[IC] TheVan 44 PCB + Kit - Group Buy now LIVE

[evangs]

Group Buy https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=80988.0


I have finished my pcb design for TheVan44 which was show cased at the 2015 KeyCon.  It is a 40% keyboard with the following key layout




http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1

hand wired prototype with Hack'd by Geeks Keycaps


Please ask questions and let me know if you are interested in purchasing a pcb!

Obviously the more we purchase the cheaper they will be.  At 20 boards the price is down to about $40.00 usd.  At 40 boards the price drops to about $27.00 usd.

[stoic-lemon]

This is just for a PCB, right?

[evangs]

This is just for a PCB, right?

Currently, yes. The pcb does have surface mount components, so all that is needed are switches.  I could add plates/sandwich case if there is interest for that.

[stoic-lemon]

That would certainly make it more attractive to me. Also, I should say that this looks great and good job so far.

[evangs]

Thanks for the kind words and feedback!

[CPTBadAss]

Definitely interested

[evangs]

Ahhhh yeah

[braidn]

Interested with plate + sandwich case

[evangs]

Interested with plate + sandwich case

I will design some plates and cases tonight and run some numbers on those.  Thanks for the interest!

[Zapheo]

If I didn't already have a 40% coming in I would most definitely be interested.

[HoffmanMyster]

Even just a switch plate (no back plate) would make this much more appealing to me, simply in terms of usability.    Of course a back plate, standoffs, and screws would make it even easier. 

[evangs]

Awesome, thanks for the feedback!

[evangs]

Ordered 3 prototypes!

[geniekid]

40% isn't for me but I'm happy to see TheVan evolving from the hand wired version I saw at KeyCon.  I'm impressed to see you designed a PCB for it!  This is definitely a product of love.

[evangs]

Thank you for the kind words

[evangs]

update: currently waiting for prototype boards to be made.  working on some case options that I think will be really nice.  rolling around a few other ideas for inclusion in a kit of this.

[vivalarevolución]

I'm interested.  Could you please explain the spacing on the bottom row, please?

Also, what did you do to learn PCB design?

[William_S_Jones]

I'm definitely interested in this pcb. Are you going to offer different pcb color options? Same. as some others, I am interested in a complete 40% keyboard kit too. I do have a Golbat 40 on the way & would like to know besides the pcb, what other unique offerings will your complete 40 kit offer?

[evangs]

I'm interested.  Could you please explain the spacing on the bottom row, please?

Also, what did you do to learn PCB design?

the bottom row is 1.25, 1.5, 1.25, 2.25, 2.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75

The hack'd by geeks keycap set didn't have all those sizes which is why it looks all uneven.  I have some blank dsa caps that fit perfectly.  I kind of like 1.0 unit keys in place of the 1.5 keys as the little gap makes hitting the right key a little bit easier.  I am getting quotes on a custom keycap set for this kit, so hopefully we can get a nice set that fits perfectly.

EDIT: to learn pcb design I did a lot of reading as well as zooming in on existing pcbs and staring at what others have done.  I went to school for embedded systems, so I had some exposure to circuits, schematics, etc.

[evangs]

I'm definitely interested in this pcb. Are you going to offer different pcb color options? Same. as some others, I am interested in a complete 40% keyboard kit too. I do have a Golbat 40 on the way & would like to know besides the pcb, what other unique offerings will your complete 40 kit offer?

we could do multiple colors if there is enough interest.  what color are you interested in?  My current plan was to invert the colors for the final pcb run (white pcb with black silk screen).  I am in the process of designing a case for the board, currently sketching some 3D models and working with another member of the community to see what we can do.  I also am looking into the possibility of a custom keycap set for this kit, will hopefully have more information for that soon.

[codyeatworld]

Awesome name and PCB you got going on.

[evangs]

Awesome name and PCB you got going on.

haha, Thanks!

[William_S_Jones]

I'm interested.  Could you please explain the spacing on the bottom row, please?

Also, what did you do to learn PCB design?

the bottom row is 1.25, 1.5, 1.25, 2.25, 2.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75

The hack'd by geeks keycap set didn't have all those sizes which is why it looks all uneven.  I have some blank dsa caps that fit perfectly.  I kind of like 1.0 unit keys in place of the 1.5 keys as the little gap makes hitting the right key a little bit easier.  I am getting quotes on a custom keycap set for this kit, so hopefully we can get a nice set that fits perfectly.

