Author Topic: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs  (Read 54721 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
I've posted a few times in various threads about a GH-custom keyboard layout larger than a GH60 but with all the reconfigurability of a GH60.  I've been calling it the GH60++, and this is its own thread.  (Apologies to any thread owners where I took things OT.)

So here is a 75% keyboard layout I like:

11201-0
Theoretical 75% keyboard layout.

AFAIK, it can't be made on any PCB or plate available today.  What I envision for the GH60++ is a variety of sizes with a common core.
GH60++ 60%  5x15
GH60++ 65%  5x16
GH60++ 70%  6x15
GH60++ 75%  6x16

Here they are again in ascending size order:

11203-1
GH60++ 60%  5x15

11205-2
GH60++ 65%  5x16

11207-3
GH60++ 70%  6x15

11209-4
GH60++ 75%  6x16

So much for pretty pictures.  I can make them all day.  But to make the keyboards real we need:
 - Layouts
 - PCBs
 - Plates
 - Cases
 - Keycap Sets

All of those skills exist in this community, and right now all of them are working on other projects, especially the GH60 itself.  So this thread is for discussion of possibilities for now.  IC and GB threads will come after the GH60 is a real keyboard we can all build and type on.

One thing that is interesting to me is the possibility of a multi-use PCB for the GH 60++. This approach is used in other industries, although I've never seen it used in keyboards.  Basically it would be a 75% PCB with a couple of break-lines to enable it to be used in all four configurations.  Something like this:

11211-5
GH60++ 75% PCB with break lines for 60, 65, and 70% sizes.

For now, all of the above is just a discussion-starter.  The real GH60 is the place for real work to keep happening.  I might make up some physical mock-ups and perhaps sketch a case design or two, but that is it for now.

I look forward to the comments of anyone interested in this topic!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
« Last Edit: Mon, 07 January 2013, 09:16:27 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline esoomenona

  • Gnillort?
  • Posts: 5323
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #1 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 13:58:28 »
Attachments are all invalid...

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #2 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 14:03:29 »
Attachments are all invalid...

Fixed.  Upload failed when done all at once, so I loaded them via modify.
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline esoomenona

  • Gnillort?
  • Posts: 5323
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #3 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 14:04:50 »
I think you have something there with the 65% layout! Nice work. I look forward to this going places.

Offline esoomenona

  • Gnillort?
  • Posts: 5323
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #4 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 14:07:38 »
Might it be possible instead of having breaks to have smaller PCBs that could slot into the main one/each other? That might be overboard, but it seems like a nice idea if it's possible.

Offline regack

  • Posts: 660
  • Location: Thessia
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #5 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 14:09:32 »
So the GH60++ 60% is essentially a GH60... but shares the same design as the 6x16, and possibly (with perforated PCB or something similar) the same actual PCB. Basically, one PCB to rule them all...

edit: the disturbing part of this, is that I can sort of see how I would want to have one of each...
« Last Edit: Thu, 03 January 2013, 14:11:11 by regack »

Offline JPG

  • Posts: 1124
  • Location: Canada (Beloeil, near Montreal)
  • Model F is my new passion!
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #6 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 14:48:23 »
Really interesting. I am still a n00b here, but here is the challenges I expect:

PCB: Don't know if it would be possible, but lets say it would, so then...
Plate: Probably the same as PCB, hard but possible, probably easier than the PCB since theres nothing "in" it. But cutting it with precision after it is produced would be hard. People are talking of lasez cutting with these to get enough precision, so...
Keys: Your design seems to use the same layout with additionnal keys when you increase the size, but the 75% set would fit them all. But now it would not support all the variations that some prefer. It would need to be some kind of one size fits all or something like that.
Case: Can't make a generic case that you could just cut (unless someone is a real genius). So we would probably have to make one for each setup. Still it could be the same design, with variations on the size.

It could be interesting to evaluate the gain of a universal pcb that you can cut over a universal pcb design with 4 variations. Same with plate and case.

Still, I think that once you have a final GH60, making these variations are not that hard (aint diminishing the hard work that is done here, just saying that making a 75% should not be harder than a 60%), but supporting many different design brings challenges and costs, but it also increase the market  ;D

In the end, supporting more sizes will probably mean more work to be done, and with all the projects I see running here, that's no small thing. Still having some standard that we could greatly reuse with each project would be awesome, but it's what most of the stuff here is in a certain way.

Anyway, very interesting +++  ;D
IBM F122, IBM XT F X2, IBM AT F (all Soarer converted), Filco Camo TKL Browns

Offline damorgue

  • Posts: 1176
  • Location: Sweden
    • Personal portfolio
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #7 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 14:49:20 »
Just going to post this over here since I have already spammed it everywhere else.
My perfect layout: http://i.imgur.com/3goQY.gif + matching numpad

It wasn't too long ago when there were NO small ISO boards. Now there is the GH60, Hypers and now this. I was going to take the GH60 just because it is the first opportunity ever to have a smaller ISO board, but this thread is even better.

Offline pasph

  • Posts: 1059
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #8 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 18:51:32 »
I like 65% and 75% way more than 60%.
bpiphany is thinking to a similar "multi-use PCB" for the Phantom V2 (TKL <-> full).
"There is more stupidity than hydrogen in the universe, and it has a longer shelf life"

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #9 on: Thu, 03 January 2013, 19:35:55 »
I like 65% and 75% way more than 60%.
bpiphany is thinking to a similar "multi-use PCB" for the Phantom V2 (TKL <-> full).

Yes, I started out looking at 65% and 75% versions of the GH60.  And if the board can have 5 or 6 rows, and 15 or 16 columns, then there are four possibilities.

Me?  I'd like the 65% for the arrows and the programmable keys on the right.  And I like everything about my Choco Mini 75% except that it isn't programmable.  The other sizes (60% and 70%) exist because they are a sub-set of the natural geometry of the splittable board.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline WhiteFireDragon

  • Posts: 2276
    • youtube
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #10 on: Fri, 04 January 2013, 01:00:27 »
This looks like a good idea, but one difficulty I see is designing traces that run in between the narrow area between two breakout holes.

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #11 on: Fri, 04 January 2013, 07:26:37 »
This looks like a good idea, but one difficulty I see is designing traces that run in between the narrow area between two breakout holes.

Thanks and agreed.  Worst case a ribbon cable bridge.  Best case we need n+1 traces per segment if we put the top row on a single electrical row and the RH column on a single electrical column.  So at two traces per switch, we need two bits of solid substrate every half inch.  I think that would be do-able.

