[GB] CA66 Custom Keyboard Kit Round 2 (Shipping Now)

[bcbishop]

Just got mine, and the white finish is indeed gorgeous! Two quick questions though:

1. Is anybody else's case missing the two long rubber strips / feet that were on the last round?

2. I'm no doubt going to feel stupid once I hear the answer, but what are the white plastic washers for, and what are the little components with the yellow dots (they're loose in a bag for one of my PCBs, and part of a strip in the other)?

Show Image

1.  I got the feet.

2.  The SMD components are white LEDs for backlighting the Winkey and far right column.

3.  The washers are for use with screw in stabs, so that you don't short any pads.

Thanks fer.real!

[cijanzen]

Doesn’t do nearly enough justice. I’m going to take pictures again tomorrow when I have some daylight.



Getting the battery working was a bit of a pain but it’s charging and works without power. Gotta figure out how the Bluetooth actually works though!

[Lyle88]

Doesn’t do nearly enough justice. I’m going to take pictures again tomorrow when I have some daylight.

Show Image

Getting the battery working was a bit of a pain but it’s charging and works without power. Gotta figure out how the Bluetooth actually works though!

Nice! I remember that vendor posting on r/mm about using old style phone cables. It looks good!

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

[Jonathan0903]

Doesn’t do nearly enough justice. I’m going to take pictures again tomorrow when I have some daylight.

Show Image

Getting the battery working was a bit of a pain but it’s charging and works without power. Gotta figure out how the Bluetooth actually works though!

There isn't a pairing mode or anything; as soon as you switch on the bluetooth with the switch between tab and Q, it should become discoverable.

[Jonathan0903]

Some issues:

On the BT PCB, it appears that there is a hole drilled out where the pad is (pictured, blue arrow) for the "|\" switch. Is this somehow intentional? It appears that I would have to bridge it to the closest pad there.

Non-BT PCB, it appears that two pads are drilled into, and half there, again, what's up with that and will it eff things up?

That hole in the pad is for the pcb-mount stabilizers for ISO enter key position. The stabilizer orientation is reversed between BT and non-BT PCB, so the hole sizes and positions near that pad are different. This shouldn't screw anything up, per-se, but does seem like it will make a hot-swap build a bit harder :/

The bottom hole on your non-BT PCB is for the leg of a PCB-mounted switch to fit through.

Didn't affect hotswap as much as I thought it would, there's enough contact there to make a rigid connection. I've swapped switches about 4 times already, because I'm indecisive like that.

[Lyle88]

Has anyone noticed a reasonable number of poorly anodised spots on their board? Mine just arrived and from a distance it looks great, but up close there are a number of spots where the anodisation is a bit iffy.. I understand this will never be perfect, I just want to get an idea of other people's results - white case here if it makes a difference. Will take photos when I get home

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

[Jonathan0903]

Closely inspected my own white case and it looks pristine. There were some spots on it when it arrived, but they rubbed off with just a wet wipes. Might want to have a go at that and see it any 9f the blemishes are just dirt from shipping/handling.

[cijanzen]

Doesn’t do nearly enough justice. I’m going to take pictures again tomorrow when I have some daylight.

Show Image

Getting the battery working was a bit of a pain but it’s charging and works without power. Gotta figure out how the Bluetooth actually works though!

There isn't a pairing mode or anything; as soon as you switch on the bluetooth with the switch between tab and Q, it should become discoverable.

I actually flashed it with some of the Bluetooth options on ydkb and got it paired to my phone just fine!

This is a pretty cool board if I do say so myself.

Edit: hmm seem to be having trouble getting the board into pairing mode.  Not sure what’s going on.

[andrewregal]

Got my board today from DHL!! The color (blue grey) is a bit lighter than I thought it would end up being and there's a few imperfections with the anodization, but I'm still super happy with the final product. I'm hoping to find some time during this week to lube switches so I can build it this weekend 

[theo313]

Some issues:

On the BT PCB, it appears that there is a hole drilled out where the pad is (pictured, blue arrow) for the "|\" switch. Is this somehow intentional? It appears that I would have to bridge it to the closest pad there.

Non-BT PCB, it appears that two pads are drilled into, and half there, again, what's up with that and will it eff things up?

That hole in the pad is for the pcb-mount stabilizers for ISO enter key position. The stabilizer orientation is reversed between BT and non-BT PCB, so the hole sizes and positions near that pad are different. This shouldn't screw anything up, per-se, but does seem like it will make a hot-swap build a bit harder :/

The bottom hole on your non-BT PCB is for the leg of a PCB-mounted switch to fit through.

