Author Topic: [IC] Biscotti - The Split Space MX HHKB Keyboard  (Read 28173 times)

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Offline N0GLUT0N

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[IC] Biscotti - The Split Space MX HHKB Keyboard
« on: Tue, 20 June 2017, 23:21:13 »
Biscotti
(The Split Space MX HHKB Keyboard)


I have always kinda been a perfectionist, so when I joined this hobby I wanted the best of the best of the best.* I went from keyboards and layouts trying to find what works the best for me. The HHKB is known as one of the best keyboards that you can buy from the store (non-kustom). As much as I love the HHKB, there are some things that I think are missing. I have been thinking to myself and discussing with a few people on making a better HHKB and thus born the Biscotti.
 
*(MIB Reference)


Included In One Kit: $TBD + Paypal (shipping billed separately)

  • Aluminum Case (Designed by /u/Hineybush)
  • Aluminum Plate (Designed by /u/Hineybush)
  • PCB (Designed by /u/Hineybush)
  • Firmware (QMK firmware, modified by /u/Haruka)
  • Aluminum Weight (Designed by /u/Hineybush)
  • Case is manufactured by eve

Add-ons:

Weight
  • Additional Brass Weight -$TBD

Plate
  • Changing to Brass Plate - $TBD
  • Additional Brass Plate - $TBD
  • Additional Aluminum Plate - $TBD

PCB
  • Additional PCB - $TBD

Specifications

  • Full Keymapping with QMK
  • Supports MX Switches
  • LED Compatible
  • Supports ANSI and ISO enter
  • Regular and stepped caps-lock supported
  • 8-degree typing angle
  • USB-C Connector

Prototypes





 



Any feedback would be much appreciated, and if you are interested let me know!
« Last Edit: Tue, 28 August 2018, 20:40:35 by N0GLUT0N »

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #1 on: Tue, 20 June 2017, 23:21:57 »
June 21th, 2017:

More
  • In talks with JUJU Cables to make custom USB-C cabled for the group buy.


June 27th, 2017:

More
  • Added more layout options to the pcb.


July 5th, 2017:

More
  • Changed around some layouts (LMK if you want anything else)
  • Working on getting the Bluetooth Controller and Battery Controller Build into the PCB.
  • Changed name to 'Mellifluous' - Short Melli


July 6th, 2017:

More
  • Cleaned up page


August 9th, 2017:

More
  • Changed name to Biscotti (Final Name)


August 28th, 2018:

More
  • Prototypes being made
« Last Edit: Tue, 28 August 2018, 13:55:18 by N0GLUT0N »

Offline ns90

  • Posts: 134
Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #2 on: Tue, 20 June 2017, 23:29:09 »
It's definitely interesting, but I might also suggest support for a staggered split space layout, similar to the Banana Split. Do you have any idea on what pricing would be?

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #3 on: Tue, 20 June 2017, 23:35:32 »
It's definitely interesting, but I might also suggest support for a staggered split space layout, similar to the Banana Split. Do you have any idea on what pricing would be?

I'll keep that in mind, I like the spaces being the same size but it doesn't hurt to add it.

Not sure on prices atm, I have a manufacturer but I want to get a case and pcb design done before I start talking numbers.

Offline stand.geek

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #4 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 02:42:18 »
I actually a split spacebar fans.
But I don't think that double 3.5u spacebar make sense.
Where would you get a 3.5u keycap?

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #5 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 05:52:19 »
I actually a split spacebar fans.
But I don't think that double 3.5u spacebar make sense.
Where would you get a 3.5u keycap?

I am trying to get a 3.5u keycap made, if I fail it doesn't hurt to have the layout incase other people like it and it eventually becomes a standard in keycap sets.


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Offline zl_ramiel

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #6 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 06:55:36 »
How long is the battery life?

Offline jihadu

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #7 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 09:42:09 »
How long is the battery life?
That will depend on what type of battery you decide to get

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #8 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 10:01:33 »
How long is the battery life?

Still to be determined.


