The Ultimate Hacking Keyboard has been designed to be better in so many ways. Are you one of those demanding users who want to achieve greater productivity and comfort? Did you know that you only utilize 9 of your 10 fingers on regular keyboards? Want to type in a more natural posture on a truly high-quality keyboard and reach the mouse quicker, while moving your hands far less? If so, read on.
This is a novel concept...
Ultimate Hacking Keyboard (http://ultimatehackingkeyboard.com/)
A 60% keyboard which can split in the middle to become an ergonomic keyboard.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/NP5as0B.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/02cucLv.jpg)QuoteThe Ultimate Hacking Keyboard has been designed to be better in so many ways. Are you one of those demanding users who want to achieve greater productivity and comfort? Did you know that you only utilize 9 of your 10 fingers on regular keyboards? Want to type in a more natural posture on a truly high-quality keyboard and reach the mouse quicker, while moving your hands far less? If so, read on.
It looks to be going to a crowdfunding campaign soon.
What do you all think?
grossYay another leftie-spacie. I thought I was alone!
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
grossYay another leftie-spacie. I thought I was alone!
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
Did the guy doing this not post here recently? Or maybe that was on DT...I get around a lot.
gross
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
Did the guy doing this not post here recently? Or maybe that was on DT...I get around a lot.
Every single one of those tractable type cables I've ever used.. were destroyed eventually or became intermittent.
If this doesn't have a replacement cable system.. then I believe it's an absolute NO GO.....
Every single one of those tractable type cables I've ever used.. were destroyed eventually or became intermittent.
If this doesn't have a replacement cable system.. then I believe it's an absolute NO GO.....
Did the guy doing this not post here recently? Or maybe that was on DT...I get around a lot.
Yeah I'm pretty sure I saw that topic. Can't find it now for the life of me, though...
gross
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
I assume you would always be able to change it on the OS level, or maybe the Mod-key can't be detected and changed.gross
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
If they really want to call it a Hacking keyboard they should provide a good programmable layer in which you can remap most buttons.
I would be very disappointed if they don't think people will want to switch Mod and Space around.
- The location of the Super key. Let me move it if I want, don't force it on me.Agreed. If the right-hand side was only 0.5 key wider, all mods on the bottom row could have been 1.25 wide and interchangeable, and they would have been able to support ISO layout with the same PCB.
Nope. Nope. Nope.
Tacky name.Nope. Nope. Nope.
Care you share the opinions that made you decide "Nope"?
NKRO stands for N-Key Rollover. It means that you can press every key at the same time and every one will be received by your computer. This is important because almost every keyboard is only 6KRO (meaning it can send only 6 keys at once and usually less) which can be problematic for gaming.
seems pretty cool
add software based programming, its much easier IMO than hitting a bunch of buttons to get it the way you want
No name-boosting off of the HHKB. On 08/2007 when I came up with the concept and the name I haven't even heard about the HHKB.The guy who designed the logo has - that is obvious.
The retractable cable is replaceable because it uses RJ11 jacks like your standard phone cable.RJ11 is technically a telephone standard that uses only two contacts on each modular connector. I suppose that your cable has at least four leads. It would be more correct to say which type of modular connector you use.
Tacky name.Yes! Why don't you tack on the word "Extreme" at the end also and call the Cherry MX Brown version the "Stealth Edition" ... :rolleyes:
You're making things up - that is obvious. Think whatever you want and call me a liar if it makes you feel better. I'm done with this.No name-boosting off of the HHKB. On 08/2007 when I came up with the concept and the name I haven't even heard about the HHKB.The guy who designed the logo has - that is obvious.
Boasts about open source, but the development model is a complete cathedral so far.Open source does NOT mean open development. I would say the biggest issue I see with the bazaar is feature creep, which is usually completely avoided with closed development / open source model. This is a very workable development strategy and I have seen it work out very well in the past.
You can't deny that there are similarities between the logos, and not only the form factor and the names of the keyboards.
I wouldn't be surprised if you would get into a trademark dispute.
* It looks like it uses a 4p4c modular connector to connenct the halves. Is that the case or is it something else? I'd love to use a nice coiled WYSE cable.
* I noticed the line of pins at the front to connect the halves. I really like that and think it's implemented better than it could have been (way to go!). Of course, it's sill a potential fragile area for failure. DO you have any thing to address this: stronger than usual leafs? a protective cover piece you can install?
Just out of curiosity: why did you choose those bendable leafs instead of (for example) pogopins that seem to be more prevalent?