Evangs, I'm interested even more now. Even though I just asked some questions, I'm really looking forward to seeing those samples you ordered!

[evangs]

I'm interested.  Could you please explain the spacing on the bottom row, please?

Also, what did you do to learn PCB design?

the bottom row is 1.25, 1.5, 1.25, 2.25, 2.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75

The hack'd by geeks keycap set didn't have all those sizes which is why it looks all uneven.  I have some blank dsa caps that fit perfectly.  I kind of like 1.0 unit keys in place of the 1.5 keys as the little gap makes hitting the right key a little bit easier.  I am getting quotes on a custom keycap set for this kit, so hopefully we can get a nice set that fits perfectly.

I'm interested.  Could you please explain the spacing on the bottom row, please?

Also, what did you do to learn PCB design?

the bottom row is 1.25, 1.5, 1.25, 2.25, 2.0, 1.25, 1.5, 1.75

The hack'd by geeks keycap set didn't have all those sizes which is why it looks all uneven.  I have some blank dsa caps that fit perfectly.  I kind of like 1.0 unit keys in place of the 1.5 keys as the little gap makes hitting the right key a little bit easier.  I am getting quotes on a custom keycap set for this kit, so hopefully we can get a nice set that fits perfectly.

Evangs, I'm interested even more now. Even though I just asked some questions, I'm really looking forward to seeing those samples you ordered!

Awesome!  If I can get everything worked out, this is going to be an awesome kit!!

[William_S_Jones]

I'm definitely interested in this pcb. Are you going to offer different pcb color options? Same. as some others, I am interested in a complete 40% keyboard kit too. I do have a Golbat 40 on the way & would like to know besides the pcb, what other unique offerings will your complete 40 kit offer?

we could do multiple colors if there is enough interest.  what color are you interested in?  My current plan was to invert the colors for the final pcb run (white pcb with black silk screen).  I am in the process of designing a case for the board, currently sketching some 3D models and working with another member of the community to see what we can do.  I also am looking into the possibility of a custom keycap set for this kit, will hopefully have more information for that soon.

This is great, I'm really looking forward to your complete 40% keyboard. The inverted pcb sounds great. The diferent pcb color options that I'm thinking of are yellow, royal blue, green, & red.

[evangs]

I'm definitely interested in this pcb. Are you going to offer different pcb color options? Same. as some others, I am interested in a complete 40% keyboard kit too. I do have a Golbat 40 on the way & would like to know besides the pcb, what other unique offerings will your complete 40 kit offer?

we could do multiple colors if there is enough interest.  what color are you interested in?  My current plan was to invert the colors for the final pcb run (white pcb with black silk screen).  I am in the process of designing a case for the board, currently sketching some 3D models and working with another member of the community to see what we can do.  I also am looking into the possibility of a custom keycap set for this kit, will hopefully have more information for that soon.

This is great, I'm really looking forward to your complete 40% keyboard. The inverted pcb sounds great. The diferent pcb color options that I'm thinking of are yellow, royal blue, green, & red.

this makes me happy!  I will be trying to get these last few details worked out, so that we can get this thing rolling once pcb has been validated!

[William_S_Jones]

I'm definitely interested in this pcb. Are you going to offer different pcb color options? Same. as some others, I am interested in a complete 40% keyboard kit too. I do have a Golbat 40 on the way & would like to know besides the pcb, what other unique offerings will your complete 40 kit offer?

we could do multiple colors if there is enough interest.  what color are you interested in?  My current plan was to invert the colors for the final pcb run (white pcb with black silk screen).  I am in the process of designing a case for the board, currently sketching some 3D models and working with another member of the community to see what we can do.  I also am looking into the possibility of a custom keycap set for this kit, will hopefully have more information for that soon.

This is great, I'm really looking forward to your complete 40% keyboard. The inverted pcb sounds great. The diferent pcb color options that I'm thinking of are yellow, royal blue, green, & red.

this makes me happy!  I will be trying to get these last few details worked out, so that we can get this thing rolling once pcb has been validated!

As soon as this GB is up & running, I'll be a part of it. I know this is a going to be an awesome 40% board kit! Nothing beats a unique mechancial keyboard which gives reason to have it!

[evangs]

this makes me happy!  I will be trying to get these last few details worked out, so that we can get this thing rolling once pcb has been validated!
/quote

As soon as this GB is up & running, I'll be a part of it. I know this is a going to be an awesome 40% board kit! Nothing beats a unique mechancial keyboard which gives reason to have it!