Also, I think for strength we'd want the full-size PCB to be rigid enough to use without a plate, so "breaking" it would really mean "cutting it along the lines."  If so, perhaps the row of holes is just painted on.  A Dremel or better would be needed.

I have no idea how a multi-size plate could be made, however.  I don't want to be Dremeling a stainless steel plate!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline inteli722

  • Posts: 858
  • Location: America
  • Waiting for too much stuff...
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #12 on: Fri, 04 January 2013, 16:14:07 »
I like the 65% layout. Looks like something I could pretty easily cart along with my laptop. It's built in chiclet is good (a pleasure to type on, maybe a bit heavy), but a Mechanical keyboard to cart along with would pretty good. The switches would depend on how I like the Greens that I'm putting in my Phantom. Maybe a compromise switch like Blues.
More

Visit the Typing Test and try!
R.I.P. SmallFry! You will be dearly missed.
Leopold FC200 |  CoolerMaster QFP Browns | Quickfire Rapid Greens | Quickfire Rapid Blues
Waiting for: Phantom Plate

Offline TheQsanity

  • Posts: 1165
  • SmallFry Lovin'
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #13 on: Sat, 05 January 2013, 13:24:20 »
Yum!

I think a 7x4 keypad would be cool. I like some extra keys.
SmallFry! <3

Offline IvanIvanovich

  • Mr. Silk Underwear
  • Posts: 8199
  • Location: USA
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #14 on: Sun, 06 January 2013, 11:26:45 »
I would also be interested in a numpad/keypad, and matching plastic case that look exactly like stock Poker.
Another thing I would be interested in would be a 60% + numpad as one pcb, and if breakable section, perhaps do 2x column also on the left for function or macro key like model f at style. Another layout I wouldn't mind having and that I don't think has been done well yet or at all for kit boards.

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #15 on: Sun, 06 January 2013, 11:28:56 »
I would also be interested in a numpad/keypad, and matching plastic case that look exactly like stock Poker.
Another thing I would be interested in would be a 60% + numpad as one pcb, and if breakable section, perhaps do 2x column also on the left for function or macro key like model f at style. Another layout I wouldn't mind having and that I don't think has been done well yet or at all for kit boards.

Love it!

F1-F10 on the left bank?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline IvanIvanovich

  • Mr. Silk Underwear
  • Posts: 8199
  • Location: USA
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #16 on: Sun, 06 January 2013, 11:33:26 »
Yeah, basically this but with all the updated options for the modifiers and stuff from the GH60 pcb in the main block, and make option for the numpad 0 enter and plus to be 2x unit keys or 2 1x for other things. PCB should only be as big as the plate, naturally not excessive like that...

Offline dirge

  • Posts: 475
  • Location: Newcastle Upon Tyne
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #17 on: Sun, 06 January 2013, 12:07:05 »
iso iso iso
Thinking about things isn't the same as doing things. Otherwise everybody would be in jail.

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #18 on: Sun, 06 January 2013, 17:37:35 »
I think it would fit, as this does not have in-switch LED diode pads to deal with. Also, you could orient 2 of the switches upside down to give more clearance between the pads, like is done on the Phantom at number row 4 and 5. I could be mistaken, though. I wish I knew how to use KiCAD.
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline aggiejy

  • ** Moderator Emeritus
  • Posts: 1126
  • Location: ~Austin, Texas
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #19 on: Sun, 06 January 2013, 21:17:22 »
So here is a 75% keyboard layout I like:

(Attachment Link)
Theoretical 75% keyboard layout.

I'm 100% behind this... that looks like a perfect layout for me. :)

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #20 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 03:26:02 »
The GH60++ 75% trimmable PCB is such a brilliant idea. I'm interested in both 65% and 75%.

I will definitely follow this.

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #21 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 09:16:00 »
This topic has been split:

10-Key Pad for GH60++ << -- New Thread

GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs << -- Stay here to discuss 65% etc.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #22 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 09:50:01 »
So here is a 75% keyboard layout I like:

(Attachment Link)
Theoretical 75% keyboard layout.

I'm 100% behind this... that looks like a perfect layout for me. :)

So my Race 75% has started to bow.  I was annoyed at its "special" key layout anyhow, so I am going to get a plate cut and create a hard-wired edition of that 75% layout.  It will simulate the GH60++, but because of its individual heritage, I will call it the eRace.

Pics and protos to follow.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #23 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 09:52:17 »
So my Race 75% has started to bow.  I was annoyed at its "special" key layout anyhow, so I am going to get a plate cut and create a hard-wired edition of that 75% layout.  It will simulate the GH60++, but because of its individual heritage, I will call it the eRace.

where do you get the race plate?

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Posibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #24 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 09:57:48 »
So my Race 75% has started to bow.  I was annoyed at its "special" key layout anyhow, so I am going to get a plate cut and create a hard-wired edition of that 75% layout.  It will simulate the GH60++, but because of its individual heritage, I will call it the eRace.

where do you get the race plate?

I'm going to have an expanded poker plate cut as a one-off.
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #25 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 10:13:54 »
Two-off! GB...
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #26 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 11:28:05 »
Two-off! GB...

OK, but you realize that there is no PCB for this, right?  We're talking diodes, ribbon cable and a teensy...

 - Ron | samwisekoi


I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #27 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 11:53:41 »
For some reason I thought you meant you were having a plate made for your Race. :/

No PCB? Sounds like some kind of wire-wrapping wet dream. :P
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #28 on: Mon, 07 January 2013, 11:55:55 »
For some reason I thought you meant you were having a plate made for your Race. :/

No PCB? Sounds like some kind of wire-wrapping wet dream. :P

I'm having a plate made with the improved 75% layout.  Thus the Race PCB won't work.  The yet-to-be-designed GH60++ PCB would work, but alas, it is indeed yet-to-be-designed.

11354-0
A plate for 84 switches.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
« Last Edit: Mon, 07 January 2013, 18:33:33 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #29 on: Wed, 16 January 2013, 09:54:18 »
The eRace 75% plate is on its way to me now!  Time to get the Solder-Pullit ready for action!

Does anyone have a 1.75x Shift key they can spare?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #30 on: Wed, 16 January 2013, 11:36:50 »
lovely! I want one of those! :)

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #31 on: Mon, 21 January 2013, 12:57:53 »
Custom v.1 plate arrived (thanks Beast!) and was populated with Reds from a Rosewill 104 plus Cherry stabilizers from Mouser.  Mostly leftover keycaps were used, but the 1.75x full-width caps-lock keycap works fine as the 1.75x Shift_R keycap.  And since nearly all PBT keycap sets contain both a stepped and non-stepped caps-lock keycap, this board should be able to be populated with a normal keycap set.