Boasts about open source, but the development model is a complete cathedral so far.Open source does NOT mean open development. I would say the biggest issue I see with the bazaar is feature creep, which is usually completely avoided with closed development / open source model. This is a very workable development strategy and I have seen it work out very well in the past.
For example, just look at the ergodox development thread.
open source / closed development is a much better idea for a hardware model, where your time to make prototypes and iterations is on the order of days / weeks, compared with minutes / hours for compiling new iterations on a software project. If someone wants to add a new feature to a software project, they can do so without greatly impacting the release timeline. If you want to make even a slight change to a hardware project, each one sets it back weeks. There comes a point where you have to call enough "enough" and push to production. With all the "noise" of peaople requesting features int eh bazaar, the cathedral makes a lot of sense here.
Keep in mind the cathedral / bazaar analogy was originally applied to open software, and I would argue that it has little relevance to open hardware and hardware design / developments.
Just my thoughts of course.
Excellent question! We've choosen this connector primarily because of space constraints. Also, pogo pins are fabulously expensive costing > $10.Oh my gosh, you're right. this is ridiculous:
It might be the ultimate Hacking Keyboard, but would you be Happy using it?You just couldn't resist. Well, we shall see when it arrives to the consumers.
It might be the ultimate Hacking Keyboard, but would you be Happy using it?You just couldn't resist. Well, we shall see when it arrives to the consumers.
Not too hard to find out when it contain two of the same words in the product name :). General question: Any specific reason not to use rj45 than rj11? I think it would have been a benefit to have a cable that almost everyone has.It might be the ultimate Hacking Keyboard, but would you be Happy using it?You just couldn't resist. Well, we shall see when it arrives to the consumers.
You got the reference then ;D
It's not like there aren't any meritocratic projects, there weren't more people participating in the ErgoDox thread, AcidFire hasn't been open to suggestions for about a year etc. That's quite a difference, if you compare it to a one-man-show with source available, but unusual layout and case, incompatible with existing parts/accessories.Boasts about open source, but the development model is a complete cathedral so far.Open source does NOT mean open development. I would say the biggest issue I see with the bazaar is feature creep, which is usually completely avoided with closed development / open source model. This is a very workable development strategy and I have seen it work out very well in the past.
For example, just look at the ergodox development thread.
open source / closed development is a much better idea for a hardware model, where your time to make prototypes and iterations is on the order of days / weeks, compared with minutes / hours for compiling new iterations on a software project. If someone wants to add a new feature to a software project, they can do so without greatly impacting the release timeline. If you want to make even a slight change to a hardware project, each one sets it back weeks. There comes a point where you have to call enough "enough" and push to production. With all the "noise" of peaople requesting features int eh bazaar, the cathedral makes a lot of sense here.
Keep in mind the cathedral / bazaar analogy was originally applied to open software, and I would argue that it has little relevance to open hardware and hardware design / developments.
The retractable crap on the top is ridiculous. Anyone who has ever owned one of those knows it takes a matter of weeks before the mechanism starts to break and flat cables are crap. :/
i believe GMK should have that tooling if it was used on the wy85comptek made the wyse keycaps, as far as I can tell, GMK was not involved at all.
When I saw the video preview of it it looked like they stored data in the retractable thingy because they detached it to edit software. Maybe I was mistaken.The retractable crap on the top is ridiculous. Anyone who has ever owned one of those knows it takes a matter of weeks before the mechanism starts to break and flat cables are crap. :/
good thing it's easily replaceable with a standard off the shelf part that is also extremely common.Show Image(http://ultimatehackingkeyboard.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/built-to-last.jpg)
Check out this render! I am always worrited about how well the two sides fit together, but that is really nice! I'm expecting this to be rather costly what with all the good design / engineering that's going into it.i believe GMK should have that tooling if it was used on the wy85comptek made the wyse keycaps, as far as I can tell, GMK was not involved at all.
--
Also (in response to ivan), I was wrong; after looking it up this morning, the TG3 BL82 is not an example of an "offset" keyboard.
But I'd like to hear more about this "standard" keycaps you're talking about. What standard?
As far as easy-to-source, you can get blanks from SP that'll work very easily.
But I'd like to hear more about this "standard" keycaps you're talking about. What standard?Hmmm, what about ISO/IEC 9995? This keyboard doesn't fit it for sure.
Tacky name.Nope. Nope. Nope.
Care you share the opinions that made you decide "Nope"?
Non-standard, but still asymmetrical staggered layout.
Ugly case and something tells me it's not going to be light either.
