Author Topic: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB  (Read 204456 times)

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Offline Hypersphere

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #350 on: Sat, 15 November 2014, 12:14:10 »
Interesting project.

I had hoped that the Mac version would include an option for a short Right Shift, so that I could reprogram the adjacent Del key as Fn.

The PCB supports it -- it's the same PCB for all models.  So if you're building it yourself, you could get the PC version, and cut the little crossbars in the nav cluster, then solder the full height Mac modifiers instead.

Does the Fn key in either the Mac or PC version send a scan code? That is, can it be remapped in software? If not, then the Fn key(s) will be wasted space for me.

Fn does not send a code.

Can I get extra Mac keycaps if I order the PC version?

Yes, we'll have those available as well.

Too bad about no PBT in the initial run. The odd-size bottom row will make it difficult or impossible to get replacement keycaps.

Just to be clear, the bottom row will be PBT.

How many more end up being PBT depends on which MOQ level we achieve (650 or 1k pcs).

We'll be offering replacement keycaps.

It would have been great to have been able to get a HHKB layout with Matias switches. As it stands, I am not sure it would be worth trying to retrofit the 60% Matias to some semblance of a HHKB. I regret that I will probably need to pass on this opportunity and stick with my HHKB.

Okay, let me know what you ultimately decide, and why.  We're hoping to learn as much as possible from this project.
Hi Matias: Per your request, here is my most likely decision and why:

I admire your inventiveness in coming out with a new and controversial design for a 60% keyboard. It is also refreshing to see a new keyboard with Matias Alps-inspired switches as an option instead of the ubiquitous Cherry mx. In addition, having Mac and PC versions along with additional programmability is quite welcome.

All of these positives notwithstanding, I am probably not going to order the Matias 60. The main reason is that for me, the perfect 60% keyboard is the HHKB Pro 2.

Prof. Wada spent a decade researching and developing the HHKB, and I think he produced a classic work that artfully unites form and function. The overall design, styling, and symmetry of the HHKB combined with the attractive and highly legible dye-sublimated PBT keycaps is just beautiful. Moreover, the Topre switches are a delight to type on. But the thing that really sets the HHKB apart is the well thought-out layout, which is highly intuitive and efficient. I am primarily a Mac user, and the HHKB layout is so good that I have remapped all my other keyboards to something as close to a HHKB/Mac configuration as possible.

Remapping most standard TKL keyboards to a HHKB/Mac layout is usually quite straightforward. Because the TKL design does not have a split Right Shift, I usually remap Right Control as Fn. I find things too cramped if I try to use the Menu key as Fn, and so I remap Menu as Right Control.

The PC version of the Matias 60 would be fine as far as the top 4 rows go. Backspace and Backslash can be swapped, CapsLock can be remapped as Control, and the Del key to the right of Right Shift could be remapped as Fn.

Unfortunately, the bottom row presents problems. The vertically stretched modifiers and spacebar take up more vertical space than necessary, and I would be concerned about the key action of these keys, especially with off-center key presses. Because I am accustomed to having arrow keys and other navigation keys in the Fn layer, these keys are largely superfluous for me. However, when I use a TKL board, I sometimes make use of the redundant keys. Nevertheless, I like to have Opt and Command on each side of the Spacebar with at most one extra key to the left of the Spacebar and two extras to the right of the Spacebar. Because the hardwired Fn key on the Matias 60% does not send a scan code, with my remapping, it would end up being a dead key just taking up space and interrupting the normal positions of left-side modifiers. The Mac version of the Matias 60 would help with some of these issues, but then I would not have a split Right Shift for an adjacent Fn key. There might be workarounds for some of the problems with a DIY kit, but I would prefer having the keyboard preassembled.

If I were to purchase this board, I would want Matias switches. If I wanted Cherry switches in a 60% board, I would just buy a Poker II (except that I do not like the Poker II or Cherry mx switches). I also much prefer PBT over ABS and dye-sublimation over other forms of printing. These choices would make it difficult if not impossible to find replacement or alternative keycaps for the Matias 60, especially for the bottom row.

With all this in mind, although I really like the notion of a 60% keyboard with an option for Matias switches, I regret that the design and probable lack of keycap availability are most likely going to be deal breakers for me. I might be more tempted if I were not already so satisfied with the HHKB Pro 2, but for me the PFU Topre 60% is just about perfect, and I am already heavily invested in it with 5 of these keyboards in use on workstations in my home and work offices.