^_^

[evangs]

Drew up some cad files for a case and ordered a 3D printed prototype.

[livingspeedbump]

Definitely interested in a plate/case can happen 

[toidbb]

Interested, for the complete package.

[evangs]

Definitely interested in a plate/case can happen 

Sweet!

[evangs]

Interested, for the complete package.

Awesome, will post pictures of prototypes when available

[William_S_Jones]

Definitely interested in a plate/case can happen 

Same here, definitely looking forward to this project.

[evangs]

If keycaps (a nice special set just for TheVan44) were to be a part of this kit, what profile would those that are interested prefer?  SA isn't available until July, but DSA and DCS could both be done fairly quickly.  Also what do you think of these colors? http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1  I'm still waiting on a quote for the case, but so far pricing is looking pretty good for the kit.

Please let me know if you are interested in caps with this kit and what you think of the design above as well as profile!

[William_S_Jones]

If keycaps (a nice special set just for TheVan44) were to be a part of this kit, what profile would those that are interested prefer?  SA isn't available until July, but DSA and DCS could both be done fairly quickly.  Also what do you think of these colors? http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1  I'm still waiting on a quote for the case, but so far pricing is looking pretty good for the kit.

Please let me know if you are interested in caps with this kit and what you think of the design above as well as profile!

I'm doing this for my phone so sorry if everything seems muffled and jumbled together I like those keycaps I would be interested in buying those with the complete project kit so I'm all for it I mean my second question is all based on how the cell does do you think maybe an additional keycap color or maybe r4 like even say a flip flop all that current either way I'm in this so whenever you have everything together I believe I'll be going ahead with this I'm just responding Mikasa really like this project you're working on but again I gotta fix as soon as I get home cause I'm just talking through my phone right now

[livingspeedbump]

If keycaps (a nice special set just for TheVan44) were to be a part of this kit, what profile would those that are interested prefer?  SA isn't available until July, but DSA and DCS could both be done fairly quickly.  Also what do you think of these colors? http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1  I'm still waiting on a quote for the case, but so far pricing is looking pretty good for the kit.

Please let me know if you are interested in caps with this kit and what you think of the design above as well as profile!

Colors look fine. I will say from experience with making keycap sets that you can accidentally open up a can of worms asking people to help design a keycap set too much. While feedback is good, if you are really making a keyboard (such as now) and not a keycap set, you probably want to just stick with your gut for the most part  Anything classy and simple will work, as they never seem to drive people away.

[evangs]

If keycaps (a nice special set just for TheVan44) were to be a part of this kit, what profile would those that are interested prefer?  SA isn't available until July, but DSA and DCS could both be done fairly quickly.  Also what do you think of these colors? http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1  I'm still waiting on a quote for the case, but so far pricing is looking pretty good for the kit.

Please let me know if you are interested in caps with this kit and what you think of the design above as well as profile!

Colors look fine. I will say from experience with making keycap sets that you can accidentally open up a can of worms asking people to help design a keycap set too much. While feedback is good, if you are really making a keyboard (such as now) and not a keycap set, you probably want to just stick with your gut for the most part  Anything classy and simple will work, as they never seem to drive people away.

I had thought about that, and rather than completely designing a keycap set, I guess I was more looking for validation that the colors are good (colors people would like on a board) and which profile people would rather have, since I was originally going with SA until I found out that is not available until July and I am hoping to get GB going in like a month or so.  thanks for the advice!

I myself am leaning towards DCS, but if the majority wanted DSA, I am ok with that too.

[William_S_Jones]

If keycaps (a nice special set just for TheVan44) were to be a part of this kit, what profile would those that are interested prefer?  SA isn't available until July, but DSA and DCS could both be done fairly quickly.  Also what do you think of these colors? http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1  I'm still waiting on a quote for the case, but so far pricing is looking pretty good for the kit.

Please let me know if you are interested in caps with this kit and what you think of the design above as well as profile!

back & updating my previous post:
I like those keycaps & am interested in buying those with your complete project kit . My second question is, are you going to offer an additional keycap set like a reverse colorway? I don't want to do anything to drive up cost. Not only that, but I'm happy w/ you're keycap set as is. I'm in for this project, regardless. Whenever you have everything together, I'm buying it.

