Post by: norbauer on Sat, 05 November 2016, 23:33:52
After more than a year of R&D, prototyping, feedback from other GH members, and IC discussion (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=80317), I'm delighted to announce that I've just launched (http://shop.norbauer.com) a group buy for custom CNC aluminum cases for CoolerMaster Novatouch, Rapid-i, and Masterkeys TKL boards (and only those).
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1571/5135/files/gray-china-2.jpg?v=1478151518) (https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1571/5135/products/untitled-3928_1024x1024.jpg?v=1478320007)
To facilitate the ordering, payments, and fulfillment process, I've set up an online shop. (https://shop.norbauer.com/)
Tons of relevant info can be found at the above link, but here are the key bits:
- Price is $200 for the gray and black anodized models. Upgrades of risers and custom color (Pantone match) available.
- Shipping to USA is $14, $35 to Canada, and $45 elsewhere outside the US (expensive, I know, but I'm at the mercy of USPS and am actually offering a $10-20 price break to international buyers by charging less to ship abroad than it costs me in postage).
- Shipping target is January or before
- If the survey data are indicative, we should be able to hit the MOQ without any problem
- I'll be handling fulfillment myself, shipping from here in California
I know firsthand that it can seem risky to join a group buy, but for whatever it's worth, I've worked successfully in the past with both Signature Plastics and MassDrop to bring the Galaxy Class keyset, which I designed, to hundreds of community members. I'm also totally visible online and in the real world, doing this all under my own real name. I'm not new to manufacturing or consumer products either; I recently produced a popular high-end officially licensed Star Trek prop replica (https://shop.roddenberry.com/collections/prop-replicas/products/vulcan-idic-prop-replica?variant=28699759046), for example, which not only has been selling well to satisfied customers but was even mentioned, of all things, in GQ Magazine. :) In short: I have some experience getting stuff made.
At any rate, I want us all to get some awesome cases as much as anyone else, and I'm taking on (what feels to me anyway) like a sizable risk in order to get these to everyone a decent price in a reasonable timeframe. So I hope everyone will bear with me through this process (it may occasionally take me a day or two to reply to emails and posts) and understand that this is a team effort to help us all get something cool. I'm committed to keeping everyone updated at every step in the process.
Doing stuff like this may sometimes be stressful, but it's also a lot of fun for me, so your support is enormously appreciated. :) Now, let's make something happen that would never have been made otherwise!
—Ryan
Post by: danielucf on Mon, 07 November 2016, 00:36:24
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 01:07:50
How crazy can you get with the color? Pantone 389C possible?
389C should be no problem at all, but I might recommend powder over anodizing for that color. In my experience, the shop usually gets very close with Pantone matches, but there is always a chance it might be closer to one of the neighboring swatches rather than hitting it spot on. They usually get very close in the general neighborhood though. (One-off color matching with powder can be tricky, and even more so with anodizing.)
For those who want to order a custom color, please just put the requested color and process (powder vs ano) in the order notes when checking out. If for some reason Shopify doesn't present you with such a field on checkout, just send me an email and I'll take care of it. :)
Post by: FSund on Mon, 07 November 2016, 01:19:21
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 07 November 2016, 01:20:38
I have a request. Is there any way you could get a close up photo of white version that shows the beveled corner, like you did with the anodized? I just want to see how sharp the seam and corners are with the power coating.
Post by: codywanks on Mon, 07 November 2016, 01:24:16
Are you willing to declare a lowered value of the package when shipping overseas? Everything with a declared value above ~35$ gets taxed 25% in Norway, and I would like to avoid that if possible.
From the IC thread: (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=80317.msg2265390#msg2265390)
Concerning taxes, I'm going to list these at a value of around $45 when I ship internationally rather than the price paid. I think this is totally legit because the only reason these cost so much is that they're being made in a very small volume as effectively custom pieces, so we're really paying most of that money for professional and machining services. If you look at the cost of materials and what these would cost if they were made at large scale as normal consumer products, I think $45 is a totally valid and defensible amount to list for customs purposes. I think this will keep us out of trouble (versus listing these as "gifts" with a value of $1 or something), but without folks having to pay needlessly exorbitant import duties.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 01:39:36
Great options and fair prices! Now if I can just pick a color!!!
I have a request. Is there any way you could get a close up photo of white version that shows the beveled corner, like you did with the anodized? I just want to see how sharp the seam and corners are with the power coating.
Pics of that particular case won't necessarily be indicative, as that prototype was made by a different firm than the one making the production cases. I am, however, getting another powder test case, arriving later this week, from the firm doing the production cases and will be happy to take a photo of the corner on that one.
Post by: eksuen on Mon, 07 November 2016, 01:45:44
Post by: fatbuffalo on Mon, 07 November 2016, 01:50:14
Post by: K on Mon, 07 November 2016, 02:31:16
Shipping did make me cry though non american pain :'(
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 02:48:21
Does this support ducky g2pro tkl?
Alas, no.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 02:49:22
Nice i'm in for this been waiting too long for this to not get it now :thumb:
Shipping did make me cry though non american pain :'(
I've ordered plenty of keyboard stuff to the USA from Korea and Japan, so I feel your pain. =\
Post by: fax668 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 03:10:15
$45 elsewhere outside the US (expensive, I know, but I'm at the mercy of USPS and am actually offering a $10-20 price break to international buyers by charging less to ship abroad than it costs me in postage)Thank you, that's very kind!
I am still undecided about the color. Would it be possible to get a photo with all three black, gray and white cases on there? With white and black as a reference point, it should make it easier to assess the "grayness" of the gray case.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 03:29:25
$45 elsewhere outside the US (expensive, I know, but I'm at the mercy of USPS and am actually offering a $10-20 price break to international buyers by charging less to ship abroad than it costs me in postage)Thank you, that's very kind!
I am still undecided about the color. Would it be possible to get a photo with all three black, gray and white cases on there? With white and black as a reference point, it should make it easier to assess the "grayness" of the gray case.
I actually no longer have the white sample case, but I can shoot the two gray and black cases on a white background if that would be helpful.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 03:31:05
Post by: Saviant on Mon, 07 November 2016, 03:50:01
Post by: fax668 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 03:52:06
I actually no longer have the white sample case, but I can shoot the two gray and black cases on a white background if that would be helpful.Sounds good, thanks again!
The custom color option is tempting of course. Anybody got an idea what color code for anodizing would come close to what Apple is using on its MacBooks?
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 03:57:30
The custom color option is tempting of course. Anybody got an idea what color code for anodizing would come close to what Apple is using on its MacBooks?
That's easy: clear anodizing. This forms a protective oxide layer over the surface but is fundamentally the same color as aluminum, as it introduces no dye into the metal pores.
Post by: atlas3686 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 04:14:01
Post by: FSund on Mon, 07 November 2016, 04:17:18
Would be very interested to see how many orders come through in the next couple of days.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 04:24:23
Damn kinda wish I had a novatouch now! Thought of making Realforce ones? There aren't many digilog ones around and they not the best design anyway. Best of luck with this project.
I was actually just about to PM you about this, but I totally agree with that and may very well tackle RealForce cases next if this group buy turns out not to have been too much work. ;)
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 04:28:43
Lovely! Just placed an order.
Would be very interested to see how many orders come through in the next couple of days.
It has only been up for a couple of hours now (at the time when most people in the US are asleep) and 10 orders have been placed. MOQ is 25, so we should be all set on that. I honestly just hope we don't sell too many so packing and shipping these things doesn't become a full time job for me for a few weeks. ;) But I guess if it comes to that I can always recruit/pay a buddy to help in order to get them out the door more quickly.
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Mon, 07 November 2016, 05:38:36
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Mon, 07 November 2016, 06:46:59
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Post by: DribbelDog on Mon, 07 November 2016, 07:14:10
I appreciate all the effort that went into this project. The production samples thus far look fantastic. Just placed my order, went for the warm gray option. Briefly considered the custom color option, but I think the warm gray will look great with the DSA Dolch set I plan on using it with. The Novatouch is my primary keyboard at work; I love it in general but that cheap plastic case gets disgusting so easily...
If you ever consider doing a case for the Realforce (TKL), I'll buy it in a heartbeat. Just so you know.
Post by: McPwned on Mon, 07 November 2016, 07:18:15
Post by: s3vv4 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 07:24:02
Post by: exanile_tabasco on Mon, 07 November 2016, 07:35:18
Does this support ducky g2pro tkl?
Pretty sure Tex's TKL aluminum case will fit the G2 Pro. It has a dipswitch hole that doesn't align to anything on the other supported boards, except the ducky.
It's quite a nice case; I have it on my Filco.
Post by: codywanks on Mon, 07 November 2016, 08:50:39
The Novatouch has been silenced with Hypersphere rings. Keycaps are Originative Carbon Black ABS.
The case, obviously, is a prototype from this GB.
Post by: Mike89914 on Mon, 07 November 2016, 09:05:54
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 07 November 2016, 09:22:10
Anyone know of a good resource for finding pantone colors for metallic/aluminum finish? I have Photoshop and a professional monitor for better color accuracy, but I'm not sure which pantone library to load.
I found this tool online http://rgb.to/pantone that is pretty cool, but I'm not sure whether we should be looking at coated or uncoated or metallic or what. And I assume it will be different with powder vs anodized. What colors can be anodized and what colors have to be a powder coat? I'm completely unfamiliar with this process, so any feedback is welcome.
Post by: vatne on Mon, 07 November 2016, 09:33:58
Would you mind posting the physical dimensions of the case? Mainly interested in how tall the front is compared to the stock case.
Post by: eyedrop on Mon, 07 November 2016, 10:26:35
Would there be an option for local pickup? I remember reading you're from SF.
Post by: consolelog on Mon, 07 November 2016, 10:52:37
+1 on your thoughts for clear anodizing (silver), or if that would be considered a custom color.
Post by: ErgoSloth on Mon, 07 November 2016, 12:49:01
Now I just need to get Hypersphere rings and a micro to make it programmable and my Nova will have reached her endgame :))
Thank you Norbauer for making this possible and for taking all the time you needed to make the case as good as it could be.
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Mon, 07 November 2016, 13:21:58
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 15:53:10
Very nicely made website.
Would there be an option for local pickup? I remember reading you're from SF.
Local pickup is totally fine—always happy to meet fellow keyboard nerds in person. :) I'm in Redwood City down in Silicon Valley.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 15:54:13
Thank you Norbauer for making this possible and for taking all the time you needed to make the case as good as it could be.
My pleasure. I appreciate everyone bearing with me through my protracted perfectionism. ;)
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:01:12
Anyone know of a good resource for finding pantone colors for metallic/aluminum finish? I have Photoshop and a professional monitor for better color accuracy, but I'm not sure which pantone library to load.
Honestly, Pantone matches on monitors tend to be pretty awful, so in absence of physical chips, I would recommend finding a color that seems close to the color you want and then doing a Google image search for "Pantone" and that number so you can see objects of that color in different lighting environments. The success of this varies, however, based on how popular that particular Pantone number is in the real world. If you want to describe verbally the color you want, I can also try to give you a Pantone number that I think would work well for that.
Also bear in mind that on anodizing especially, the color match isn't going to be very precise, since the color is essentially translucent and will combine with the underlying silver color of the aluminum in not entirely predictable ways. You can only sort of get into a "color neighborhood" with anodizing, and usually more in the area of primary colors with a strong metallic cast.
This image should give you a sense of what type of colors are possible.
(http://www.ycs-taiwan.com.tw/images/pantone-colors-e.jpg)
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:03:01
+1 on your thoughts for clear anodizing (silver), or if that would be considered a custom color.
Clear would have to be considered a custom color, as the shop charges me a (quite expensive) dye-lot fee for every new color added. The added price for custom colors just goes to cover that. And it's the reason I can only offer a few colors as part of the normal group buy.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:04:52
Is a silver option possible? I know it probably isn't exactly a pant one color, just wondering haha
Yes; just checkout as a custom color and order "clear anodizing."
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:06:17
What Pantone color is the "Warm Grey" option already available?
I used 409U as the reference color, but bear in mind all my caveats mentioned above about Pantone color matches on anodizing.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:19:00
Waiting patiently for news on the Enigma Black sub-buy.
If anybody is particularly keen on on a case in Enigma Black (wrinkle coat), my recommendation is actually to buy a custom color as part of this group buy and put in "Enigma black" as your color of choice in the "special instructions for seller" field of the cart.
The only caveat on that is it'll take me around a month longer to deliver those, as I'll have to get them powder coated here locally in the SF area. What I'll essentially do is order a case for you as part of this group buy without any pigment finishing and then drive it over to a powder coat place here locally. A bit unsophisticated, but it should work, and my sense is that it'll cost about what the add-on fee is for the custom color (hopefully). Sorry for the extra cost on these. I tried to get the factory to do wrinkle coat, but they consider this a specialty finish that is beyond their scope of expertise.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:27:51
I'm another lurker from the IC thread. Fantastic to see the option for custom powder coating - did not expect that!
Would you mind posting the physical dimensions of the case? Mainly interested in how tall the front is compared to the stock case.
Overall height is 24.8mm. Just LMK if you need any others. :)
Post by: eyedrop on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:31:28
Very nicely made website.
Would there be an option for local pickup? I remember reading you're from SF.
Local pickup is totally fine—always happy to meet fellow keyboard nerds in person. :) I'm in Redwood City down in Silicon Valley.
Awesome. I placed an order earlier. Would you want me to PM you the order number? I am assuming I wouldn't be paying shipping charges if I am going the local pickup route.
Post by: Vigrith on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:40:06
The international shipping is pretty massive but absolutely understandable, the finishes look beautiful and I'm glad you were able to have a custom colour options, I'll try my hardest to get in on one of the powdered white cases before the buy ends!
Post by: JDragon on Mon, 07 November 2016, 16:49:39
Post by: arhetue on Mon, 07 November 2016, 17:15:33
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 17:37:04
Trying to figure out what custom color I want - do you think Pantone 295C will result in a nice midnight/navy blue? https://www.pantone.com/color-finder/295-C
295C is very dark navy (almost black), but it sounds like that is what you're going for. The metallic aluminum showing through from below will lighten that a tad, so yes, I would say that's a good choice if very dark blue is what you're seeking. :)
Post by: JDragon on Mon, 07 November 2016, 18:22:22
Trying to figure out what custom color I want - do you think Pantone 295C will result in a nice midnight/navy blue? https://www.pantone.com/color-finder/295-C
295C is very dark navy (almost black), but it sounds like that is what you're going for. The metallic aluminum showing through from below will lighten that a tad, so yes, I would say that's a good choice if very dark blue is what you're seeking. :)
Perfect, thanks! Probably placing an order tonight. :D
Post by: poolside on Mon, 07 November 2016, 18:35:28
Currently trying to decide between warm gray and space white. About the latter, the store's description says that the powder coating will only be applied to the visible surfaces of the case. I therefore wonder what the finish will look like at the joint between the two case halves. May we get a close-up picture of that area once you receive the powder-coated prototype from the CN shop?
Also, any chance for the Galaxy Class set to make a come-back in the future? I passed on it when it dropped and only realize now it looks really good in your pictures with the warm gray anodized case.
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 07 November 2016, 18:52:10
:thumb:
Currently trying to decide between warm gray and space white. About the latter, the store's description says that the powder coating will only be applied to the visible surfaces of the case. I therefore wonder what the finish will look like at the joint between the two case halves. May we get a close-up picture of that area once you receive the powder-coated prototype from the CN shop?
Also, any chance for the Galaxy Class set to make a come-back in the future? I passed on it when it dropped and only realize now it looks really good in your pictures with the warm gray anodized case.
I agree about galaxy. It didn't float my boat until I saw it with this case for some reason. Would love to see it again.
I had the same question about the white and he said he would update with closeup photos showing details on the seam and edges once he got a production version in. The one pictured is still the prototype.
Post by: McPwned on Mon, 07 November 2016, 20:59:42
Waiting patiently for news on the Enigma Black sub-buy.
If anybody is particularly keen on on a case in Enigma Black (wrinkle coat), my recommendation is actually to buy a custom color as part of this group buy and put in "Enigma black" as your color of choice in the "special instructions for seller" field of the cart.
The only caveat on that is it'll take me around a month longer to deliver those, as I'll have to get them powder coated here locally in the SF area. What I'll essentially do is order a case for you as part of this group buy without any pigment finishing and then drive it over to a powder coat place here locally. A bit unsophisticated, but it should work, and my sense is that it'll cost about what the add-on fee is for the custom color (hopefully). Sorry for the extra cost on these. I tried to get the factory to do wrinkle coat, but they consider this a specialty finish that is beyond their scope of expertise.
The added $100 CAD is pretty disappointing, but I guess that's the choice I have to make.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 07 November 2016, 22:11:35
Trying to figure out what custom color I want - do you think Pantone 295C will result in a nice midnight/navy blue? https://www.pantone.com/color-finder/295-C
295C is very dark navy (almost black), but it sounds like that is what you're going for. The metallic aluminum showing through from below will lighten that a tad, so yes, I would say that's a good choice if very dark blue is what you're seeking. :)
Perfect, thanks! Probably placing an order tonight. :D
Cool. Please just make sure to add the Pantone color you want in the order notes when checking out. Thanks!
Post by: axtran on Mon, 07 November 2016, 23:29:50
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Post by: atlas3686 on Tue, 08 November 2016, 00:33:12
Damn kinda wish I had a novatouch now! Thought of making Realforce ones? There aren't many digilog ones around and they not the best design anyway. Best of luck with this project.
I was actually just about to PM you about this, but I totally agree with that and may very well tackle RealForce cases next if this group buy turns out not to have been too much work. ;)
Great news, I am sure there will be tons of interest if you decide to do it although I get the feeling GBs take it out of you so you might be less keen after completing this one :)
Post by: thel on Tue, 08 November 2016, 06:17:34
Maybe some additional pictures can resolve this ;). I am too especially interested in the corners and the non-visible area of the white case.
Also: Is someone in Germany interested in splitting the shipping cost? - Max 1 person (pref. Frankfurt or Munich area) so we will not get over the 150€ "Zoll" fees.
Thanks the ton of effort you put in that project Norbauer!
Cheers
Post by: Phenix on Tue, 08 November 2016, 06:42:31
Post by: pschoen on Tue, 08 November 2016, 09:29:20
i'm am interested as well, but i don't know if there is enough space underneath the keyboard.
I also have a "rapid I" but I added a diy track-point to get rid of my mouse :D
I drilled through the pcb and added a teensy+Trackpoint from an old T40 Leptop keyboard.
In order to fit i would need at least 5mm space for the teensy 2.0 + isolation
Post by: Phenix on Tue, 08 November 2016, 10:20:31
hi,Please share a pic!
i'm am interested as well, but i don't know if there is enough space underneath the keyboard.
I also have a "rapid I" but I added a diy track-point to get rid of my mouse :D
I drilled through the pcb and added a teensy+Trackpoint from an old T40 Leptop keyboard.