[edit] This is sitting in the original Race keyboard "case."

The only really odd keycaps are the three 1x keycaps on the bottom row; I will use them as Alt_R, Fn, and Ctrl_R. For this proto build I used Riddler Keys.

I have made a v.2 plate drawing that includes some strengthening updates, including edges I will bend with my cheap metal break.  Once that comes in I will do the lowpoly diode wiring job and add a Teensy with Phantom firmware. (See http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=20898.0 for lowpoly's mod.)

NOTE: I have some build photos on another camera; I will upload those soon-ish.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
« Last Edit: Mon, 21 January 2013, 16:07:12 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline inteli722

  • Posts: 858
  • Location: America
  • Waiting for too much stuff...
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #32 on: Mon, 21 January 2013, 15:47:55 »
Custom v.1 plate arrived (thanks Beast!) and was populated with Reds from a Rosewill 104 plus Cherry stabilizers from Mouser.  Mostly leftover keycaps were used, but the 1.75x full-width caps-lock keycap works fine as the 1.75x Shift_R keycap.  And since nearly all PBT keycap sets contain both a stepped and non-stepped caps-lock keycap, this board should be able to be populated with a normal keycap set.

The only really odd keycaps are the three 1x keycaps on the bottom row; I will use them as Alt_R, Fn, and Ctrl_R. For this proto build I used Riddler Keys.

I have made a v.2 plate drawing that includes some strengthening updates, including edges I will bend with my cheap metal break.  Once that comes in I will do the lowpoly diode wiring job and add a Teensy with Phantom firmware. (See http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=20898.0 for lowpoly's mod.)

NOTE: I have some build photos on another camera; I will upload those soon-ish.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


VERY cool. That's the 65%-er, right? Looks awesome, and I would love to get one of these.
More

Visit the Typing Test and try!
R.I.P. SmallFry! You will be dearly missed.
Leopold FC200 |  CoolerMaster QFP Browns | Quickfire Rapid Greens | Quickfire Rapid Blues
Waiting for: Phantom Plate

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #33 on: Sun, 03 February 2013, 11:41:54 »
I have not updated this thread in a while, but have made much progress, so this is an interim update.

Done:
-  GH75 v.1 plate designed and made by Beast (thanks!)
-  GH75 v.1 wiring plan completed using a modified version of the Phantom R/C map to allow Teensy firmware creation
-  GH75 v.1 plate populated with 84 MX Red switches and installed in Race case
-  GH75 v.2 plate designed and ordered for next build
-  Keycaps installed.  Need normal set (e.g. Imsto) plus three 1x Escape row caps and three 1x bottom row caps.
    NOTE:  Escape row keycaps are easy to get; I used hammer & sickle from Techkeys. 
    Bottom row keys are harder. Techkeys has crystal and Riddler keys that fit; I used three Riddler keys.

-  Rows and columns hardwired following the Lowpoly method with some modifications.
-  Better, easier method determined for v.2 build.
-  Teensy hardwired to GH75 v.1
-  Better, easier method for connecting the Teensy via right-angle headers and sockets determined and parts ordered from Mouser.
-  TMK firmware obtained from Github and keymatrix and layout modified and the whole lot compiled to hex.

Next up:
-  Install and test firmware on v.1 (prototype) keyboard (in process)
-  Prep and build GH75 v.2 using improved methods and running a build log throughout.

Here is the GH75 (a.k.a. extended Race or eRace) as it sits today:

12888-0
Hardwired GH75 with Teensy under the F5/6 and 6/7 keys.

Here is the keymap for the GH75:

Code: [Select]

 * ,---------------------------------------------------------------.
 * |Esc| F1| F2| F3| F4| F5| F6| F7| F8| F9|F10|F11|F12|Ins|Del|VDn| Fn-Del will be Mute and Fn-VolDn will be VolUp
 * |---------------------------------------------------------------|
 * |~  |  1|  2|  3|  4|  5|  6|  7|  8|  9|  0|  -|  =|Backsp |Hom|
 * |---------------------------------------------------------------|
 * |Tab  |  Q|  W|  E|  R|  T|  Y|  U|  I|  O|  P|  [|  ]|   \ |PgD|
 * |-----------------------------------------------------------|---|
 * |Caps  |  A|  S|  D|  F|  G|  H|  J|  K|  L|  ;|  '|Return  |PgD|
 * |-----------------------------------------------------------|---|
 * |Shift   |  Z|  X|  C|  V|  B|  N|  M|  ,|  .|  /|Shift |Up |End|
 * |---------------------------------------------------------------|
 * |Ctl|Win|Alt|          Space            |Alt| Fn|Ctl|Lef|Dow|Rig|
 * `---------------------------------------------------------------'

GH75 v.1 keymap. RH 3+4+3 keys for user assignment.

More to come; this is just an update on the v.1 Prototype.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
« Last Edit: Sun, 03 February 2013, 11:45:49 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #34 on: Sun, 03 February 2013, 13:32:58 »

Here is the GH75 (a.k.a. extended Race or eRace) as it sits today:

(Attachment Link)
Hardwired GH75 with Teensy under the F5/6 and 6/7 keys.


this is fantastic, Ron! And it will look even more awesome with you-know-what keycaps! I'm looking forward to building my own! (suggested name xRace, though :) )

Offline rknize

  • * Administrator
  • Posts: 1731
  • Location: Chicago
    • metaruss
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #35 on: Sun, 03 February 2013, 15:07:52 »
So this is essentially the noppo layout without the weird space bar?  Looks good.
Russ

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #36 on: Sun, 03 February 2013, 15:47:33 »
So this is essentially the noppo layout without the weird space bar?  Looks good.

And programmable keys!  And normal USB.

Normal on the left, special on the right.  Fits in a Race case.

- Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #37 on: Mon, 04 February 2013, 17:52:07 »
Below is the first sample of a better method of Teensy connection via wires.  Shown in this picture is a Teensy 2.0, qty 2 2x12 header connector (holding up the Teensy in this photo) and a combination of single row and double row snap-off .10x.10 right-angle headers.  These combine with 22-26AWG hook-up wire and female connectors to make a flat connection from both sides of the Teensy.