[evangs]

If keycaps (a nice special set just for TheVan44) were to be a part of this kit, what profile would those that are interested prefer?  SA isn't available until July, but DSA and DCS could both be done fairly quickly.  Also what do you think of these colors? http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1  I'm still waiting on a quote for the case, but so far pricing is looking pretty good for the kit.

Please let me know if you are interested in caps with this kit and what you think of the design above as well as profile!

back & updating my previous post:
I like those keycaps & am interested in buying those with your complete project kit . My second question is, are you going to offer an additional keycap set like a reverse colorway? I don't want to do anything to drive up cost. Not only that, but I'm happy w/ you're keycap set as is. I'm in for this project, regardless. Whenever you have everything together, I'm buying it.

awesome, thanks for input!  only going to be able to do one colorway and only if we get to 50 kits otherwise its quite a bit more, but if there is still interest even at a lower moq we can figure that out at gb time

[William_S_Jones]

If keycaps (a nice special set just for TheVan44) were to be a part of this kit, what profile would those that are interested prefer?  SA isn't available until July, but DSA and DCS could both be done fairly quickly.  Also what do you think of these colors? http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1  I'm still waiting on a quote for the case, but so far pricing is looking pretty good for the kit.

Please let me know if you are interested in caps with this kit and what you think of the design above as well as profile!

back & updating my previous post:
I like those keycaps & am interested in buying those with your complete project kit . My second question is, are you going to offer an additional keycap set like a reverse colorway? I don't want to do anything to drive up cost. Not only that, but I'm happy w/ you're keycap set as is. I'm in for this project, regardless. Whenever you have everything together, I'm buying it.

awesome, thanks for input!  only going to be able to do one colorway and only if we get to 50 kits otherwise its quite a bit more, but if there is still interest even at a lower moq we can figure that out at gb time

That's great & I plan on being 1 of those buyers. Evangs, great job on this project.

[vivalarevolución]

I'm interested in DCS, because I'm over DSA and SA.  They look cool, but not as efficient as DCS.

[evangs]

I'm interested in DCS, because I'm over DSA and SA.  They look cool, but not as efficient as DCS.

Thanks for the feedback!

[torafuma]

Very interested if there are options for a top plate & case. Aluminum for the case would be fantastic!!! (Although, acrylic would be good too!) 

[evangs]

Very interested if there are options for a top plate & case. Aluminum for the case would be fantastic!!! (Although, acrylic would be good too!) 

I'm working on a custom aluminum case.  Designed it and now in process of talking to local manufacturers!

[William_S_Jones]

Very interested if there are options for a top plate & case. Aluminum for the case would be fantastic!!! (Although, acrylic would be good too!) 

I'm working on a custom aluminum case.  Designed it and now in process of talking to local manufacturers!

I'm looking forward to this aluminum case!

[William_S_Jones]

Very interested if there are options for a top plate & case. Aluminum for the case would be fantastic!!! (Although, acrylic would be good too!) 

I'm working on a custom aluminum case.  Designed it and now in process of talking to local manufacturers!

I'm definitely looking forward to this aluminum case!

[Ephemeral]

Very interested if there are options for a top plate & case. Aluminum for the case would be fantastic!!! (Although, acrylic would be good too!) 

I'm working on a custom aluminum case.  Designed it and now in process of talking to local manufacturers!

I'm definitely in with this information.

[evangs]

Very interested if there are options for a top plate & case. Aluminum for the case would be fantastic!!! (Although, acrylic would be good too!) 

I'm working on a custom aluminum case.  Designed it and now in process of talking to local manufacturers!

I'm definitely in with this information.

Good to hear!

[evangs]

had to download autodesk inventor trial and redraw parts so that I can get quotes, but got it all finished.  I can't wait to show you guys some progress.  hopefully my 3d printed version will be done soon.

[evangs]

Hey guys,

I got one quote back so far for the aluminum case and based on that I need to get some more feedback.

What price range are you comfortable with for this 40% kit including an aluminum case, pcb, hardware, and with and without keycaps?

thanks!

[evangs]

So it seems my first case design is too complicated to get machined for a reasonable cost.  I came up with a new design that should have the same end result but can be manufactured much more easily.  I am drawing up new cad parts and will be sending them out for quotes on Monday.

[evangs]

Here are some terrible renders of the case design to give you guys an idea of what I'm working on.

[William_S_Jones]

Here are some terrible renders of the case design to give you guys an idea of what I'm working on.

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

It's descent, I'm looking forward to this. It's going to be great to have a 40% keyboard with a sturdy case!

