PIM43
Designed by the Man In BlueOverview: The PIM43, or (P)CB (I)solation (M)ount 43 is designed to be a simple but unique 40% form factor keyboard. The board is designed with a mounting mechanism similar to the IDB60, in which the PCB is suspended between 2 sets of o rings being compressed by the top and bottom cases. The PIM is a seamless design, with the bottom case residing completely within the footprint of the top case. USB Connectivity is achieved through ai03’s Unified Daughterboard, allowing the PCB to flex without a USB port moving along with it.
Breakdown of construction: Material Choice: Considering how diminutive the layout on the PIM is, I figure it would be ideal to have a plastic enclosure for the board, resulting in a very light, portable typing solution. A plate is not included in the kit for this keyboard, as I feel it detracts from the goals of the design. That being said, I will provide plate files for people who would like to add their own flair to this board.
At the moment, I think polycarbonate will be my main choice for this board. Multiple colors will be offered should this hit the GB stage.
Post Script:For now, I am just going to post some of the renders I have put together to give a basic idea of what I want this board to be. Any and all feedback is welcome. Vendors have been selected, and a prototype will be sourced as soon as the Shenzhen region gets back on its feet. I stay pretty active in the 40's discord, so feel free to get ahold of me over there.
Regards,
The Man in Blue
Other Renders:
Note: If anyone wants their keyset rendered on the PIM, feel free to DM me here or on discord. (My discord handle is Man In Blue#9548)