Because the Teensy has inboard pin-outs, single-row connectors won't work.  And direct solder is bad for the board, and makes it hard to move wires.  This method enables you to solder the headers to the Teensy once, then arrange the wires in the 2x12 housings to fit the need.  A simpler single-row method would work for a Soarer application.  This is for the GH75 hardwire application that uses a modified version of the Phantom firmware -- and all of the Teensy's pins.

Note that the 2x12 housings are currently just supporting the Teensy because the headers are not soldered in place.  Once the headers are soldered on, the housings will connect from the sides, making the whole assembly nearly as short as the Teensy itself.

Sorry for the non-macro-lens photo.  These items just arrived and I wanted to get them posted right away in case anyone else is wondering how best to attach a Teensy without a socket.  (FYI, this approach will also work for PCB-mounting, as the leads extend .250 below the Teensy, and fill all the pins, unlike the Teensy-with-pins from PJRC.)

12946-0
Teensy 2.0 with .10x.10 right-angle headers.

Parts list:

qty 1 Teensy 2.0
qty 1 50P snappable single-row right-angle header (Mouser p/n 571-5-82947-0)
qty 1 2x16P snappable double-row right-angle header (Mouser p/n 571-1-826634-6)
qty 2 2x12C housing (Mouser p/n 649-65043-025LF)
qty 27 receptacle, 22-26AWG (Mouser p/n 649-47750-000LF)

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #38 on: Mon, 04 February 2013, 18:34:11 »
Ron, can you please explain further how you wired the eRace without a PCB? I'm very curious how to use that technique to prototype these boards. Thanks!
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline rknize

  • * Administrator
  • Posts: 1731
  • Location: Chicago
    • metaruss
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #39 on: Mon, 04 February 2013, 18:54:23 »
He has a plate and now this.  I think he is going to PtP wire the entire matrix.
Russ

Offline The_Beast

  • * Maker
  • Posts: 3964
  • Location: Wisconsin
  • I like wood ಠ_๏
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #40 on: Mon, 04 February 2013, 18:57:17 »
Your new plate = soon™


^____^
Vendor Status: Sadly, not taking any orders/pre-orders at this time

Vendor Quick Links: | Vendor Forum | Hardwood Wrist Rests | Hardwood 60% Cases | Customer Gallery | Giveaway |

Offline regack

  • Posts: 660
  • Location: Thessia
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #41 on: Mon, 04 February 2013, 19:03:03 »
Ron, can you please explain further how you wired the eRace without a PCB? I'm very curious how to use that technique to prototype these boards. Thanks!

I'm guessing he did it like this (there was a reference up the page): http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=20898.0

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #42 on: Mon, 04 February 2013, 19:12:32 »
Oh, I completely missed that link. Google search for lowpoly was fruitless. :)

Thanks!
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #43 on: Mon, 04 February 2013, 19:13:01 »
Ron, can you please explain further how you wired the eRace without a PCB? I'm very curious how to use that technique to prototype these boards. Thanks!

Rknize is correct, and I have hard-wired the whole matrix for the v.1 eRace/GH75.  I will re-do it for v.2 and post a build log as I go.  The Teensy was the hardest part to figure out, but it is soldered up now, and looks like it will work as planned.

The process (after prepping the Teensy and placing switches into the plate) is:

1. Prep and solder diodes to switches.  Trim.
2. Solder solid-core wire for rows - no insulation.
3. Prep and solder solid-core wire for columns, insulate when crossing row wires.
4. Terminate stranded hook-up wire for connections to Teensy.
5. Cut and solder wires to columns.
6. Cut and solder wires to rows.
7. Check and double-check pin-outs to Teensy.
8. Insert terminations INTO PROPER LOCATIONS in housings.
9. Connect populated housings to Teensy.
10. Install firmware, debug, correct mistakes, make new mistakes, curse, correct those, walk away, return, discover it now works for some unknown reason.

Or something like that.

Anyhow, I'll post a build log.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #44 on: Tue, 05 February 2013, 03:10:00 »
I know that you have the plate but how does the keyboard feels without PCB? wondering if there's any difference. maybe a pre-holed pcb might help.

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #45 on: Fri, 15 February 2013, 15:37:17 »
Version 2 of the GH75 (eRace/xRace) plate is in.  Beast lasered it and then I had a local sheet metal shop bend the front and rear edges to form flanges.  It has a 10mm flange on the front and a 20mm flange on the rear, so it is free-standing.  It is also stainless, so it is very stiff, especially with the bends.

I'll post more details and a build log, but here are a couple of initial snaps.  You can see how it sits on the desk and where the Teensy will sit.  It will be fully hard-wired as before.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #46 on: Fri, 15 February 2013, 15:48:41 »
Version 2 of the GH75 (eRace/xRace) plate is in.  Beast lasered it and then I had a local sheet metal shop bend the front and rear edges to form flanges.  It has a 10mm flange on the front and a 20mm flange on the rear, so it is free-standing.  It is also stainless, so it is very stiff, especially with the bends.

I'll post more details and a build log, but here are a couple of initial snaps.  You can see how it sits on the desk and where the Teensy will sit.  It will be fully hard-wired as before.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


Very nice. I like how this is coming along. PCB-less design rocks!
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline The_Beast

  • * Maker
  • Posts: 3964
  • Location: Wisconsin
  • I like wood ಠ_๏
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #47 on: Fri, 15 February 2013, 15:51:01 »
Looks great, glad you like the stainless ^____^
Vendor Status: Sadly, not taking any orders/pre-orders at this time

Vendor Quick Links: | Vendor Forum | Hardwood Wrist Rests | Hardwood 60% Cases | Customer Gallery | Giveaway |

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #48 on: Sat, 16 February 2013, 01:44:53 »
look at that beast! It's the Ducati Monster of the keyboards :)

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #49 on: Sat, 16 February 2013, 08:59:52 »
look at that beast! It's the Ducati Monster of the keyboards :)

Now I need RED keycaps!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Bullveyr

  • Posts: 386
  • Location: Austria
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #50 on: Sun, 17 February 2013, 14:19:45 »
... and if breakable section, perhaps do 2x column also on the left for function or macro key like model f at style.
So if I understand that correctly with the break-lines that would also work for the 75% (6x16)?

I would like that.
Quote from: ripster;185750
Mechanical switches are mechanical.

Offline RickyJ

  • Posts: 550
  • Location: Victoria, BC
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #51 on: Sun, 17 February 2013, 15:53:22 »
Great job so far, I'm liking it much better than my Race layout!
Currently GMMK Pro: lubed 68g U4T, FR4 plate, extra gaskets, etc

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #52 on: Sun, 17 February 2013, 17:19:58 »
Great job so far, I'm liking it much better than my Race layout!

