Simple Questions, Simple Answers (FAQ in the OP)

[hwood34]

What are tuned cherry stabilizers? I know you can clip the stabs, but what else can you do? I see Duck and GON mentioning this.

clip the stabilizers, and lube them.  You can also "shave" the mold line too, but I am not sure GON and Duck do that or not.

What are tuned cherry stabilizers? I know you can clip the stabs, but what else can you do? I see Duck and GON mentioning this.

lube them? not really sure beyond that

Thanks for the replies!

Here's the video I'm referring to.

it almost looks like #3 has a spring in it

[Joey Quinn]

Is there any place outside of taobao that sells white costar stab mounts?
I only see white inserts. Also odd that there aren't black inserts either, even though I only want white.
Does no one else care to have matching stabs for all the Gaterons that were bought?

The Tex Yoda came with white costar stabilizers.

[FoC_Tow]

Do switch panel cutouts generally work with both Matias and Cherry switches? I ordered two Infinity keyboard kits--one hacker layout with Matias switches and one standard layout with Cherry switches. But I'm thinking about switching those around and doing the hacker layout with cherries.

In case of the Infinity that should work njbair, yes. 

Plate cut outs don't generally support both Matias and Cherry switches as far as I know,
but I'm pretty sure the Infinity uses hybrid style cut outs to support both Matias and Cherry switches.

Looking at the Infinity plate you can even see how the switch cutouts look slightly cross/plus (+) shaped which was done for
exactly this reason I guess.

[CPTBadAss]

Do switch panel cutouts generally work with both Matias and Cherry switches? I ordered two Infinity keyboard kits--one hacker layout with Matias switches and one standard layout with Cherry switches. But I'm thinking about switching those around and doing the hacker layout with cherries.

The plate cutouts need to be specifically designed to take both switches. The dimensions aren't the same.

What diameter and thickness shoud o-rings be for cherry keys? I just wanna get generic ones at a hardware store.

Check out this thread for more info.

What are tuned cherry stabilizers? I know you can clip the stabs, but what else can you do? I see Duck and GON mentioning this.

Thanks for the replies!

Here's the video I'm referring to.

Why don't you ask GON in his subforum? He's got a thread just for questions and is usually responsive.

[njbair]

to practice soldering switches, i'm thinking of acquiring some cheap,

For $25 each (or less, if you are lucky):

Buy a Dell AT101(W) for a chassis and an Apple Extended Keyboard (or II) for a donor and do your practice soldering and de-soldering on the Apple.

You can take the Apple completely apart for practice, and after you are finished with the project, you will have a perfectly good working keyboard and partial set of spare Alps caps.

So let me get this straight...you buy a Dell AT101W and an AEKII on Ebay for super cheap, then desolder the switches from the AEK and replace the Dell's switches with the ones you removed from the Apple? And you end up with a Dell AT101W with nice Apple ALPS switches. Is that right?

[jdcarpe]

to practice soldering switches, i'm thinking of acquiring some cheap,

For $25 each (or less, if you are lucky):

Buy a Dell AT101(W) for a chassis and an Apple Extended Keyboard (or II) for a donor and do your practice soldering and de-soldering on the Apple.

You can take the Apple completely apart for practice, and after you are finished with the project, you will have a perfectly good working keyboard and partial set of spare Alps caps.

So let me get this straight...you buy a Dell AT101W and an AEKII on Ebay for super cheap, then desolder the switches from the AEK and replace the Dell's switches with the ones you removed from the Apple? And you end up with a Dell AT101W with nice Apple ALPS switches. Is that right?

Correct. Best ANSI layout (Dell AT101W) with nicer switches than black Alps.

[sypl]

What diameter and thickness shoud o-rings be for cherry keys? I just wanna get generic ones at a hardware store.

Check out this thread for more info.

Thanks!

