Check out Apiary Keyboards stream for a typing test (May 27th). Here's the link: https://www.twitch.tv/apiarykeyboards/
TLDR:
- 5x12 ortho custom (Preonic layout)
- 2 degree angle (mostly so the pen rail is functional)
- top mount with no seams - the bottom plate covers most of the bottom so you can slide the plate and PCB up into the board (like the Neuron)
- bottom plate also curves up into the back (similar to Keycult No. 2 rev.1 TKL)
- LEDs diffusers on front and sides for LED underglow
- Will be run on Cannon Keys
Proto will be ordered soon- FCFS - 100 boards
GB date will be set after proto is received and reviewed GB likely late March or early-to-mid April
Update 1 HERE (form results)Update 2 HERE (2x2u support and Open Source PCB)Update 3 HERE (proto incoming)Update 4 HERE (proto received)Update 5 HERE(PCB proto and minor issue)Update 6 HERE(GB imminent!)Update 7 HERE(Pricing)
Glamour Shots w/GMK Minimal
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SA SAIL
bottom design - credit to OCM 
Form: Help Decide on Colors, 2x2u bottom layout, plate material, and Hotswap or Not
More Info Why? It's the beauty of this hobby. Do you have an idea for something you think is cool? Well, if a bunch of other folks think it is cool too, then you can run a GB and make that thing a reality. Never thought I'd run a keyboard IC, but then I found out from using the Fractal (5x12 ortho), which was my 2nd GB ever, that I liked the ortho layout - it's probably because I have small hands
Anyway, there was a real need in the community for a mid to high-end custom 5x12 ortho, so after following some Fusion360 tutorials, I decided on make my own. I have a couple of other designs too, so perhaps if this one does well I can explore those.
What? Custom 5x12 ortho board with a LED underglow, which will be be diffused out of the board from cutouts in the front and sides. Will either use acrylic, PC, or some other transparent material. It also includes a 2 degree angle - right?! - it's for the pen rail mostly. The pen rail is secured by screws in this initial design, but we may use magnets if it's significantly cheaper (Jae's boards use magnets). The bottom plate covers most of the bottom of the board and allows the plate and PCB to slide into the top of the case giving the board a seamless look and a top mount plate design. The USB-C cutout will be in the middle and is not shown in the renders - I'm letting Upas handle that or I'd make it look janky. The bottom cover/plate integrates into the back of the case similar to the Keycult No.2 rev. 1 TKL - please see render as an example and it will either be brass, stainless steel, or perhaps both materials will be available. Lastly, as for plate material, I'll likely open that up to you all to decide.
When? 2020. Undetermined at this time. Will likely set a GB date after the proto is received and the design is solid. What I can say is probably not February since that is when the J-02 is being run on Cannon Keys.
Where? Cannon Keys. 50 (changed to 100) FCFS. Having a vendor with experience in running boards helps me a great deal in bringing a quality product with minimal hiccups. It also allows the run to be larger. Thanks Upas
FAQ Why not go with the far superior 4x12 (Planck) layout?!
The number row is where you store your novelties and artisans, duh! On a more serious side, I started out with the 5x12 layout first and it's what I'm accustomed to. I also like having numbers for the off chance I have time to game.
Can you put lock switches under the pen rail so it can act like an extra switch? Or perhaps make it spring loaded so it can be flush when pressed in and up when depressed. Or perhaps make the pen rail go through the bottom of the board so that the angle can be adjusted exactly to one's liking?
40's server - y'all are the best but it's not happening this time. Perhaps if there ever is a round 2.
2 degree angle? Why have an angle at all?
Initially the board was going to be flat, but Upas and I decided that the board would likely need an angle in order for the pen rail to be functional. I also added a few more mm to the back so that there would be more room for a pen or pencil.
Can I have your proto?
Not likely, but maybe Upas will sell you his.
What colors?
Dark grey, white, and dark blue or navy
Will it have switch footprints for mounting your own LEDs?
No
Alps support?
I personally would love to do an Alps build in this board so I'd like the PCB to have MX-Alps footprints. If so, I can release an Alps DXF plate file during the GB period for you to have your own Alps plate made (should be approx. 1.2-1.3mm thick instead of 1.5mm like MX plates).
Price?
Unknown at this time, but you can expect the price to line up with most other mid-to high end customs. Although it looks simple, it has
7 9 pieces so that will push the price up some.
19.00mm (Planck and Preonic) spacing or 19.05mm spacing?Atlas will use 19.05 spacing like every other board besides the Preonic and Planck.
Special Thanks: - Abec - for doing renders in the midst of a very busy time (SA Sunday Morning GB - IT'S LIVE! - 45-ATS GB soon and Finals
- One Creative Mind for the bottom plate artwork - excellent job as always
- Upas for agreeing to take up the project and help with PCB and board design as well as all the other logistical things it takes to turn a board into an actual product