Although the Matias 60 might not be for me, it looks like a great project that admirably fills a need for those who have not already adopted the HHKB Pro 2 or Poker II and who want a 60% form factor keyboard that has dedicated arrow keys in the primary layer. The Matias 60 also provides an opportunity to have Matias switches (and a choice among three types of them) in a 60% keyboard. As such, I think the Matias 60 ought to have a bright future, and I wish you well with this new venture!


Offline Jotokun

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #351 on: Sat, 15 November 2014, 12:41:07 »
Matias, you've mentioned before that if you sell enough of these, they'd become a full retail product sold alongside your other keyboards. How many do you need to sell in the group buy stage to reach that point?
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Offline SacKRoll

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #352 on: Sat, 15 November 2014, 13:05:01 »

[...] We break even at 250pcs, so we're hoping we sell that amount at a minimum.

Let me know if there are any other questions...

IMHO, if you put it on Massdrop, easily these orders would be reached (and I bet the 1000 ones, too).

Offline dante

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #353 on: Sat, 15 November 2014, 13:18:35 »
A little off topic: Matias feel free to share some food porn from China :D

Offline spiceBar

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #354 on: Sat, 15 November 2014, 13:33:08 »
Prof. Wada spent a decade researching and developing the HHKB,

...and was already senile when he designed the final product.

There is no way spending half of your time on the keyboard pressing an Fn key with your pinky can be considered an acceptable design. Adding insult to injury, reaching for Home and End is painful on the HHKB.

Matias' design is much, much better.

Please save the HHKB distortion field propaganda for another thread.

Offline Norwegian

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #355 on: Sat, 15 November 2014, 22:29:57 »
I'm not very active in keyboard communities, as I am mostly busy on other forums, but is this 60% keyboard announced elsewhere, such as Reddit, Deskthority, etc.?

I would think that it would be in everybody's best interest to get as many people as possible to be aware of this keyboard. So linking this thread with the necessary information on other places might be a good idea, to get more buyers, as I am sure this keyboard has potential.
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Offline jacobolus

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #356 on: Sun, 16 November 2014, 00:00:00 »
I'm not very active in keyboard communities, as I am mostly busy on other forums, but is this 60% keyboard announced elsewhere, such as Reddit, Deskthority, etc.?
Yes, as can easily be verified by 2 minutes of search on those sites or google:
http://deskthority.net/product-news-f44/matias-60-gb-now-live-t9091.html
http://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/2lt0j5/matias_60_keyboard_page_is_up_preorders_available/

Please do link Matias’s page (http://matias.ca/60/pc/) elsewhere though; it’s an interesting keyboard somewhat different than other available options.
« Last Edit: Sun, 16 November 2014, 00:02:46 by jacobolus »

Offline SacKRoll

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #357 on: Mon, 24 November 2014, 21:03:30 »
who here has already bought this 60%?

Offline spiceBar

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #358 on: Mon, 24 November 2014, 22:11:59 »
who here has already bought this 60%?

I have ordered 2, fully assembled, PC style bottom row (Home, End, ...), with Matias quiet switches.

Meanwhile I have purchased a Matias laptop pro (Bluetooth) with Matias quiet switches, and I love them. So I'm confident I'll love the 60%.

Offline CPTBadAss

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #359 on: Tue, 25 November 2014, 06:26:41 »
Okay, let me know what you ultimately decide, and why.  We're hoping to learn as much as possible from this project.

For what it's worth, I'm going to offer my opinion on why I won't be buying this board. I'm disappointed. I've eagerly awaited this buy for months. I've saved for the buy and was excited for the DIY kit. I didn't even mind the odd bottom row. I like new layouts and new things.

But the price point to me is all wrong.

Since this is an Alps board, and because Matias is going to have proper caps, I would need to buy:
- PCB = $30
- Plate/Stabilizers = $20
- Case = $20
- Keycap Set = $45
- Switches = $50

Total before shipping = $165. Shipping appears to be another $30 extra but I could be misunderstanding the shipping costs. Grand total is $195.