[StinkyTheDonut]

Is there any place outside of taobao that sells white costar stab mounts?
I only see white inserts. Also odd that there aren't black inserts either, even though I only want white.
Does no one else care to have matching stabs for all the Gaterons that were bought?

The Tex Yoda came with white costar stabilizers.

This guy knows what I'm looking for.

WAS keyboards has costar stabilizers.
I honestly couldn't care about matching stabilizer colors. Or even clear switch tops and stickers. Hard to care about something you'll see maybe once a month. Rest of the time it's covered by keycaps.

I'm trying to make one of those sandwich boards with the exposed plate as the top layer (not sure what they are called), so I will probably see the bottom row all the time.
I'm even considering backlighting the stabs if the white ones are translucent enough lol.

I don't think I've ever seen black costar inserts

On taobao apparently they have black or white for both inserts and mounts.

I actually had someone contact a taobao vendor for me, but I think they were ignored because it was such a small volume. =(
I'm not too fond of having accidents and confusion multiplied by a middleman, so I've given up on that method for now. That's why I'm trying to find another source.

[njbair]

Is there any benefit to doing a bolt mod on a Model M if there are no broken rivets or should I just consider myself lucky?

[jdcarpe]

Is there any benefit to doing a bolt mod on a Model M if there are no broken rivets or should I just consider myself lucky?

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=54745.0

[SpAmRaY]

How old do MX browns have to be before they are considered vintage?

[nubbinator]

How old do MX browns have to be before they are considered vintage?

"Vintage" doesn't matter, broken in does.

[SpAmRaY]

How old do MX browns have to be before they are considered vintage?

"Vintage" doesn't matter, broken in does.

So ~10yrs old and used enough to shine cherry double shots should be good then.

[nubbinator]

How old do MX browns have to be before they are considered vintage?

"Vintage" doesn't matter, broken in does.

So ~10yrs old and used enough to shine cherry double shots should be good then.

Probably.  If they actually feel good, they're broken in.

[jonathanyu]

How old do MX browns have to be before they are considered vintage?

"Vintage" doesn't matter, broken in does.

So ~10yrs old and used enough to shine cherry double shots should be good then.

Probably.  If they actually feel good, they're broken in.

The brown in my MX5000 actually feel different and better than other brown, but I don't thank the board have been used more than 20 hours, so I think there is some different between the old one and new one

[nubbinator]

And I've had "vintage" Brown boards that felt like crap.   Until someone does an analysis of the lube and lube points and of the plastics I'll still stand by the "vintage" placebo claim.

[domoaligato]

And I've had "vintage" Brown boards that felt like crap.   Until someone does an analysis of the lube and lube points and of the plastics I'll still stand by the "vintage" placebo claim.

I have what I would call "vintage" clears. they were dry also and in need of some lube. after lubing I can not tell the difference between "vintage" clears and new ones.

[njbair]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

[sethk_]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

That amazon link is in stock, and you are going to get plastic powder coated?

[njbair]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

That amazon link is in stock, and you are going to get plastic powder coated?

Well it says it will be in stock on April 21. But last time they put an in-stock date, the date came and went and they moved it back to April 21. And regarding powdercoating, I spoke carelessly. I meant clear-coating like a body shop does. Clear coating is clear I know, but painting it first was implied.

[cannonking]

How do I put my replacement Filco feet in my board. I don't want to force it and have to buy another pair. Do I have to open the keyboard or am I just silly?

[jdcarpe]

How do I put my replacement Filco feet in my board. I don't want to force it and have to buy another pair. Do I have to open the keyboard or am I just silly?

You don't have to open the keyboard. They just press fit in there.

[greath]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

Don't know if you'd be interested but just saw these on /r/mechmarket.

[sethk_]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

Don't know if you'd be interested but just saw these on /r/mechmarket.

They are overpriced on MechMarket, would not recommend buying them from him.

[greath]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

Don't know if you'd be interested but just saw these on /r/mechmarket.