[torafuma]

Looks pretty sharp. 

[evangs]

Looks pretty sharp. 

Thanks!  Hopefully getting quotes today/tomorrow

[evangs]

got the first quote back and I gotta say pricing is looking really good so far!  Going to wait for the other two quotes before I post any pricing info, but just wanted to give an update and say things are on track and looking really good for choice of anodized color on the case/plate

[William_S_Jones]

got the first quote back and I gotta say pricing is looking really good so far!  Going to wait for the other two quotes before I post any pricing info, but just wanted to give an update and say things are on track and looking really good for choice of anodized color on the case/plate

That's great, I'll continue watching & look forward to hearing more on this set.

[vivalarevolución]

I feel like under $150 for the case, plate, PCB and whatever other hardware would be great.  I know plates can be pretty cheap with quantity, but metal cases and a good solid PCB can be pricey.

[evangs]

I feel like under $150 for the case, plate, PCB and whatever other hardware would be great.  I know plates can be pretty cheap with quantity, but metal cases and a good solid PCB can be pricey.

Yeah, that is definitely going to be doable.  still waiting for a couple more quotes to come in, but already it will be less than that with current quote.

[evangs]

3D printed case prototype!

[evangs]

small update....

well ok, BIG UPDATE

I have partnered with a local manufacturer to produce the cases and plates for TheVan44!!!!

East Valley Precision located in Gilbert Arizona with be machining the base and water jet cutting the plates.
http://www.eastvalleyprecision.com/

I left my pricing sheet at home, but will post another update with that information when I get home.

[CPTBadAss]

That's awesome to hear. Can't wait to see some metal prototypes....although that 3D printed one looks great

[evangs]

That's awesome to hear. Can't wait to see some metal prototypes....although that 3D printed one looks great

Thanks!  I'm excited about bringing TheVan44 into the world

[William_S_Jones]

That's awesome to hear. Can't wait to see some metal prototypes....although that 3D printed one looks great

Great job, I like this case too! It's amazing seeing your project's progression.

[evangs]

as far as pricing goes for the kit, it's looking like this

option 1: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers = $153.00 + shipping
option 2: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers, Midnight Drive Keycap set = $219.00 + shipping

tipping point for the gb will be 50 kits
tipping point for keycaps is also 50 sets

Lemme know what you guys think!

also looking at offering the following anodize colors - black, silver, teal, blue, and red.

what color do you prefer?

[Ephemeral]

as far as pricing goes for the kit, it's looking like this

option 1: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers = $153.00 + shipping
option 2: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers, Midnight Drive Keycap set = $219.00 + shipping

Awesome! 
A couple questions from a noob:
Are any of the components presoldered on the PCB?
I'm not finding anything searching for the Midnight Drive set. Any images of it?

also looking at offering the following anodize colors - black, silver, teal, blue, and red.

what color do you prefer?

Black and silver would be a safe choice, but I think a red would be pretty sweet.

[evangs]

as far as pricing goes for the kit, it's looking like this

option 1: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers = $153.00 + shipping
option 2: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers, Midnight Drive Keycap set = $219.00 + shipping

Awesome! 
A couple questions from a noob:
Are any of the components presoldered on the PCB?
I'm not finding anything searching for the Midnight Drive set. Any images of it?

also looking at offering the following anodize colors - black, silver, teal, blue, and red.

what color do you prefer?

Black and silver would be a safe choice, but I think a red would be pretty sweet.

All components are pre soldered on the pcb only thing to solder will be switches.

Midnight drive set is the colors set on the keyboard layout editor link in the original post. can be viewed at this link http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1

I'll be offering the 5 colors listed unless there is overwhelming demand to swap one for another!

[Melvang]

Looks great.  I can't personally say I will be buying it as I am fulfilling my 40% itch with a Ti Smallfry.  Though I love to see people getting stuff made locally as supporting local business instead of sending to another country just for cheaper prices (99% of the time for much lower quality and little to no QC).

Just curious, though I am sure you already answered, but where are you having the PCBs done at?  Love black pcbs.

[evangs]

Looks great.  I can't personally say I will be buying it as I am fulfilling my 40% itch with a Ti Smallfry.  Though I love to see people getting stuff made locally as supporting local business instead of sending to another country just for cheaper prices (99% of the time for much lower quality and little to no QC).