Boasts about open source, but the development model is a complete cathedral so far.
Price estimate on par with Axios/ErgoDox/ErgoPro/...
As a potential customer, I don't see any reason to get it over Matias Ergo Pro, which appears to be better looking, more ergonomic and well supported. Actually, except licensing, but then there are the other projects.
General question: Any specific reason not to use rj45 than rj11? I think it would have been a benefit to have a cable that almost everyone has.
Judging from your posting history, mondalaci, you’ve been working on this project for 2+ years. Are you willing to post at all about the design process, or the evolution of your design over time? (ideally with pictures?)
When I saw the video preview of it it looked like they stored data in the retractable thingy because they detached it to edit software. Maybe I was mistaken.
i believe GMK should have that tooling if it was used on the wy85Signature Plastics took over Comptec's tooling. Yes, it is still in the catalogue for their DCS profile. They don't have it for DSA, haven't checked SA but I doubt it.
Check out this render! I am always worrited about how well the two sides fit together
Also, I'm very cautious about posting any pictures (or almost anything) here. The admins have taken down my original post, then removed a further one. Requested a dedicated vendor forum and haven't got a reply yet. Would like to move to a place where I'm allowed to share stuff without being terrified of being kicked out.
Also, I'm very cautious about posting any pictures (or almost anything) here. The admins have taken down my original post, then removed a further one. Requested a dedicated vendor forum and haven't got a reply yet. Would like to move to a place where I'm allowed to share stuff without being terrified of being kicked out.
Well, you happened to come back to the forum during a time when the admins have placed a moratorium on new vendor forums. But I hope they may make an exception for an exceptional circumstance.
The function key location sucks because I will have to use both hands for basic function layer keys like using the arrow keys.
The function key location sucks because I will have to use both hands for basic function layer keys like using the arrow keys.
The mod keys being diagonally symmetrical you can trigger such keys with one hand. This has been purposefully designed as such so that masturbation is possible even while using arrow keys with the other hand ;)
Name if after yourself? :P
Modula
Modulaci
Could use words talking about its separation;
Bisect, Bisector, Sector..
Maybe use words like "Link" or "Variable" describing its multi-functions.
Modulink Board, perhapsName if after yourself? :P
Modula
Modulaci
A part of me likes this idea :)Could use words talking about its separation;
Bisect, Bisector, Sector..
Maybe use words like "Link" or "Variable" describing its multi-functions.
This is actually a great starting point! I've been thinking about "fusion" or something like that.
Wondering whether "keyboard" should be appended to the chosen name, like Sector Keyboard or Fusion Keyboard. Makes the name less appealing.
Modulink Board, perhapsName if after yourself? :P
Modula
Modulaci
A part of me likes this idea :)Could use words talking about its separation;
Bisect, Bisector, Sector..
Maybe use words like "Link" or "Variable" describing its multi-functions.
This is actually a great starting point! I've been thinking about "fusion" or something like that.
Wondering whether "keyboard" should be appended to the chosen name, like Sector Keyboard or Fusion Keyboard. Makes the name less appealing.
Modulink Board, perhapsName if after yourself? :P
Modula
Modulaci
A part of me likes this idea :)Could use words talking about its separation;
Bisect, Bisector, Sector..
Maybe use words like "Link" or "Variable" describing its multi-functions.
This is actually a great starting point! I've been thinking about "fusion" or something like that.
Wondering whether "keyboard" should be appended to the chosen name, like Sector Keyboard or Fusion Keyboard. Makes the name less appealing.
modulink sounds really good
Glad you like it, would be sad if there should a problem using the name :(Modulink Board, perhapsName if after yourself? :P
Modula
Modulaci
A part of me likes this idea :)Could use words talking about its separation;
Bisect, Bisector, Sector..
Maybe use words like "Link" or "Variable" describing its multi-functions.
This is actually a great starting point! I've been thinking about "fusion" or something like that.
Wondering whether "keyboard" should be appended to the chosen name, like Sector Keyboard or Fusion Keyboard. Makes the name less appealing.
modulink sounds really good
Wow, This is a serious sounding name! I'm digging it, too.
May there be a name conflict with http://www.modulink.co.nz/ ? Totally different product category, but still...
Modulink Board, perhapsName if after yourself? :P
Modula
Modulaci
A part of me likes this idea :)Could use words talking about its separation;
Bisect, Bisector, Sector..
Maybe use words like "Link" or "Variable" describing its multi-functions.
This is actually a great starting point! I've been thinking about "fusion" or something like that.