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Offline MaNiFeX

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #9 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 10:53:29 »
Interested.  :p

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #10 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 10:54:26 »
Interested.  :p

Yay, I'm glad other people like my end game :)


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Offline jihadu

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #11 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 13:19:09 »
Honestly anything that has BT sparks my interest, even though I'm pretty meh on HHKB style layouts. Still I look forward to seeing someone make their endgame a reality. Depending on how soon you run the GB I'll be interested.

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #12 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 13:51:23 »
Honestly anything that has BT sparks my interest, even though I'm pretty meh on HHKB style layouts. Still I look forward to seeing someone make their endgame a reality. Depending on how soon you run the GB I'll be interested.

I'm am super excited to make my end game a reality, I will probably have the design done in 1-2 weeks (the guy I am having design it is busy atm) After that I will talk to the manufacturer and get prices. While I wait I am talking with people on getting custom cables and custom sleeves done as well at looking at different color options. Once everything i planned I will start the group buy shortly after :)

Offline DarKou

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #13 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 16:10:56 »
Really interesting keyboard!

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #14 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 16:14:15 »
Really interesting keyboard!

Thanks!

Offline t4nkd

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #15 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 19:39:48 »
I like this a lot, brass is a great touch. Can we get an RGB underlight and case with cutout?

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #16 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 19:41:02 »
I like this a lot, brass is a great touch. Can we get an RGB underlight and case with cutout?

I was planning on not offering RGB underglow since I didn't want it to affect the battery life of the keyboard. I'll think about it.

Offline Theconejo

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #17 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 21:26:07 »
Maybe an odd question but will this work with a cord and/or bt? I think some of the BT boards from varmillo only use the usb to charge?

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #18 on: Wed, 21 June 2017, 21:27:45 »
Maybe an odd question but will this work with a cord and/or bt? I think some of the BT boards from varmillo only use the usb to charge?

If we end up using the feather than it will work with both bt and the cord.
If we don't use the feather it would be a feature I want to try to implement regardless.

Offline t4nkd

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #19 on: Sat, 24 June 2017, 11:35:56 »
I like this a lot, brass is a great touch. Can we get an RGB underlight and case with cutout?

I was planning on not offering RGB underglow since I didn't want it to affect the battery life of the keyboard. I'll think about it.

Ah, as long as we can toggle it on and off it should be at user discretion I think? Not familiar with the impact the wiring would have itself. Thanks for considering at any rate :)

Offline braidn

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #20 on: Sun, 25 June 2017, 06:03:24 »
Very Interested! Not super interested in the bluetooth but, more the split spacebar and HHKB layout.

Offline iFreilicht

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #21 on: Mon, 26 June 2017, 07:40:58 »
Very cool idea! I think the HHKB layout lends itself quite well to a mobile keyboard, which is what I'd use a Bluetooth keyboard as. When saying USB Type-C, does that mean it can be charged via USB or can it also connect to my PC via USB without using Bluetooth?

You're saying the controller won't be pre-soldered onto the PCB. What kind of package will it come in? If it's not easy to solder for everybody you might want to consider changing your angle on that.

On the split spacebar sizes, I want to say that 3.5u keys and even 3u are a very bad idea. Even if you manage to get them made, it will be neigh on impossible to get custom keysets for this board and I can imagine most people would use one of the  alternative styles because of that. Stick to the standard keysizes for the lower row, 2.75u, 2.25u, 1.75u, 1.5u, 1.25u, 1u. Everything else will just be a major hassle. On that note I'd recommend to incorporate as many spacebar layouts as you can without overlapping the pads too much. If they do overlap a lot, the holtite sockets will fall out easily, which is not what you want at all. Take a look at the YAS62 for inspiration, it had a lot of good ideas in that regard.

Wireless charging seems a little useless but might be very cool if the keyboard has a bit of space underneath so I can actually type while it's charging.

Either way, I'll be following this!


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Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #22 on: Mon, 26 June 2017, 18:41:39 »
Very Interested! Not super interested in the bluetooth but, more the split spacebar and HHKB layout.