In order to fit i would need at least 5mm space for the teensy 2.0 + isolation
(I thought about try out an trackpoint, but I think I cant navigate with it properly)
Post by: pschoen on Tue, 08 November 2016, 11:18:43
pics or it did not happen :D here are the pics https://imgur.com/a/YiOoB (https://imgur.com/a/YiOoB)
the track point is 1 mm off to the right but enough for me currently.
Mouse buttons are currently blues but i will put them into the space-bar and make a
space / left mouse / middle mouse / right mouse / space.
So in other words this is not finished but its my current work setup for 2 months now because I could not resist to just use it right away.
I will continue with the setup when my gateron brown switches will arrive in 2 weeks. :)
@norbauer could you measure the distance from the egde within the case where the PCB is fixed on to the actual maximum inner bottom like
the profile below?
_
| |
| |_
| |
| | <- this depth
| |______
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 08 November 2016, 13:29:24
Post by: johntron25 on Tue, 08 November 2016, 14:12:54
Post by: JDragon on Tue, 08 November 2016, 14:53:05
Post by: poolside on Tue, 08 November 2016, 17:20:55
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 09 November 2016, 14:52:32
-Please double-check your email address for typos when checking out. If you give the wrong address, I have no way to update you on the status of your order or to send tracking details when it ships.
-If you order a custom color, make sure to put color or finish you want in the checkout field.
Thanks everyone for your continued support!
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 09 November 2016, 15:35:14
Has the feet height been reduced from what is shown in the CAD picture in the IC's OP?
The height and placement of the feet bring the angle of the face to roughly the same angle of the Cooler Master cases (when those cases don't have their own flip-down feet deployed). They're approximately 15.4mm in height, but that isn't particularly informative because their placement also matters in the ultimate resulting angle.
Post by: geekzombie on Wed, 09 November 2016, 18:27:47
I assume the latter, but dont want to miss out if that's not the case.
Post by: Ashlyn on Wed, 09 November 2016, 18:31:41
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Wed, 09 November 2016, 19:06:34
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 09 November 2016, 22:30:53
Just to confirm; does this support the Quickfire Rapid, or only the Rapid-i?
I assume the latter, but dont want to miss out if that's not the case.
Sadly, the QuickFire rapid uses a different plate and thus doesn't fit in this case. The Rapid-i does, however, fit.
Post by: Dee1 on Thu, 10 November 2016, 12:02:09
Post by: mrkevint on Thu, 10 November 2016, 12:12:02
I've been following this project since the beginning and it's nice to see it come to fruition. I like how receptive you were of everyone's feedback in the final design.
I'll be ordering a case in the next couple of days. :thumb:
Post by: breitling on Thu, 10 November 2016, 12:22:25
Post by: Data on Thu, 10 November 2016, 12:32:12
Post by: mrkevint on Thu, 10 November 2016, 12:37:52
I think that a lubed and silenced Novatouch in an aluminum case would be amazing. It's a shame that the Novatouch had to be discontinued.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 10 November 2016, 14:17:49
@norbauer could you measure the distance from the egde within the case where the PCB is fixed on to the actual maximum inner bottom like
the profile below?
_
| |
| |_
| |
| | <- this depth
| |______
That dimension is 8.6mm. Hope this helps. :)
Post by: pschoen on Thu, 10 November 2016, 14:29:39
This will definitely fit!
so I just placed my order few seconds ago :D
I man i can wait for it :D This will be so delicious :P
CNC alu + Trackpoint + Gateron brown + Zealencio Clips
Thats nearly endgame :D only nice SA's are missing
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 10 November 2016, 14:30:08
Thanks for your efforts norbauer!
I've been following this project since the beginning and it's nice to see it come to fruition. I like how receptive you were of everyone's feedback in the final design.
I'll be ordering a case in the next couple of days. :thumb:
Awesome. Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement! :)
Though it was a long slog, I'm glad we took our time. The poll in particular was very helpful in guiding me along people's actual preferences. I don't know why I didn't think of that earlier.
Post by: complex on Thu, 10 November 2016, 15:48:19
Also props for the way you handled this GB and the time leading up to it. You took your time to do it properly,
which is really appreciated. :)
Can't wait to get my case.
Post by: odd on Thu, 10 November 2016, 16:40:45
ordered :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 10 November 2016, 20:22:29
Post by: stillzman on Fri, 11 November 2016, 08:18:49
Damn kinda wish I had a novatouch now! Thought of making Realforce ones? There aren't many digilog ones around and they not the best design anyway. Best of luck with this project.
I was actually just about to PM you about this, but I totally agree with that and may very well tackle RealForce cases next if this group buy turns out not to have been too much work. ;)
please make this happen!
Post by: mrkevint on Fri, 11 November 2016, 12:19:24
Just a quick update everyone. mrkevint helped me identify a bug in the shipping costs to Canada. They were previously showing as higher than they should have, but the problem should now be fixed. Thanks, mrkevint!
Thanks for quickly fixing the issue. I just placed an order!
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 11 November 2016, 15:28:25
Damn kinda wish I had a novatouch now! Thought of making Realforce ones? There aren't many digilog ones around and they not the best design anyway. Best of luck with this project.
I was actually just about to PM you about this, but I totally agree with that and may very well tackle RealForce cases next if this group buy turns out not to have been too much work. ;)
please make this happen!
Let me get through this group buy, but I'll happily turn my attention to that in the new year. I've actually already had some thoughts on how to approach the design to improve on some of the others out there and will perhaps start and IC thread soon. For now, though, my focus is Cooler Master cases. ;)
Post by: axtran on Sun, 13 November 2016, 10:16:56
Damn kinda wish I had a novatouch now! Thought of making Realforce ones? There aren't many digilog ones around and they not the best design anyway. Best of luck with this project.
I was actually just about to PM you about this, but I totally agree with that and may very well tackle RealForce cases next if this group buy turns out not to have been too much work. ;)
please make this happen!
Let me get through this group buy, but I'll happily turn my attention to that in the new year. I've actually already had some thoughts on how to approach the design to improve on some of the others out there and will perhaps start and IC thread soon. For now, though, my focus is Cooler Master cases. ;)
Exciting! I'll surely get one of those too
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Post by: complex on Sun, 13 November 2016, 13:13:04
Post by: fax668 on Sun, 13 November 2016, 15:49:02
I actually no longer have the white sample case, but I can shoot the two gray and black cases on a white background if that would be helpful.
Are you still planning to make those shots or did I overlook them in the Dropbox folder?
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 14 November 2016, 01:49:49
How thight is the fit of the micro usb cable? Will a custom cable with a connector like this http://i.imgur.com/7rj7y0d.jpg (http://i.imgur.com/7rj7y0d.jpg) fit?
I designed the USB pocket size (on the outside of the case) according to the USB spec and not according to the size of just the Cooler Master cables, so any connector that conforms to the spec should fit.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 14 November 2016, 01:51:36
I actually no longer have the white sample case, but I can shoot the two gray and black cases on a white background if that would be helpful.
Are you still planning to make those shots or did I overlook them in the Dropbox folder?
I am still planning on doing it but just haven't had the chance yet. I'm traveling right now in Seattle but will be back next week and hope to post pics by mid-week, but don't hesitate to ping me if I forget. ;)
Post by: eGamersvic on Mon, 14 November 2016, 07:50:42
I am a KB PM working at Cooler Master now.
Much appreciated it, and all CNC cases are looks awesome.
Wish you can make more cases.
Sincerely.
Post by: bubbedi on Mon, 14 November 2016, 11:11:20
[attach=1]
[attach=2]
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 15 November 2016, 03:26:26
I actually no longer have the white sample case, but I can shoot the two gray and black cases on a white background if that would be helpful.
Are you still planning to make those shots or did I overlook them in the Dropbox folder?
Just got back from Seattle and am catching up on backlog, as I will do tomorrow.
Here is a photo of the gray keyboard on a black background. I didn't have a black anodized case handy, so I just set my black Montblanc pen next to it.
Note that this is with pretty high exposure and a bright studio light, so it's going to look less light and less warm/brown in standard indoor lighting conditions. But I think this image gives a decent sense of the color, on my monitor at least.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shopify/with-pen.jpg)
Here is with the exposure not turned up quite so much, as it might look in a more normally lit room
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shopify/with-pen-2.jpg)
Post by: fax668 on Tue, 15 November 2016, 03:55:55
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 15 November 2016, 04:02:39
Thank you norbauer for making this happen. Case arrived and looking gorgeous!!
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
Wow. That was fast. I'm so happy you're pleased. :)
In case anyone is curious, btw, that is an early prototype case that bubbedi purchased from me.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 15 November 2016, 04:03:24
Hi Norbauer:
I am a KB PM working at Cooler Master now.
Much appreciated it, and all CNC cases are looks awesome.
With you can make more cases.
Sincerely.
Cool. Thanks very much. Feel free to send me a PM if you'd like to collaborate on anything.
Post by: FSund on Tue, 15 November 2016, 04:46:08
I've ordered the black one, but I'm considering switching to the warm gray (if possible, and if I can decide before the cutoff!).
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 15 November 2016, 14:31:01
What's the distribution between black/warm grey/other colors in the orders until now?
I've ordered the black one, but I'm considering switching to the warm gray (if possible, and if I can decide before the cutoff!).
What's the distribution between black/warm grey/other colors in the orders until now?
I've ordered the black one, but I'm considering switching to the warm gray (if possible, and if I can decide before the cutoff!).
Last time I looked a day or so ago, it was around 40% black and 60% gray, if you're just comparing those two options.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 15 November 2016, 21:39:11
Best links would be to this thread and/or the group buy purchase page (https://shop.norbauer.com/products/custom-cnc-aluminum-case-for-coolermaster-novatouch-rapid-i-and-masterkeys-keyboards).
Thanks!
Post by: balancebox on Tue, 15 November 2016, 21:40:04
Post by: bubbedi on Wed, 16 November 2016, 07:32:52
Wow. That was fast. I'm so happy you're pleased. :)
In case anyone is curious, btw, that is an early prototype case that bubbedi purchased from me.
Insanely fast shipping. Took 1 week and it was there, could not believe it to begin with!
I tried getting the logo into my bad quality photos, so people could see that it was the prototype. And by the way,
my photos can not justify the beauty of this case - it simply looks fantastic in person.
And THANK you for having international buyers in mind, even though shipping was pricey(but fast), the import fees was so low
because of your fixed pricetag ;) - totally worth it in the end
Post by: derzemel on Wed, 16 November 2016, 07:53:16
Say, is anybody here a member of Deskthority or any of the Korean sites? If so and you could post a link to the group buy there, that would be awesome.
Best links would be to this thread and/or the group buy purchase page (https://shop.norbauer.com/products/custom-cnc-aluminum-case-for-coolermaster-novatouch-rapid-i-and-masterkeys-keyboards).
Thanks!
Done: https://deskthority.net/group-buys-f50/cnc-aluminium-case-for-cm-tkl-boards-novatouch-rapid-i-masterkeys-t15103.html#p338611
I strongly suggest that you create an account on DT to answer questions that users may have. There are many people there that do not want to create accounts on GH or on r/mk
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 16 November 2016, 14:58:04
If I've missed any questions in the flurry above, please don't hesitate to re-post requests for info here, or email me directly using the address at the bottom of the store (http://shop.norbauer.com).
Post by: evangs on Wed, 16 November 2016, 16:00:07
Post by: pixelpusher on Wed, 16 November 2016, 16:34:10
Just under a week left. Orders are currently at less than half the survey responses, so keep 'em coming. :)
If I've missed any questions in the flurry above, please don't hesitate to re-post requests for info here, or email me directly using the address at the bottom of the store (http://shop.norbauer.com).
I plan to buy one, just wanted to wait on seeing closeup images of the production white version before I choose a color
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 17 November 2016, 02:31:45
I plan to buy one, just wanted to wait on seeing closeup images of the production white version before I choose a color
I don't think I'm going to be able to take pics of a white powder coat sample before the end of the group buy. I do have a blue powder coated prototype. Everything will be the same except the color. Will that work? Were there any particular features you wanted me to photograph?
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Thu, 17 November 2016, 05:18:25
Post by: FSund on Thu, 17 November 2016, 06:35:15
I made a post on about the group buy on reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5df9as/buying_custom_cnc_aluminum_cases_for_cooler/I also made one a couple of days ago, but I don't think this can get too much publicity: https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5c85bj/buying_norbauers_group_buy_for_custom_cnc/
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 17 November 2016, 08:05:47
I plan to buy one, just wanted to wait on seeing closeup images of the production white version before I choose a color
I don't think I'm going to be able to take pics of a white powder coat sample before the end of the group buy. I do have a blue powder coated prototype. Everything will be the same except the color. Will that work? Were there any particular features you wanted me to photograph?
I wanted to see a closeup of the seem and the bevel on the corners after the powder coat was applied. Blue would work for me :)
Post by: ramnes on Thu, 17 November 2016, 13:10:46
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 17 November 2016, 13:22:28
Post by: arcsay on Thu, 17 November 2016, 13:23:24
OMG I cannot choose a color and it's killing me. I have always wanted a white case, but I really feel that a clear anodized finish would be a better backdrop for any keycap set down the road. :blank:
Haha I thought the same thing, but I am taking a shot for the White Case. So fresh and clean.
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 17 November 2016, 14:07:33
I left a note on the order, but you can just hold on to the keyboard until the case is ready if it will save me extra shipping.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 17 November 2016, 20:22:34
I left a note on the order, but you can just hold on to the keyboard until the case is ready if it will save me extra shipping.
Of course. I'll even install it for you. :)
Do you still need the powder coat corner photo?
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 17 November 2016, 20:33:23
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 17 November 2016, 20:43:27
I left a note on the order, but you can just hold on to the keyboard until the case is ready if it will save me extra shipping.
Of course. I'll even install it for you. :)
Do you still need the powder coat corner photo?
No need for photos. Thanks
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 17 November 2016, 20:55:16
No need for photos. Thanks
Got it. Thanks. Sorry I wasn't able to get you photos of the blue one, but was traveling for business and am way behind on little tasks like this. Slowly catching up though. :)
Post by: FSund on Fri, 18 November 2016, 02:50:24
Friendly reminder: if you're ordering a custom color and want a silver finish (similar to a Macbook), please put "clear anodizing" in the order notes in your shopping cart. Thanks! :)
I see a lot of people showing interest in clear anodizing. Would it be possible to bring the price down for one or more custom colors if several people order it?
Clear anodizing is high on my list, but the extra cost is a killer for me.
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 18 November 2016, 17:50:07
Friendly reminder: if you're ordering a custom color and want a silver finish (similar to a Macbook), please put "clear anodizing" in the order notes in your shopping cart. Thanks! :)
I see a lot of people showing interest in clear anodizing. Would it be possible to bring the price down for one or more custom colors if several people order it?
Clear anodizing is high on my list, but the extra cost is a killer for me.
There hasn't been a significant number of orders of clear anodizing so far (or even custom colors in general, really), so I'm content to leave things as they are for this buy, with the top colors from the survey being our stock colors. Apologies, but it just gets too complicated trying to accommodate so many stock colors, as I have to go back and try to renegotiate pricing on everything with the factory again. As it is, it was a bit of a coup to get them to let me pay a flat fee for add-ons of non-stock colors, and I'd rather not push our luck. :)
Post by: Puree on Sun, 20 November 2016, 10:46:44
Thanks :thumb:
Post by: pixelpusher on Sun, 20 November 2016, 13:27:54
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 20 November 2016, 16:28:06
This showed up in my FB feed today. Interesting. :)
Yup, I figured I'd play with Facebook ads. I've never used them before and this is the first occasion I had to play with them. It basically just magically figures out people who have already visited the site and shows them a reminder on Facebook. I know from previous experience that as soon as the group buy is over, I'll get a flood of emails from people who are sad that they just missed it by a few hours or whatever and want me to add them in. I was hoping that helping to remind people in this way would minimize that. But we'll see. ;) Anyway, it only costs a few dollars, so I figured what the heck.
Post by: pixelpusher on Sun, 20 November 2016, 16:47:01
Post by: poolside on Sun, 20 November 2016, 17:49:03
Decisions are hard. The gray case looks so sharp donning the Galaxy set but custom white cases don't come around often. If only white could be an option for anodization.
Post by: Troif on Sun, 20 November 2016, 18:37:26
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Post by: norbauer on Sun, 20 November 2016, 18:57:24
Don't leave without me! :)
Decisions are hard. The gray case looks so sharp donning the Galaxy set but custom white cases don't come around often. If only white could be an option for anodization.
I wish the same! Unfortunately, this is a technical limitation of anodization and not an aesthetic choice on my part. If we had white anodizing as an option, it would definitely have been one of the stock colors.
Post by: pixelpusher on Sun, 20 November 2016, 20:04:20
Don't leave without me! :)
Decisions are hard. The gray case looks so sharp donning the Galaxy set but custom white cases don't come around often. If only white could be an option for anodization.
I had such a tough time deciding but I finally just bought the white. I figured I could always get a Tex case down the road if I wanted gray.
Post by: kokokoy on Sun, 20 November 2016, 22:19:52
This showed up in my FB feed today. Interesting. :)
Yup, I figured I'd play with Facebook ads. I've never used them before and this is the first occasion I had to play with them. It basically just magically figures out people who have already visited the site and shows them a reminder on Facebook. I know from previous experience that as soon as the group buy is over, I'll get a flood of emails from people who are sad that they just missed it by a few hours or whatever and want me to add them in. I was hoping that helping to remind people in this way would minimize that. But we'll see. ;) Anyway, it only costs a few dollars, so I figured what the heck.
That FB thing was a suprised as well. Almost "like"d it, which could have gotten me in to trouble. :)
Post by: punksinatra on Mon, 21 November 2016, 07:06:09
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Post by: punksinatra on Mon, 21 November 2016, 07:14:10
been looking all over for regular qfr and qfs cases I can't find one. I find these but they are not compatible would have bought 2 for mr quickfiresSent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 21 November 2016, 07:23:26
Post by: FSund on Mon, 21 November 2016, 07:23:50
You can ignore my inquiry I had the time just now to read previous posts. DamnConsidering the price of this case vs. the price of a qfr/qfs, why not just get a compatible CM board and the case? Are the new (compatible) boards that different from the older ones?
Post by: punksinatra on Mon, 21 November 2016, 07:28:32
maybe i'm too attached to it. And I dont think they would sell that much anymore, I don't really like to change since they are still working perfectly fine. I just wanted to freshen up how they look. Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: punksinatra on Mon, 21 November 2016, 07:30:13
Tex cases for filco boards fit QFR but the led indicators are different.
Yeah it would be weird for my qfr/qfs to have 2 not working led holes at the right side but im interested to see maybe you can pm me a link where I can information about it
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Post by: d9000 on Mon, 21 November 2016, 07:35:01
Post by: harjoat on Mon, 21 November 2016, 10:31:12
Post by: derzemel on Mon, 21 November 2016, 10:33:42
Does this work with a novatouch?Yes
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Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 21 November 2016, 10:47:23
Aargh... so on the fence about this. The case looks amazing, but I just ordered a Novatouch two days ago and haven't even received it yet. I want to make sure I'm going to like it first :-\
Well, if you don't like topre, you can always put a rapid-i or masterkeys s in it. ORDER ONE!