Didn't affect hotswap as much as I thought it would, there's enough contact there to make a rigid connection. I've swapped switches about 4 times already, because I'm indecisive like that.

It will definitely be able to work wit just a short bridge. I have all of my sockets in, but haven't even soldered them in, yet all exept that key, and z work without solder. I will solder them in later, but wanted to test it out. Very easy to program, BT connected right away.

Two things:

1) How do I disable or sabilize LED? The rainbow cycle is annoying.
2) The Z key does not have a hole big enough for the middle part of the switch to go through. How dangerous is it to drill the hole a little larger?

[PM_Your_Switches]

I love it. The white came out really well. There were a couple black specs on the outside, but they wiped away easily.

I guess I don't understand the RGB controls though. The top key toggles on/off and the key below that does nothing. I thought that key changed the modes?

[Jonathan0903]

Some issues:

On the BT PCB, it appears that there is a hole drilled out where the pad is (pictured, blue arrow) for the "|\" switch. Is this somehow intentional? It appears that I would have to bridge it to the closest pad there.

Non-BT PCB, it appears that two pads are drilled into, and half there, again, what's up with that and will it eff things up?

That hole in the pad is for the pcb-mount stabilizers for ISO enter key position. The stabilizer orientation is reversed between BT and non-BT PCB, so the hole sizes and positions near that pad are different. This shouldn't screw anything up, per-se, but does seem like it will make a hot-swap build a bit harder :/

The bottom hole on your non-BT PCB is for the leg of a PCB-mounted switch to fit through.

Didn't affect hotswap as much as I thought it would, there's enough contact there to make a rigid connection. I've swapped switches about 4 times already, because I'm indecisive like that.

It will definitely be able to work wit just a short bridge. I have all of my sockets in, but haven't even soldered them in, yet all exept that key, and z work without solder. I will solder them in later, but wanted to test it out. Very easy to program, BT connected right away.

Two things:

1) How do I disable or sabilize LED? The rainbow cycle is annoying.
2) The Z key does not have a hole big enough for the middle part of the switch to go through. How dangerous is it to drill the hole a little larger?

I love it. The white came out really well. There were a couple black specs on the outside, but they wiped away easily.

I guess I don't understand the RGB controls though. The top key toggles on/off and the key below that does nothing. I thought that key changed the modes?

(Attachment Link)

You have to program in LED controls from ydkb, as they arent included by default.

[PlayKeyboardTW]

Hi guys. I am a bit sick so I won't be able to reply very soon to both Facebook fanpage messages and replies this thread.
It's quite taking up my energy to check replies one by one.
But if you got any problem and you can't find a solution in thread, contact me via FB messages and email.
These two ways will get you a quicker reply.

As most of you had got your board.
Please do test your PCB by following these steps before starting your build (make it as a habit is better to every custom PCB):

1. Every PCB should include a main board, a daughter board and a flat cable.
    Plastic washers are for screw in stabilizers to prevent shorting.
2. Check out flashing guides here: http://bit.ly/2W9tSet
    and flash PCB with your hex file once. That way you can fully test your PCB and don't have to ask what's the function for every key.
3. These two guides were for PCB of last round. There are some changes for bettering it in this round.
    I will try to make a new one and tell you guys where are differences for you to play with.

Thanks.

[Lyle88]

I almost didn't find my titanium badge in the packaging

Very sneaky

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

[cijanzen]

Anyone with a BT PCB that can help me out?

I flashed mine with a layer and keys that toggle BT/USB, BT Pairing, BT stop pairing, and BT forget.

I was able to pair it to my iPhone once but am not able to pair it to any of my devices now including the iPhone originally paired with.

The board is working fine otherwise and I can tell it’s going into BT mode when I use the toggle because it won’t work on my computer when it’s plugged in but in BT mode.

Any tips would be appreciated!

[Kerasan]

Has anyone noticed a reasonable number of poorly anodised spots on their board? Mine just arrived and from a distance it looks great, but up close there are a number of spots where the anodisation is a bit iffy.. I understand this will never be perfect, I just want to get an idea of other people's results - white case here if it makes a difference. Will take photos when I get home

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

yes, on my board there are several spots they don't even remove with dedicated metal cleaner (dark red)

[Chaselicious17]

Oh man, I'm really digging how mine came out. Just waiting on massdrop to give me my HP's so I can build this thing.

[theo313]

Anyone with a BT PCB that can help me out?

I flashed mine with a layer and keys that toggle BT/USB, BT Pairing, BT stop pairing, and BT forget.