Awesome, the split is what I'm the Mose excited about :)


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Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #23 on: Mon, 26 June 2017, 20:21:19 »
Very cool idea! I think the HHKB layout lends itself quite well to a mobile keyboard, which is what I'd use a Bluetooth keyboard as. When saying USB Type-C, does that mean it can be charged via USB or can it also connect to my PC via USB without using Bluetooth?

You're saying the controller won't be pre-soldered onto the PCB. What kind of package will it come in? If it's not easy to solder for everybody you might want to consider changing your angle on that.

On the split spacebar sizes, I want to say that 3.5u keys and even 3u are a very bad idea. Even if you manage to get them made, it will be neigh on impossible to get custom keysets for this board and I can imagine most people would use one of the  alternative styles because of that. Stick to the standard keysizes for the lower row, 2.75u, 2.25u, 1.75u, 1.5u, 1.25u, 1u. Everything else will just be a major hassle. On that note I'd recommend to incorporate as many spacebar layouts as you can without overlapping the pads too much. If they do overlap a lot, the holtite sockets will fall out easily, which is not what you want at all. Take a look at the YAS62 for inspiration, it had a lot of good ideas in that regard.

Wireless charging seems a little useless but might be very cool if the keyboard has a bit of space underneath so I can actually type while it's charging.

Either way, I'll be following this!

If we use the feather and you use the usb-c cord and plug it into your computer, it will recognize that it is plugged in and you can use it like a normal non-bluetooth keyboard. That being said I am trying to integrate Bluetooth LE into the PCB without using the feather (to save on costs and soldering work). A big goal of mine would be to keep that feature available. The feather has to be soldered after the switches which is why it can't come pre-soldered.

The 3.5u keys don't exist (yet) and the 3u are in kits, probably one though not two. I am the kind of person that would go out of my way to get the extra 3u cap so those two layouts are really just for me tbh, the other layouts are more user-friendly.

I will take a look at the YAS62, thanks and thanks for all your amazing feedback!

Offline iFreilicht

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #24 on: Tue, 27 June 2017, 09:43:47 »
If we use the feather and you use the usb-c cord and plug it into your computer, it will recognize that it is plugged in and you can use it like a normal non-bluetooth keyboard. That being said I am trying to integrate Bluetooth LE into the PCB without using the feather (to save on costs and soldering work). A big goal of mine would be to keep that feature available. The feather has to be soldered after the switches which is why it can't come pre-soldered.

Ah I see, didn't know you built it up on the feather. Well in that case, it should be easy to keep this. Just take the schematic of the feather from adafruits site, recreate it in your EDA software and add all the switches to it, then lay out the PCB accordingly. Then the only thing you need to do to keep the desired functionality is flash their software on, which should also be available in the documentation somewhere.

Very good idea to build this up on open-source hardware!
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Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #25 on: Tue, 27 June 2017, 09:45:25 »
If we use the feather and you use the usb-c cord and plug it into your computer, it will recognize that it is plugged in and you can use it like a normal non-bluetooth keyboard. That being said I am trying to integrate Bluetooth LE into the PCB without using the feather (to save on costs and soldering work). A big goal of mine would be to keep that feature available. The feather has to be soldered after the switches which is why it can't come pre-soldered.

Ah I see, didn't know you built it up on the feather. Well in that case, it should be easy to keep this. Just take the schematic of the feather from adafruits site, recreate it in your EDA software and add all the switches to it, then lay out the PCB accordingly. Then the only thing you need to do to keep the desired functionality is flash their software on, which should also be available in the documentation somewhere.

Very good idea to build this up on open-source hardware!

Awesome thanks for the advice, I will pass that info to my pcb guy.


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Offline kmba

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #26 on: Tue, 27 June 2017, 10:05:27 »
Interested depending on case design.
keyboards.

Offline hineybush

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #27 on: Tue, 27 June 2017, 13:55:02 »
Interested depending on case design.

what would you look for in a case design?

Offline unusedPhD

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #28 on: Sat, 01 July 2017, 08:23:14 »
Looks amazing, would definitely be in for this.

Offline kmba

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #29 on: Sat, 01 July 2017, 09:01:55 »
Interested depending on case design.

what would you look for in a case design?