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 21 November 2016, 20:22:21
We've hit our MOQ, so no pressure. But I probably won't be doing another group buy for this same case, so if you're on the fence, this is your chance. :)
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 21 November 2016, 21:38:44
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 22 November 2016, 02:32:55
I'll continue to provide updates here periodically, but I'll do so more regularly by creating an email list of the people who submitted orders and messaging them directly when there is news.
Now we mostly just sit back and wait. :)
Post by: evangs on Tue, 22 November 2016, 02:34:36
Thanks everybody! We're all set now and I'll begin tallying everything up, finalizing logistics, and submitting the order to the factory in the next few days. We are currently looking at a manufacturing lead time of 40 works days (which I think includes Saturdays) from next Monday.Thanks again for running this. You da man!
I'll continue to provide updates here periodically, but I'll do so more regularly by creating an email list of the people who submitted orders and messaging them directly when there is news.
Now we mostly just sit back and wait. :)
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: Troif on Tue, 22 November 2016, 04:57:20
Thanks everybody! We're all set now and I'll begin tallying everything up, finalizing logistics, and submitting the order to the factory in the next few days. We are currently looking at a manufacturing lead time of 40 works days (which I think includes Saturdays) from next Monday.
I'll continue to provide updates here periodically, but I'll do so more regularly by creating an email list of the people who submitted orders and messaging them directly when there is news.
Now we mostly just sit back and wait. :)
Thanks Norbauer for making this possible. Now begin thinking also in the RF CNC case...
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Post by: norbauer on Tue, 22 November 2016, 05:51:00
Thanks Norbauer for making this possible. Now begin thinking also in the RF CNC case...
Ha. Yes, I'll be playing around with some potential RF designs over the holidays while we're wait for this cases in this group buy to be machined. :)
Post by: elcubismo on Tue, 22 November 2016, 16:36:07
Man I had been putting off on the purchase waiting for a nice time to break it to my wife and I was literally a day late.
Any chance you will be doing another group buy for the novatouch at some point?
Post by: poolside on Tue, 22 November 2016, 17:50:09
Friendly reminder: the group buy ends in just a few hours (midnight, PST).
We've hit our MOQ, so no pressure. But I probably won't be doing another group buy for this same case, so if you're on the fence, this is your chance. :)
Thanks! :thumb:
I eventually went with the warm gray after an intense deliberating with myself.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 22 November 2016, 19:36:03
D'oh! I missed it! Nooooo! lol
Man I had been putting off on the purchase waiting for a nice time to break it to my wife and I was literally a day late.
Any chance you will be doing another group buy for the novatouch at some point?
Sorry, there's always a few who have this experience, and I just had to pick a specific point to end the group buy. I do have a few spare prototypes, seconds, and samples that I'd be willing to sell. If you're interested, just send me a PM and I'll see what I have left.
Post by: elcubismo on Wed, 23 November 2016, 10:26:39
Post by: fax668 on Wed, 23 November 2016, 12:21:39
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 23 November 2016, 15:24:33
@norbauer, you might want to remove the "TAKING ORDERS" from the title of this topic.
Oh, good point. Thanks!
Post by: poolside on Wed, 23 November 2016, 17:06:47
Thanks! PM sent - hopefully you got it. It said the message was sent successfully but I can't see it in my sent messages.
Did you hit the checkbox labeled with "Save a copy in my outbox"?
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 23 November 2016, 18:56:41
If you're among the people who missed out and want to keep in touch for any potential future run, you can join this email list (http://eepurl.com/cnnEwr), but at this point I'm must focusing on getting this one done successfully, so no promises if there will ever be another run. :)
Thanks! PM sent - hopefully you got it. It said the message was sent successfully but I can't see it in my sent messages.
Sorry; both my GeekHack and personal inboxes are swamped at the moment, but I'm slowly working my way through the backlog. ;)
Post by: elcubismo on Thu, 24 November 2016, 13:49:21
Thanks! PM sent - hopefully you got it. It said the message was sent successfully but I can't see it in my sent messages.
Did you hit the checkbox labeled with "Save a copy in my outbox"?
It's very possible I did not lol
@Norbauer - whenever you have the time :)
Post by: Trente on Mon, 28 November 2016, 14:51:01
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 28 November 2016, 19:56:20
Sooo Regret I did not join this groupbuy and now I got a novatouch. I hope there would be another round of groupbuy or some left over even if they are B stocks.
I'm a little behind on my PMs at the moment, but feel free to PM or email me and I'll try to figure something out for you (and anyone else in a similar situation). I have a couple spare prototypes on hand now, and will likely have a very small handful of extras once the run is complete. I'll just start a list of people who missed out but wanted in. When spares become available, I will just go down the list and give priority to the people who PM'd me first.
Post by: Trente on Wed, 30 November 2016, 20:10:58
I'm a little behind on my PMs at the moment, but feel free to PM or email me and I'll try to figure something out for you (and anyone else in a similar situation). I have a couple spare prototypes on hand now, and will likely have a very small handful of extras once the run is complete. I'll just start a list of people who missed out but wanted in. When spares become available, I will just go down the list and give priority to the people who PM'd me first.
Thank you sooooo much. I had already PM you for reserving a spot.
Post by: YH YOON on Wed, 30 November 2016, 20:26:54
Expedited international (tracked, insured) 75$.....lol
i'm just waiting for
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 05 December 2016, 20:43:00
ordered 3~!!!
Expedited international (tracked, insured) 75$.....lol
i'm just waiting for
Haha. I feel your pain. I tried really hard to find ways of shipping these less expensively, but ultimately this was the best as I could do. Believe it or not, even at $75, for three of these heavy cases I believe I'm still slightly subsidizing the cost of shipping.
In other news, I've asked the factory to try to take some photos and maybe even a video during prodution, so with any luck I'll be able to share some production media here in the next few weeks before they even ship! :)
Post by: ramnes on Thu, 08 December 2016, 12:38:54
Post by: poolside on Thu, 08 December 2016, 17:49:41
I just received a Novatouch just for this case, so I'm really impatient now!
"MANUFACTURING" says the thread title; thanks for the update Norbauer :)
Post by: raymogi on Thu, 08 December 2016, 17:52:47
Post by: awhitedev on Sat, 10 December 2016, 10:10:35
I was going to put my silenced Novatouch with Pulse SA in it. I personally think SA caps sound and feel great on the NT.
Post by: pixelpusher on Sat, 10 December 2016, 11:13:20
Post by: wodan on Sat, 10 December 2016, 12:28:19
Post by: orpheo on Sat, 10 December 2016, 15:51:19
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 12 December 2016, 04:46:47
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Mon, 12 December 2016, 07:28:00
Latest update from the factory: estimated completion date is around January 7. It'll still take some time after that for the cases to make their way to me and then to be shipped out again, but we're still roughly on target. Hopefully all continues to go according to plan. :)
How many were ordered in total?
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 12 December 2016, 13:17:40
Latest update from the factory: estimated completion date is around January 7. It'll still take some time after that for the cases to make their way to me and then to be shipped out again, but we're still roughly on target. Hopefully all continues to go according to plan. :)
How many were ordered in total?
The group buy itself was just under 100. I don't know how that fares on the scale of GeekHack group buys, but it was a pretty healthy number I think, and around what the survey results predicted in the end. I know if the numbers had been much lower that the factory wouldn't have been happy with my arrangement with them allowing me to offer three colors and upgrades to one-off colors, but as it is I think they're perfectly content with the order. (Normally, most factories in China won't even talk to you if you're ordering fewer than 1000 of anything.) I've asked them to try to shoot some photos of the production process. Based on my previous experiences with this company, that will probably mean some low-quality cell phone snapshots, but better than nothing. I'll share any such media as I have it.
Thanks again everyone for helping to make this happen! It has been (and will be) a lot of work, but it has also been a lot of fun. Oh, and incidentally, too all of you who left nice comments in the "note" field of the checkout: I read them all and really appreciate it. :)
Post by: stillzman on Mon, 12 December 2016, 23:03:50
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 13 December 2016, 00:50:15
praying that a real force 87u case is still in the plans!
Early experiments are already underway! :D
Post by: FSund on Tue, 13 December 2016, 02:41:08
praying that a real force 87u case is still in the plans!
Early experiments are already underway! :D
1) There is a love/hate relationship between you and my wallet
2) I hope you will look into 88UB compatibility
Post by: ErgoSloth on Tue, 13 December 2016, 04:45:06
So what's everyone's plans for their case?
Getting hypersphere rings, a dyesub PBT ISO set (Quartz maybe, still unsure) and I'll try to place a micro inside the case and pass the output of the keyboard through it, want to make it programmable :thumb:
Post by: stillzman on Tue, 13 December 2016, 09:08:24
praying that a real force 87u case is still in the plans!
Early experiments are already underway! :D
Excellent!!
Post by: mrkevint on Tue, 13 December 2016, 09:25:23
So what's everyone's plans for their case?
I was going to put my silenced Novatouch with Pulse SA in it. I personally think SA caps sound and feel great on the NT.
Lubed and silenced Novatouch with SoWaRe key caps and the warm grey case. Very stoked!
Post by: terminallytrill on Tue, 13 December 2016, 17:32:05
Post by: arcsay on Wed, 14 December 2016, 14:53:08
If anyone in the US needed a Rapid-I Brown for $72
Also Does anyone know if I can change the springs on a Masterkeys Small without desolidering?
Post by: duynguyenle on Wed, 14 December 2016, 16:29:09
https://www.amazon.com/QuickFire-Mechanical-Keyboard-ActivLite-Technology/dp/B00JM61264/ref=sr_1_4?s=pc&ie=UTF8&qid=1481692656&sr=1-4&keywords=cm+storm+quickfire
If anyone in the US needed a Rapid-I Brown for $72
Also Does anyone know if I can change the springs on a Masterkeys Small without desolidering?
No. Not possible.
Post by: LechnerDE on Mon, 19 December 2016, 11:51:57
I just subscribed to the mailing list, I hope there will be a second round!
In case any participant of the first round has second thoughts - I'd be happy to take over an order for a white case :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Sat, 24 December 2016, 18:40:05
Post by: fax668 on Sun, 25 December 2016, 06:28:45
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Mon, 02 January 2017, 15:30:35
Post by: evangs on Mon, 02 January 2017, 16:26:35
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Post by: axtran on Tue, 03 January 2017, 00:11:33
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 03 January 2017, 04:49:30
Any chance it would be possible to add some feet to an existing order?
Possibly, once all the parts are in and counted. Which color/finish? Feel free to send me a PM and I'll add you to the waiting list I'm keeping for such things.
Post by: Lipton on Tue, 03 January 2017, 10:59:24
This is the last thing I need to finish my kit. My Honey Well key caps have shipped, I have my cord, some artisans.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 03 January 2017, 21:21:49
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/cnc-parts-at-factory.png)
Post by: evangs on Tue, 03 January 2017, 21:33:28
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Post by: pixelpusher on Tue, 03 January 2017, 22:13:38
Guess who has a birthday in February? Looks like I might get a great birthday present!
Post by: LechnerDE on Wed, 04 January 2017, 13:37:57
Don't stress yourself with shipping! I don't think anybody in this thread would be mad if things get shipped in February/March ;)
Post by: Phenix on Wed, 04 January 2017, 14:31:56
Tough I would prefer something better readable than hyperfuse....
Post by: DALExSNAIL on Wed, 04 January 2017, 14:43:38
I think I will put some SAD along with hyperfuse on it.
Tough I would prefer something better readable than hyperfuse....
Hyperfuse is pretty damn readable
Post by: Phenix on Wed, 04 January 2017, 14:44:54
Post by: clickstops on Wed, 04 January 2017, 15:47:15
Post by: eyedrop on Wed, 04 January 2017, 16:21:25
Post by: K on Wed, 04 January 2017, 16:39:12
Post by: afrokobe on Wed, 04 January 2017, 17:22:40
Post by: FSund on Thu, 05 January 2017, 00:26:19
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 06 January 2017, 13:17:18
Is there a chance for round 2? If not, could I be on the waiting list for extras/prototypes?
I've set up a mailing list that you can join here (http://norbauer.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=03bd2d8a9d2480d7fda4743d1&id=c4bbb079d4). :)
Post by: YH YOON on Sun, 08 January 2017, 20:35:20
Post by: MMKB on Sun, 08 January 2017, 20:51:43
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 08 January 2017, 20:56:25
Really clean design. Wish I could see it myself in the next meetup in the Bay Area.
I'd be happy to bring one along. Are there regular meet-ups? If so, know where I can find info on them? I moved here recently from Boston and so am not quite hooked into the keyboard scene here, but surely there must be one. ;)
Post by: Slash Emperor on Sun, 08 January 2017, 21:13:02
Really clean design. Wish I could see it myself in the next meetup in the Bay Area.
I'd be happy to bring one along. Are there regular meet-ups? If so, know where I can find info on them? I moved here recently from Boston and so am not quiet hooked into the keyboard scene here, but surely there must be one. ;)
Damn, I could've met you at a Boston meetup, but not anymore.
Post by: eksuen on Mon, 09 January 2017, 03:41:15
Really clean design. Wish I could see it myself in the next meetup in the Bay Area.
I'd be happy to bring one along. Are there regular meet-ups? If so, know where I can find info on them? I moved here recently from Boston and so am not quiet hooked into the keyboard scene here, but surely there must be one. ;)
There's one at WASD Keyboards in Fremont on the 21st, but I don't think these cases will be on hand by then.
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86371.0 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86371.0)
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 09 January 2017, 13:03:10
Really clean design. Wish I could see it myself in the next meetup in the Bay Area.
I'd be happy to bring one along. Are there regular meet-ups? If so, know where I can find info on them? I moved here recently from Boston and so am not quiet hooked into the keyboard scene here, but surely there must be one. ;)
There's one at WASD Keyboards in Fremont on the 21st, but I don't think these cases will be on hand by then.
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86371.0 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86371.0)
Oh cool. I just ordered something from WASD yesterday and noticed that they're in Fremont! There is a chance the keyboard cases might just have arrived that same week. If so, I'll certainly bring a few along, including yours, eksuen. :)
Post by: JDragon on Mon, 09 January 2017, 14:15:37
Really clean design. Wish I could see it myself in the next meetup in the Bay Area.
I'd be happy to bring one along. Are there regular meet-ups? If so, know where I can find info on them? I moved here recently from Boston and so am not quiet hooked into the keyboard scene here, but surely there must be one. ;)
There's one at WASD Keyboards in Fremont on the 21st, but I don't think these cases will be on hand by then.
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86371.0 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86371.0)
Oh cool. I just ordered something from WASD yesterday and noticed that they're in Fremont! There is a chance the keyboard cases might just have arrived that same week. If so, I'll certainly bring a few along, including yours, eksuen. :)
Could you bring mine as well if it makes it in on time? :D
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 09 January 2017, 15:25:41
Could you bring mine as well if it makes it in on time? :D
Of course!
Post by: JDragon on Mon, 09 January 2017, 15:27:09
Could you bring mine as well if it makes it in on time? :D
Of course!
Thanks, much appreciated. Crossing my fingers that the rest of the manufacturing process goes quickly. :thumb:
Post by: eksuen on Mon, 09 January 2017, 16:00:26
Oh cool. I just ordered something from WASD yesterday and noticed that they're in Fremont! There is a chance the keyboard cases might just have arrived that same week. If so, I'll certainly bring a few along, including yours, eksuen. :)
Ooh that'd be sweet. Much excite!
Post by: poolside on Mon, 09 January 2017, 16:26:07
Good news: the CNC machining is now all complete and the finishes are currently being applied (including bead blasting before pigments are added), with anodizing being the one that takes longest. The factory will get the anodized cases back on 13 January, and then the cases will be quality checked and packed (adding a few more days) and then sent to me in the USA for individual shipment to group buy participants. So I think we're roughly on track for everything. It'll be a bit of a scramble for me to get everything out the door by the end of January, but I think I can do it, or thereabouts. (Hopefully there will be no hold-ups at customs coming into the US.) Exciting stuff!Show Image(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/cnc-parts-at-factory.png)
Thanks for this update. It is always interesting to see the raw material being transformed.
Only a few more days. I am hoping for an extra picture of that wall of anodized cases before they start off their (hopefully not so) long journey across the oceans.
Post by: madhias on Tue, 17 January 2017, 04:13:51
Post by: pixelpusher on Tue, 17 January 2017, 10:12:00
Being late, but registered for another round, I wanted to ask if this case is compatible with a Rapid-Si keyboard?
It's not. Only compatible with Novatouch and Masterkeys S
Post by: wodan on Tue, 17 January 2017, 10:18:12
Being late, but registered for another round, I wanted to ask if this case is compatible with a Rapid-Si keyboard?
It's not. Only compatible with Novatouch and Masterkeys S
... a group buy for custom CNC aluminum cases for CoolerMaster Novatouch, Rapid-i, and Masterkeys TKL boards (and only those).
Post by: pixelpusher on Tue, 17 January 2017, 10:20:27
If you didn't read it in this forum it's also on the product page: https://shop.norbauer.com/products/custom-cnc-aluminum-case-for-coolermaster-novatouch-rapid-i-and-masterkeys-keyboards
Quote
These cases are custom designed to fit only the following Cooler Master "tenkeyless" models:
Novatouch TKL
Rapid-i ("small" model)
MasterKeys Pro S ("small"/"80%" layout)
Post by: madhias on Tue, 17 January 2017, 10:40:03
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 17 January 2017, 12:29:25
Hmm, I read that, but was not sure. Rapid-Si means just 'stealth', so I thought it is an Rapid-i but with other caps. Confused.
Based on photos of the keyboard, I think it would probably fit, as all the CM cases I've seen that have that chassis design also use the same plate, but I'd have to test it to be sure. The list that reececonrad posted above are the only ones where I'm confident that the plate fits inside the case because I actually tested those.
Post by: JDragon on Tue, 17 January 2017, 12:39:22
Post by: madhias on Tue, 17 January 2017, 12:47:33
Hmm, I read that, but was not sure. Rapid-Si means just 'stealth', so I thought it is an Rapid-i but with other caps. Confused.
Based on photos of the keyboard, I think it would probably fit, as all the CM cases I've seen that have that chassis design also use the same plate, but I'd have to test it to be sure. The list that reececonrad posted above are the only ones where I'm confident that the plate fits inside the case because I actually tested those.
Indeed, the case looks like the same, and I remember when I had a Novatouch it was similar if not the same with other logos.
When I measure the plate or other parts could you say that it could fit? If absolutely not I have one item less on my most wanted list :)
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 17 January 2017, 13:02:29
How's production looking? Any hope at getting it at the NorCal meetup this weekend?