To put this in perspective the Duck Mini V2 can be had for $275 from the GB runner. The Duck Mini V2 has full programmability, which this board won't; a major selling point for me. A Matias Tactile Pro Mini can be had for $130.

I think the price point is completely off. I'm paying $60 more versus a Tactile Mini (which I can have now) and $35 more than the built board?? I've *never* seen a DIY kit cost more than an assembled board. I understand there's logistics involved and other reasons (labor, low quantity run, not guaranteed sales, etc) but I'm seriously disappointed. I could just get a Tactile Mini Pro now and be done with it.

Another complaint? I hate mismatched materials on a keyboard so the plan for PBT bottom row and ABS upper row isn't for me. I'd rather spend on all PBT or just have all ABS. But the tiers aren't setup that way and I don't see 1000 boards being sold in this buy.

I'm really sad that this didn't play out like I hoped. It feels like those wanting to go the DIY route are being punished and I don't think the built price of $150 is the proper point for a GB. Good luck with the buy Matias. I look forward to seeing reviews and pictures of this board.

Edit: I can't math. Fixed to correct subtraction error.
« Last Edit: Tue, 25 November 2014, 06:28:46 by CPTBadAss »

Offline Hypersphere

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #360 on: Tue, 25 November 2014, 08:59:41 »
The Matias 60 is an interesting experiment, and I am glad to see a 60% offering with Matias switches. However, there are now a couple of other options that are more attractive for me. One is the Infinity keyboard kit with a Matias switch option. The other is the KBParadise V60 with Matias switches. For me, these offer better layouts and prices than the Matias 60. In addition, because of the more standard keycap sizes in the KBP V60 and Infinity boards, getting replacement keycaps should be less of an issue than it will likely be for the Matias 60.


Offline vivalarevolución

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #361 on: Tue, 02 December 2014, 08:52:08 »
Okay, let me know what you ultimately decide, and why.  We're hoping to learn as much as possible from this project.

For what it's worth, I'm going to offer my opinion on why I won't be buying this board. I'm disappointed. I've eagerly awaited this buy for months. I've saved for the buy and was excited for the DIY kit. I didn't even mind the odd bottom row. I like new layouts and new things.

But the price point to me is all wrong.

Since this is an Alps board, and because Matias is going to have proper caps, I would need to buy:
- PCB = $30
- Plate/Stabilizers = $20
- Case = $20
- Keycap Set = $45
- Switches = $50

Total before shipping = $165. Shipping appears to be another $30 extra but I could be misunderstanding the shipping costs. Grand total is $195.

To put this in perspective the Duck Mini V2 can be had for $275 from the GB runner. The Duck Mini V2 has full programmability, which this board won't; a major selling point for me. A Matias Tactile Pro Mini can be had for $130.

I think the price point is completely off. I'm paying $60 more versus a Tactile Mini (which I can have now) and $35 more than the built board?? I've *never* seen a DIY kit cost more than an assembled board. I understand there's logistics involved and other reasons (labor, low quantity run, not guaranteed sales, etc) but I'm seriously disappointed. I could just get a Tactile Mini Pro now and be done with it.

Another complaint? I hate mismatched materials on a keyboard so the plan for PBT bottom row and ABS upper row isn't for me. I'd rather spend on all PBT or just have all ABS. But the tiers aren't setup that way and I don't see 1000 boards being sold in this buy.

I'm really sad that this didn't play out like I hoped. It feels like those wanting to go the DIY route are being punished and I don't think the built price of $150 is the proper point for a GB. Good luck with the buy Matias. I look forward to seeing reviews and pictures of this board.

Edit: I can't math. Fixed to correct subtraction error.

I can understand why the price will be higher than Tactile Mini, because of production costs for a limited run.  The economies of scale on the Tactile Mini probably produce a lower price with longer timelines and greater quantity to spread out the production costs.  I'm no businessman, but that's what I'm guessing.  In my view, $160 shipped and assembled seems like a great deal for a one-off board from a reputable manufacturer, especially with all the options.

The cheapest you can get the unassembled version while splitting switch costs with one other person and shipping costs included seems to be $125.  Now if appropriate number of switches could be divided up per board and shipping of the components combined into one price, that would sweeten the deal.
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Offline hjkl_over_wasd

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #362 on: Wed, 03 December 2014, 06:23:51 »
Matias, can you please add the firmware specs to the site. I'd like to recommend it to Vim/Linux users, but without any hard facts, it's hard to convince Vim/Linux users that this is a unique keyboard they would want, apart from the hardware of course..