Wondering whether "keyboard" should be appended to the chosen name, like Sector Keyboard or Fusion Keyboard. Makes the name less appealing.
modulink sounds really good
Wow, This is a serious sounding name! I'm digging it, too.
May there be a name conflict with http://www.modulink.co.nz/ ? Totally different product category, but still...
What do you all think?
I was only able to "find" (and totally not pirate) the ANSI spec, so I'm not 100% sure on ISO, but the ANSI spec doesn't give that much standardixation in teh way of key layouts.But I'd like to hear more about this "standard" keycaps you're talking about. What standard?Hmmm, what about ISO/IEC 9995? This keyboard doesn't fit it for sure.
IANAL either, but I'm pretty sure they do.May there be a name conflict with http://www.modulink.co.nz/ ? Totally different product category, but still...
they make office stuff, and offices use keyboards. there may be a slight conflict >:D
IANAL, but could different countries do copyright law differently?
I read the standard in a library, but I think it's publicly available (Czech national standards aren't though T_T). Anyway, Wikipedia has a summary.I was only able to "find" (and totally not pirate) the ANSI spec, so I'm not 100% sure on ISO, but the ANSI spec doesn't give that much standardixation in teh way of key layouts.But I'd like to hear more about this "standard" keycaps you're talking about. What standard?Hmmm, what about ISO/IEC 9995? This keyboard doesn't fit it for sure.
So I mean: what keyboard IS standard? I think they were vague about parts of the key widths and things to allow for some differences between manufacturers and things.
First, IANAL. :)
This is not about copyright, it's about trademarks.
Whenever you're going to name something and/or register a domain, even for private use, it's always good to do a trademark search first. Here are some links:
https://oami.europa.eu/eSearch/#basic
https://www.tmdn.org/tmview/welcome
http://www.wipo.int/romarin
http://tmsearch.uspto.gov/bin/gate.exe?f=tess&state=4802:adm1p2.1.1
At least here in Germany, if you register a trademark, you also have to apply for certain classes. If the name is already registered but in a different class it should not be a problem (YMMV, IANAL).
You can search for classes here:
http://dpma.de/service/klassifikationen/nizzaklassifikation/suche/suchen.html (site in german).
Good luck with your campaign, mondalaci. :)
Edit: fixed name
How come the 6 digit is on the left side instead of the right side? It should be on the right side so the right index finger will press it.The 6 key on a standard keyboard is closer to the F key than to the J key. My guess is that about 50% of people use their left hand for it.
I read the standard in a library, but I think it's publicly available (Czech national standards aren't though T_T). Anyway, Wikipedia has a summary.
Cherry G80-3000 is compliant for sure. It's mostly about the number&placement of modifiers in this context.
CST104-like layout sounds like an industrial standard for keycap sets. Not a standard de iure, but a norm nevertheless.
In the meantime I've asked the Deskthority folks, too, and they came up with the Gemini 1 name.Modlink sounds great!
Ndrew, my partner in crime was thinking about using Modlink (because of the Mod keys).
Whaddya think?
Yup, modlink sounds great!In the meantime I've asked the Deskthority folks, too, and they came up with the Gemini 1 name.Modlink sounds great!
Ndrew, my partner in crime was thinking about using Modlink (because of the Mod keys).
Whaddya think?
(Also almost the name created on geekhack, Huzzah!)
My bad, I meant ISO/IEC 9995-2 at the time. Although, I don't think all sections of the keyboard have to be present (i.e. a tenkeyless board can adhere to the standard).
Ndrew has been brainstoring all day and here are some possible alternatives:I looked it up
His first idea was Twin Sixty given that it's a 60% keyboard of two (twin) halves. Turns out there's a ridiculously expensive watch on the market with that name. Not sure whether it's trademarked but there's a good chance it is.
Ndrew has been brainstoring all day and here are some possible alternatives:
His first idea was Twin Sixty given that it's a 60% keyboard of two (twin) halves. Turns out there's a ridiculously expensive watch on the market with that name. Not sure whether it's trademarked but there's a good chance it is.
My next idea was Twin Thirty given that 2*30% = 60%. According to Ndrew's opinion this doesn't sound that good and the formula is not that important. For example there's an engine called Twin 600 that features 2x300cm3 cylinders which is illogical if you think about it.
His next idea was Split Sixty with which I'm pretty much in love at this point. It describes this keyboard fairly well regarding the size and ergonomics and also sounds cool.
But prove us wrong! What is your opinion?