I am going to do a version specifically for the Race case.  That will be v.3.

This is v.2 (free-standing) and is slightly too deep to fit into the Race case.  Apologies for the Sunday afternoon Potato Picture.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #53 on: Mon, 18 February 2013, 02:12:01 »
do you have the source files for the plate? it should be a DWG, right?

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #54 on: Mon, 18 February 2013, 09:13:38 »
do you have the source files for the plate? it should be a DWG, right?

I do and it is.  It was based off of the Poker plate DWG file.

For v.3 I am going to:
- Remove the flanges so it can fit directly into a Race case.
- Add mounting holes to match the Race, if possible (more switches means less room for holes.)
- Revert to a multi-mount for the Caps Lock key (centered or offset.)

I will probably also make a sub-60% for a retro keyboard model that will have smaller mods and a dedicated arrow block. And possibly a flanged Poker plate to enable a free-standing Poker "Monster".

I'll put all of the design files up on the wiki, along with a build guide.  Probably this week.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #55 on: Mon, 18 February 2013, 09:19:32 »
I'll put all of the design files up on the wiki, along with a build guide.  Probably this week.

that's great! thanks for sharing your work!

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #56 on: Mon, 18 February 2013, 15:02:25 »
Ron inspired me to do this (40% board):



If it works, I'll see if Ron will host the drawing file for you experimenters.
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline dorkvader

  • Posts: 6288
  • Location: Boston area
  • all about the "hack" in "geekhack"
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #57 on: Tue, 19 February 2013, 02:26:43 »
Ron inspired me to do this (40% board):

Show Image


If it works, I'll see if Ron will host the drawing file for you experimenters.
12*4; Interesting. Are you going for this?

http://ne0.cc/laygen/
Code: [Select]
Esc::1.0  Q::1  W::1  E::1  R::1  T::1  Y::1  U::1  I::1  O::1  P::1  Bksp::1$$
Lock::1.25  A::1  S::1  D::1  F::1  G::1  H::1  J::1  K::1  L::1  Enter::1.75$$
Shift::1.75  Z::1  X::1  C::1  V::1  B::1  N::1  M::1  <,::1  Shift::1.25  Fn::1$$
Ctrl::1.25  Fn::1  Alt::1  Space::6.25  Alt::1.25  Ctrl::1.25$$

I can't go that small, but I very much want to do a Miniature Dvorak KB (13*4)


Code: [Select]
Esc::1  '::1  ,<::1  .<::1  P::1  Y::1  F::1  G::1  C::1  R::1  L::1  /::1  Bksp::1$$
Tab::1.25  A::1  O::1  E::1  U::1  I::1  D::1  H::1  T::1  N::1  S::1  Enter::1.75$$
Shift::1.75  ;::1  Q::1  J::1  K::1  X::1  B::1  M::1  W::1  V::1  Z::1  Shift::1.25$$
Ctrl::1  Fn::1.0  Alt::1.0  ::6.25  Alt::1.25   Super::1  Ctrl::1.5$$

Or maybe something a little larger (14*4)
http://i.imm.io/WI3n.png
Code: [Select]
Esc::1  '::1  ,<::1  .<::1  P::1  Y::1  F::1  G::1  C::1  R::1  L::1  /::1  =::1  Bksp::1$$
Tab::1.25  A::1  O::1  E::1  U::1  I::1  D::1  H::1  T::1  N::1  S::1  -::1  Enter::1.75$$
Shift::1.75  ;::1  Q::1  J::1  K::1  X::1  B::1  M::1  W::1  V::1  Z::1  Shift::1.25  Fn::1.00$$
Ctrl::1  Super::1  Fn::1.0  Alt::1.0  ::6.25  Alt::1.25  Meta::1.25  Ctrl::1.25
---
What do these plates cost? I want to make one now. I always thought using the plate as a case was the best KB design. Maybe with a panel-mount USB jack on the back or something: http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/Amphenol-Commercial-Products/MUSBB551042/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMulM8LPOQ%252byk6V7JFh%252bQKX34iD2mjgWOK8%3d


Ron, can you clarify exactly how the teensy is mounted in your (excellent) free-standing case? Is there a picture of the bottom you can show, or is it not wired yet?
« Last Edit: Tue, 19 February 2013, 02:35:07 by dorkvader »

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #58 on: Tue, 19 February 2013, 09:54:32 »
I originally designed that layout to work with kmiller8's 40% PCB design. He included it in his layout options. That's about as small as I can get it. I wanted it to stay rectangular, and use commonly available keycap sizes. And I like a full size spacebar on my keyboards. I will probably eliminate all redundant keys, like the 2x Ctrl and Alt, in favor of others.

I really like that KB Layout Editor. Very slick and helpful!

The plates are only ~$25/ea from The_Beast. His laser guy does an awesome job cutting these. I've always liked the idea of using the plate as a "case," also. Like in the original Dox design. The Dox is what inspired my call to action on the GH60, which in turn helped motivate komar to design the PCB. I have a couple more design ideas I'm going to be prototyping like this. It will let you know if your design is usable, without the expense of having a custom PCB made.
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #59 on: Tue, 19 February 2013, 12:54:14 »
Ron, can you clarify exactly how the teensy is mounted in your (excellent) free-standing case? Is there a picture of the bottom you can show, or is it not wired yet?

V.2 (freestanding) is not wired.  This "Retro GB" has pulled all of my attention for the moment.

My current plan is to mount a small platform under the back-rear of the chassis and cut or drill a hole for the USB connection.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #60 on: Fri, 22 February 2013, 11:44:34 »
Ron, I created an offshoot of this thread for making new designs beyond the scope of your OP.