Offline dante

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #363 on: Sat, 06 December 2014, 19:14:34 »
How goes the sales #'s on this so far?

Offline Norwegian

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #364 on: Sat, 06 December 2014, 19:28:07 »
Matias,

When will you add the ISO option to the order page as you said you would?
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Offline Nuum

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #365 on: Sun, 07 December 2014, 03:28:09 »
It is already added, isn't it? Last time I looked, it was.

Offline Norwegian

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #366 on: Sun, 07 December 2014, 05:24:30 »
Unless I'm blind, I can't see it:


My questions to Matias in this thread on the previous page was about having this keyboard assembled before shipping it to me, as I specifically said I was not interested in parts. So Matias said he would check in China, then get back to me when it was added on the order page. This was almost a month ago. Of course I can wait some more, and see what happens, but another month is sure to pass quickly.
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Offline Nuum

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #367 on: Sun, 07 December 2014, 06:06:59 »
Oh, right, currently it's just available in ISO with Quiet Click Switches. Sorry, I didn't notice that.

Offline SacKRoll

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #368 on: Fri, 02 January 2015, 21:28:54 »
the ending of this GB is coming.

Offline JaccoW

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #369 on: Sat, 03 January 2015, 06:43:53 »
the ending of this GB is coming.
I know. :(
I really want this but I just cannot spend that kind of money right now. A month later or the end of February would be better but as it stands I will have to let this one pass.
I would have loved the alu case version.
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Offline Matias

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #370 on: Sat, 03 January 2015, 09:55:33 »
Thanks to everyone who participated in this thread and the GB.

I've had my hands full finishing the Ergo Pro and the leadup to CES, but will be posting some good news soon about the 60% keyboard -- likely after CES.

In the mean time, Happy New Year!   :)


Offline Norwegian

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #371 on: Sun, 04 January 2015, 08:19:57 »
Matias,

I'm disappointed that you never added Clicky ISO to the order page which you said you would do. I am also disappointed that you've not replied to my posts in this thread since early November.
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Offline Hypersphere

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #372 on: Sun, 04 January 2015, 08:59:21 »
@Matias: Any news on the end date for the Matias 60 Group Buy? Perhaps it was posted, but I do not recall seeing it. Thanks.

Offline SacKRoll

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #373 on: Sat, 10 January 2015, 22:15:31 »

[...]will be posting some good news soon about the 60% keyboard -- likely after CES.[...]

Will your 60% keyboard has regular production like your other ones? 

Offline spiceBar

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #374 on: Sun, 11 January 2015, 04:25:48 »

[...]will be posting some good news soon about the 60% keyboard -- likely after CES.[...]

Will your 60% keyboard has regular production like your other ones?

I think the answer is no. It's one run, and that's it. Order one while you can.

Offline Hypersphere

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #375 on: Sun, 11 January 2015, 09:19:24 »
Are the DIP switch settings listed anywhere? In particular, I would like to know if there will be settings for the following:

+ Swap Backspace and Backslash.

+ Change CapsLock to Control.

+ Change the location(s) of the Fn key(s) on the PC and/or Mac versions.


Offline SacKRoll

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #376 on: Sun, 18 January 2015, 21:37:32 »
where is matias? one week without an answer...  :'(

Offline jacobolus

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #377 on: Sun, 18 January 2015, 23:08:29 »
where is matias? one week without an answer...  :'(
He was at CES the week before last, and then in China as they gear up for ErgoPro production. Cf. https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=53184.msg1598395#msg1598395

Offline Matias

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #378 on: Mon, 19 January 2015, 03:57:20 »
where is matias? one week without an answer...  :'(
He was at CES the week before last, and then in China as they gear up for ErgoPro production. Cf. https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=53184.msg1598395#msg1598395


Yes, I'm in China now and will be here until the beginning of February.

We're finishing the Ergo Pro before starting on the 60%.  We're also in discussions with MassDrop about taking over the group buy.  That's all I can say about it for now, as the discussions have just started.  :-)


Offline Matias

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #379 on: Mon, 19 January 2015, 04:26:07 »

Are the DIP switch settings listed anywhere? In particular, I would like to know if there will be settings for the following:

+ Swap Backspace and Backslash.