Ndrew has been brainstoring all day and here are some possible alternatives:
His first idea was Twin Sixty given that it's a 60% keyboard of two (twin) halves. Turns out there's a ridiculously expensive watch on the market with that name. Not sure whether it's trademarked but there's a good chance it is.
My next idea was Twin Thirty given that 2*30% = 60%. According to Ndrew's opinion this doesn't sound that good and the formula is not that important. For example there's an engine called Twin 600 that features 2x300cm3 cylinders which is illogical if you think about it.
His next idea was Split Sixty with which I'm pretty much in love at this point. It describes this keyboard fairly well regarding the size and ergonomics and also sounds cool.
But prove us wrong! What is your opinion?
"Split sixty" is great.
Please reconsider the shape of the case. When the two halves are put together, this should be a rectangle. The pointy ears are a big turn off.
Please get rid of that LED display.
Ndrew has been brainstoring all day and here are some possible alternatives:
His first idea was Twin Sixty given that it's a 60% keyboard of two (twin) halves. Turns out there's a ridiculously expensive watch on the market with that name. Not sure whether it's trademarked but there's a good chance it is.
My next idea was Twin Thirty given that 2*30% = 60%. According to Ndrew's opinion this doesn't sound that good and the formula is not that important. For example there's an engine called Twin 600 that features 2x300cm3 cylinders which is illogical if you think about it.
His next idea was Split Sixty with which I'm pretty much in love at this point. It describes this keyboard fairly well regarding the size and ergonomics and also sounds cool.
But prove us wrong! What is your opinion?
"Split sixty" is great.
Please reconsider the shape of the case. When the two halves are put together, this should be a rectangle. The pointy ears are a big turn off.
Please get rid of that LED display.
Even though I said the same thing, I have to +1 this again. I think the idea is awesome but that case design and display has to go.
A lot of people here buy keyboards because of their design. It is usually equal to the appeal functionality has. What enticed me to even become a keyboard enthusiast is how good they looked.
Ndrew has been brainstoring all day and here are some possible alternatives:
His first idea was Twin Sixty given that it's a 60% keyboard of two (twin) halves. Turns out there's a ridiculously expensive watch on the market with that name. Not sure whether it's trademarked but there's a good chance it is.
My next idea was Twin Thirty given that 2*30% = 60%. According to Ndrew's opinion this doesn't sound that good and the formula is not that important. For example there's an engine called Twin 600 that features 2x300cm3 cylinders which is illogical if you think about it.
His next idea was Split Sixty with which I'm pretty much in love at this point. It describes this keyboard fairly well regarding the size and ergonomics and also sounds cool.
But prove us wrong! What is your opinion?
"Split sixty" is great.
Please reconsider the shape of the case. When the two halves are put together, this should be a rectangle. The pointy ears are a big turn off.
Please get rid of that LED display.
Even though I said the same thing, I have to +1 this again. I think the idea is awesome but that case design and display has to go.
A lot of people here buy keyboards because of their design. It is usually equal to the appeal functionality has. What enticed me to even become a keyboard enthusiast is how good they looked.
What you are asking for is a monumental redesign that's pretty much infeasible for the first version. Also, I think split keyboards are a lot less trivial than non-split keyboards in this respect because of the bridge cable and because of the extra space is that's needed for the connectors (in our case 6P4C connectors). Should you have any concrete ideas, we're open to it but probably not for the first version.
Ndrew has been brainstoring all day and here are some possible alternatives:
His first idea was Twin Sixty given that it's a 60% keyboard of two (twin) halves. Turns out there's a ridiculously expensive watch on the market with that name. Not sure whether it's trademarked but there's a good chance it is.
My next idea was Twin Thirty given that 2*30% = 60%. According to Ndrew's opinion this doesn't sound that good and the formula is not that important. For example there's an engine called Twin 600 that features 2x300cm3 cylinders which is illogical if you think about it.
His next idea was Split Sixty with which I'm pretty much in love at this point. It describes this keyboard fairly well regarding the size and ergonomics and also sounds cool.
But prove us wrong! What is your opinion?
"Split sixty" is great.
Please reconsider the shape of the case. When the two halves are put together, this should be a rectangle. The pointy ears are a big turn off.
Please get rid of that LED display.
Even though I said the same thing, I have to +1 this again. I think the idea is awesome but that case design and display has to go.
A lot of people here buy keyboards because of their design. It is usually equal to the appeal functionality has. What enticed me to even become a keyboard enthusiast is how good they looked.