I was able to pair it to my iPhone once but am not able to pair it to any of my devices now including the iPhone originally paired with.

The board is working fine otherwise and I can tell it’s going into BT mode when I use the toggle because it won’t work on my computer when it’s plugged in but in BT mode.

Any tips would be appreciated!

Hmm. I didn't program any BT commands in the flash. It auto showed up on my PC BT options after I flashed it and turned it on.

[5inn3d-]

I was excited to get this in the mail a couple of days ago but there are quite a few marks that can't be removed and seem to be scuffs/scratches.

any advise on this OP?

[JDragon]

Any suggestions for batteries?

[theo313]

Any suggestions for batteries?

I used this: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01NAX9XYG/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

However, its riiiight on the cusp of being too fat. I cut up an old medical card and glued it to the top of it so it doesn't get poked by the PCB.

It works, but some people would prefer a flatter profile I'm sure.

[ZyBeR]

Is there different type of connectors on different pcb's?

I have the BT-version and my USB-connector is connected with a classic connector/cable, but I see some have ribbon/flat cables?

I also got an on/off switch separately, I guess it's the BT power switch.
Some have received plastic washers for screw-in stabs, I didn't.

[cijanzen]

Is there different type of connectors on different pcb's?

I have the BT-version and my USB-connector is connected with a classic connector/cable, but I see some have ribbon/flat cables?

I also got an on/off switch separately, I guess it's the BT power switch.
Some have received plastic washers for screw-in stabs, I didn't.

The standard PCB does have a different connector than the Bluetooth PCB, that is correct. You have to solder the switch into the PCB. Don’t forget to do that before putting the plate and switches in!

[Wojciech]

Will there be CA66 round 3 run?

[theo313]

Ah man. I'm getting a lot of double types on some letters nnnnnnnn ;;;;;;;; Damnn mann

[Kerasan]

guys did you all use ydkb to configure it?

[theo313]

guys did you all use ydkb to configure it?

There are instuctions on the ydkb.io website.
Download the Reflash tool under the Download tab
Configure the keyboard under CA66 or CAD66 depending on WKL or HHKB style
Download the Hex File
Drag the Hex file into the reflash tool
It will tell you to unplug the keyboard, do so
Plug it in and hold escape while it begins to flash
Boom its done

[Lyle88]

guys did you all use ydkb to configure it?

I did. Be aware that the link to ydkb configurator defaults to the non BT PCB firmware. You need to choose CAD66 for the BT board.

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

[Vizir]

How many sip and milmax sockets are needed per switch?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

[Jonathan0903]

2 of each per switch. Buy 5 extra of each for if you mess some up.

[Reicheous]

Space is not working on mine. Is this the issue? It looks like I’m missing the “T4” component.

[Jonathan0903]

Yep, you're missing a diode there. There should have been spares included that you can solder on with care. Just make sure it's orientation is correct, as they are polarized .

[portbaron]

Built the first one, Orange ALPS.

[MeloDet]

Built mine up with orange alps as well! Anyone have any issues with programming though? After flashing I'm getting a device malfunctioned error.

[cijanzen]

Wanted to share some actual good shots of my built board. I'm quite happy with it and the colour I think is a bit more purple? But it's definitely growing on me!

https://imgur.com/a/bTtVE3v

[portbaron]

Built mine up with orange alps as well! Anyone have any issues with programming though? After flashing I'm getting a device malfunctioned error.

Make sure you made a hex file for the CAD66 not the CA66. Also, hold the esc down until it's done flashing. Fixed it for me.

[Vizir]

2 of each per switch. Buy 5 extra of each for if you mess some up.

just to be sure, i'm looking at the following for switches:
https://www.digikey.com/products/en?keywords=%200305-2-15-80-47-80-10-0%20
2 per switch

and this for the LEDs:
https://www.digikey.com/products/en?keywords=%20310-43-164-41-001000%20
2 per led

right?

[Lyle88]

2 of each per switch. Buy 5 extra of each for if you mess some up.

just to be sure, i'm looking at the following for switches:
https://www.digikey.com/products/en?keywords=%200305-2-15-80-47-80-10-0%20
2 per switch

and this for the LEDs:
https://www.digikey.com/products/en?keywords=%20310-43-164-41-001000%20
2 per led

right?

If you don't mind waiting

https://www.reddit.com/r/mechmarket/comments/bwvhza/gb_millmax_sockets_7305_06040611/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

[MeloDet]

Built mine up with orange alps as well! Anyone have any issues with programming though? After flashing I'm getting a device malfunctioned error.

Make sure you made a hex file for the CAD66 not the CA66. Also, hold the esc down until it's done flashing. Fixed it for me.