+ Change CapsLock to Control.

+ Change the location(s) of the Fn key(s) on the PC and/or Mac versions.



Yes to all of the above.  Fn keys swap positions automatically when you switch between PC/Mac (as shown in the IC)...

https://geekhack.org/?topic=60268.360




I'm disappointed that you never added Clicky ISO to the order page which you said you would do. I am also disappointed that you've not replied to my posts in this thread since early November.



Sorry that I've been somewhat MIA recently.  We're pretty focused on finishing the Ergo Pro at the moment, before starting on the 60.  Was also crazy busy leading up to CES, Christmas, Ergo Expo (all around the same time).  I will post an update once the option is added.


Offline Hypersphere

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #380 on: Mon, 19 January 2015, 08:28:16 »
@Matias: Thanks. Glad to see that there will be a DIP switch setting to swap Backspace (Delete) and Backslash.

Offline Matias

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #381 on: Mon, 19 January 2015, 09:01:09 »
@Matias: Thanks. Glad to see that there will be a DIP switch setting to swap Backspace (Delete) and Backslash.


We aim to please...  :-)



Offline Lunatique

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #382 on: Fri, 23 January 2015, 09:41:16 »
Will there be different color options for the case (for both plastic and alumnum) aluminum? I'm under the impression the plastic will only be in black and aluminum only in white, based on the official GB page? But there's a green one too, so I'm confused. My preference is red case with black keycaps.

Offline Lunatique

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #383 on: Fri, 23 January 2015, 18:09:45 »
I read the whole thread and based on my understanding, Matias said if we wanted case colors other than black (be it plastic or aluminum), we have to paint it ourselves? Is that the case (pun unintended)? But the photos of the white and green cases on the GB page confuses the issue, so I don't know what to think.

Offline rsadek

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #384 on: Wed, 28 January 2015, 11:56:29 »
Hi Matias!
Just learned about this group buy. I'm ready to purchase today, but I have one question I couldn't answer from the thread.

Will the nav keys (pgUp, pgDown,...) send different codes than fn-up, fn-down, etc? In other words, do I get more keys/functionality in the full nav PC version vs. the 2xFn Mac version?

My hope is to use this on a mac and have a few extra hotkeys to avoid conflicts.

Thanks!
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---------------

Offline rsadek

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #385 on: Thu, 29 January 2015, 12:45:48 »
Although I missed the early discussion on preferences, I thought I'd offer input in case we do a group buy w/ feedback/adjustments in the future.

Re backlighting: I'd adjustable (at least on/off) backlighting. Often I have to work in the dark, with only the screen as illumination: hitting the wrong F-# key is a common frustration for me, especially when debugging code.  I'd love to be able to make sure I'm hitting the right key while doing sensitive, error-prone work.

Re keycaps: I would love to have white PBT Mac backlit keys.

When does this group buy end? I'm eager to order my, but I hope to answer the mac / nav key question before I do so....

Thanks!

-R

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---------------

Offline Norwegian

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #386 on: Tue, 24 March 2015, 16:00:45 »
Hi Matias,

Sorry to be a bother:

I know you said you'd post an update here when the option of Clicky ISO is added to the purchase option, but I'm just wondering if we're closing in on that update or if it's still some time to go.

Thanks.
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Offline Asininity

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #387 on: Tue, 24 March 2015, 22:24:34 »
This is wonky and fascinating. I want one!

Offline slaction

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #388 on: Tue, 31 March 2015, 01:22:34 »
Love this!

Offline 3rain3ug

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #389 on: Thu, 23 April 2015, 06:01:07 »
@Matias: Any Updates?

Offline Matias

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #390 on: Thu, 23 April 2015, 23:17:48 »


@Matias: Any Updates?

Yes, I can confirm that the keyboard will have all PBT caps now.  I'm reviewing the final keycap drawings now, and we'll be starting on that tooling soon.



Sorry to be a bother:

I know you said you'd post an update here when the option of Clicky ISO is added to the purchase option, but I'm just wondering if we're closing in on that update or if it's still some time to go.