What you are asking for is a monumental redesign that's pretty much infeasible for the first version. Also, I think split keyboards are a lot less trivial than non-split keyboards in this respect because of the bridge cable and because of the extra space is that's needed for the connectors (in our case 6P4C connectors). Should you have any concrete ideas, we're open to it but probably not for the first version.
Ndrew has been brainstoring all day and here are some possible alternatives:
His first idea was Twin Sixty given that it's a 60% keyboard of two (twin) halves. Turns out there's a ridiculously expensive watch on the market with that name. Not sure whether it's trademarked but there's a good chance it is.
My next idea was Twin Thirty given that 2*30% = 60%. According to Ndrew's opinion this doesn't sound that good and the formula is not that important. For example there's an engine called Twin 600 that features 2x300cm3 cylinders which is illogical if you think about it.
His next idea was Split Sixty with which I'm pretty much in love at this point. It describes this keyboard fairly well regarding the size and ergonomics and also sounds cool.
But prove us wrong! What is your opinion?
"Split sixty" is great.
Please reconsider the shape of the case. When the two halves are put together, this should be a rectangle. The pointy ears are a big turn off.
Please get rid of that LED display.
Even though I said the same thing, I have to +1 this again. I think the idea is awesome but that case design and display has to go.
A lot of people here buy keyboards because of their design. It is usually equal to the appeal functionality has. What enticed me to even become a keyboard enthusiast is how good they looked.
What you are asking for is a monumental redesign that's pretty much infeasible for the first version. Also, I think split keyboards are a lot less trivial than non-split keyboards in this respect because of the bridge cable and because of the extra space is that's needed for the connectors (in our case 6P4C connectors). Should you have any concrete ideas, we're open to it but probably not for the first version.
Gocha. I was just giving some feedback as I thought that was the purpose of the thread. I don't mean to sound like I'm dumping on your project. I truly wish you the best of luck.
As for concrete ideas, I'd say go with something a bit more rectangle and proportioned. It doesn't need to look exactly like every other 60% out there, but the curved area for the LED display looks like it leaves a lot of wasted space for a space saving split keyboard design. Also, the curved screen makes the font look crooked.
I would also vote to have the screen on the bottom portion but on the lip facing the user. Sort of where the code is on an FC660C(M)
I'm also not crazy about the "space mod" writing.
I like it. I don't really care what it's named. Like others have mentioned, the durability of the cable worries me as I too have had countless of those things die.
I never quite understood modular connectors. What advantage does 6P4C have over, say, 4P4C? What's the advantage of having two unused contact positions in a situation such as this?
grossYay another leftie-spacie. I thought I was alone!
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
I didn't know it was weird until a few days ago lol.
grossYay another leftie-spacie. I thought I was alone!
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
I didn't know it was weird until a few days ago lol.
It's not weird, it is normal. Anyone who says otherwise can take it up with me. :)
Doing research for my portable board layout I discovered that a significant number of people use left thumb for space. Having them at least switchable is vital for a commercial product.
I think my left thumb space bar typing style came from playing a lot of Counter-Strike/FPS games, where you hit space with your left hand to jump.grossYay another leftie-spacie. I thought I was alone!
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
I didn't know it was weird until a few days ago lol.
It's not weird, it is normal. Anyone who says otherwise can take it up with me. :)
Just out of curiosity: why did you choose those bendable leafs instead of (for example) pogopins that seem to be more prevalent?
Excellent question! We've choosen this connector primarily because of space constraints. Also, pogo pins are fabulously expensive costing > $10. Even though I think this shouldn't be a huge pain point we can still revise this further given that we'll be able to find a pogo pin that is small enough, easy to source and not so terribly expensive.
grossYay another leftie-spacie. I thought I was alone!
I spacebar with my left hand, so this would be like torture.
I didn't know it was weird until a few days ago lol.
It's not weird, it is normal. Anyone who says otherwise can take it up with me. :)
Doing research for my portable board layout I discovered that a significant number of people use left thumb for space. Having them at least switchable is vital for a commercial product.
The idea is good. Personally, I'd prefer the ctrl and super keys to be swapped.
I am hoping that all keyboard layouts will be programmable, not just the custom key layouts. It
would seem like an obvious thing to allow this kind of customization.
Sounds like they're using pad-printed keycaps. That's too bad. I was hoping it would land closer to $150 but this seems to be engineered quite nicely.
Looks like an interesting idea but I HATE keyboards that use unusual key sizings. They've butchered the entire right hand side just for the sake of symmetry, instant turn off for me.