I'm told that the cases are being quality checked right now and should ship before the Chinese New Year (i.e., this week). However, unless they ship tomorrow and have zero holdup at customs, they probably will just narrowly miss the meet-up, unfortunately. =\ Most probably, they'll arrive to me early or middle of next week.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 17 January 2017, 13:03:44
When I measure the plate or other parts could you say that it could fit?
Could you maybe post a pic of the underside of the plate and the USB cable that lives on the interior of the case? That should probably be enough for me to be able to say.
Post by: eksuen on Tue, 17 January 2017, 13:44:38
How's production looking? Any hope at getting it at the NorCal meetup this weekend?
I'm told that the cases are being quality checked right now and should ship before the Chinese New Year (i.e., this week). However, unless they ship tomorrow and have zero holdup at customs, they probably will just narrowly miss the meet-up, unfortunately. =\ Most probably, they'll arrive to me early or middle of next week.
Oh well. There will be more meetups to be had so there's always next time.
Post by: JDragon on Tue, 17 January 2017, 13:49:18
How's production looking? Any hope at getting it at the NorCal meetup this weekend?
I'm told that the cases are being quality checked right now and should ship before the Chinese New Year (i.e., this week). However, unless they ship tomorrow and have zero holdup at customs, they probably will just narrowly miss the meet-up, unfortunately. =\ Most probably, they'll arrive to me early or middle of next week.
Ah darn, good to hear we're clearing CNY though. Will just have to be patient a little while longer. :)
Post by: MMKB on Tue, 17 January 2017, 20:21:35
How's production looking? Any hope at getting it at the NorCal meetup this weekend?
I'm told that the cases are being quality checked right now and should ship before the Chinese New Year (i.e., this week). However, unless they ship tomorrow and have zero holdup at customs, they probably will just narrowly miss the meet-up, unfortunately. =\ Most probably, they'll arrive to me early or middle of next week.
Would love to see even just the prototype in the meet-up. ;D
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 18 January 2017, 13:32:04
Would love to see even just the prototype in the meet-up. ;D
Absolutely. I'll bring everything I have. :)
Post by: ramnes on Thu, 19 January 2017, 14:13:16
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 19 January 2017, 14:30:24
Each day without you posting, Ryan, is a very tough day.
Ha. Well, I'm happy to report that the cases are done as of yesterday and are being sent to the freight forwarder for shipment to me via courier, most likely departing today or tomorrow.
The phone-camera photos the factory sent aren't exactly fine photography, but as a teaser here is what a bunch of riser feet looks like. :)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/risers-at-factory.png)
I'll take better photos of the huge pile of cases (a concept that for some reason I find satisfying) when it arrives to me.
Post by: LechnerDE on Thu, 19 January 2017, 14:31:47
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 19 January 2017, 16:05:24
Mine is white and I don't see any, but I suppose white is white, right?
Thanks for the update.
So we're still looking at maybe getting these around the first week of Feb (around my birthday)? You remembered to mark my birthday on your calendar, right?
P.S. Don't forget to include that liberated Masterkeys I bought. Even though I would totally pretend to type on it for hours even if it was just a beautiful empty case :)
Post by: K on Thu, 19 January 2017, 18:50:03
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 19 January 2017, 21:18:49
Oh there are gonna be 50 of these with the Novatouch on Originative for sale and the pricing is pretty decent at $375 so if any of you guys missed out I would spam check their website tomorrow https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5p0dff/novatouch_tkl_cnc_alu_case/ (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5p0dff/novatouch_tkl_cnc_alu_case/). Wondering how they are gonna manage to modify and ship all the keyboards out by next week if these cases haven't even arrived at Norbauer's. :confused:
I'm not sure what their plans are exactly, but it's actually possible in terms of timeline because I had Originative's order of cases sent directly to them in LA, bypassing me entirely. ;D
As I've discussed with many of you via PM and email, for those who missed out and don't necessarily want to buy a Novatouch with it as part of the Originative deal, I'll very likely be doing a second run if everything comes off well when this one is done. My idea is I can maybe do a new Realforce case design and batch the two together to help us get a good price again even if the r2 numbers aren't as big as the r1, which they almost certainly wouldn't be. But, again, my focus for the moment is just getting these to me and then out the door again.
But, anyway, yeah, if you missed r1 and want a ready-built case with keyboard—and fast—Originative is definitely the place to go. :)
Post by: consolelog on Thu, 19 January 2017, 21:22:33
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 19 January 2017, 21:31:42
So excited! What did the color breakdown end up being?
I'm not in front of my spreadsheet at the moment, but I know warm gray was the big winner, followed closely by black, with white a very distant third. :) A surprisingly large number of people also opted for custom colors: blue, green, and silver/clear. For my part, I decided to splurge to and got one in faux copper finish; I'm very eager to show how that turned out—will post pics. :cool:
Post by: davisthegreat on Thu, 19 January 2017, 21:35:18
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 19 January 2017, 22:47:04
Please put me on the list for R2.. i have a Zealio filled QFR-i and a metal case would make it perfect. Maybe even Endgame... maybe
The list can be joined here:
http://norbauer.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=03bd2d8a9d2480d7fda4743d1&id=c4bbb079d4
:D
Post by: clickstops on Fri, 20 January 2017, 00:39:39
For my part, I decided to splurge to and got one in faux copper finish; I'm very eager to show how that turned out—will post pics. :cool:
That sounds excellent. Can't wait to see all of them.
Post by: K on Fri, 20 January 2017, 05:12:15
So excited! What did the color breakdown end up being?
I'm not in front of my spreadsheet at the moment, but I know warm gray was the big winner, followed closely by black, with white a very distant third. :) A surprisingly large number of people also opted for custom colors: blue, green, and silver/clear. For my part, I decided to splurge to and got one in faux copper finish; I'm very eager to show how that turned out—will post pics. :cool:
However that would be very skewed because of Originative's orders right as they did 50 in warm grey which was pretty much half of the entire groupbuy if I remember right? I reckon for R2 it would be a good idea to get the most popular custom colour (silver probably) and replace maybe white or black as a standard option as if lots of people are willing to pay the premium for the custom colour in R1 it makes sense that it would be more popular as a standard cheaper colour and encourage some people who skipped the R1 because of the lack of the color they wanted. Might help a round 2 reach MOQ as i'd imagine with Novatouches being out of production that much of the demand has died down.
Post by: Phenix on Fri, 20 January 2017, 07:58:40
Eager on seeing green (please let it be an dark green) and Blue case (Mopar blue could look nice)
Post by: Slash Emperor on Fri, 20 January 2017, 09:02:57
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 20 January 2017, 11:11:58
However that would be very skewed because of Originative's orders right as they did 50 in warm grey which was pretty much half of the entire groupbuy if I remember right? I reckon for R2 it would be a good idea to get the most popular custom colour (silver probably) and replace maybe white or black as a standard option as if lots of people are willing to pay the premium for the custom colour in R1 it makes sense that it would be more popular as a standard cheaper colour and encourage some people who skipped the R1 because of the lack of the color they wanted. Might help a round 2 reach MOQ as i'd imagine with Novatouches being out of production that much of the demand has died down.
Valid points, but still too much for me to think about right now. :rolleyes: For whatever it's worth, however, Originative got its own custom color of gray. It is less warm and darker than the warm gray, sort of like a dark gunmetal. I imagine they'll have photos up soon once the cases arrive.
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 20 January 2017, 11:14:45
Are the Enigma Black orders still on track to be fulfilled a month after the other orders?
Since I haven't quite yet started the hard part on those, on track would perhaps not be the most accurate word to use, but that rough timeline is still my goal. Basically, for the wrinkle coat customs I just ordered raw unfinished cases from the manufacturer. Once those arrive to me here I'm going to drive them around to various powder coating places in the Bay Area until I find one willing to do them with a wrinkle black finish. So at this point I can't really promise a specific lead time, but hopefully it won't take more than a month or so. It depends on 1) how long it takes me to get quotes and 2) what the lead times are at the various powder shops.
Post by: poolside on Fri, 20 January 2017, 13:51:35
Oh there are gonna be 50 of these with the Novatouch on Originative for sale and the pricing is pretty decent at $375 so if any of you guys missed out I would spam check their website tomorrow https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5p0dff/novatouch_tkl_cnc_alu_case/ (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5p0dff/novatouch_tkl_cnc_alu_case/). Wondering how they are gonna manage to modify and ship all the keyboards out by next week if these cases haven't even arrived at Norbauer's. :confused:
Their listing says "DIY" and the newsletter mentioned the inclusion of the original NT packaging. Seems like they will save some time not doing the case swap.
Post by: sherryton on Fri, 20 January 2017, 13:57:03
However that would be very skewed because of Originative's orders right as they did 50 in warm grey which was pretty much half of the entire groupbuy if I remember right? I reckon for R2 it would be a good idea to get the most popular custom colour (silver probably) and replace maybe white or black as a standard option as if lots of people are willing to pay the premium for the custom colour in R1 it makes sense that it would be more popular as a standard cheaper colour and encourage some people who skipped the R1 because of the lack of the color they wanted. Might help a round 2 reach MOQ as i'd imagine with Novatouches being out of production that much of the demand has died down.
Valid points, but still too much for me to think about right now. :rolleyes: For whatever it's worth, however, Originative got its own custom color of gray. It is less warm and darker than the warm gray, sort of like a dark gunmetal. I imagine they'll have photos up soon once the cases arrive.
This was my mistake. People were asking me if we had warm grey coming in. We have a dark grey coming in, and it will not be the same one offered through this group buy.
Post by: testplsignore on Sun, 22 January 2017, 03:15:44
Unlike the HHKB it's plate mounted like the NT and other Realforce boards so it should be the same difficulty in terms of manufacturing.
An FC980C case would be awesome too but as it was just released there might not be enough in the wild yet.
Post by: superpiya on Sun, 22 January 2017, 04:24:58
Joined the mailing list btw, count me in for R2 :thumb:
Post by: poolside on Sun, 22 January 2017, 13:35:21
Hey Norbauer, have you considered doing an FC660C case for R2?
Unlike the HHKB it's plate mounted like the NT and other Realforce boards so it should be the same difficulty in terms of manufacturing.
I second that, a 660C case would be great. There might currently be more 87U Realforces than 660C boards out there, though.
Post by: JDragon on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:36:37
Post by: eksuen on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:43:29
EDIT: added a second photo.
(http://i.imgur.com/dpr3jXO.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/INAvjH9.jpg)
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:57:23
EDIT: added a second photo.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/INAvjH9.jpg)
What is that open switch board with the blue arrow keys? That looks sexy
Post by: eksuen on Mon, 23 January 2017, 12:59:15
EDIT: added a second photo.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/INAvjH9.jpg)
What is that open switch board with the blue arrow keys? That looks sexy
That's a WhiteFox with DSA Granite. https://input.club/whitefox/ (https://input.club/whitefox/) https://www.massdrop.com/buy/the-whitefox-keyboard (https://www.massdrop.com/buy/the-whitefox-keyboard)
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 23 January 2017, 13:04:10
The latest news is that the cases have cleared customs in China and were last seen in Hong Kong, presumably ready for the trans-Atlantic flight. I expect to get them in the next couple of days—barring any hold-up on the US customs side. There is a literal mountain of packing materials in my guest room waiting for them. :rolleyes:
Post by: Phenix on Mon, 23 January 2017, 13:41:27
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Mon, 23 January 2017, 14:15:51
Post by: nurbs on Mon, 23 January 2017, 22:19:26
The blue case is really nice in person. I couldn't quite capture the beauty of the case in a photo, but here's a pic for what it's worth. This not 100% color accurate.
EDIT: added a second photo.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/dpr3jXO.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/INAvjH9.jpg)
You've captured it fine! That looks amazing.
Post by: consolelog on Mon, 23 January 2017, 23:05:15
Well thats a bummer... looks like paying the extra premium for a silver case wasn't that worth it.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 23 January 2017, 23:45:11
https://www.originativeco.com/products/novatouch-alucase?variant=25368557968
Well thats a bummer... looks like paying the extra premium for a silver case wasn't that worth it.
If it makes you feel any better, Originative paid for their non-standard colors on a per-color basis as well. That you selected one of the same colors just means you share their excellent taste. ;) Of course, it also means you didn't have to buy a bundled Novatouch.
For whatever it's worth.
Post by: ihalatch on Mon, 23 January 2017, 23:49:26
https://www.originativeco.com/products/novatouch-alucase?variant=25368557968
Well thats a bummer... looks like paying the extra premium for a silver case wasn't that worth it.
Yeah I bought a silver one from originativeco yesterday. Damn, when is the next GB round? I have a powerful desire for the dark blue case!!!
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Tue, 24 January 2017, 05:38:18
Post by: ErgoSloth on Tue, 24 January 2017, 07:39:16
The blue case is really nice in person. I couldn't quite capture the beauty of the case in a photo, but here's a pic for what it's worth. This not 100% color accurate.
EDIT: added a second photo.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/dpr3jXO.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/INAvjH9.jpg)
That looks GORGEOUS :eek:
Galaxy Class set too, I need to get me one of those for my warm gray case like in the pics ;)
Post by: awhitedev on Tue, 24 January 2017, 07:58:05
Only a few weeks until cases start arriving to buyers. Anything we should know about the process of swapping the case? Guessing you've opened up a few of these by now.
There's four screws on the bottom of the keyboard holding the top cover in place. Note that one of the screws is under the Novatouch sticker. Once you remove those and separate the top from the bottom, there's two smaller screws holding the USB port to the bottom tray. Remove those and the guts of the keyboard should come right out.
Post by: testplsignore on Tue, 24 January 2017, 07:59:19
The blue case is really nice in person. I couldn't quite capture the beauty of the case in a photo, but here's a pic for what it's worth. This not 100% color accurate.
EDIT: added a second photo.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/dpr3jXO.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/INAvjH9.jpg)
That looks GORGEOUS :eek:
Galaxy Class set too, I need to get me one of those for my warm gray case like in the pics ;)
What Pantone match is that?
I may have missed out on this GB, I NEED that for my Realforce in R2 :p
Post by: E3E on Tue, 24 January 2017, 08:26:15
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 24 January 2017, 09:32:39
Only a few weeks until cases start arriving to buyers. Anything we should know about the process of swapping the case? Guessing you've opened up a few of these by now.
There's four screws on the bottom of the keyboard holding the top cover in place. Note that one of the screws is under the Novatouch sticker. Once you remove those and separate the top from the bottom, there's two smaller screws holding the USB port to the bottom tray. Remove those and the guts of the keyboard should come right out.
I've been hoping to write up some instructions to post with photos, but this pretty much sums it up. The only additional point I'd make is that the two halves of the case are pretty well locked together via plastic tabs and depressions that seat inside of each other, so I always have to use one or two big flat-head screwdrivers (or other type of wedge) to get the case open. I actually generally find two of these to be an extremely useful tool in general for wedging and prying open plastic housings without marring the case itself as metal screwdrivers can sometimes do: http://amzn.to/2jaeBX5
Also, yes, it took me a while to figure out that one of the screws on the bottom of the case is always hidden under sticker. I think one of the cases (the Masterkeys maybe?) actually had two of these. So if the case isn't budging open at all, hunt around under the stickers on the bottom of the case; you've probably missed a screw.
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Tue, 24 January 2017, 09:56:58
Only a few weeks until cases start arriving to buyers. Anything we should know about the process of swapping the case? Guessing you've opened up a few of these by now.
There's four screws on the bottom of the keyboard holding the top cover in place. Note that one of the screws is under the Novatouch sticker. Once you remove those and separate the top from the bottom, there's two smaller screws holding the USB port to the bottom tray. Remove those and the guts of the keyboard should come right out.
I've been hoping to write up some instructions to post with photos, but this pretty much sums it up. The only additional point I'd make is that the two halves of the case are pretty well locked together via plastic tabs and depressions that seat inside of each other, so I always have to use one or two big flat-head screwdrivers (or other type of wedge) to get the case open. Also, yes, it took me a while to figure out that one of the screws on the bottom of the case is always hidden under sticker. I think one of the cases (the Masterkeys maybe?) actually had two of these. So if the case isn't budging open at all, hunt around under the stickers on the bottom of the case; you've probably missed a screw.
That would be cool. I would imagine someone might be able to damage those plastic tabs on the original case or even the usb connector on the PCB if they did not know what they were doing and opened it up incorrectly/recklessly. But reading your posts and looking at some teardowns it seems pretty self explanatory, doubt someone will mess it up.
Also, do you know what pantone color originativeco.com used for their dark grey version? I ordered a custom grey for myself (7540 C) so I'm curious.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 24 January 2017, 10:08:40
Also, do you know what pantone color originativeco.com used for their dark grey version? I ordered a custom grey for myself (7540 C) so I'm curious.
The "dark gray" ended up being "Cool Gray 11C," which is actually almost identical to 7540C.
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Tue, 24 January 2017, 10:37:36
Also, do you know what pantone color originativeco.com used for their dark grey version? I ordered a custom grey for myself (7540 C) so I'm curious.
The "dark gray" ended up being "Cool Gray 11C," which is actually almost identical to 7540C.
Yeah they are indeed very close, mine is just a touch darker. Cool, that should give me an idea of how mine ended up once they post actual pictures of theirs. Thanks.
Post by: nurbs on Tue, 24 January 2017, 19:23:47
So far it seems more "pingy" than the trademark "thocky" sound a topre switch makes (sorry but that is as close as I can describe it):
Only two vids I have found on youtube showing a sound test with what looks like OEM/Cherry keycaps:
Here is a sample of some Topres with a silenced hypersphere NT (and plastic OEM case) and SA keycaps comparison:
Here is another with a NT and Carbon SA with stock case (and no hyperspheres) along with a HHKB:
Would modding the aluminum case with drawer liners or some kind of foam padding to dampen the ping help? (along with some hyperspheres of course).
Post by: E3E on Tue, 24 January 2017, 21:28:41
My Orion and Mira have a sound that's not as deep as you'd hear from typing on an an Alps SKCM Blue board in a vintage plastic case. Very resonant with all that extra space too. It also, of course, depends on the typing surface as well. Some sounds get deadened. My desk has a mat over it, so you don't hear the impacts of the keypresses against the desk much at all.
Post by: nurbs on Wed, 25 January 2017, 05:47:43
I think that's the nature of the housing itself. Plastic tends to give a deeper kind of thock, even in old Alps boards, compared to a solid piece of aluminum or even a metal-backed vintage board. My metal-backed boards have a shallower sound, but also a crisper sound too.
My Orion and Mira have a sound that's not as deep as you'd hear from typing on an an Alps SKCM Blue board in a vintage plastic case. Very resonant with all that extra space too. It also, of course, depends on the typing surface as well. Some sounds get deadened. My desk has a mat over it, so you don't hear the impacts of the keypresses against the desk much at all.
That's certainly true. I own three aluminum keyboard cases (two TKLs and a 60%) and have dampened their high pitched "pings" with foam liners.