Just curious, though I am sure you already answered, but where are you having the PCBs done at?  Love black pcbs.

PCBs are being done by circuit hub

[evangs]

cases and plates will be anodized locally by Anodizing of Mesa!

[William_S_Jones]

as far as pricing goes for the kit, it's looking like this

option 1: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers = $153.00 + shipping
option 2: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers, Midnight Drive Keycap set = $219.00 + shipping

tipping point for the gb will be 50 kits
tipping point for keycaps is also 50 sets

Lemme know what you guys think!

also looking at offering the following anodize colors - black, silver, teal, blue, and red.

what color do you prefer?

The pricing looks great for both options. I believe the black & silver anodized colors will sell best.I know I'm going to want that teal option.

[evangs]

as far as pricing goes for the kit, it's looking like this

option 1: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers = $153.00 + shipping
option 2: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers, Midnight Drive Keycap set = $219.00 + shipping

tipping point for the gb will be 50 kits
tipping point for keycaps is also 50 sets

Lemme know what you guys think!

also looking at offering the following anodize colors - black, silver, teal, blue, and red.

what color do you prefer?

The pricing looks great for both options. I believe the black & silver anodized colors will sell best.I know I'm going to want that teal option.

  I want a black one and a teal one for myself!

[Ephemeral]

All components are pre soldered on the pcb only thing to solder will be switches.

Midnight drive set is the colors set on the keyboard layout editor link in the original post. can be viewed at this link http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1

I'll be offering the 5 colors listed unless there is overwhelming demand to swap one for another!

Thanks for the answers. This board is sounding pretty solid. I'll be looking forward to this making it to the GB phase.
If I could suggest a nice purple, perhaps an indigo?
If it has to replace a color, maybe replace blue? Since blue is pretty close to teal, and I see some interest in teal happening here already.
Any thoughts on this?

[evangs]

All components are pre soldered on the pcb only thing to solder will be switches.

Midnight drive set is the colors set on the keyboard layout editor link in the original post. can be viewed at this link http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d89f40f03516b45703e1

I'll be offering the 5 colors listed unless there is overwhelming demand to swap one for another!

Thanks for the answers. This board is sounding pretty solid. I'll be looking forward to this making it to the GB phase.
If I could suggest a nice purple, perhaps an indigo?
If it has to replace a color, maybe replace blue? Since blue is pretty close to teal, and I see some interest in teal happening here already.
Any thoughts on this?

I'd be open to doing that.  I like the idea of doing colors that are a bit different from what is always done.

[William_S_Jones]

Purple sounds great to me! I hope to get both the teal & purple pcbs.

[evangs]

Purple sounds great to me! I hope to get both the teal & purple pcbs.

the cases will have those colors, not the pcbs 

[William_S_Jones]

Purple sounds great to me! I hope to get both the teal & purple pcbs.

the cases will have those colors, not the pcbs 

LOL, I had a feeling that was te case(get it) after I typed that.....

[evangs]

Purple sounds great to me! I hope to get both the teal & purple pcbs.

the cases will have those colors, not the pcbs 

LOL, I had a feeling that was te case(get it) after I typed that.....

Lol.  PCBs hopefully ship out tomorrow and then I can verify the design

[William_S_Jones]

Even better, I'll be on the lookout tomorrow.

[evangs]

PCBs shipped out today!  In the mean time I got another project I'm cooking up.  check it out over here https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=80117.0

[dougp]

I'm interested in a PCB & plate - did you look at a sandwich case design?

[evangs]

I'm interested in a PCB & plate - did you look at a sandwich case design?

I'm actually going to be running this with machined aluminum cases similar to the Tex cases.  There will be a choice of 5 colors for anodizing.

[dougp]

I'm interested in a PCB & plate - did you look at a sandwich case design?

I'm actually going to be running this with machined aluminum cases similar to the Tex cases.  There will be a choice of 5 colors for anodizing.

Unless I missed it - did you post a price?  I imagine the base will be kind of expensive and I'm personally not a huge fan of lips.

[evangs]

I'm interested in a PCB & plate - did you look at a sandwich case design?

I'm actually going to be running this with machined aluminum cases similar to the Tex cases.  There will be a choice of 5 colors for anodizing.

Unless I missed it - did you post a price?  I imagine the base will be kind of expensive and I'm personally not a huge fan of lips.

$153.00 no key caps
$219.00 with keycaps

Any lips on this case are smaller than what you would get with sandwich case. 