They "asked" for feedback and then ignored it.Looks like an interesting idea but I HATE keyboards that use unusual key sizings. They've butchered the entire right hand side just for the sake of symmetry, instant turn off for me.
It appears that designers took some decisions with no input from keyboard aficionados, it may mean that the design is oriented more to a wider audience, which is good; but some at GH and other similar boards may not jump into it.
Just out of curiosity: why did you choose those bendable leafs instead of (for example) pogopins that seem to be more prevalent?
Excellent question! We've choosen this connector primarily because of space constraints. Also, pogo pins are fabulously expensive costing > $10. Even though I think this shouldn't be a huge pain point we can still revise this further given that we'll be able to find a pogo pin that is small enough, easy to source and not so terribly expensive.
I am doing a custom personal keyboard and wanted to have a magnetically detachable number pad. I was going to use pogo pins (being a one-off, I don't care what it costs). What I'm more uninterested in, are those steel magnetic interlock thingies. Is that an off the shelf component, and if so, what are they called and where can I find them? Are they fixed, or do they magnetically extend deeper when engaged?
Without those steel pegs, I'd basically expect my number pad to just connect purely by magnetic alignment. hit would have no secure strength or connection if I were to pick up or angle the keyboard to move or adjust it.
Also, I planned on using pogos similar to this one:
http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/0900-8-15-20-76-14-11-0/ED1124-ND/3737527 (http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/0900-8-15-20-76-14-11-0/ED1124-ND/3737527)
These are only $0.81 in single quantities (presuming 5 connectors, $4.05 in single quantities). That being said, the parts have quantity breaks, so depending on how many of these keyboards get made, you could cut that down to $0.30 per pogo/$1.54 per keyboard for 100 keyboards made, or $0.21776 per pogo/$1.09 per keyboard for 500 keyboards made. That's just using that one particular part as an example.
This one costs a little more, but is still sub $1 pricing in single quantities, and offers a through hole mount. You'd need a small 90° PC board to mount them too, but if through hole solves complexities in basic pogo pun alignment during manufacture, then that's an option to consider as well. Maybe SMD pick and place can handle those pogos? I dunno. I probably will personally spend a little extra on a through hole variety, just to I can solder these to a small PC board that will maintain my alignment. All I need to do then, for my keyboard, is just snag a small PC board with the correctly spaced gold plated pads to act as contacts to the pogos.
http://www.digikey.com/product-detail/en/0906-1-15-20-75-14-11-0/ED8181-ND/1147049
We use off-the-shelf magnets but the steel parts that face the magnets are custom made. Our case has been designed so that these parts can fit into it. You should be able to investigate our design by checking out or page and our blog.
In the meantime, we've also decided to use pogo pins that are very similar to the SMD pogo pins that you showed. We'll be using a vertical PCB with holes, put the pogo pins into the holes, solder them, and then solder the vertical PCB to our main PCB in a perpendicular fashion.
We use off-the-shelf magnets but the steel parts that face the magnets are custom made. Our case has been designed so that these parts can fit into it. You should be able to investigate our design by checking out or page and our blog.
In the meantime, we've also decided to use pogo pins that are very similar to the SMD pogo pins that you showed. We'll be using a vertical PCB with holes, put the pogo pins into the holes, solder them, and then solder the vertical PCB to our main PCB in a perpendicular fashion.
Nice! Pogos are well worth it. I know I'm late to the game on this thread, but it always pays to shop around when finalizing a design and generating a bill of materials. Regardless of if it's for rev 1 or rev 10. ;D
One thing I did notice while visiting your blog, is your strong support for Right to Repair. VERY awesome! I am curious though... Does that mean you will make replacement parts available for purchase to individuals? I can imagine that the steel interlocks are a component that is vulnerable to damage (dropped, accidentally flexed, dinged, etc), considering that it is external. If that were the case, and they were made available to simply purchase as parts, I'd be potentially interested in simply buying a set of the steel interlocks to use for my custom number pad. I can't argue with a good design! :cool:
Glad you're also considering repair friendliness important! The steel guides are probably not the best example because they're super strong and not prone to wear but we definitely plan to provide some parts. I can think of the plastic parts, the assembled PCBs, and who knows what else. The steel guides are custom-made and I'd love to offer a set, just not in this early phase because prototyping stuff is incredibly time-consuming and expensive. :)
Glad you're also considering repair friendliness important! The steel guides are probably not the best example because they're super strong and not prone to wear but we definitely plan to provide some parts. I can think of the plastic parts, the assembled PCBs, and who knows what else. The steel guides are custom-made and I'd love to offer a set, just not in this early phase because prototyping stuff is incredibly time-consuming and expensive. :)
Yeah... I was very disappointed in my state when they did NOT pass a Right To Repair law this past summer. Wrote in to the local government, signed the petitions, and everything.