This aluminum housing was originally created with a Topre board in mind (the Novatouch). For many, the appeal of Topre is the feel and the acoustics of the switches. If putting an aluminum housing negates that thocky sound, then it loses its "topre-ness".
With that said, there is an aluminum case for the Realforce called the Digilog. Youtube videos for this housing do not seem to have hampered its "thockyness". I wonder if it is partly how the interior shape of the case is designed - like the innards of a violin or a cello or any stringed instrument.
I am in no way being critical of Norbauer's design - just bringing this up for thoughtful discussion. I love aluminum cases and have ordered one as well :thumb:
Post by: madhias on Wed, 25 January 2017, 06:50:16
When I measure the plate or other parts could you say that it could fit?
Could you maybe post a pic of the underside of the plate and the USB cable that lives on the interior of the case? That should probably be enough for me to be able to say.
Does this picture help?
(http://i.imgur.com/qPU9wIp.jpg)
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 25 January 2017, 11:15:26
When I measure the plate or other parts could you say that it could fit?
Could you maybe post a pic of the underside of the plate and the USB cable that lives on the interior of the case? That should probably be enough for me to be able to say.
Does this picture help?Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/qPU9wIp.jpg)
Absolutely; thanks! Looks identical to me to the Rapid-i to me. Even though I haven't personally tested it, looks like we should probably add Rapid-Si to the list of keyboards that this case fits.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 25 January 2017, 11:17:30
Post by: Slash Emperor on Wed, 25 January 2017, 12:24:54
Incidentally, the keyboard cases are currently in Los Angeles waiting for customs processing. Apparently a lot of factories try to rush stuff out the door right before the long Chinese New Year factory closings in China, so customs here in the US is a bit backed up. I'll continue to provide updates as I have them.
Yep, customs in China can also get backed thanks to factories rushing to get stuff on the water before CNY. Happened with one of my ocean shipments, Chinese customs delays made the container miss it's boat, unfortunately.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 26 January 2017, 20:51:53
Incidentally, the keyboard cases are currently in Los Angeles waiting for customs processing. Apparently a lot of factories try to rush stuff out the door right before the long Chinese New Year factory closings in China, so customs here in the US is a bit backed up. I'll continue to provide updates as I have them.
Yep, customs in China can also get backed thanks to factories rushing to get stuff on the water before CNY. Happened with one of my ocean shipments, Chinese customs delays made the container miss it's boat, unfortunately.
Yes, unfortunately I continue to await for the shipment to emerge from customs. I spoke with DHL today and they said that there is no particular reason to be concerned; the shipment is in Los Angeles, has gone through an initial round of inspection, and just awaiting final customs processing. DHL is at the mercy of the Department of Homeland Security to finish these inspections in a timely manner, so who knows how long it will take. I'll continue to try to be patient. :rolleyes:
Post by: Panzerhawx on Thu, 26 January 2017, 21:21:21
Hey Norbauer, have you considered doing an FC660C case for R2?
Unlike the HHKB it's plate mounted like the NT and other Realforce boards so it should be the same difficulty in terms of manufacturing.
I second that, a 660C case would be great. There might currently be more 87U Realforces than 660C boards out there, though.
I would also be in for a 660C case. There has been a lot of complaints about how the FC660M alu case on MD does NOT fit the 660C, due to a slightly shifted USB port cutout.
Post by: pixelpusher on Fri, 27 January 2017, 09:25:45
Hey Norbauer, have you considered doing an FC660C case for R2?
Unlike the HHKB it's plate mounted like the NT and other Realforce boards so it should be the same difficulty in terms of manufacturing.
I second that, a 660C case would be great. There might currently be more 87U Realforces than 660C boards out there, though.
I would also be in for a 660C case. There has been a lot of complaints about how the FC660M alu case on MD does NOT fit the 660C, due to a slightly shifted USB port cutout.
If he did run one, I wonder if you could drop a clueboard 66% into it still? Would be nice to have a 66% or 68% fully programmable in a nice aluminum case. I guess the plate for the clueboard and MD case are probably meant to fit together, so maybe not.
Post by: pixelpusher on Fri, 27 January 2017, 23:09:18
Bring on round 2!
Post by: ramnes on Sat, 28 January 2017, 13:22:45
Post by: odd on Sat, 28 January 2017, 17:49:40
Hey Norbauer, have you considered doing an FC660C case for R2?
Unlike the HHKB it's plate mounted like the NT and other Realforce boards so it should be the same difficulty in terms of manufacturing.
I second that, a 660C case would be great. There might currently be more 87U Realforces than 660C boards out there, though.
I would also be in for a 660C case. There has been a lot of complaints about how the FC660M alu case on MD does NOT fit the 660C, due to a slightly shifted USB port cutout.
If he did run one, I wonder if you could drop a clueboard 66% into it still? Would be nice to have a 66% or 68% fully programmable in a nice aluminum case. I guess the plate for the clueboard and MD case are probably meant to fit together, so maybe not.
The plate does fit the 660M alu case, in fact I am typing on it right now.
Post by: afrokobe on Sat, 28 January 2017, 21:33:24
Post by: pexon on Sun, 29 January 2017, 12:35:27
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 29 January 2017, 12:45:54
Will there be a round 2 anytime soon?
Enough people have emailed to ask me to do so that a swift round 2 is currently my plan, but I want to focus on getting this one done first before committing to anything. :) Join the following list, if you'd like, and you'll be among the first to know.
http://norbauer.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=03bd2d8a9d2480d7fda4743d1&id=c4bbb079d4
I now have the cases and so far everything looks good. More updates soon. :)
Post by: fax668 on Sun, 29 January 2017, 12:52:35
Just ship them abroad soon before the borders get closed! :cool:
Post by: ramnes on Sun, 29 January 2017, 15:22:39
Will there be a round 2 anytime soon?
Enough people have emailed to ask me to do so that a swift round 2 is currently my plan, but I want to focus on getting this one done first before committing to anything. :) Join the following list, if you'd like, and you'll be among the first to know.
http://norbauer.us7.list-manage.com/subscribe?u=03bd2d8a9d2480d7fda4743d1&id=c4bbb079d4
I now have the cases and so far everything looks good. More updates soon. :)
PICS PLS
for our mental health
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 30 January 2017, 00:29:36
Post by: axtran on Mon, 30 January 2017, 01:00:10
Haha. I'll have pics tomorrow, guys. I've been working all day unwrapping, re-wrapping, taping together boxes, etc. First cases should go out later this week and I expect most everything to be out the door by the following week.
This is such exciting news! :D
Post by: LechnerDE on Mon, 30 January 2017, 13:12:18
Haha. I'll have pics tomorrow, guys. I've been working all day unwrapping, re-wrapping, taping together boxes, etc. First cases should go out later this week and I expect most everything to be out the door by the following week.
Can't wait to see those glorious piles of cases :p
Thanks for all your hard work on this GB :thumb:
Post by: EugeneYap83 on Tue, 31 January 2017, 07:25:26
I'm eagerly waiting.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 31 January 2017, 15:07:57
Still hard at work. :)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shipping/novatouch-6.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shipping/novatouch-2.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shipping/novatouch-8.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shipping/novatouch-7.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shipping/novatouch-4.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/shipping/novatouch-1.jpg)
Post by: cynviloq on Tue, 31 January 2017, 15:10:45
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Tue, 31 January 2017, 15:57:22
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 31 January 2017, 16:03:09
Are there two types of feet? looks like it in those images
No. Some are just pushed more deeply into the foam than others in that photo.
Post by: LechnerDE on Tue, 31 January 2017, 16:22:52
:p
Post by: poolside on Tue, 31 January 2017, 16:41:29
From the side in that bubble-wrap, the cases look boring. All spread out under the light, they look nice and sharp however. :)
Post by: K on Tue, 31 January 2017, 16:43:58
Post by: poolside on Tue, 31 January 2017, 16:54:07
Oh wow so hyped for these to arrive! I see that some of the cases and riser feet are black I thought that you were going to go around to local companies to get the blacks done later? Or are they some sort of very dark grey can't tell. Anyway great job they look amazing in the pictures. :thumb:
Black was one of the standard colors offered. The particular black color you mean was the Enigma black.
Post by: zah on Tue, 31 January 2017, 19:07:35
Post by: kokokoy on Tue, 31 January 2017, 19:59:44
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 31 January 2017, 21:37:27
Thanks!
Post by: nurbs on Tue, 31 January 2017, 21:50:22
Post by: eyedrop on Wed, 01 February 2017, 01:37:22
Post by: ramnes on Wed, 01 February 2017, 05:03:20
Post by: clickstops on Wed, 01 February 2017, 13:07:14
Post by: eksuen on Wed, 01 February 2017, 23:39:40
Just a note on the screw-in feet. The threading was a little loose on mine, but wrapping the screw with Scotch tape and then screwing it in fixed it.
My pics do not come close to doing the case justice and TA is difficult to capture without natural lighting, but for what it's worth:
(http://i.imgur.com/CMcCdyv.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/DmsFGSz.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/viZ7EO2.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/gc5wQeo.jpg)
Post by: pixelpusher on Wed, 01 February 2017, 23:43:31
Post by: kokokoy on Thu, 02 February 2017, 04:36:21
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 02 February 2017, 12:42:38
Just a note on the screw-in feet. The threading was a little loose on mine, but wrapping the screw with Scotch tape and then screwing it in fixed it.
I noticed that too. This is because we have very little thickness to work with on the bottom of the case due to my efforts to keep the overall profile of the case reasonably light and thin. Because the riser stems incorporate the relief groove that is necessary to machine a thread properly onto a rod, there isn't very much length left for thread engagement, which can make the fit a bit loose and cause some play of the riser in its hole. I recommend your solution of a bit of tape, or a little spritz of Loctite, to anyone who wants a tighter fit. For whatever it's worth, I noticed that this is less of an issue on the anodized cases due to the added thickness of the anodizing process (the powder coated cases were meticulously masked to keep tight fits between mating mechanical surfaces, with powder coat only added to the exterior faces, meaning that on those cases the aluminum riser feet stems are not coated beyond the bare machined metal.)
Post by: Slash Emperor on Thu, 02 February 2017, 13:29:25
I think I forgot to order riser feet for my case and I'm kicking myself.
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 02 February 2017, 14:09:09
Silly question, but do these cases work with the other screw-in feet that you see for keyboard kits and other cases?
I think I forgot to order riser feet for my case and I'm kicking myself.
That's a good question. eksuen pointed out to me last night that those feet commonly don't have a stem on them like mine but rather have a threaded hole into which a screw inserts from the interior of the case. So it would really depend on the size of the screw that the hole accepts. If you have feet where that screw is less than 4.4mm in diameter, they might very well work, but I haven't tested this and didn't explicitly design around that problem, as I couldn't get good specs on any "standard" feet during the IC thread. If folks can give me details on how these other feet work, I'd be happy to make a modification for next time around to accept them with a greater degree of certainty.
Also, if you missed out on ordering riser feet, you can always do so in round 2. I plan to offer those separately from the cases since several people have now made that request
Post by: LechnerDE on Thu, 02 February 2017, 14:15:44
Can't wait to receive my own white case and experiment with different keycap sets :thumb:
Post by: Slash Emperor on Thu, 02 February 2017, 14:15:48
Silly question, but do these cases work with the other screw-in feet that you see for keyboard kits and other cases?
I think I forgot to order riser feet for my case and I'm kicking myself.
That's a good question. eksuen pointed out to me last night that those feet commonly don't have a stem on them like mine but rather have a threaded hole into which a screw inserts from the interior of the case. So it would really depend on the size of the screw that the hole accepts. If you have feet where that screw is less than 4.4mm in diameter, they might very well work, but I haven't tested this and didn't explicitly design around that problem, as I couldn't get good specs on any "standard" feet during the IC thread. If folks can give me details on how these other feet work, I'd be happy to make a modification for next time around to accept them with a greater degree of certainty.
Also, if you missed out on ordering riser feet, you can always do so in round 2. I plan to offer those separately from the cases since several people have now made that request
Thanks, I'll keep the riser feet option in R2 in mind. I'll be interested in seeing others report on trying other feet with this case. I don't know if it's just me, but the riser feet seem taller than the average aluminum feet, might be because they're not as widely flared out as other feet.
Post by: poolside on Thu, 02 February 2017, 14:22:14
I picked up my case today. As far as I know, this is the first one out in the wild! :p These cases turned out AMAZINGLY well, and whoever got the green one is going to love it because holy **** it looks lovely. I will definitely be getting a green one come R2.
Just a note on the screw-in feet. The threading was a little loose on mine, but wrapping the screw with Scotch tape and then screwing it in fixed it.
My pics do not come close to doing the case justice and TA is difficult to capture without natural lighting, but for what it's worth:Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/CMcCdyv.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/DmsFGSz.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/viZ7EO2.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/gc5wQeo.jpg)
Nice pictures. We need more!
And the NT finally gets the case it deserves, looking like a beautiful aluminum custom. If only it had a winkeyless bottom row option.
Post by: eksuen on Thu, 02 February 2017, 15:59:04
Great pics eksuen!
Can't wait to receive my own white case and experiment with different keycap sets :thumb:
Nice pictures. We need more!
And the NT finally gets the case it deserves, looking like a beautiful aluminum custom. If only it had a winkeyless bottom row option.
I'll try to take some more today or tomorrow. My inspiration for getting a white case came after I put Carbon SA on my white KUL. I liked the way the cream/enamel/off-white of the Carbon set paired with a white case. I'll put GMK Carbon on the Novatouch and do a side by side comparison.
Post by: afrokobe on Thu, 02 February 2017, 16:51:01
Post by: cynviloq on Thu, 02 February 2017, 18:14:12
Special guest: RAMA WAVE
(http://i.imgur.com/as5SCMr.jpg)
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 02 February 2017, 18:31:28
Here's a pic with some temperature adjustment done to better reflect what the OCo grey looks like in person under white light. The weight on this case is amazing.
Special guest: RAMA WAVEShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/as5SCMr.jpg)
How different is the gray from the warm gray in the GB? Is the OCO still pretty warm? I expected a much darker cooler gray.
Post by: cynviloq on Thu, 02 February 2017, 19:55:05
Here's a pic with some temperature adjustment done to better reflect what the OCo grey looks like in person under white light. The weight on this case is amazing.
Special guest: RAMA WAVEShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/as5SCMr.jpg)
How different is the gray from the warm gray in the GB? Is the OCO still pretty warm? I expected a much darker cooler gray.
I don't have a warm grey for comparison in front of me. I can only comment that in a dimmer setting it looks closer to gunmetal, while in a normal setting with yellower (bedroom) light, it does seem to take on the brown-ish hue that the warm grey looks to have in this picture off Norbauer's shop:
(https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/1571/5135/products/colors_1024x1024.jpg?v=1478320007)
In general, I would say it looks like a dark silver / light gunmetal, but not dark grey (which I would put on the scale of black versus metallic grey). Sorry if that's confusing, it's hard to describe within such a small range of colors...
Post by: Xiro7 on Thu, 02 February 2017, 20:05:06
My only complaint is that on the CM Novatouch board, there are two screws that hold the PCB in place in the case. There was no way to screw the PCB into the aluminum case and as a result, the PCB very slightly moves in the case. Maybe I missed something installing these, but I would hope that doesn't damage the PCB board.
Post by: cynviloq on Thu, 02 February 2017, 20:12:21
I received mine today from Originative. It looks great. I didn't receive any bump-on feet for the case, so be warned you will need to buy some as the alu case will scratch your desk if it slides.
My only complaint is that on the CM Novatouch board, there are two screws that hold the PCB in place in the case. There was no way to screw the PCB into the aluminum case and as a result, the PCB very slightly moves in the case. Maybe I missed something installing these, but I would hope that doesn't damage the PCB board.
Yes, I had to add my own bumpons as well.
My PCB holds tight, though I do have an issue where the screws holding the micro-USB plastic case do not transfer over given the short length. I had to use different screws to lock it down, but otherwise the "surgery" went perfectly.
Post by: hpfalcon on Thu, 02 February 2017, 20:19:36
[attach=1]
[attach=2]
It looks great, but unfortunately mine had a couple of issues:
The bottom piece is uneven. When its lying flat, there's wobble when I touch a corner. This does not go away after attaching feet. Incredibly annoying, but maybe some rubber feet will help even it out. Not sure if I have other options here.
The holes for the screws for usb mount is too big. The original screws are way too small, and so I tried to use one of the black screws that held the pcb to the original plastic frame. That one fits a bit better, but still loose so it won't tighten all the way. Maybe i'll try to get some other screws for this, but not sure which size to get.
Besides that, my pcb holds tight too, and doesn't move within the case
Post by: cynviloq on Thu, 02 February 2017, 20:34:01
Bottom piece is uneven. When its lying flat, there's wobble when I touch a corner. This does not go away after attaching feet. Incredibly annoying, but maybe some rubber feet will help even it out. Not sure if I have other options here.
Do you still have the pouch of o-rings the NT came with originally? If you loop those onto the screw for the feet, it'll give you a little bit of room to play with at the end to try to balance it out. Also acts as a spacer to prevent the risers from scratching the case.
Post by: hpfalcon on Thu, 02 February 2017, 20:39:12
Bottom piece is uneven. When its lying flat, there's wobble when I touch a corner. This does not go away after attaching feet. Incredibly annoying, but maybe some rubber feet will help even it out. Not sure if I have other options here.
Do you still have the pouch of o-rings the NT came with originally? If you loop those onto the screw for the feet, it'll give you a little bit of room to play with at the end to try to balance it out. Also acts as a spacer to prevent the risers from scratching the case.
yep, much better with the o-rings. No wobble since I can adjust either side, and they aren't loose either. Good idea :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 02 February 2017, 20:59:33
At any rate, you may contact Originative to see if they're willing to supply the missing parts, but they can also be purchased separately, and inexpensively, from the following sources.
The riser feet cases need four of these rubber bumpers:
3M SJ-5306 (mouser (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=SJ-5306_CLEARvirtualkey51730000virtualkey517-SJ-5306CL))
For use without risers, you need four of these smaller rubber bumpers:
3M SJ-5382 (mouser (http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/3M-Electronic-Specialty/SJ5382/?qs=suIBlYRJoct4SYaT0QGOXQ%3D%3D))
There are also two screws (https://www.mcmaster.com/#92095a177/=166qrga) needed to screw the USB bracket into the case. (The ones that come with the original CoolerMaster plastic case will not fit!)
And, importantly, there are two flange screws (https://www.mcmaster.com/#97654a371/=166qrwa) that cinch the top of plate into place against the the top of bottom half of the case.
All of the cases that I'm currently shipping out from the group buy include the correct hardware.
Post by: punksinatra on Thu, 02 February 2017, 21:51:05
I want to know if the hallow sound goes away. I have a pok3r backlit on a tex aluminum case with mx browns and I like the sound of that no hallow pingy sound, just pure semi thock clack... I wonder if this case can provide that for the rapid-i and masterkeys
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 02 February 2017, 21:58:49
Anyone sound test for the one's that have received their case specially if you have the new masterkeys pro S.