Ah, that was it. Was using CA66. Thanks!

[Vizir]

2 of each per switch. Buy 5 extra of each for if you mess some up.

just to be sure, i'm looking at the following for switches:
https://www.digikey.com/products/en?keywords=%200305-2-15-80-47-80-10-0%20
2 per switch

and this for the LEDs:
https://www.digikey.com/products/en?keywords=%20310-43-164-41-001000%20
2 per led

right?

If you don't mind waiting

https://www.reddit.com/r/mechmarket/comments/bwvhza/gb_millmax_sockets_7305_06040611/?utm_medium=android_app&utm_source=share

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

oh, i linked the wrong one. i don't mind waiting and will join the GB. what about the SIP sockets?

[PlayKeyboardTW]

Did anyone else who ordered dark red receive an extremely dark purple/maroon color with a completely different back side color? 

Show Image

Show Image

Show Image

SA royalty for color comparison

Please send us a mail or PM. Let's see what we can do for you. :thumb:

Space is not working on mine. Is this the issue? It looks like I’m missing the “T4” component.

If you need the component, please send us a mail or PM.
Or you can remove one from an unused key to fill that position.

I was excited to get this in the mail a couple of days ago but there are quite a few marks that can't be removed and seem to be scuffs/scratches.

any advise on this OP?

Send us a mail or PM with photos. Thanks. ;)

Any suggestions for batteries?

Most 3.7v Li batteries will do the work. Just be careful of size of pin head.

Built the first one, Orange ALPS.

Built the first one, Orange ALPS.

That's the first ALPS build we got here! Naisu :thumb:

Built mine up with orange alps as well! Anyone have any issues with programming though? After flashing I'm getting a device malfunctioned error.

Try to flash the board again and replug the cable. Make sure you are using the right hex file.

Wanted to share some actual good shots of my built board. I'm quite happy with it and the colour I think is a bit more purple? But it's definitely growing on me!
(Attachment Link)
https://imgur.com/a/bTtVE3v

That's adorable. This color is quite a hard one to control, and sometime it's color can go either way under different light sources.
But glad you liked it.  ;)

[Sythe]

When will the next batch of boards ship out?
I got the tracking on 1/6 and DHL still haven't got the package yet.
I keep checking it and no progress, so still impatiently waiting... lol

Would have been nice to get it before this weekend as I would have had the long weekend to build it.

[portbaron]

2nd board built. Lubed 65g red pandas.
I kind of like the maroon.

[jariss]

I am happy I finally have my board but am also a little surprised with the amount of nicks/scratches/ano marks. I am also missing one of the plate screws. Don't know if this was normal or within the realm of quality control but it seems like a little more than normal.

https://imgur.com/a/jBlmX8e

The caps are not on switches; they are just placed for a mock up.

[Lyle88]

I am happy I finally have my board but am also a little surprised with the amount of nicks/scratches/ano marks. I am also missing one of the plate screws. Don't know if this was normal or within the realm of quality control but it seems like a little more than normal.

https://imgur.com/a/jBlmX8e

The caps are not on switches; they are just placed for a mock up.

From what I've seen the nicks/scratches are more easily visible on the coloured boards. Also the ano mismatch between case/base is present on other colours.

Whether this is considered standard or acceptable I can't comment, this was my first GB. From the photos I've seen, some of them I would not be happy with.

Any missing parts will be sent to you.

I would email PlayKeyboard directly with photos and ask them the question (about scratches/nicks/imperfections).

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

[Jonathan0903]

I am happy I finally have my board but am also a little surprised with the amount of nicks/scratches/ano marks. I am also missing one of the plate screws. Don't know if this was normal or within the realm of quality control but it seems like a little more than normal.

https://imgur.com/a/jBlmX8e

The caps are not on switches; they are just placed for a mock up.

You might want to check the little bag of spare parts for screws; I recieved a few extra screws in my package along with the RGB LEDs and their associated diodes for the macro column, as well as a JST power connector.

[b4d_tR1p]

someone sell or trade his ca66?

[lakeboredom]

How many sip and milmax sockets are needed per switch?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

Millmax dont fit this pcb homie.

[Lyle88]

How many sip and milmax sockets are needed per switch?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

Millmax dont fit this pcb homie.

You will find from the post further up that they fit r2

Sent from my Pixel XL using Tapatalk

[Jonathan0903]

How many sip and milmax sockets are needed per switch?

Sent from my Pixel 2 using Tapatalk

Millmax dont fit this pcb homie.

It does for the Bluetooth one