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40567.0
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline danielucf

  • Horrible Mailman
  • * Elevated Elder
  • Posts: 2479
  • Location: Orlando
  • Hmmmm beer.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #61 on: Fri, 22 February 2013, 12:23:47 »
That 40% looks great jdcarpe, really exciting. I also like the 65% where it is barely larger than a Poker/Pure but allows non function layer arrows, PgUp, PgDn, Home, and End. Fn + backspace for Delete is not very hard to do. 75% looks good for gaming, especially in games where F1-F5 can be used.
VE.A 67g Zealios | GH60 MX Clears |

Offline JPG

  • Posts: 1124
  • Location: Canada (Beloeil, near Montreal)
  • Model F is my new passion!
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #62 on: Fri, 22 February 2013, 12:42:00 »
Just a question here: Would it be "hard" to make a pcb/plate to support full backlighting? No custom keyboard supports it so I presume it's mostly because it's already hard to support multiple layouts with 1 pcb and/or a lack of interest. It's just a fancy feature most of the time, but still interesting :)

And this 65% ... /drool  ;D
IBM F122, IBM XT F X2, IBM AT F (all Soarer converted), Filco Camo TKL Browns

Offline alaricljs

  • I be WOT'ing all day...
  • ** Moderator Emeritus
  • Posts: 3715
  • Location: NE US
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #63 on: Fri, 22 February 2013, 13:08:50 »
The hard part is lighting *features* making it lit isn't all that hard at all.
Filco w/ Imsto thick PBT
Ducky 1087XM PCB+Plate, w/ Matias "Quiet Click" spring-swapped w/ XM Greens

Offline simkev

  • Posts: 103
  • Location: 127.0.0.1 - SWEDEN
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #64 on: Sun, 03 March 2013, 12:24:37 »
I've posted a few times in various threads about a GH-custom keyboard layout larger than a GH60 but with all the reconfigurability of a GH60.  I've been calling it the GH60++, and this is its own thread.  (Apologies to any thread owners where I took things OT.)

So here is a 75% keyboard layout I like:

(Attachment Link)
Theoretical 75% keyboard layout.

AFAIK, it can't be made on any PCB or plate available today.  What I envision for the GH60++ is a variety of sizes with a common core.
GH60++ 60%  5x15
GH60++ 65%  5x16
GH60++ 70%  6x15
GH60++ 75%  6x16

Here they are again in ascending size order:

(Attachment Link)
GH60++ 60%  5x15

(Attachment Link)
GH60++ 65%  5x16

(Attachment Link)
GH60++ 70%  6x15

(Attachment Link)
GH60++ 75%  6x16

So much for pretty pictures.  I can make them all day.  But to make the keyboards real we need:
 - Layouts
 - PCBs
 - Plates
 - Cases
 - Keycap Sets

All of those skills exist in this community, and right now all of them are working on other projects, especially the GH60 itself.  So this thread is for discussion of possibilities for now.  IC and GB threads will come after the GH60 is a real keyboard we can all build and type on.

One thing that is interesting to me is the possibility of a multi-use PCB for the GH 60++. This approach is used in other industries, although I've never seen it used in keyboards.  Basically it would be a 75% PCB with a couple of break-lines to enable it to be used in all four configurations.  Something like this:

(Attachment Link)
GH60++ 75% PCB with break lines for 60, 65, and 70% sizes.

For now, all of the above is just a discussion-starter.  The real GH60 is the place for real work to keep happening.  I might make up some physical mock-ups and perhaps sketch a case design or two, but that is it for now.

I look forward to the comments of anyone interested in this topic!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
How do you make those keycaps layouts?
JAG ÄR LIVRÄDD FÖR ATT LEVA & JAG ÄR DÖDSRÄDD FÖR ATT DÖ

| Poker X - Ergo Clears & Red Alert 2.0 | Majestouch 2 TKL - Browns & Blue Cream Cheese |


Offline calavera

  • Posts: 1713
  • Location: South Korea
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #65 on: Sun, 03 March 2013, 13:27:51 »
I'm interested in the production cost of those PCBs.
Can someone who has experience break down the cost to manufacture one PCB?

Offline Fred

  • Posts: 71
  • Location: Swe
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #66 on: Tue, 05 March 2013, 06:25:54 »
Dat 65%. Dat 65%. The only thing i'm missing on the Pure (aside from it not being in ISO) are those arrow keys. And the programmable keys, of course.
The 75% doesn't look bad either!
« Last Edit: Tue, 05 March 2013, 06:30:15 by Fred »

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #67 on: Tue, 05 March 2013, 08:43:08 »
Dat 65%. Dat 65%. The only thing i'm missing on the Pure (aside from it not being in ISO) are those arrow keys. And the programmable keys, of course.
The 75% doesn't look bad either!

Thank you!  :cool:

The 75% is sitting there waiting for me to finish the invoicing process for the Retro DSA group buy.  Then I'll get the Weller and camera out and finish that and post a build log.  I got as far as the populating the caseless, free-standing plate with mostly Cherry MX Brown switches, a few Reds and some white LEDs from a Race.

14981-0
75% "eRace" v.2 free-standing plate, populated.

I am considering doing the 65% using the yet-to-be started Retro Blue keycap set.  I think the combination would be an awesome homage to early IBM terminals and the honorable Selectric.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

« Last Edit: Tue, 05 March 2013, 08:45:23 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #68 on: Tue, 05 March 2013, 09:00:33 »
I'm working on this



looking forward to my DSA retro keys!

Offline DamienG

  • Posts: 315
  • Location: Redmond, WA
    • DamienG
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #69 on: Thu, 07 March 2013, 14:10:03 »
I think that 75% is my optimal layout :) Look forward to PCB and plate availability.

[)amien

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #70 on: Thu, 07 March 2013, 18:42:25 »
I'm working on this

Show Image


looking forward to my DSA retro keys!

Dang, we should have used green for the arrows on the brown keys!
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #71 on: Wed, 13 March 2013, 19:51:05 »
Invoicing and ordering for Retro DSA is done, so I had some time to work on the GH75 today.  I have a thumb drive full of photos to process and upload for the build-log. I'll get those up after dinner tonight.

This is v.2, so I was able to do it properly, and so that anyone else will be able to replicate the process.

More in a while.

 - Ron I samwisekoi

[edit] Apparently I took 50+ high-resolution photos to get as far as the first row positive (diode) rail complete.  Lots to process before uploading. Soon! [/edit]
« Last Edit: Thu, 14 March 2013, 10:55:07 by samwisekoi »
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #72 on: Thu, 14 March 2013, 18:32:32 »
Hard-Wiring How-To is being loaded to the wiki here:  http://wiki.geekhack.org/index.php?title=Hard-Wiring_How-To

15735-0
PCBs? We don't need no stinkin' PCBs!

Lots more to go, but it will all be there in the end.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline jdcarpe

  • * Curator
  • Posts: 8852
  • Location: Odessa, TX
  • Live long, and prosper.
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #73 on: Thu, 14 March 2013, 19:05:50 »
Hard-Wiring How-To is being loaded to the wiki here:  http://wiki.geekhack.org/index.php?title=Hard-Wiring_How-To

(Attachment Link)
PCBs? We don't need no stinkin' PCBs!