I want to know if the hallow sound goes away. I have a pok3r backlit on a text aluminum case with mx browns and I like the sound of that no hallow pingy sound, just purse semi thock clack... I wonder if this case can provide that for the rapid-i and masterkeys
That is easy to fix. I have three aluminum cases (one of them being this one) and use drawer or toolbox liner (it is like thin foam, can be found on Amazon) on the inner lining of the case and it does wonders to eliminating the high pitched ping. If you are still getting pings after that, it is something with the plate or stabilizers (like Costar) or the upstroke of the switch and has nothing to do with the aluminum case.
I have Norbauer's case (my favorite out of all the aluminum cases I own) with a silenced NT and it sounds great.
Post by: pixelpusher on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:03:49
Anyone sound test for the one's that have received their case specially if you have the new masterkeys pro S.
I want to know if the hallow sound goes away. I have a pok3r backlit on a text aluminum case with mx browns and I like the sound of that no hallow pingy sound, just purse semi thock clack... I wonder if this case can provide that for the rapid-i and masterkeys
That is easy to fix. I have three aluminum cases (one of them being this one) and use drawer or toolbox liner (it is like thin foam, can be found on Amazon) on the inner lining of the case and it does wonders to eliminating the high pitched ping. If you are still getting pings after that, it is something with the plate or stabilizers (like Costar) or the upstroke of the switch and has nothing to do with the aluminum case.
I have Norbauer's case (my favorite out of all the aluminum cases I own) with a silenced NT and it sounds great.
I can confirm lining works. I used some sticky back thin foam on a $15 ebay plastic case and it make it sound as solid as my pok3r :)
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:11:17
Received mine from originative today. The oco gray doesnt really seem too much darker than the warm gray (at least from pictures), but its definitely a cooler shade of gray.
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
It looks great, but unfortunately mine had a couple of issues:
The bottom piece is uneven. When its lying flat, there's wobble when I touch a corner. This does not go away after attaching feet. Incredibly annoying, but maybe some rubber feet will help even it out. Not sure if I have other options here.
The holes for the screws for usb mount is too big. The original screws are way too small, and so I tried to use one of the black screws that held the pcb to the original plastic frame. That one fits a bit better, but still loose so it won't tighten all the way. Maybe i'll try to get some other screws for this, but not sure which size to get.
Besides that, my pcb holds tight too, and doesn't move within the case
Had the exact same issues with the OCo order. They said screws are being sent but will have to purchase my own rubber feet.
Post by: punksinatra on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:13:50
Anyone sound test for the one's that have received their case specially if you have the new masterkeys pro S.
I want to know if the hallow sound goes away. I have a pok3r backlit on a text aluminum case with mx browns and I like the sound of that no hallow pingy sound, just purse semi thock clack... I wonder if this case can provide that for the rapid-i and masterkeys
That is easy to fix. I have three aluminum cases (one of them being this one) and use drawer or toolbox liner (it is like thin foam, can be found on Amazon) on the inner lining of the case and it does wonders to eliminating the high pitched ping. If you are still getting pings after that, it is something with the plate or stabilizers (like Costar) or the upstroke of the switch and has nothing to do with the aluminum case.
I have Norbauer's case (my favorite out of all the aluminum cases I own) with a silenced NT and it sounds great.
I can confirm lining works. I used some sticky back thin foam on a $15 ebay plastic case and it make it sound as solid as my pok3r :)
for the pings yeah I think its about the stabs.. I made a quick video below about the sound difference both using SA profile keycaps for ASDF keys.. I like how my pok3r sounds more solid and the sound is not hollow. I would like to know if I go for round 2 for this case will the sound come close to that of my poker? both boards using cherry mx browns or is it because of the plate that the poker is using?
Post by: suparnemo on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:22:57
Another question, is the screws to take apart the bottom and top of the case a hex bolt? Do I need a hex key to open the case?
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:27:46
I also have the same issue with my originative order.
Another question, is the screws to take apart the bottom and top of the case a hex bolt? Do I need a hex key to open the case?
Yup, haha. I have hex keys but not the correct size. Had to buy an extra set.
Post by: suparnemo on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:34:37
[/quote]
Had the exact same issues with the OCo order. They said screws are being sent but will have to purchase my own rubber feet.
[/quote]
The rubber feet are like $15 shipped per pair that you want. You have to order 96/144 since they come in pads. So it's like 25-30 bucks for us if we want both.
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:38:26
Had the exact same issues with the OCo order. They said screws are being sent but will have to purchase my own rubber feet.
[/quote]
The rubber feet are like $15 shipped per pair that you want. You have to order 96/144 since they come in pads. So it's like 25-30 bucks for us if we want both.
[/quote]
Should we start a GB? :))
Post by: suparnemo on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:54:07
Post by: suparnemo on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:59:05
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 02 February 2017, 22:59:21
I also have the same issue with my originative order.
Another question, is the screws to take apart the bottom and top of the case a hex bolt? Do I need a hex key to open the case?
Yes, the screws take a 2mm (USB bracket) and 2.5mm (case itself) hex L wrench. Those are included with the group-buy cases as a convenience but I would posit that it's reasonable for O&Co not to have included them since they're so readily available and most keyboard enthusiasts already have them.
Try not to judge Originative too harshly for the mentioned hiccups, by the way. Sherryton injured his ankle last week and wasn't able personally to oversee packing of the initial orders, which is probably why the screw issue wasn't caught before the first orders went out. I told him some time ago which parts needed to be sourced for the bumpers, and my understanding was that he tried to order the rubber bumpers but they had some kind of problem with their Mouser account and he figured it would be better to ship the cases rather than wait until that could be sorted out and the bumpers obtained. We also discovered that all the plate hold-down screws came to me rather in his batch sent to LA (a factory error), so I sent him some replacements, and those only arrived to him on Tuesday. Orders that shipped before that would not have included these, again something he probably would have caught were he not convalescing. Anyway, perhaps these issues would be best be discussed in an Originative forum or elsewhere, but I just thought I'd say a few words in favor of Originative. Their large order helped offset the costs of giving shipping discounts to international buyers to help offset the very high burden of DHL shipping costs to those group buy participants (I only charged $45 on shipping for international buyers but I've ended up paying an average of $10-25 more for that per case.)
It's totally reasonable for you guys to ask that the missing screws be sent to you and to be slightly irked about not getting rubber bumpers, but just wanted to offer a defense of Originative before folks were tempted piled on. :)
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 02 February 2017, 23:00:41
Sorry I meant they should fix it.
Was being facetious ;)
You can go to any hardware store or even Target or Walmart and find some rubber feet easy. Not terribly expensive.
Post by: hpfalcon on Fri, 03 February 2017, 00:23:47
Ordered a sheet of SJ5306 off amazon and should be arriving tomorrow :)
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 03 February 2017, 00:29:47
I'm just glad that the different sized screw hole was on purpose and thus easily addressed.
Ordered a sheet of SJ5306 off amazon and should be arriving tomorrow :)
Oh, yes. Totally. And you were certainly not the first to be confused. I should have included printed instructions maybe but just haven't yet had the time to compose something like that. The replacement screws are much nicer and more robust than the lousy little dark colored ones that come with the CM case, fwiw.
Incidentally, I still have a mountain of cases through which to process but I've made good progress so far. Based on that rate, I expect everything to be shipped out by Monday or Tuesday at latest.
Post by: SKD on Fri, 03 February 2017, 06:23:51
Post by: afrokobe on Fri, 03 February 2017, 08:34:10
Post by: punksinatra on Fri, 03 February 2017, 08:38:08
Post by: afrokobe on Fri, 03 February 2017, 08:47:19
Post by: punksinatra on Fri, 03 February 2017, 08:53:09
Post by: afrokobe on Fri, 03 February 2017, 14:12:58
Post by: evangs on Fri, 03 February 2017, 14:43:19
Post by: FSund on Fri, 03 February 2017, 15:15:39
when do regular orders start going out. I only ask cause I'm moving at the end of the month.
I got my shipping number yesterday, and the package was picked up by DHL today. Order #1002.
Post by: evangs on Fri, 03 February 2017, 15:19:35
when do regular orders start going out. I only ask cause I'm moving at the end of the month.
I got my shipping number yesterday, and the package was picked up by DHL today. Order #1002.
sweet! good to know
Post by: cynviloq on Fri, 03 February 2017, 15:27:04
so.. what's going to happen with this whole oco thing, I sent them a message, but they haven't responded to me. I don't want to go and buy my own screws... especially for the amount I spent.
Did you email the contact on the website? (Try:contact@originativeco.com)
They are not including bumpons or the allen wrenches, but they are shipping the screws (2 m3 and 2m4) -- just give them a shout and they'll ship it out to you.
Anyone with questions on their Originative order (most likely only the early ones that were shipped out) should probably e-mail them directly rather than handle anything on this thread given this is for the GB.
Post by: sherryton on Fri, 03 February 2017, 15:30:07
I'm still at home recovering, but Wendy has received all of the screws from Ryan. She'll send out the missing screws on Monday. Please hold tight as we weren't warned that the cases came with extra screws. Norbauer had sent a package directly to us from Shenzhen, and we thought we had received all the components.
Post by: megaforce on Fri, 03 February 2017, 20:57:24
Hey guys, thanks for taking part of our buy.
I'm still at home recovering, but Wendy has received all of the screws from Ryan. She'll send out the missing screws on Monday. Please hold tight as we weren't warned that the cases came with extra screws. Norbauer had sent a package directly to us from Shenzhen, and we thought we had received all the components.
Here's to a fast recovery!
@norbauer, Could I get the bom of hardware for the case please? Thanks!
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 03 February 2017, 21:33:24
Hey guys, thanks for taking part of our buy.
I'm still at home recovering, but Wendy has received all of the screws from Ryan. She'll send out the missing screws on Monday. Please hold tight as we weren't warned that the cases came with extra screws. Norbauer had sent a package directly to us from Shenzhen, and we thought we had received all the components.
Here's to a fast recovery!
@norbauer, Could I get the bom of hardware for the case please? Thanks!
Sure. It is below. Incidentally, I talked to Sheraton today some more today and realized I was wrong to have said that they "forgot" the parts above. He told me that the product listing didn't mention including rubber bumpers, which I didn't realize because I never saw the product page. I didn't mean to ascribe error to them where none occurred, or to cast any aspersions otherwise.
At any rate, each of the GB cases includes the following:
If shipping with riser feet:
4x 3M SJ-5306 bumpers (mouser (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=SJ-5306_CLEARvirtualkey51730000virtualkey517-SJ-5306CL))
If shipping without riser feet:
4 x 3M SJ-5382 bumpers (mouser (http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/3M-Electronic-Specialty/SJ5382/?qs=suIBlYRJoct4SYaT0QGOXQ%3D%3D))
2 x USB bracket screws (https://www.mcmaster.com/#92095a177/=166qrga)
2 x flange screws for securing the plate (https://www.mcmaster.com/#97654a371/=166qrwa)
1 x 2mm L wrench
1 x 2.5mm L wrench
8 x socket-head screws (https://www.mcmaster.com/#92290a111/=1679qd8) (these were included with all the Originative cases)
1 x thank-you note from me for domestic shipments. ;D (For international, I didn't want to create any problems for people at customs, so I left those out)
Post by: norbauer on Sat, 04 February 2017, 23:34:48
I've now looked at all the cases fairly closely, and I can offer some observations on the factory and quality:
- Overall, I'm pretty happy with the job the factory did, especially given the good price at this quantity. There were some aberrations here and there, which I'll definitely see that the factory prevents on any second round. If your order was subject to such a problem, you would have gotten an email from me already with details and a proposed solution.
- When dealing with custom anodizing colors (i.e., not black), it's very hard to precisely match the color of two parts when they have a different mass, as the two parts of this case do. As a result, for lighter-colored anodized cases, there can be a slight shade difference between the top and bottom halves of the case. The factory warned me about this beforehand, and I don't find that in most instances you can even tell unless you look for it. For better or worse, I don't think there is much of a way around this unless we wanted to pay a lot more, which essentially means paying the factory to keeping re-anodizing the parts until they all come up with exact matches. This drives up costs to a surprising degree, so I figured the quite good (rather than perfect) result that we've gotten was adequate given the cost trade-off, but of course I'm open to feedback on that matter.
- Some of the cases had minor residue on them from the anodizing process, which can look like a lighter-colored "stain" of the surface. I have closely inspected the cases I'm sending out and whenever I've found such a mark, I've been able to completely remove it with a bit of Bon Ami powder (about $1 at your local grocery store), water, and gentle few passes with a paper towel. I heard from someone who got a case from Originative that they encountered one of these stains, and I gave him the above advice for removal. None of these should be permanent marks. Feel free to email me if you're in the same situation and need help.
- There may be tiny cosmetic flaws here or there that I missed when packing things up. Some people really care about the tiniest variations and others don't even notice. If you're case arrives and you're unhappy with something, don't panic; just let me know and we'll get it figured out. :)
In general, I think we did quite well. A lesson I've learned for next time is to "over order" by a few cases and then just sell whatever ones arrive with flaws as discounted "factory seconds" or whatever. That way I will hopefully get to have one fewer ulcers worrying about disappointing people. I really want everyone to be happy to have participated in this and to feel that I did well by them through this process.
Post by: aurora on Sun, 05 February 2017, 08:33:42
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Sun, 05 February 2017, 10:29:44
Post by: eksuen on Sun, 05 February 2017, 11:25:47
While everyone is anxiously awaiting their case(s), here's a little more eye candy.
Carbon SA on a white KUL ES-87
(http://i.imgur.com/lLTeuDq.jpg)
GMK Carbon on a Novatouch with a space white case from this GB
(http://i.imgur.com/ZFigZSj.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/go4Vbly.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/yo837aa.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/ScpTBTT.jpg)
Post by: poolside on Sun, 05 February 2017, 11:45:08
Barring any potential shipping issues (fingers crossed that no packages are lost or arrive damaged), I'd say the group buy went quite well.
While everyone is anxiously awaiting their case(s), here's a little more eye candy.
Carbon SA on a white KUL ES-87Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/lLTeuDq.jpg)
GMK Carbon on a Novatouch with a space white case from this GBShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/ZFigZSj.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/go4Vbly.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/yo837aa.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/ScpTBTT.jpg)
Beautiful! Carbon looks better on the NT in these pictures than TA did the other day.
Post by: eksuen on Sun, 05 February 2017, 11:54:54
Barring any potential shipping issues (fingers crossed that no packages are lost or arrive damaged), I'd say the group buy went quite well.
While everyone is anxiously awaiting their case(s), here's a little more eye candy.
Carbon SA on a white KUL ES-87Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/lLTeuDq.jpg)
GMK Carbon on a Novatouch with a space white case from this GBShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/ZFigZSj.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/go4Vbly.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/yo837aa.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/ScpTBTT.jpg)
Beautiful! Carbon looks better on the NT in these pictures than TA did the other day.
Yeah, the natural lighting helps. Plus, the teal-ish color of the TA mods is difficult to capture.
Post by: clickstops on Sun, 05 February 2017, 12:02:21
FWIW, I have discussed with Sheraton that in future I would prefer to have the cases come to me for quality check rather than go out to people directly via them so that I can ensure that cases bearing my name, as it were, measure up to a standard I'm willing to represent as being complete and in good condition.
That's great to hear. THANK YOU for running such an excellent group buy. You've maintained communication throughout, handled payment well, and now are even handling this well. I'm sure more people than just me deeply appreciate it.
Post by: Phenix on Mon, 06 February 2017, 10:03:39
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/es48cmdx4q873dj/20170206_155534.jpg?dl=0)
Today my Norbauer Novatouch case arrived, in space-station white
Looks imho really good, thanks for running the GB!
Post by: Slash Emperor on Mon, 06 February 2017, 10:22:13
Congrats on your success so far, norbauer! It's been a good ride. Looking forward to updates for the Enigma Black folks after the last of the other boards go out.
Sent from my LG-V20
Post by: orpheo on Mon, 06 February 2017, 12:02:13
Post by: Puree on Mon, 06 February 2017, 12:10:54
Received mine today too :thumb:
(http://i.imgur.com/VciyDo7.jpg?1)
Thank a lot Norbauer for this GB ;)
Post by: megaforce on Mon, 06 February 2017, 12:21:41
(http://i.imgur.com/JpjBURO.jpg)
Post by: DribbelDog on Mon, 06 February 2017, 14:53:49
Just got my case in the mail here in the Netherlands, and what a gorgeous thing it is to behold. I went for the 'warm grey' option, combined with the SA 'Jukebox' set, on a Novatouch.
My apologies for the sub-par lighting and hence not-too-great pictures (wasn't home), but wanted to get these out there:
(http://i.imgur.com/EY6ySSJ.jpg)
The case
(http://i.imgur.com/QLgivTd.jpg)
Top view
(http://i.imgur.com/nbDOQ4g.jpg)
Including accessories
(http://i.imgur.com/sQhNvb8.jpg)
Result
(http://i.imgur.com/D6JQqG1.jpg)
Result top view
(http://i.imgur.com/yyF9aI7.jpg)
Riser feet
In general I would say the case looks lighter and warmer IRL.
I wasn't actually planning on using this keycap set with this case, but I must say I think it turned out quite nicely. Was originally planning for the the amazing chocolatier set, but the group buy I ordered those in has been delayed. Seeing this combo I might actually leave them on.
Unfortunately DHL charged me almost €50 in import tax... I paid them in advance but in hindsight I'm not really sure what happened as they ask €15 for 'administration' and stuff like that and €35 is actually 100% of $40 instead of 21% (the tax rate here). So, I have no idea how they came up with this amount. Anyway, I'm not going to fight it, I'll not allow it to ruin my joy ;)
Thank you Norbauer for this amazing group buy. I appreciate all the hard work that went into this, the result turned out sublime. Especially after seeing the end result, I must stay I'd definitely be in for a Realforce 87U case, in case you're still working on that ;).
My regards from the Netherlands.
Post by: K on Mon, 06 February 2017, 17:17:16
However there were some small things which I assume are defects.[attach=2][attach=3]
Thankfully though they're on the inside of the case so you can't see them but would like to know what they mean in terms of the anodizing layer and if its fine. I know nothing about anodizing.
Also the inclusions of bumpons for riser and non riser feet might be a good idea next time for people like me who just bought the riser feet in case they ever feel like using them especially since they're so cheap I just bought them off ebay as the mouser link was very expensive for shipping (am in AUS)
Overall though the case is super solid and I can attest to the shelf liner making the keyboard sound better.
