1 LED would be nice, and Online it's your keyboard be true to your vision too!
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Laughmaster on Thu, 06 September 2018, 12:55:30
Quote from: ErgoMacros on Thu, 06 September 2018, 10:19:51
@Laughmaster -- Looks to me like a stepped CapsLock is indicated, that key is in the key map, off to the right.
Enjoy!
Ahh, that it is. I was looking for it below, thanks for pointing that out!
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: online on Thu, 06 September 2018, 16:41:13
Thanks for the kind words and feedback! I'm so happy to find out there're people like this kind of layout.

PCB layout option is updated to include a mirrored numpad. I'm thinking to remove some split spacebar options, namely 2.25|2.75|1.25 (not 2.25|1.25|2.75) and maybe dual 3.0 option. Please let me know when layout you want the least.

I will consider to increase incline from 4 degrees to 6 degrees.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: ErgoMacros on Thu, 06 September 2018, 19:27:01
Yep, the 2.25|2.75|1.25 and the dual 3.0 option would be my least favorites, although I may not join the buy.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: flying1911 on Thu, 06 September 2018, 20:34:13
Quote from: online on Thu, 06 September 2018, 16:41:13
Thanks for the kind words and feedback! I'm so happy to find out there're people like this kind of layout.

PCB layout option is updated to include a mirrored numpad. I'm thinking to remove some split spacebar options, namely 2.25|2.75|1.25 (not 2.25|1.25|2.75) and maybe dual 3.0 option. Please let me know when layout you want the least.

I will consider to increase incline from 4 degrees to 6 degrees.

I imagine this could be a dream board for a lefty like myself.

Split space bars seem trendy these days, but IMO they are aesthetically unpleasing, and there's no need for them on a more than 60% layout.

Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: tectonicplate on Thu, 06 September 2018, 23:08:36
I'd be in for this, perfect for what I do. Anything to keep costs down while retaining what's going on now would be greatly appreciated. I like the idea of split and/or small spacebars, but I probably would go with a 6.25 for this build. The split 3u is tempting though. Definitely would go for the mirrored numpad. I might prefer something closer to 6° if given the option. Really into the layout and the cleanliness for the overall design… it's a strength here. In a perfect world, a white case option would be the cherry on top for me, but I know that can add a bit to cost. Excellent first pass, if you hadn't said so, I'd never have known. Please make this happen.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: SomePunkassKid on Fri, 07 September 2018, 00:40:28
Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm pretty sure it's close to impossible to find 3u keys.

My Mistel has the same problem.

Sent from my Potato using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: MatchstickMan on Fri, 07 September 2018, 07:10:48
Yeah, ditto on the 3u keys. As I understand, they're extremely uncommon, so I think you'd be safe nixing that option (might also help make the PCB design a bit more simple). I'm definitely +1 for split spacebar options.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: t8c on Fri, 07 September 2018, 09:31:51
3u are starting to pop up in newer EnjoyPBT sets.

Signature Plastics also has them in SA profile. I say keep 'em.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: megastyle on Fri, 07 September 2018, 09:46:14
I'd likely jump in on this as well. That bit of extra space to the right of the number pad would solve my only gripe with the Southpaw 65.

No need for split space here, and I'm cool with the flatter 4-degree slope.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: online on Fri, 07 September 2018, 13:18:20
3u is not common for sure, but as some of you said - it starts getting popular, most of the SP SA group buy include 3u spacebar in their spacebar kit now. DSA and ePTB supports 3u as well. I wish GMK offer 3u, many nice sets I'd love to use but can't, that's the only reason I opted for 2.75u in the dual fn layout.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: online on Fri, 07 September 2018, 13:30:13
Quote from: megastyle on Fri, 07 September 2018, 09:46:14
I'd likely jump in on this as well. That bit of extra space to the right of the number pad would solve my only gripe with the Southpaw 65.

No need for split space here, and I'm cool with the flatter 4-degree slope.

So glad to know someone is valuing the space(s)!
I could have just make a flipped 96key PCB use pair existing 96 cases and call it a day. (actually, I did)
When using 96keys without the spaces, I often pressed the wrong keys, especially Esc and F-keys. I had to look down to make sure my figure landed on the right key before pressing.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Zytyx on Fri, 07 September 2018, 15:55:37
Minila bottom row with a grid numpad would be the dream layout for me. I'd also prefer the 4 degree over the 6 degree.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Kawamashi on Fri, 07 September 2018, 16:48:26
Very nice project !