I just like clean lines with some accent angles on the sides. Nothing too stylized.
keyboards.

Offline pon10

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #30 on: Sat, 01 July 2017, 13:56:23 »
there is ALOT of wishes in here, hope this will be durable and come to life  :thumb:

Offline SeedyOne

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #31 on: Thu, 06 July 2017, 00:14:26 »
You've come a long way since getting this idea, looking forward to it!  :thumb:

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #32 on: Thu, 06 July 2017, 00:15:19 »
You've come a long way since getting this idea, looking forward to it!  :thumb:

Thanks!! I'm excited!

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #33 on: Sat, 15 July 2017, 17:10:26 »
Interested based on layouts and features, will have to see when the case design is finished up. :)
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
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IC/GB:
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Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #34 on: Sat, 15 July 2017, 17:15:41 »
Interested based on layouts and features, will have to see when the case design is finished up. :)

I'll be making a post on /mk once the case is done but you can also see it by setting notifications on for this topic


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Offline sachin3767

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #35 on: Sat, 15 July 2017, 18:16:53 »
This sounds amazing and very interested in it. Would you be considering a PCB only option when purchasing.
                                          
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Offline Ramiel

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #36 on: Sat, 15 July 2017, 20:10:17 »
Which controller will you use? Nordic nRF series?

Offline oschrenk

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #37 on: Sun, 23 July 2017, 09:53:28 »
This ticks a lot of my boxes, mainly 60%, qmk and bluetooth. Very much interested.

Will the LED be pre-soldered? Any way to not have them or not power them?

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #38 on: Sun, 23 July 2017, 11:16:05 »
This ticks a lot of my boxes, mainly 60%, qmk and bluetooth. Very much interested.

Will the LED be pre-soldered? Any way to not have them or not power them?

The plan is to have the LEDS pre-soldered but you will be able to turn them off to utilize your battery life.


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Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #39 on: Wed, 02 August 2017, 17:02:58 »


Large update coming soon :)

Offline jchan94

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #40 on: Wed, 02 August 2017, 18:15:57 »
That title is deceiving.

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Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #41 on: Wed, 02 August 2017, 18:50:24 »
That title is deceiving.

Show Image


You thought my group buy was for a car? O_0


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Offline pixelpusher

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #42 on: Wed, 02 August 2017, 21:09:42 »
Wow!  Love the 2/3/2 split space.  I'm interested for sure

Offline Sent

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #43 on: Wed, 02 August 2017, 21:11:17 »
That title is deceiving.

Show Image


My initial thought, as well. :))

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] Mugen - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #44 on: Wed, 02 August 2017, 21:25:39 »
That title is deceiving.

Show Image


My initial thought, as well. :))

The name is changing (for the final time) but it's not related to that. 

Offline ricrackem

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Re: [IC] The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #45 on: Wed, 09 August 2017, 17:55:08 »
pls gib me

Offline oatmicro

  • Posts: 352
Re: [IC] Biscotti - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #46 on: Fri, 11 August 2017, 13:31:25 »
Saw the first Render and turned on notification for this thread real quick, looking for everything that coming up  :thumb:

Offline pixelpusher

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Re: [IC] Biscotti - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #47 on: Fri, 11 August 2017, 13:48:06 »
Wait.... what happened to 2/3/2 spacebar?!  NOOOO.  Why did you remove it?

Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] Biscotti - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #48 on: Fri, 11 August 2017, 13:53:45 »
Wait.... what happened to 2/3/2 spacebar?!  NOOOO.  Why did you remove it?

I know you liked that, the reason I removed it is so that hot swap sockets will fit better and there will be less overlap on the board. That being said, if there is lots of interest for it I will talk to my design team about adding it back. I will be using 1.5/2/2/1.5, something you can look at.


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Offline N0GLUT0N

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Re: [IC] Biscotti - The Split Space Bluetooth MX HHKB Kit
« Reply #49 on: Fri, 11 August 2017, 13:54:26 »
Saw the first Render and turned on notification for this thread real quick, looking for everything that coming up  :thumb:

Glad to hear :)


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