They are overpriced on MechMarket, would not recommend buying them from him.

What would you say is a fair price and where could I find one around said price? Pretty much all the ones I've seen run $120+ so I figured that $150 was close to par for the course.

[sethk_]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

Don't know if you'd be interested but just saw these on /r/mechmarket.

They are overpriced on MechMarket, would not recommend buying them from him.

What would you say is a fair price and where could I find one around said price? Pretty much all the ones I've seen run $120+ so I figured that $150 was close to par for the course.

You just have to wait it out, I bought a dolch pac computer off of eBay for 130 and it came with the keyboard I think there is one on eBay right now

[SpAmRaY]

 

[njbair]

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

Don't know if you'd be interested but just saw these on /r/mechmarket.

They are overpriced on MechMarket, would not recommend buying them from him.

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

Don't know if you'd be interested but just saw these on /r/mechmarket.

I'll hold off for now...I've got some other irons in the fire on Ebay and I don't want to overextend my wallet. If he's still looking to sell in a month or so maybe I can ask for a better price than $150. We'll see. But thanks for the link!!!

[hoankinhcan]

Can I ask a simple question: KPB V80 or Ducky Shine 3 TKL 2nd ? Thanks.

[njbair]

Can I ask a simple question: KPB V80 or Ducky Shine 3 TKL 2nd ? Thanks.

I can vouch for Ducky. My full size Shine 3 is built like a tank, but slightly heavier.

[CPTBadAss]

Can I ask a simple question: KPB V80 or Ducky Shine 3 TKL 2nd ? Thanks.

I've not tried the V80 so I can't say anything good or bad. I will say that Ducky's keyboards have impressed me in the past and I think the Shine 3 would be a solid pickup.

Does anyone know where I can buy a brand new Cherry G80-1800? As much as I would love a Dolch PAC version, I'm willing to settle for new and maybe just have the case powdercoated, etc. to look more custom.

I see this one on Amazon but it's been out of stock for a while.

I've found new in package and new in box Cherry keyboards on eBay before. Takes a little hunting though. I don't know where else to look but perhaps Photekq or IvanIvanovich may know. You could try PMing them.

[trigun0x2]

I want to get started with building my own boards. Is there a list of things I can buy or should I just buy a kit? (which is cheaper?)

[Dihedral]

I want to get started with building my own boards. Is there a list of things I can buy or should I just buy a kit? (which is cheaper?)

You can do either. Some kits come with some stuff, some kits come with all the stuff, sometimes you just buy everything separately.

[CPTBadAss]

I want to get started with building my own boards. Is there a list of things I can buy or should I just buy a kit? (which is cheaper?)

Here's a rough price estimate of a DIY keyboard from the OP. I suppose it depends on what you want from your board. A kit isn't necessarily cheaper but it does save you from spending a lot of time designing and troubleshooting.

[trigun0x2]

I want to get started with building my own boards. Is there a list of things I can buy or should I just buy a kit? (which is cheaper?)

Here's a rough price estimate of a DIY keyboard from the OP. I suppose it depends on what you want from your board. A kit isn't necessarily cheaper but it does save you from spending a lot of time designing and troubleshooting.

Thanks! That helps a lot!

[Corey]

I have a Model M2 in the mail, recently refurbished by the previous owner but it is lacking the kick out feet. I'm not even sure how they work, or if I will use them, but it would be nice to know whether they are replaceable and if so where to get them.

Thanks in advance.

[njbair]

I have a Model M2 in the mail, recently refurbished by the previous owner but it is lacking the kick out feet. I'm not even sure how they work, or if I will use them, but it would be nice to know whether they are replaceable and if so where to get them.

Thanks in advance.

You're going to have to find a broken M2 for sale for parts on Ebay or something. Nobody makes those things new...