I'm fine with a 4-degrees slope.

Quote from: online on Fri, 07 September 2018, 13:30:13
Quote from: megastyle on Fri, 07 September 2018, 09:46:14
I'd likely jump in on this as well. That bit of extra space to the right of the number pad would solve my only gripe with the Southpaw 65.

No need for split space here, and I'm cool with the flatter 4-degree slope.

So glad to know someone is valuing the space(s)!

Speaking of space, IMHO your project'd be really terrific with a little bit of space between the arrows and the rest of the board, like this one  (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=97182.0)(or this one (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=90307.0)).

For me, a board like the E7 with a numpad on the left = instabuy.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: helix999 on Fri, 07 September 2018, 18:45:04
Quote from: Kawamashi on Fri, 07 September 2018, 16:48:26
a little bit of space between the arrows and the rest of the board

Love the simplicity of the overall design and hopefully that keeps the price down. Would also agree that a little space to separate the arrow keys is always helpful.  Definitely interested.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: tectonicplate on Fri, 07 September 2018, 19:56:14
Quote from: helix999 on Fri, 07 September 2018, 18:45:04
Quote from: Kawamashi on Fri, 07 September 2018, 16:48:26
a little bit of space between the arrows and the rest of the board

Love the simplicity of the overall design and hopefully that keeps the price down. Would also agree that a little space to separate the arrow keys is always helpful.  Definitely interested.


Agree with many of these comments. All of the margin zones (f-row—both vertical and horizontal gaps—and numpad column) are consistent and well-placed, which is a big part of the design success. I'm also down with 4° if that's where it pans out.

There is definitely an uptick in the 3u presence over here in the west. I'm also hesitant to commit, but between SP and other eastern keycaps vendors, as others have mentioned, it's becoming less of an exotic option. The double 3u keeps it real though… but hey… we all know this hobby isn't for the faint of heart.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: GSV-CargoCult on Sat, 08 September 2018, 02:21:27
Love it.  Love the ISO support too, and the slight gap between the num row and F keys. Any idea on timelines?
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: nguyenhimself on Sun, 09 September 2018, 21:43:03
I love it. I skipped on the Southpaw mostly due to its case design. Here we have a very good-looking minimalist case. Also pleased to see the various layouts for the numpad.

Overall this checks a lot of boxes for me. Looking forward to more.

Any pricing though?
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: KeLorean on Tue, 11 September 2018, 09:04:04
i missed the last southpaw so would love to get in on this. hoping for standard price point


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: quake4mhg on Fri, 21 September 2018, 23:32:54
Interested!
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Acereconkeys on Sat, 22 September 2018, 21:20:09
How tall is the case at the front? Seems rather tall. I am worried that a tall front + low angle will make this uncomfortable to type on.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Skryzskruzzle on Sun, 23 September 2018, 01:47:21
I'm definitely interested. Any rough ideas on pricing/timeline yet?
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: rumlyne on Thu, 27 September 2018, 08:07:09
If I hadn't gone down the ortholinear rabbithole, I'd definitely want one of those! Great idea!
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: TheMastermind on Mon, 10 December 2018, 00:05:08
Quote from: online on Thu, 06 September 2018, 16:41:13
Thanks for the kind words and feedback! I'm so happy to find out there're people like this kind of layout.

PCB layout option is updated to include a mirrored numpad. I'm thinking to remove some split spacebar options, namely 2.25|2.75|1.25 (not 2.25|1.25|2.75) and maybe dual 3.0 option. Please let me know when layout you want the least.

I will consider to increase incline from 4 degrees to 6 degrees.

I am in favor of adding a bit more incline as the front is quite tall.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: yap68 on Mon, 10 December 2018, 07:02:41
Neat design. I would like a 6° slope and spaced arrow keys.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: dyrdevil on Mon, 10 December 2018, 07:42:38
I really, really like this. In fact, I was just daydreaming about my ideal layout and it looked like this.