[torafuma]

as far as pricing goes for the kit, it's looking like this

option 1: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers = $153.00 + shipping
option 2: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers, Midnight Drive Keycap set = $219.00 + shipping

tipping point for the gb will be 50 kits
tipping point for keycaps is also 50 sets

Lemme know what you guys think!

also looking at offering the following anodize colors - black, silver, teal, blue, and red.

what color do you prefer?

Will this include switches as well? Also, I am partial to black & red for colors. (black case, red plate)

[evangs]

as far as pricing goes for the kit, it's looking like this

option 1: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers = $153.00 + shipping
option 2: Case, Plate, PCB, Hardware, Stabilizers, Midnight Drive Keycap set = $219.00 + shipping

tipping point for the gb will be 50 kits
tipping point for keycaps is also 50 sets

Lemme know what you guys think!

also looking at offering the following anodize colors - black, silver, teal, blue, and red.

what color do you prefer?

Will this include switches as well? Also, I am partial to black & red for colors. (black case, red plate)

Independent colors for plates and cases is doable.  No switches are included

[vivalarevolución]

I'm interested in a PCB & plate - did you look at a sandwich case design?

I'm actually going to be running this with machined aluminum cases similar to the Tex cases.  There will be a choice of 5 colors for anodizing.

Unless I missed it - did you post a price?  I imagine the base will be kind of expensive and I'm personally not a huge fan of lips.

$153.00 no key caps
$219.00 with keycaps

Any lips on this case are smaller than what you would get with sandwich case.

Meh, $153 ain't bad for a custom with a real case.

[Ephemeral]

Independent colors for plates and cases is doable.

That would be too dope. I would love to see that happen.

3D printed case prototype!

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Is this the final design? I like it. Nice and simple. Small bezels. Good stuff.  :thumb:

[evangs]

Independent colors for plates and cases is doable.

That would be too dope. I would love to see that happen.

3D printed case prototype!

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Is this the final design? I like it. Nice and simple. Small bezels. Good stuff.  :thumb:

It will happen! And yes that is the final design

[evangs]

PCBs are out for delivery today!  Be on the lookout for an update tonight

[evangs]

pcb prototypes arrived, look nice, and best of all work!! need to make some slight adjustments with the case, but will be moving forward with a final prototype verifying the machining, anodizing and kit assembly.

[evangs]

Placed order for final pcb design and aluminum case prototype!  The case should be done in 1 - 2 weeks at which point I will post some sweet sweet pictures.  pcbs will be here at the end of the month.  Provided everything matches up, group buy will launch shortly after.  Should have a final prototype ready to bring with me to the socal keyboard meetup at Datamancer.

[evangs]

The initial PCB design had a single led on the lower left key as an indicator.  I liked how good it looked and got a bit ambitious and added back lighting support to the PCB.....  Hope you guys like.

[Geekmie]

The initial PCB design had a single led on the lower left key as an indicator.  I liked how good it looked and got a bit ambitious and added back lighting support to the PCB.....  Hope you guys like.

Yeah, why not. support SMD maybe?

[evangs]

The initial PCB design had a single led on the lower left key as an indicator.  I liked how good it looked and got a bit ambitious and added back lighting support to the PCB.....  Hope you guys like.

Yeah, why not. support SMD maybe?

It's setup for standard in switch through hole leds.

[justinyhuang]

good job on TheVan 44!
any idea about what kits would be available for the GB? would it be an option to buy only the plate and the PCB?

[evangs]

good job on TheVan 44!
any idea about what kits would be available for the GB? would it be an option to buy only the plate and the PCB?

Thanks!  I am planning on running the GB with two options.

Option 1:
Case
Plate
PCB
Hardware
Stabs

Option 2:
Case
Plate
PCB
Hardware
Stabs
Custom Keycaps

I could add a PCB only option.  However I can't do just the plate as the shop doing the machining is doing both the cases and the plates as sets to get me the low price.

[odd]

Count me in.

edit:

I'm in for option 2

[evangs]

Count me in.

edit:

I'm in for option 2

Awesome!!

[3K]

I could add a PCB only option.  However I can't do just the plate as the shop doing the machining is doing both the cases and the plates as sets to get me the low price.

PCB only would be really cool! Would this include hardware and stabs by any chance?

[evangs]

I could add a PCB only option.  However I can't do just the plate as the shop doing the machining is doing both the cases and the plates as sets to get me the low price.