[CPTBadAss]

I have a Model M2 in the mail, recently refurbished by the previous owner but it is lacking the kick out feet. I'm not even sure how they work, or if I will use them, but it would be nice to know whether they are replaceable and if so where to get them.

Thanks in advance.

You're going to have to find a broken M2 for sale for parts on Ebay or something. Nobody makes those things new...

You sure about that njbair? Have either of you guys tried emailing Unicomp to see if they have anything in stock?

[njbair]

I have a Model M2 in the mail, recently refurbished by the previous owner but it is lacking the kick out feet. I'm not even sure how they work, or if I will use them, but it would be nice to know whether they are replaceable and if so where to get them.

Thanks in advance.

You're going to have to find a broken M2 for sale for parts on Ebay or something. Nobody makes those things new...

You sure about that njbair? Have either of you guys tried emailing Unicomp to see if they have anything in stock?

For an M2? Those are different from the Model M feet, no?

[CPTBadAss]

For an M2? Those are different from the Model M feet, no?

Right, they could be different. But Unicomp has a lot of random IBM stuff and shooting them a quick email can't hurt. Or you can send them a message in their customer service page.

[njbair]

For an M2? Those are different from the Model M feet, no?

Right, they could be different. But Unicomp has a lot of random IBM stuff and shooting them a quick email can't hurt. Or you can send them a message in their customer service page.

You're right, couldn't hurt. Shouldn't have admitted defeat so quickly...

^ Listen to this guy, OP.

[Kady955]

The Rapid-i case can be painted like the old qfr?

[CPTBadAss]

The Rapid-i case can be painted like the old qfr?

I don't see why it couldn't be.

[Kady955]

The Rapid-i case can be painted like the old qfr?

I don't see why it couldn't be.

I've heard its rubberised

[rowdy]

The Rapid-i case can be painted like the old qfr?

I don't see why it couldn't be.

I've heard its rubberised

Sand the rubberised coating off first.

[oledome]

The Cherry G81-1800 has Cherry MY switches, the G80-1800 has MX. I want to use the housing to make my own MX ISO board. I can get a G81 for a lot less than a G80.



- Would a PCB for MX switches fit both G80 and G81 housings the same?
- What are my 1800 PCB ISO options right now?
- Is modding an existing G80 PCB an option? More expensive for the keyboard but I don't have to look for a PCB if that is the case.

I was a bit put out the 1800 group buy PCB is not ISO compatible.

[CPTBadAss]

1) Would a PCB for MX switches fit both G80 and G81 housings the same?
2) What are my 1800 PCB ISO options right now?
3) Is modding an existing G80 PCB an option? More expensive for the keyboard but I don't have to look for a PCB if that is the case.

1) Maybe, it really depends on the case. For example, a G80-8XXX PCB wouldn't fit in a a G81-3XXX case.
2) Only PCBs I know of are ISO 1800s. There's no aftermarket PCBs besides the Leeku one.
3) Yes. Check this thread out from DT or Infiniti's thread out

The Rapid-i case can be painted like the old qfr?

I don't see why it couldn't be.

I've heard its rubberised

I suggest reading through this. Covers what to do if the top is rubberized.

[joey]

Let's talk stabs:

Type	Plate Mount	PCB Mount
Costar	Y	N
Cherry	N	Y

What else do I need to know?

[CPTBadAss]

Let's talk stabs:

Type	Plate Mount	PCB Mount
Costar	Y	N
Cherry	Y	Y

What else do I need to know?

I corrected one thing, there are Cherry plate mount stabilizers.

Do you have a more specific question?

[joey]

Let's talk stabs:

Type	Plate Mount	PCB Mount
Costar	Y	N
Cherry	Y	Y

What else do I need to know?

I corrected one thing, there are Cherry plate mount stabilizers.

Do you have a more specific question?

Thanks!

I'm just trying to understand what I need to know when designing a PCB and Plate, I guess you can design a PCB that works with all 3 types? The plate would have to be specific to the type, I assume.