Edit: I also tried washing off the white mark but it won't come off so its not dust or anything like that
Post by: pexon on Mon, 06 February 2017, 17:18:25
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 06 February 2017, 17:57:34
However there were some small things which I assume are defects. (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
I actually decided, after discussions with the factory, that in order keep costs down that it would be OK for them only to worry about cosmetic flaws on the exterior of the case, given the way in which the case would be used, so I don't consider such marks defects according to spec, per se. Most people don't realize (and I only recently learned as I've been doing industrial design projects over the past few years) how much of manufacturing processes are still driven by chance and happenstance and that most forms of quality control are just managing probabilities and the number of items you throw away. If we wanted cases to be perfect on both the outside and the interior of the case, it would simply have meant asking the factory to throw more cases away, which of course they can only afford to do by charging us more. It didn't seem that in this situation that it would be worth worry about what hidden parts of the case looked like, so I erred on that side of the trade-off. I would love to do a more high-end keyboard project at some point in future where I can insist on absolutely flawless parts, inside and out, (which is to say, accepting a higher part reject rate), but for this project based on the initial IC thread, it seemed like folks wanted to drive things in the direction of cost control, so I tended to try to push things in that direction where I could. For whatever that's all worth. (Sorry if too much information. hehe.) :)
Oh, also, regarding the bumpons, yes, I didn't realize that so many people would be ordering riser feet "just in case" (presumably, for future re-sale), or I would have included both kinds of bumpons. Next time I shall!
Post by: K on Mon, 06 February 2017, 18:12:41
Yeah I totally understand the tradeoff and don't really mind as you said before there were nothing wrong with the outside of the case. I was really more asking to see if there was a problem with the anodizing and whether I should coat it or something to prevent corroding or any other future problems.However there were some small things which I assume are defects. (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
I actually decided, after discussions with the factory, that in order keep costs down that it would be OK for them only to worry about cosmetic flaws on the exterior of the case, given the way in which the case would be used, so I don't consider such marks defects according to spec, per se. Most people don't realize (and I only recently learned as I've been doing industrial design projects over the past few years) how much of manufacturing processes are still driven by chance and happenstance and that most forms of quality control are just managing probabilities and the number of items you throw away. If we wanted cases to be perfect on both the outside and the interior of the case, it would simply have meant asking the factory to throw more cases away, which of course they can only afford to do by charging us more. It didn't seem that in this situation that it would be worth worry about what hidden parts of the case looked like, so I erred on that side of the trade-off. I would love to do a more high-end keyboard project at some point in future where I can insist on absolutely flawless parts, inside and out, (which is to say, accepting a higher part reject rate), but for this project based on the initial IC thread, it seemed like folks wanted to drive things in the direction of cost control, so I tended to try to push things in that direction where I could. For whatever that's all worth. (Sorry if too much information. hehe.) :)
Oh, also, regarding the bumpons, yes, I didn't realize that so many people would be ordering riser feet "just in case" (presumably, for future re-sale), or I would have included both kinds of bumpons. Next time I shall!
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 06 February 2017, 18:17:26
Yeah I totally understand the tradeoff and don't really mind as you said before there were nothing wrong with the outside of the case. I was really more asking to see if there was a problem with the anodizing and whether I should coat it or something to prevent corroding or any other future problems.However there were some small things which I assume are defects. (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
I actually decided, after discussions with the factory, that in order keep costs down that it would be OK for them only to worry about cosmetic flaws on the exterior of the case, given the way in which the case would be used, so I don't consider such marks defects according to spec, per se. Most people don't realize (and I only recently learned as I've been doing industrial design projects over the past few years) how much of manufacturing processes are still driven by chance and happenstance and that most forms of quality control are just managing probabilities and the number of items you throw away. If we wanted cases to be perfect on both the outside and the interior of the case, it would simply have meant asking the factory to throw more cases away, which of course they can only afford to do by charging us more. It didn't seem that in this situation that it would be worth worry about what hidden parts of the case looked like, so I erred on that side of the trade-off. I would love to do a more high-end keyboard project at some point in future where I can insist on absolutely flawless parts, inside and out, (which is to say, accepting a higher part reject rate), but for this project based on the initial IC thread, it seemed like folks wanted to drive things in the direction of cost control, so I tended to try to push things in that direction where I could. For whatever that's all worth. (Sorry if too much information. hehe.) :)
Oh, also, regarding the bumpons, yes, I didn't realize that so many people would be ordering riser feet "just in case" (presumably, for future re-sale), or I would have included both kinds of bumpons. Next time I shall!
Oh, no, you should be totally fine. The part is almost certainly actually anodized in that area; it is just not fully penetrated with dye. Aluminum is a bit tricky when it comes to anodizing and colors, as I mentioned above regarding the sometime slight mismatch between top and bottom parts, because you're basically introducing a dye into pores in the metal, trying to get it to penetrate to the right amount in order to create a specific color, and then creating an anodized oxide layer on top. Titanium is very interesting, actually, in that the color isn't made with dye at all (see here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZhVOy-ytJY)). In any case, corrosion as we think of it with ferrous metals (in the form of red rust) isn't an issue with aluminum.
Post by: K on Mon, 06 February 2017, 18:33:06
Yeah I totally understand the tradeoff and don't really mind as you said before there were nothing wrong with the outside of the case. I was really more asking to see if there was a problem with the anodizing and whether I should coat it or something to prevent corroding or any other future problems.However there were some small things which I assume are defects. (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
I actually decided, after discussions with the factory, that in order keep costs down that it would be OK for them only to worry about cosmetic flaws on the exterior of the case, given the way in which the case would be used, so I don't consider such marks defects according to spec, per se. Most people don't realize (and I only recently learned as I've been doing industrial design projects over the past few years) how much of manufacturing processes are still driven by chance and happenstance and that most forms of quality control are just managing probabilities and the number of items you throw away. If we wanted cases to be perfect on both the outside and the interior of the case, it would simply have meant asking the factory to throw more cases away, which of course they can only afford to do by charging us more. It didn't seem that in this situation that it would be worth worry about what hidden parts of the case looked like, so I erred on that side of the trade-off. I would love to do a more high-end keyboard project at some point in future where I can insist on absolutely flawless parts, inside and out, (which is to say, accepting a higher part reject rate), but for this project based on the initial IC thread, it seemed like folks wanted to drive things in the direction of cost control, so I tended to try to push things in that direction where I could. For whatever that's all worth. (Sorry if too much information. hehe.) :)
Oh, also, regarding the bumpons, yes, I didn't realize that so many people would be ordering riser feet "just in case" (presumably, for future re-sale), or I would have included both kinds of bumpons. Next time I shall!
Oh, no, you should be totally fine. The part is almost certainly actually anodized in that area; it is just not fully penetrated with dye. Aluminum is a bit tricky when it comes to anodizing and colors, as I mentioned above regarding the sometime slight mismatch between top and bottom parts, because you're basically introducing a dye into pores in the metal, trying to get it to penetrate to the right amount in order to create a specific color, and then creating an anodized oxide layer on top. Titanium is very interesting, actually, in that the color isn't made with dye at all (see here (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ZhVOy-ytJY)). In any case, corrosion as we think of it with ferrous metals (in the form of red rust) isn't an issue with aluminum.
Awesome this is my first aluminium case so was unsure of what is the norm just wanted to be careful. Thanks for organising this and elevating my Novatouch to the true end game (for me at least) :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 06 February 2017, 18:39:23
Post by: dead_pixel_design on Mon, 06 February 2017, 18:59:35
Post by: KingRama on Mon, 06 February 2017, 19:09:30
Here's a pic with some temperature adjustment done to better reflect what the OCo grey looks like in person under white light. The weight on this case is amazing.
Special guest: RAMA WAVEShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/as5SCMr.jpg)
Oh that looks awesome! Posted it on http://rama.army/ (http://rama.army/)! Second one this week :P Nice!
Post by: nurbs on Mon, 06 February 2017, 21:10:37
Recorded on an iPhone 6 while trying to type with the left hand - so I apologize for the handheld awkwardness (also bottoming out relatively hard on the case)
The case color is from Originative, which looks near identical to the warm gray in the GB (is it?)
IMO, the SA profile adds a nice "bass" to the thock.
Post by: FSund on Tue, 07 February 2017, 01:24:37
Thank you very much for designing the case and running this GB :thumb:
Post by: K on Tue, 07 February 2017, 01:45:59
Post by: Phenix on Tue, 07 February 2017, 07:48:41
Any reccommedations for wrist rest from the people who use them here? My current wrist rest which was perfectly flush with the stock novatouch is now way too short and none of my other wrist rests are tall enough to be flush with the new case.Im using an rollermouse re:d as wristrest+mouse.
The high is fine with it imho
Post by: orpheo on Tue, 07 February 2017, 09:29:26
Post by: stillzman on Tue, 07 February 2017, 09:55:18
Also, looking forward to what you have in store for RF boards!
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 07 February 2017, 10:42:33
I was a bit sad that I couldn't use my Pexon cable with case. The connector is a hair too large to fit in the aluminum housing socket...
I designed the hole to fit any connectors conforming to the USB spec, but perhaps those cables are larger. Can you provide me with dimensions of yours? I'd be happy to try to widen that pocket for r2.
Post by: orpheo on Tue, 07 February 2017, 10:56:43
Sure! I think the width that is problematic is 12.5mm. I don't have a precision caliper sorry. Those Pexon cable are the real deal, so beautiful! I think it might be the heatshrink used than exceed the size of the hole.I was a bit sad that I couldn't use my Pexon cable with case. The connector is a hair too large to fit in the aluminum housing socket...
I designed the hole to fit any connectors conforming to the USB spec, but perhaps those cables are larger. Can you provide me with dimensions of yours? I'd be happy to try to widen that pocket for r2.
Here are some shots playing around with the various set that can go on the Norbauer Novatouch! Really a great thanks to you, it is unbelievable smooth GB! You are on your way to be a big star in the GB scene!
Cherry vintage blue dyesub ISO FR
GMK RGB Neon
EnjoyPBT blue dyesub mods and function keys
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/382/32386950630_1817fb6e1a_h.jpg)
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/716/31923787484_e421202457_k.jpg)
Post by: orpheo on Tue, 07 February 2017, 10:58:08
Post by: orpheo on Tue, 07 February 2017, 11:03:16
Post by: eksuen on Tue, 07 February 2017, 12:00:00
The case color is from Originative, which looks near identical to the warm gray in the GB (is it?)
The Originative grey is noticeably darker than the warm grey from the GB.
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Tue, 07 February 2017, 13:20:29
The case color is from Originative, which looks near identical to the warm gray in the GB (is it?)
The Originative grey is noticeably darker than the warm grey from the GB.
Been hearing this a lot. They seem very different from the images I've seen.
I ordered a warm grey and a custom dark grey (almost the same color as the Originative color), once I get them I will post pics of my two boards for comparison.
Post by: hpfalcon on Tue, 07 February 2017, 13:39:57
The case color is from Originative, which looks near identical to the warm gray in the GB (is it?)
The Originative grey is noticeably darker than the warm grey from the GB.
imo it seems more of a cooler shade, than straight out darker. I've only seen warm grey from pictures though
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 07 February 2017, 13:43:58
Post by: ErgoSloth on Tue, 07 February 2017, 14:16:48
Doesn't matter tho, as I had bad lighting and wanted to finish as soon as possible to start typing on it anyway; I love the new sound of the board, I was expecting more metallic ping sounds but no, it actually sounds deeper than before! Rattling stabilizers aside the sound of the backspace is to die for!
And earlier this morning I also received a treat from KeyKollectiv as you can see :D
Post by: Troif on Tue, 07 February 2017, 16:37:21
Also mounting it has been super easy (thanks to @Makami on MD also) and I noted all the love that has been on the design. Again thanks Norbauer.
[attach=1][attach=2][attach=3]
@Norbauer, I am really in for whenever you prepare the RF87U keyboard case (I will try to pick up other color than grey... but I do not promise it!)
Post by: kokokoy on Wed, 08 February 2017, 00:57:35
Thanks for running your project as GB, Norbauer.
Post by: DannyHuynh on Wed, 08 February 2017, 01:29:22
(http://i.imgur.com/4z99Jlc.jpg)
Post by: FSund on Wed, 08 February 2017, 03:52:20
There are definitely some visible marks from the CNC and anodizing process, but this case is so awesome that it can easily compensate for that. However, the case feel a little bit hollow, I mean when I tap on the corner of the case, I definitely feel the guts of the board moving inside. Probably because there are only two screws that hold the guts to the bottom housing. Wondering why there aren't four of them. I think I'll try to put in some foam or shelf liner to stuff it upI added a thin strip of paper on each folded in half on the top and bottom to stop the board from moving around. Worked like a charm :)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/4z99Jlc.jpg)
Post by: Phenix on Wed, 08 February 2017, 04:57:13
I just laid it in - is this wrong? (I didnt paid that much attention to that part)
Post by: FSund on Wed, 08 February 2017, 05:00:47
Wait - does the innerts need to be fixed inside the case?
I just laid it in - is this wrong? (I didnt paid that much attention to that part)
I think it's supposed to be kept in place by the two flange screws (they look like these (https://www.mcmaster.com/#97654a371/=166qrwa)), but my plate was not completely fixed in place by them. A piece of paper fixed this though.
Post by: orpheo on Wed, 08 February 2017, 05:04:16
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Wed, 08 February 2017, 06:40:33
Post by: afrokobe on Wed, 08 February 2017, 08:40:53
Those of you that have silenced your cases by adding something between the pcb and base, what kind of material is preferable? plastic, fabric, foam? Would one of these from ikea work? http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80012853/ http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10320001/
I dont think that would work. That is clear silicone if I am remembering correctly. I use that in my cabinets.. I ordered some foam padding hopefully that works. I think anything with foam should. You could always go for the sound dampening foam people use in pc cases.
Post by: megaforce on Wed, 08 February 2017, 09:21:35
Those of you that have silenced your cases by adding something between the pcb and base, what kind of material is preferable? plastic, fabric, foam? Would one of these from ikea work? http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/80012853/ http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/10320001/
https://www.amazon.com/Duck-1100731-Non-Adhesive-12-Inch-20-Feet/dp/B002AS9NAI/ref=sr_1_1?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1486567271&sr=1-1&keywords=shelf+liner
Something like this.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 08 February 2017, 09:53:14
In practice, for whatever it's worth, I consider the flange screws optional, since inertia generally keeps the keyboard in place. You have to intentionally introduce side-to-side movement by grabbing one of the keys hard between your fingers and trying to move the plate. Of course, this doesn't happen in normal typing. Indeed, my first prototypes didn't include the flange screw feature and I used one for months that way without any problem.
EDIT: Oh, and incidentally, another feature of the flange screws is that they make it easier to assemble the case for the first time. They prevent the plate from falling down out of the bottom of the case when you have the keyboard flipped upside down and are assembling them to be screwed together.
Post by: DannyHuynh on Wed, 08 February 2017, 11:00:56
As others have observed above, the two flange screws are intended to hold the case in place, and for most CoolerMaster plates this does work. However, I have noticed that those bent plates edges (particularly in the MasterKeys keyboards) aren't made to particularly tight tolerances and as a result, some folks may see a bit of movement in the plate, even after the flange screws are fully installed. The solution, as some have said, is either to put a piece of paper between the flange screw and the plate or to lift the plate up a bit by putting a long strip of shelf liner on the little "shelves" where the plate sits on the edge of the case bottom. I found that I liked the second option better, even it required a bit more work. I'll fix this for round 2 by deepening the pocket in which the flange screw sits to account for the observed variability in plate heights from CM.
In practice, for whatever it's worth, I consider the flange screws optional, since inertia generally keeps the keyboard in place. You have to intentionally introduce side-to-side movement by grabbing one of the keys hard between your fingers and trying to move the plate. Of course, this doesn't happen in normal typing. Indeed, my first prototypes didn't include the flange screw feature and I used one for months that way without any problem.
EDIT: Oh, and incidentally, another feature of the flange screws is that they make it easier to assemble the case for the first time. They prevent the plate from falling down out of the bottom of the case when you have the keyboard flipped upside down and are assembling them to be screwed together.
Is it now, I did not flip the keyboard for assembling. I've just set the board to a table edge a screw in each corner, then moved to the edges. Flipping this board with the guts installed is like lifting weight :blank:
Post by: DannyHuynh on Wed, 08 February 2017, 19:58:11
This is a shelf liner roll, around $5 from Walmart
(http://i.imgur.com/rkIVkGs.jpg)
I cut it up and lay it down on the bottom of the case like this
(http://i.imgur.com/XsIxi8z.jpg?1)
Also some on the flang screws
(http://i.imgur.com/BPuUcdm.jpg)
And that's it, after putting everything back together, the board is now my weapon of choice for the apocalypse :cool:
Post by: w0odyallen on Thu, 09 February 2017, 01:46:24
Post by: complex on Thu, 09 February 2017, 10:20:31
The quality of the case obviously is top notch I just had a little anodizing error in a spot where it's visible, kinda sucks but it isn't that noticeable when you don't know that it exists.
I also had a pexon cable which I had to retire since the connector is to large (orpheo already said this, but I might aswell just confirm it). Luckily the stock Novatouch cable is pretty good.
I had some serious issues opening the Novatouch so I just decided to cut the old case open, since I won't need it now that I have this one. :D
Here are the pics of the case: http://imgur.com/a/R2Icr
Thanks for a great GB Norbauer!
Post by: luumii on Thu, 09 February 2017, 11:16:49
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 09 February 2017, 11:27:15
If there is a chance at realforce, HHKB or Fc660c I will be so hyped :thumb: :thumb:
I'm already working on the RealForce design, but it might be a few weeks, as I would probably do well to focus on my non-keyboard life and work for just a little while. :rolleyes: But the RealForce 87U has always been my personal favorite keyboard, so I certainly looking forward to tackling that one, and I have some ideas for doing something that is a bit new and interesting. And I was hoping to combine a group buy for a RealForce case with a r2 for the Novatouch to help reduce the logistical effort (and maybe cost) compared to doing two separately.
Post by: orpheo on Thu, 09 February 2017, 12:24:45
Here with Cherry OG doubleshots, this case is absolutely stunning and a bargain ^^
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/754/32805633135_659f5887fd_h.jpg)
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Thu, 09 February 2017, 13:30:17
Post by: briandesigns on Thu, 09 February 2017, 13:34:53
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 09 February 2017, 13:40:25
The custom cable incompatibility is a real bummer. Could we get some more details on this? Is this just a problem with the style of connector Pexon uses? Is there a way to modify the case or cable to make them work?
It's probably just heat-shrink tube on the micro connector end causing the cable to be larger than the USB connector spec. This is the official spec around which I designed the connector pocket.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/connector-spec.png)
However, I could easily increase the size for a future run. This would come a bit at the cost, however, of visual aesthetics, as the opening would then be visibly larger than most connectors.
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Thu, 09 February 2017, 13:58:47
The custom cable incompatibility is a real bummer. Could we get some more details on this? Is this just a problem with the style of connector Pexon uses? Is there a way to modify the case or cable to make them work?
It's probably just heat-shrink tube on the micro connector end causing the cable to be larger than the USB connector spec. This is the official spec around which I designed the connector pocket.Show Image(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/7116954/Novatouch%20Round%201/connector-spec.png)
However, I could easily increase the size for a future run. This would come a bit at the cost, however, of visual aesthetics, as the opening would then be visibly larger than most connectors.