I'd be in favor of more standard bottom rows as I like a 7u space, but that would likely mess up your vision.
If you remove 3u spacebars, would 1.5 | 1 | 1.5 |     6     | 1.5 | 1.5 still work?


hoping for standard price point - if so, I'm IN.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: wgsunrise on Mon, 10 December 2018, 10:05:48
If this really happens and the price is reasoable (<$400). I will definitely be in.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: travwal on Mon, 10 December 2018, 11:42:12
I will watch this project with great interest
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: _ODIN_ on Tue, 11 December 2018, 15:02:16
Interested
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: wrongshoe on Tue, 11 December 2018, 15:09:40
Really like this layout
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: jenggo on Tue, 11 December 2018, 18:10:00
hmmm... been waiting for this...
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Retrias on Fri, 14 December 2018, 05:08:53
been looking for something like this , very interested in the product
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: _ODIN_ on Fri, 21 December 2018, 15:21:28
Are you willing to support a 7u space bar?
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: rn00175 on Fri, 21 December 2018, 15:58:00
Loved my extended Southpaw, and just love the simple aesthetics on this one.
Anywhere from 4 to 8 degrees is fine for me, so color me interested.

What colors are going to be offered?
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Rensuya on Fri, 21 December 2018, 22:49:23
Quote from: _ODIN_ on Fri, 21 December 2018, 15:21:28
Are you willing to support a 7u space bar?
I second the 7u, Nice design!
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: tex_live_utility on Sat, 22 December 2018, 01:31:55
Would be in favor of a 0.25u blocker next to arrows. Without a gap it can be easy to press the wrong key.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Praxis on Thu, 27 December 2018, 03:45:27
Definitely interested in this; I missed the Southpaw extended, and actually prefer this as it has a function row.  Southpaw is something I've wanted to try for ages as a way to move my mousing closer to center without losing too much layout. 
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: LXVRGS on Thu, 27 December 2018, 21:38:46
Made an account to say that I'm definitely in, as long as the price isn't too excessive. This layout is is pretty close to endgame for me.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: MFahim on Thu, 27 December 2018, 23:19:40
Basically a southpaw extended with a F-row. Looks great!  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Darknight00z on Thu, 27 December 2018, 23:27:02
Quote from: MFahim on Thu, 27 December 2018, 23:19:40
Basically a southpaw extended with a F-row. Looks great!  :thumb:

Let's hope the similarity stops there, and it doesn't become the train wreck of gb southpaw is. 😂😂 I'm still waiting for my board. 1+ year
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: vilagefool on Fri, 28 December 2018, 05:23:46
wow, really liking it! Gonna keep an eye on this one.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: justeeno on Tue, 01 January 2019, 03:06:40
this is my dream layout right here, when will a group buy start?
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: lknockoutl on Thu, 03 January 2019, 17:10:52
Amazing layout

I'm in for one!
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Sleepy_Badger on Sun, 06 January 2019, 09:40:36
Im in for one of these...for real love this :D
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Boingles on Sun, 27 January 2019, 03:01:14
I think if the angle could be higher, but I'd definitely be in for this if the price isn't crazy.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Dumblescore on Sun, 27 January 2019, 08:23:30
If it would be possible to have the nav keys on the left side as well (between the numpad and modifiers) it’d be the best keyboard ever (one I’d pay a ton for)
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: Kawamashi on Sun, 27 January 2019, 15:56:30
Like an Aegis (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=97943.0), right ?
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: WhensRamen on Tue, 05 March 2019, 08:53:27
Is this dead? Still pretty interested.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: tectonicplate on Wed, 06 March 2019, 00:11:24
Quote from: WhensRamen on Tue, 05 March 2019, 08:53:27
Is this dead? Still pretty interested.

Me too… I really hope this still happens.
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: TuCZnak on Wed, 06 March 2019, 12:28:31
Would be a shame if this died
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: empa on Thu, 07 March 2019, 03:26:33
subscribed. interested as well to hear if project is still active
Title: Re: [IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard
Post by: online on Thu, 07 March 2019, 18:12:40
Sorry for the radio silent.

I have the prototype from China a few months ago. It turns out great, considering it was my first time designing a keyboard.

I really wanted to run the GB. However, after researching on risks (financially) and the amount of after sale service that required, I decided not to open for group buy.

The biggest concern is that I’m located in the UK not able to travel to China easily to ensure the product is produced to spec. Also dealing with packaging and shipping remotely in the UK is another big challenge.

Thanks so much for your interest and sorry for the disappointment.