No problem.  If you're eager to get your order in, you can place an order for the Quiet Click ISO version and then just write in the comment field at the end...  "Clicky switch unit as per Edgar".


Let me know if you have any other questions...


Offline zxz

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #391 on: Sat, 25 April 2015, 05:28:01 »
Wow full PBT caps :cool: do you have any plans to sell springs from the linear model separately or would I just have to buy a pack of the linear from crowd supply and switch them out?

edit: just noticed you have linear switches available for ordering as well, what's the activation force 35 cN or 55 cN?
« Last Edit: Sat, 25 April 2015, 06:30:43 by zxz »

Offline Hypersphere

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #392 on: Sat, 25 April 2015, 17:07:05 »
Do the blank keycap sets include extras so that one set of blanks would cover either the Mac or PC layout?

Offline zxz

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #393 on: Sun, 26 April 2015, 02:20:02 »
Also going through the pre order, it seems even if you get a pack of linear switches you still have to pay an extra $10 for shipping even when already paying for a keyboard delivery of $10. Is this correct?

Offline 3rain3ug

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #394 on: Tue, 16 June 2015, 08:36:05 »
Would be nice to get an Update each Month... so whats the current status? Next steps?...

Offline Matias

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #395 on: Tue, 16 June 2015, 15:37:40 »
Would be nice to get an Update each Month... so whats the current status? Next steps?...


Yes, last update was 3 weeks ago, posted on the GB thread.  Probably I should be cross posting them here too...


Here's the latest...

As stated in the GB thread, I can now confirm that all keycaps on the 60 will be PBT.  Keycap tooling is already underway.

We've been doing test plates, to nail down the optimal hole sizes & shapes for jointly supporting ALPS and Cherry at different plate thicknesses.  My original estimates worked fine after soldering, but there was room for tightening things up a bit, so we're doing more tests.  We've completed 4 rounds of testing so far.  The next round should be final or very close to it.

One of our goals in this is to estabilish a reference design for jointly supporting ALPS & Cherry, in a way that makes it very easy for people to make their own custom keyboards.  For example, we've managed to get the one-off plate cost below $100.  For a single custom plate, that's very inexpensive.

Moving on to the questions below...



Do the blank keycap sets include extras so that one set of blanks would cover either the Mac or PC layout?

Yes, for the blanks sets, they will include all caps needed to cover all layout options.



Also going through the pre order, it seems even if you get a pack of linear switches you still have to pay an extra $10 for shipping even when already paying for a keyboard delivery of $10. Is this correct?

Yes, that's correct.



Wow full PBT caps :cool: do you have any plans to sell springs from the linear model separately or would I just have to buy a pack of the linear from crowd supply and switch them out?

edit: just noticed you have linear switches available for ordering as well, what's the activation force 35 cN or 55 cN?

35 cN for the quiet linears.  More info here...


We have no plans to sell springs, but you can certainly mix & match the springs from different switches.  The springs in the quiet linear switches are the same as the springs in the quiet click switches -- the clicky switch springs are different.




Offline yyr

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #396 on: Sun, 05 July 2015, 03:45:11 »
can be like the iMac G5 Keyboard  bottom row keycap  of the protruding arc?
104528-0

Offline KHAANNN

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #397 on: Thu, 12 November 2015, 11:50:00 »
Just re-saw this design, are there any updates?

For those who want real programmability, this would be the easiest way to add it: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=69169.0 (If costs aren't the main concern)

It's too late but it would have been great if alternate functions could be inscribed to the sides of the keycaps, rather than occupy the front faces and makes things unreadable and crowded (especially the top-rows)
Endgame | 1.25 Cmd for GMK Sets Please | Or Just 1.25 Blanks Like The Good Old Days

Offline vivalarevolución

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #398 on: Thu, 12 November 2015, 21:06:48 »
Forgot that I'm even a part of this.  It will be a nice surprise when it shows up in the mail.  I think that I need to change my shipping address. 
Wish I had some gif or quote for this space, but I got nothing

Offline billm

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Re: [IC] - Matias 60% ALPS keyboard with Cherry-compatible PCB
« Reply #399 on: Sat, 02 January 2016, 03:02:34 »
I just discovered this project.  I'd like to join the group buy but seems like the project has been around for about 18mo. now. Is it still alive? Are there updates?
If it's not ALPS it's crap!