My keyboard won't be completely done till early next yearn, I guess, since the keycaps I bought will take a while to get molded and shipped. Ship date is next February.
If you ever need "beta testers" to test the durability of those steel puppies, I'd be sure to offer my services! LOL! :p :)) ;D
I suppose I could try to make some. I have access to a machine shop, but I'm not sure if we could do the hardening. I wonder if it's possible to spring load the pegs, so the magnet in one side pulls the peg out of the other to engage, but then retracts when not engaged with the magnet???
How safe is CrowdSupply?In what ways? Do you think Massdrop or Kickstarter are safe? (real question)
I wouldn't compare a Vortex against this keyboard though, while Vortex make stuff at decent prices the build quality or feature set is not fenomenal.
Molds are very expensive tools whose cost can only be justify by large production quantities; therefore, it seems your "argument" is empty; besides, fully programmable mechanical sixties are already available.
Even the name of the product is a clear try to profiting on the well know HHKB
Any 1337 12-year-old can come up with such a cheesy name.Even the name of the product is a clear try to profiting on the well know HHKB
To you it may seem that way, even though your assumption has nothing to do with the truth. It doesn't take a genious to come up with the name and the logo of the UHK without ever hearing about the HHKB. Not only I haven't ever heard about the HHKB but neither about mechanical keyboards back in the days. But you're welcome to believe whatever you want and none of us can prove anything anyways. Moot point.
Even the name of the product is a clear try to profiting on the well know HHKB
To you it may seem that way, even though your assumption has nothing to do with the truth. It doesn't take a genious to come up with the name and the logo of the UHK without ever hearing about the HHKB. Not only I haven't ever heard about the HHKB but neither about mechanical keyboards back in the days. But you're welcome to believe whatever you want and none of us can prove anything anyways. Moot point.
Are all the keys typical sizes, like if i wanted to replace them at some point? those mod and space keys look slightly strange and custom. But i know nothing :p
…and it's also incorrect (not sure, if they're putting it there deliberately, or out of ignorance). right Shift, Enter and backslash are shorter than usual as well.Are all the keys typical sizes, like if i wanted to replace them at some point? those mod and space keys look slightly strange and custom. But i know nothing :p
"I want to swap the keycaps. Which of your keycaps are non-standard?
Non-standard keycaps are Space, Mod, Right Control, and Backspace. All the others are standard.
"
I just answered my own question thanks me!
right Shift, Enter and backslash are shorter than usual as well.
The keyboard is apparently 14.5x keys wide, instead of usual 15x. This meansQuoteright Shift, Enter and backslash are shorter than usual as well.
Maybe they meant those keys were a standard keycap size, but not necessarily the standard shape for that particular cap. For example, the backslash looks to be the size of a regular alphanumeric keycap but not the normal size for that cap on say a Poker.
The keyboard is apparently 14.5x keys wide, instead of usual 15x. This means [...]Seems reasonable. The standard keycap sizes in the rightmost column were picked by IBM on their AT keyboards and 122-key terminal boards, I think primarily so that ISO-style enter, various types of 1u backspace, and JIS right shift would have enough space, and possibly also to better accommodate lots of space around the F keys.
The keyboard is apparently 14.5x keys wide, instead of usual 15x. This means [...]Seems reasonable. The standard keycap sizes in the rightmost column were picked by IBM on their AT keyboards and 122-key terminal boards, I think primarily so that ISO-style enter, various types of 1u backspace, and JIS right shift would have enough space, and possibly also to better accommodate lots of space around the F keys.
IBM needed to accommodate multiple silly layouts on 80s computers, but that shouldn’t really be relevant today. On a Model M style ANSI-layout keyboard, the rightmost column of keys are now all stupidly long. 2.75u long shift in particular is a monstrosity.
hey this isn't the VEA!
Looks like they are now all regular sizes - just not necessarily a standard 60% setNothing has changed. The part people were complaining about was that they weren’t exactly like standard IBM/ANSI layout keyboards.
I also started to wonder if their plate has switch opening cutouts. If they need to fabricate a broach to make the holes they might as well make one that can cut a more special shape.
Did these ever ship?
Over three years of crowdfunding and hasn't shipped yet?
A quick question: on the vid it shows MX blue... Are all the UHK using MX blue?