PCB only would be really cool! Would this include hardware and stabs by any chance?

That could be done

[evangs]

final prototype pcb is in assembly phase, should be shipping out next week.  East Valley Precision starts cutting the final aluminum prototype case today and should be delivered next week.  Can't wait to get you guys some pictures!

[3K]

final prototype pcb is in assembly phase, should be shipping out next week.  East Valley Precision starts cutting the final aluminum prototype case today and should be delivered next week.  Can't wait to get you guys some pictures!

Time to get v&!

[evangs]

final prototype pcb is in assembly phase, should be shipping out next week.  East Valley Precision starts cutting the final aluminum prototype case today and should be delivered next week.  Can't wait to get you guys some pictures!

Time to get v&!

Do what now?

[Ephemeral]

Time to get v&!

I believe he is prepared for the Vanning. Cute word play there, 3K. 

[evangs]

Time to get v&!

I believe he is prepared for the Vanning. Cute word play there, 3K. 

Ah ok, lol.  Just got notification that PCBs shipped today! I got 2 day shipping so should have them this weekend.

[evangs]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

[CPTBadAss]

This is looking really good

[evangs]

This is looking really good

Thanks! I can't wait to get this bad boy assembled

[3K]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

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I want to lick that case.

[evangs]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

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I want to lick that case.

SOOOON 

It came out really nice.  I'm excited to see it anodized.  Fully functional prototype will be traveling to SoCal Meetup this weekend.

[Ephemeral]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

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That's a solid looking case. Any changes to the list of available colors?

[evangs]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

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That's a solid looking case. Any changes to the list of available colors?

Thanks,

Colors offered will be black, silver/clear, teal, red, and purple.

[evangs]

Anodizing complete!!!







Going to assemble the full prototype tonight!

[Sempre]

Anodizing complete!!!

Going to assemble the full prototype tonight!

Awesome! Can't wait for the group buy

[evangs]

Anodizing complete!!!

Going to assemble the full prototype tonight!

Awesome! Can't wait for the group buy

Should be up in the next couple days

[Ephemeral]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

Show Image

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That's a solid looking case. Any changes to the list of available colors?

Thanks,

Colors offered will be black, silver/clear, teal, red, and purple.

Niiiice. I'm may have to do a purple case with a teal plate if you're still allowing that. How long do you think you'll have the GB open?

[evangs]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

That's a solid looking case. Any changes to the list of available colors?

Thanks,

Colors offered will be black, silver/clear, teal, red, and purple.

Niiiice. I'm may have to do a purple case with a teal plate if you're still allowing that. How long do you think you'll have the GB open?

Yes you can pick separate colors for case and plate.  I'm going to run gb for a month or until all 100 spots are purchased.

[Ephemeral]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

That's a solid looking case. Any changes to the list of available colors?

Thanks,

Colors offered will be black, silver/clear, teal, red, and purple.

Niiiice. I'm may have to do a purple case with a teal plate if you're still allowing that. How long do you think you'll have the GB open?

Yes you can pick separate colors for case and plate.  I'm going to run gb for a month or until all 100 spots are purchased.

Sweet stuff, thanks man. 
I guess that's all of my questions about this. Now to wait for the Vanning to occur.

[evangs]

Picked up the case prototype this morning and dropped it off for anodizing, but snapped a couple pictures before hand!

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

That's a solid looking case. Any changes to the list of available colors?

Thanks,

Colors offered will be black, silver/clear, teal, red, and purple.

Niiiice. I'm may have to do a purple case with a teal plate if you're still allowing that. How long do you think you'll have the GB open?

Yes you can pick separate colors for case and plate.  I'm going to run gb for a month or until all 100 spots are purchased.

Sweet stuff, thanks man. 
I guess that's all of my questions about this. Now to wait for the Vanning to occur.

You are very welcome. I'm getting all the information together now, hopefully have this thing starting tomorrow!!

[evangs]

build log pictures....

[justinyhuang]

How sexy!
First thing tomorrow would be checking this GB! A PCB only option would be interesting too.

[evangs]

How sexy!
First thing tomorrow would be checking this GB! A PCB only option would be interesting too.

Awesome!  I probably won't be doing pcb only option for this buy.

[evangs]

Group buy is live over here https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=80988.0!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[evangs]

30 kits sold! only 20 to go to hit MOQ

70 spots remain...

Head over to the GB to get yours now! https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=80988.0