Lots more to go, but it will all be there in the end.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


Awesome!
KMAC :: LZ-GH :: WASD CODE :: WASD v2 :: GH60 :: Alps64 :: JD45 :: IBM Model M :: IBM 4704 "Pingmaster"

http://jd40.info :: http://jd45.info


in memoriam

"When I was a kid, I used to take things apart and never put them back together."

Offline esoomenona

  • Gnillort?
  • Posts: 5323
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #74 on: Fri, 15 March 2013, 09:34:50 »
I love you, Ron.

Offline hargon

  • Posts: 32
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #75 on: Mon, 18 March 2013, 10:51:52 »
Very nice, please keep us posted.

Offline The_Beast

  • * Maker
  • Posts: 3964
  • Location: Wisconsin
  • I like wood ಠ_๏
Vendor Status: Sadly, not taking any orders/pre-orders at this time

Vendor Quick Links: | Vendor Forum | Hardwood Wrist Rests | Hardwood 60% Cases | Customer Gallery | Giveaway |

Offline metalliqaz

  • * Maker
  • Posts: 4951
  • Location: the Making Stuff subforum
  • Leopold fanboy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #77 on: Mon, 18 March 2013, 22:20:22 »
Just stopping by after you mentioned it in another thread.  Like those breaklines.  Totally awesome idea!
« Last Edit: Mon, 18 March 2013, 22:23:03 by metalliqaz »

Offline Skull_Angel

  • Posts: 453
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #78 on: Tue, 19 March 2013, 02:19:40 »
Dat 65%. Dat 65%. The only thing i'm missing on the Pure (aside from it not being in ISO) are those arrow keys. And the programmable keys, of course.
The 75% doesn't look bad either!

Thank you!  :cool:

The 75% is sitting there waiting for me to finish the invoicing process for the Retro DSA group buy.  Then I'll get the Weller and camera out and finish that and post a build log.  I got as far as the populating the caseless, free-standing plate with mostly Cherry MX Brown switches, a few Reds and some white LEDs from a Race.

(Attachment Link)
75% "eRace" v.2 free-standing plate, populated.

I am considering doing the 65% using the yet-to-be started Retro Blue keycap set.  I think the combination would be an awesome homage to early IBM terminals and the honorable Selectric.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image



75% layout with 1.25 left-hand mods and Cherry stabilizers... I think I just wet myself... The stepped caps lock bugs me a bit, but it's not that big of an issue considering the rest of the design (I like swapping caps <> control as an MMO gamer).
« Last Edit: Tue, 19 March 2013, 02:23:00 by Skull_Angel »

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #79 on: Tue, 19 March 2013, 11:31:31 »
75% layout with 1.25 left-hand mods and Cherry stabilizers... I think I just wet myself... The stepped caps lock bugs me a bit, but it's not that big of an issue considering the rest of the design (I like swapping caps <> control as an MMO gamer).

Thanks.  The caps lock is likely to end up as an either/or placement.  I am used to the stepped caps lock on my Model M, so I add it to my other keyboards.  The GH75 v.1 allowed you to install the caps lock shifted left or centered, but I dropped that for this version.  GH75 v.3 will revert to a wide slot for your choice of placement.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline esoomenona

  • Gnillort?
  • Posts: 5323
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #80 on: Tue, 19 March 2013, 12:05:12 »

Offline sordna

  • Posts: 2248
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #81 on: Tue, 19 March 2013, 14:41:14 »
Just noticed this thread. 5x16 (65%) would be my preferred compact keyboard... I really miss arrows on my Poker.
Although with programmable Pure Pro, Tex, and Filco MINILA coming out, there are suddenly a lot of options now!
Kinesis Contoured Advantage & Advantage2 LF with Cherry MX Red switches / Extra keys mod / O-ring dampening mod / Dvorak layout. ErgoDox with buzzer and LED mod.
Also: Kinesis Advantage Classic, Kinesis Advantage2, Data911 TG3, Fingerworks Touchstream LP, IBM SSK (Buckling spring), Goldtouch GTU-0077 keyboard

Offline Skull_Angel

  • Posts: 453
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #82 on: Tue, 19 March 2013, 16:23:10 »
75% layout with 1.25 left-hand mods and Cherry stabilizers... I think I just wet myself... The stepped caps lock bugs me a bit, but it's not that big of an issue considering the rest of the design (I like swapping caps <> control as an MMO gamer).

Thanks.  The caps lock is likely to end up as an either/or placement.  I am used to the stepped caps lock on my Model M, so I add it to my other keyboards.  The GH75 v.1 allowed you to install the caps lock shifted left or centered, but I dropped that for this version.  GH75 v.3 will revert to a wide slot for your choice of placement.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


Oh awesome, now I just have to start saving up and hope my GF doesn't find out how much I want to spend on one... haha

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #83 on: Thu, 21 March 2013, 19:11:48 »
More work on the board.  The matrix is complete.  I also reduced the number of LEDs.

16478-0
Hard-wired GH75 Matrix Completed

Also, more images have been prepped and uploaded to the Wiki How-To:

http://wiki.geekhack.org/index.php?title=Hard-Wiring_How-To

More image manipulation and uploading to come, then wiring the Teensy harness and adding firmware.

Enjoy!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #84 on: Fri, 22 March 2013, 03:11:33 »
very good job, Ron. thanks for sharing!

Offline viowastaken

  • Posts: 144
  • Location: Norway
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #85 on: Wed, 27 March 2013, 10:20:18 »
Hopefully this project will have made even more progress by the time i need my next 75% becuase what I've just seen in this thread is just about the nicest keyboards evar! :)
Filco Majestouch Tenkeyless Cherry MX Brown with Ducky thick PBT white/grey



Visit the Typing Test and try!

Offline vardhana

  • Posts: 30
  • Location: Tokyo, Japan
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #86 on: Wed, 27 March 2013, 11:23:57 »
More work on the board.  The matrix is complete.  I also reduced the number of LEDs.

(Attachment Link)
Hard-wired GH75 Matrix Completed

Also, more images have been prepped and uploaded to the Wiki How-To:

http://wiki.geekhack.org/index.php?title=Hard-Wiring_How-To

More image manipulation and uploading to come, then wiring the Teensy harness and adding firmware.

Enjoy!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


What did you use for rail? Tinned Wire?

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #87 on: Wed, 27 March 2013, 20:32:03 »
More work on the board.  The matrix is complete.  I also reduced the number of LEDs.

(Attachment Link)
Hard-wired GH75 Matrix Completed

Also, more images have been prepped and uploaded to the Wiki How-To:

http://wiki.geekhack.org/index.php?title=Hard-Wiring_How-To

More image manipulation and uploading to come, then wiring the Teensy harness and adding firmware.

Enjoy!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


What did you use for rail? Tinned Wire?

Yes. 18g tinned wire.  The hard part was straightening it.  Brass rod would be cool, but I could not find any.
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline JPG

  • Posts: 1124
  • Location: Canada (Beloeil, near Montreal)
  • Model F is my new passion!
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #88 on: Wed, 27 March 2013, 21:49:40 »
Dumb question, but how do the switch "stick" to the plate?. Does it "clicks on" or is there something else to keep it in place once installed?
IBM F122, IBM XT F X2, IBM AT F (all Soarer converted), Filco Camo TKL Browns

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #89 on: Wed, 27 March 2013, 21:53:19 »
Dumb question, but how do the switch "stick" to the plate?. Does it "clicks on" or is there something else to keep it in place once installed?

They snap right into place.  In fact they are hard to remove.
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline TheQsanity

  • Posts: 1165
  • SmallFry Lovin'
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #90 on: Thu, 28 March 2013, 00:15:05 »
How easy was that for you samwisekoi?

Where did you get that plate btw??

This is all pretty amazing!
SmallFry! <3

Offline simon_C

  • Posts: 163
  • Location: Bay Area California
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #91 on: Thu, 28 March 2013, 16:18:19 »
How easy was that for you samwisekoi?

Where did you get that plate btw??

This is all pretty amazing!
read the thread dude. Its all there.

Offline DamienG

  • Posts: 315
  • Location: Redmond, WA
    • DamienG
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #92 on: Fri, 29 March 2013, 00:03:58 »
Just realised out of scope of topic. removed.
« Last Edit: Fri, 29 March 2013, 00:27:58 by DamienG »

Offline hargon

  • Posts: 32
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #93 on: Tue, 02 April 2013, 03:25:23 »
How thick is the plate? I guess 1.5mm from a wquick look at the cherry switch drawings but i wanted to make sure.

Offline Matt3o

  • -[°_°]-
  • ** Robot Emeritus
  • Posts: 3547
  • Location: Italy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #94 on: Tue, 02 April 2013, 03:31:53 »
yes, 1.5mm for MX. 1/1.2mm for Alps

Offline metalliqaz

  • * Maker
  • Posts: 4951
  • Location: the Making Stuff subforum
  • Leopold fanboy
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #95 on: Tue, 02 April 2013, 15:35:45 »
Definitely 1.5mm or 0.06", per the spec sheet.  I have seen that some acrylic designs use much thicker material for the plate. (2mm or more)  I don't own one, so I am definitely wondering how they work.  Obviously the switch still fits, but it won't "click" into place.  Anyone have one of those?  Acrylic is much less stiff than metal, which is why the thicker material is needed.
« Last Edit: Tue, 02 April 2013, 15:41:31 by metalliqaz »

Offline domoaligato

  • * Exquisite Elder
  • Posts: 1672
  • Location: USA
  • All your base are belong to us!
    • All your base are belong to us!
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #96 on: Fri, 17 May 2013, 14:53:41 »
More work on the board.  The matrix is complete.  I also reduced the number of LEDs.

(Attachment Link)
Hard-wired GH75 Matrix Completed

Also, more images have been prepped and uploaded to the Wiki How-To:

http://wiki.geekhack.org/index.php?title=Hard-Wiring_How-To

More image manipulation and uploading to come, then wiring the Teensy harness and adding firmware.

Enjoy!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


could you please post a pic showing how the positive diode side (rows) and the other side (columns) connect to the teensey?
« Last Edit: Fri, 17 May 2013, 15:55:50 by domoaligato »

Offline samwisekoi

  • MAWG since 1997
  • * Administrator
  • Thread Starter
  • Posts: 2480
  • Location: Mt. View, California
  • Sorry, moving houses. Be back ASAP.
    • Tweet samwisekoi
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #97 on: Fri, 17 May 2013, 22:41:06 »
More work on the board.  The matrix is complete.  I also reduced the number of LEDs.

(Attachment Link)
Hard-wired GH75 Matrix Completed

Also, more images have been prepped and uploaded to the Wiki How-To:

http://wiki.geekhack.org/index.php?title=Hard-Wiring_How-To

More image manipulation and uploading to come, then wiring the Teensy harness and adding firmware.

Enjoy!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Show Image


could you please post a pic showing how the positive diode side (rows) and the other side (columns) connect to the teensey?

Yes.  That turned out pretty well, but I need to get a new battery and/or charger for my camera this weekend.

 - Ron I samwisekoi
I like keyboards and case modding.  Everything about a computer should be silent -- except the KEYBOARD!

'85 IBM F-122/Soarer Keyboard |  Leopold FC200 TKL (Browns) + GH36 Keypad (Browns/Greens) | GH-122 (Whites/Greens) with Nuclear Data Green keycaps in a Unicomp case

Offline domoaligato

  • * Exquisite Elder
  • Posts: 1672
  • Location: USA
  • All your base are belong to us!
    • All your base are belong to us!
Thanks Sam !

Offline Chanc3

  • Posts: 14
  • Location: United Kingdom
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #99 on: Tue, 10 December 2013, 06:20:05 »
This is a great idea, looking into something similar myself, albeit with a PCB

Offline yicaoyimu

  • Posts: 1133
  • Location: San Jose, CA
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #100 on: Wed, 11 December 2013, 00:32:41 »
GH60++ 65%  5x16

This is my dream layout. 60% plus one additional column. Watching the progress closely!
KMAC2 - Matrix Lab 8XV2.0 - TGR Jane v2 CE - KBD8X MKII - Meridian - Matrix Lab Noah - Fallacy x2 - MGA Standard - Geon Frog mini - Amano - Ciel60 - Prime_Elise - Matrix Lab 6XV3.0 aka Corsa

Offline RSSonic92

  • Posts: 80
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 & 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #101 on: Thu, 26 December 2013, 06:44:36 »
I really hope on an update on this because it is as far as I know the only proper 75% ISO-Keyboard. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Offline SpAmRaY

  • NOT a Moderator
  • * Certified Spammer
  • Posts: 14667
  • Location: ¯\(°_o)/¯
  • because reasons.......
Re: GH60++ Possibilities for 65, 70 &amp; 75% full-custom keyboard designs
« Reply #102 on: Thu, 26 December 2013, 08:12:56 »
Holy necro Batman!