Thanks for the measurements. I don't think anyone would mind a slightly larger opening as it is not not visible when in use.
Post by: DannyHuynh on Thu, 09 February 2017, 14:19:38
The custom cable incompatibility is a real bummer. Could we get some more details on this? Is this just a problem with the style of connector Pexon uses? Is there a way to modify the case or cable to make them work?
You can try one of these :p
(http://www.tfdmarket.com/index.php?f=bGpiL2N4emV0Qi5qcGcg&u=c3VwZXJuaWNlMjAxMg%3D%3D)
Post by: w0odyallen on Thu, 09 February 2017, 15:52:12
I believe this was the 'silver anodized' option from originative
Sound test:
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 09 February 2017, 23:55:25
The lining is from Amazon which I purchased last year. A 12"x72" roll was around $10, which should be enough to cover over a dozen boards. I actually use these in my truck toolbox and found these to be great on aluminum enclosures.
I don't use the lining that looks knitted or crosshatched, because it may also cause shorts with the PCB still contacting the case.
Here are some shots:
http://imgur.com/a/YdH00
Post by: ramnes on Fri, 10 February 2017, 05:11:13
Had this over a week now and finally found time to lube and hypersphere the damn thing. This is my first topre board and I LOVE the way it turned out. http://imgur.com/a/Hh3Vf
I believe this was the 'silver anodized' option from originative
Sound test:
Excellent work. The board looks really good overall and the sound is above perfection.
Post by: FSund on Fri, 10 February 2017, 06:45:30
I'm already working on the RealForce design, but it might be a few weeks, as I would probably do well to focus on my non-keyboard life and work for just a little while. :rolleyes: But the RealForce 87U has always been my personal favorite keyboard, so I certainly looking forward to tackling that one, and I have some ideas for doing something that is a bit new and interesting. And I was hoping to combine a group buy for a RealForce case with a r2 for the Novatouch to help reduce the logistical effort (and maybe cost) compared to doing two separately.Although my wife would probably kill me if she knew what I already spent on this case, I would definitely be interested in a Topre case.
Please try to make sure that it will fit 88ub's as well as 87u's though. I can't imagine the innards of those boards are very different, but I've never seen any direct comparisons.
Post by: orpheo on Fri, 10 February 2017, 14:47:50
I think I really love the "warm grey" finish! It is very classy, reminds me on a leica camera I once had, the minilux...
This case would stand out, I want a the same color but in 60%. Please make this happen!
PHOTOSHOP WARNING :
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/1/396/32825702745_8a8b27bce8_k.jpg)
Post by: odd on Sat, 11 February 2017, 16:26:59
Post by: afrokobe on Sat, 11 February 2017, 16:50:45
Post by: adamcobabe on Sat, 11 February 2017, 19:56:46
If anyone missed this round I have a brand new grey one from originative I need to sell. I'll include all the missing stuff as well
Interested!
Post by: Saviant on Sun, 12 February 2017, 21:21:45
Post by: pschoen on Mon, 13 February 2017, 04:39:47
Now i just have to get new cords since the opening is too small for double usb cable pass through the opening
together with my replaced spacebar for the thinkpad trackpoint.
Sry for the bad quality only have a webcam in place.
Now i only have to wait until my xda keycaps are coming :D
Then this keyboard reaches endgame :D (Brown + zeal clips + cnc + xda caps :p )
[attach=1]
Post by: Phenix on Mon, 13 February 2017, 06:26:56
Tough I don't think that's an Novatouch..
Are the switches hand-wired?
Post by: YH YOON on Mon, 13 February 2017, 06:29:45
Post by: pschoen on Mon, 13 February 2017, 06:42:22
nice work!
Tough I don't think that's an Novatouch..
Are the switches hand-wired?
Yes the steel plate is sanded down to open the switches without soldering and the the position of the spacebar there are extra holes for the switches.
Thats actually a CM storm rapid-I with teensy hookup at the backside. So the original PCB has now holes in some grounding areas to fit the trackpoint and the extra keys + cables to the teensy.
Only the space and mouse buttons are hardwired.
Post by: Phenix on Mon, 13 February 2017, 07:21:45
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Mon, 13 February 2017, 10:05:05
Post by: nurbs on Mon, 13 February 2017, 14:21:29
The dark gray looks great with colorways and more decorative keycaps, but I have a set of black on black enjoypbts that would go great with the all black. PM me if interested. Have all screws and feet.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 13 February 2017, 14:35:20
If you would make a Realforce case, would it have a female usb port to allow for a removable cable? The Digilog case did.
Interesting. I wonder if it's possible to source a cable like that, or if it has to be made custom. The Korean CNC RealForce case I have doesn't have a detachable cable, and I wish it did.
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Mon, 13 February 2017, 15:32:14
If you would make a Realforce case, would it have a female usb port to allow for a removable cable? The Digilog case did.
Interesting. I wonder if it's possible to source a cable like that, or if it has to be made custom. The Korean CNC RealForce case I have doesn't have a detachable cable, and I wish it did.
Well James from Pexon is a fan of your work and has been posting in this thread. He might know.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 13 February 2017, 16:25:29
If you would make a Realforce case, would it have a female usb port to allow for a removable cable? The Digilog case did.
Interesting. I wonder if it's possible to source a cable like that, or if it has to be made custom. The Korean CNC RealForce case I have doesn't have a detachable cable, and I wish it did.
Well James from Pexon is a fan of your work and has been posting in this thread. He might know.
Cool. I think that would be a nice addition to a quality RealForce case, so I'm happy to take any info anyone can provide. :)
Post by: Rageous on Mon, 13 February 2017, 16:34:23
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 13 February 2017, 16:42:22
I'm currently waiting on the "enigma black" powder coated cases to come back from the finisher here locally. I'll get those shipped out and will then turn my attention to new projects, since this one has gone so smoothly, which I have found very encouraging. Again, I want to express my extreme gratitude to everyone for making this such a surprisingly painless process. :)
Post by: Slash Emperor on Mon, 13 February 2017, 16:58:52
Thanks for all the kind words, everybody! This has turned out to be a really fun project—due in no small part to how supportive, easy to work with, and understanding the folks on GeekHack and Deskthority have been.You definitely deserve the praise an encouragement, mate, for being on top of and very helpful in your communication and bringing to life such a beautiful case.
I'm currently waiting on the "enigma black" powder coated cases to come back from the finisher here locally. I'll get those shipped out and will then turn my attention to new projects, since this one has gone so smoothly, which I have found very encouraging. Again, I want to express my extreme gratitude to everyone for making this such a surprisingly painless process. :)
Also, thrilled to hear that Enigma Black is already in the works. Curious to see how many folks went for it.
Post by: ithrowthinqs on Mon, 13 February 2017, 18:55:17
If anyone missed this round I have a brand new grey one from originative I need to sell. I'll include all the missing stuff as well
Message sent.
Post by: nurbs on Mon, 13 February 2017, 21:10:10
Nothing special and I may still swap out to another set of keycaps, but I'm thrilled with the quality of the construction. Just wish I'd had more cash on hand when the GB went live to get additional cases. This is a beaut. Thanks for all the hard work Ryan!
Looks good! Maybe try some carbon black/classic black/black on black sets? I personally like the sleeper look.
Post by: geekzombie on Tue, 14 February 2017, 17:34:34
These cases turned out AMAZINGLY well, and whoever got the green one is going to love it because holy **** it looks lovely. I will definitely be getting a green one come R2.
I received my case a little over an hour ago; I already installed it and I'm thrilled!
I also posted some more pics and a step-by-step installation on imgur for anyone that needs it: http://imgur.com/a/jI3H9
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 14 February 2017, 17:49:04
These cases turned out AMAZINGLY well, and whoever got the green one is going to love it because holy **** it looks lovely. I will definitely be getting a green one come R2.
I received my case a little over an hour ago; I already installed it and I'm thrilled!
I also posted some more pics and a step-by-step installation on imgur for anyone that needs it: http://imgur.com/a/jI3H9
Now we know who got that awesome dark green custom color. :D
Post by: pixelpusher on Tue, 14 February 2017, 17:52:32
These cases turned out AMAZINGLY well, and whoever got the green one is going to love it because holy **** it looks lovely. I will definitely be getting a green one come R2.
I received my case a little over an hour ago; I already installed it and I'm thrilled!
I also posted some more pics and a step-by-step installation on imgur for anyone that needs it: http://imgur.com/a/jI3H9
It's awesome, sir. What are those LED panels above your desk? Me likey.
Post by: Phenix on Tue, 14 February 2017, 18:05:30
neverthless fantastic case!
Post by: eksuen on Tue, 14 February 2017, 18:19:19
These cases turned out AMAZINGLY well, and whoever got the green one is going to love it because holy **** it looks lovely. I will definitely be getting a green one come R2.
I received my case a little over an hour ago; I already installed it and I'm thrilled!
I also posted some more pics and a step-by-step installation on imgur for anyone that needs it: http://imgur.com/a/jI3H9
Now we know who got that awesome dark green custom color. :D
It's beautiful!
Post by: geekzombie on Tue, 14 February 2017, 18:40:59
These cases turned out AMAZINGLY well, and whoever got the green one is going to love it because holy **** it looks lovely. I will definitely be getting a green one come R2.
I received my case a little over an hour ago; I already installed it and I'm thrilled!
I also posted some more pics and a step-by-step installation on imgur for anyone that needs it: http://imgur.com/a/jI3H9
It's awesome, sir. What are those LED panels above your desk? Me likey.
It's a Nanoleaf Aurora; actually, it's two of them.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 14 February 2017, 19:15:26
for me the green looks to be very lightly green.
neverthless fantastic case!
It's actually very dark. This is the problem with conveying colors using digital photography, as I've learned. Exposure and color temperature have to be very precisely tweaked to give the same impression as in person, and even then it tends to fail to convey properly due to monitor variations, narrow color gamuts, etc.
Post by: pixelpusher on Tue, 14 February 2017, 22:09:58
I remember that I kept wanting to see a closeup of the seams. Guess I should have gone for anodized. Really bummed. :(
[attach=1][attach=2][attach=3][attach=4]
That last photo is the front left corner, so unfortunately i get to see the worst part at all times. I really would have just gone for a warm gray if I would have expected the painted case to look so rough. And yes, there are 2 spots where the paint has chipped off on the seams. I didn't assemble it, I bought the masterkeys pro s as well and it was pre-assembled.
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 14 February 2017, 22:22:35
Well shoot. I hate to say it, but my case is a bit upsetting to me. Did I somehow end up with the prototype case or are all of the white cases like this on the edges?
I remember that I kept wanting to see a closeup of the seams. Guess I should have gone for anodized. Really bummed. :(
(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
That last photo is the front left corner, so unfortunately i get to see the worst part at all times. I really would have just gone for a warm gray if I would have expected the painted case to look so rough
I wish you had brought this up with me via PM rather than taking your complaint to the thread, but suffice it to say I'm happy to resolve the issue, just email me directly.
In general, however, I will say that I'm not as happy with the powder coated cases as with the anodized ones, for reasons that are really just inherent to the process. For this reason, I actually don't intend to offering white in a second round. The powder coated cases have their mechanically mating surfaces masked off to make sure that they fit together properly (powder coat often builds up on pockets and prevents this). This resulted in some unevenness where the two surfaces meet. Some of this is to be expected, but the corner in your photo there does indeed look bad, and I'm sorry I missed that when packing up your case.
Send me a message and I'll make sure you end up with something you're happy with. My apologies for the trouble.
Post by: pixelpusher on Tue, 14 February 2017, 22:27:48
Also, I really liked the card you inserted. I agree that it's nice to have a community that shares a strange interest in keyboards :)
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 14 February 2017, 22:32:57
I didn't mean to blast you or anything. I just wondered if something had gotten mixed up. I completely understand how the process leads to these results though. I will say that I do like the design and the weight of the case a lot. I'll send you a PM. Thank you for replying.
Also, I really liked the card you inserted. I agree that it's nice to have a community that shares a strange interest in keyboards :)
Yes, those who followed the IC know I was very conflicted about whether to offer powder coat at all, given that it's a bit different than the finishes people normally expect on keyboard stuff (it also have some slight surface waviness that might bother some people). I think that the textured powder finishes are actually a bit better, as they tend to conceal the unevenness inherent in powder coat. I think if I do offer it again, I would want it to be in a different form where we didn't have to do the masking somehow (perhaps a slightly different design with bigger pockets). I'm currently actually experimenting with that on the "enigma black" cases.
I just wish it were possible to do white anodizing! :)
Post by: ihalatch on Tue, 14 February 2017, 22:48:57
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 14 February 2017, 22:52:44
Got mine form Originative Co yesterday - silver and flawless. I'm very happy with it. No problems with fitting the "liberated" Novatouch board. The only concern I have is with the micro usb plug, it's a very tight fit. Thanks mate, you designed an awesome enclosure.
Awesome; thanks for sharing. I'm really happy with how the "clear" (silver) cases turned out.
Opening up the USB hole a bit is something I've been considering for next time, though I've heard voices on both sides of that issue so far.
Post by: codywanks on Wed, 15 February 2017, 02:53:04
The custom cable incompatibility is a real bummer. Could we get some more details on this? Is this just a problem with the style of connector Pexon uses? Is there a way to modify the case or cable to make them work?
It's probably just heat-shrink tube on the micro connector end causing the cable to be larger than the USB connector spec.
As someone who's had to retire their Pexon micro-USB cables as well, I can confirm that the micro connector end James uses is larger than what I'm accustomed to seeing in other products. It would still not fit our CNC cases even if you peeled off the heat-shrink tubing.
Ironically, Pexon's micro USB head is actually bigger than their mini USB head (I'm abroad at the moment so I can't take pics to prove this). James, if you're reading this, is there a chance we could get cables with slimmer micro ends?
Post by: atlas3686 on Wed, 15 February 2017, 02:57:55
Post by: pexon on Wed, 15 February 2017, 04:20:39
In regards to cables, the Micro USB connectors I use are the best quality ones I can find. They are slightly larger than most, this is due to the way the micro usb metal connector (solder part) mates with the plastic housing, it sits inside and has a fair amount of room inside for plenty of strain relief. Other micro connectors do not have a sufficient mating with the housing and will not allow for adequate strain relief as they essentially had two tabs that sit in the housing and do not feel sturdy enough. I can make mod kit style cables that work with the Novatouch as they use standard JST connectors like Filco. In R2 I would be happy to see a larger Micro port though. There is a way around it with mod kits, but its not ideal.
Post by: Lipton on Wed, 15 February 2017, 09:09:03
Quick question, is there a guide on how to change the cases anywhere? I see 2 screws in the bottom of the standard CoolerMaster case, but thats it...
I'm guessing:
1) take all caps off
2) take out 2 screws....
then what?
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 15 February 2017, 09:44:43
I GOT MINE! :D :D :D
Quick question, is there a guide on how to change the cases anywhere? I see 2 screws in the bottom of the standard CoolerMaster case, but thats it...
I'm guessing:
1) take all caps off
2) take out 2 screws....
then what?
There are other screws hidden under the case stickers (different numbers depending on which board you have, I think), so make sure you get those too. Then it's just a question of prying apart the two halves of the plastic housing. This can be tricky, as they are firmly locked together, but a screw driver (or two) is the conventional approach. It's a lot easier if you don't care too much about marring the plastic case, but if you're careful this should be possible to do without damaging the plastic case.
I find this to be a useful, non-marring, tool for prying open plastic cases:
https://www.amazon.com/Clover-490-NV-Hera-Marker/dp/B0011451F8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487173313&sr=8-4&keywords=clover+marking
This sort of thing would also probably work:
https://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Opening-Repair-iPhone-Non-Marring/dp/B00V58SOTK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487173394&sr=8-4&keywords=plastic+spudger
I meant to make a video for this but just haven't had time yet. :rolleyes:
Post by: fax668 on Wed, 15 February 2017, 09:44:53
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 15 February 2017, 09:58:53
See https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=85676.msg2362990#msg2362990
Oh, thanks for pointing that out. Somehow I only saw the photo in the thread and didn't notice the imgur link. That is an awesome set of pics! I also concur with (and now understand) the statement about the awesome LED wall lights that geekzombie has on his wall. :))
Post by: Lipton on Wed, 15 February 2017, 10:39:38
I GOT MINE! :D :D :D
Quick question, is there a guide on how to change the cases anywhere? I see 2 screws in the bottom of the standard CoolerMaster case, but thats it...
I'm guessing:
1) take all caps off
2) take out 2 screws....
then what?
There are other screws hidden under the case stickers (different numbers depending on which board you have, I think), so make sure you get those too. Then it's just a question of prying apart the two halves of the plastic housing. This can be tricky, as they are firmly locked together, but a screw driver (or two) is the conventional approach. It's a lot easier if you don't care too much about marring the plastic case, but if you're careful this should be possible to do without damaging the plastic case.
I find this to be a useful, non-marring, tool for prying open plastic cases:
https://www.amazon.com/Clover-490-NV-Hera-Marker/dp/B0011451F8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487173313&sr=8-4&keywords=clover+marking
This sort of thing would also probably work:
https://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Opening-Repair-iPhone-Non-Marring/dp/B00V58SOTK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487173394&sr=8-4&keywords=plastic+spudger
I meant to make a video for this but just haven't had time yet. :rolleyes:
Ah thanks!
I have the WASD keycap puller and it's pretty flat, I think it should work the same as the items you listed above :)
https://www.amazon.com/WASD-Keyboards-Wire-Keycap-Puller/dp/B00AZCGF7K
(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51vTPe83SzL._SL1200_.jpg)
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Wed, 15 February 2017, 12:49:03
I GOT MINE! :D :D :D
Quick question, is there a guide on how to change the cases anywhere? I see 2 screws in the bottom of the standard CoolerMaster case, but thats it...
I'm guessing:
1) take all caps off
2) take out 2 screws....
then what?
There are other screws hidden under the case stickers (different numbers depending on which board you have, I think), so make sure you get those too. Then it's just a question of prying apart the two halves of the plastic housing. This can be tricky, as they are firmly locked together, but a screw driver (or two) is the conventional approach. It's a lot easier if you don't care too much about marring the plastic case, but if you're careful this should be possible to do without damaging the plastic case.
I find this to be a useful, non-marring, tool for prying open plastic cases:
https://www.amazon.com/Clover-490-NV-Hera-Marker/dp/B0011451F8/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487173313&sr=8-4&keywords=clover+marking
This sort of thing would also probably work:
https://www.amazon.com/Plastic-Opening-Repair-iPhone-Non-Marring/dp/B00V58SOTK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1487173394&sr=8-4&keywords=plastic+spudger
I meant to make a video for this but just haven't had time yet. :rolleyes:
Ah thanks!
I have the WASD keycap puller and it's pretty flat, I think it should work the same as the items you listed above :)
https://www.amazon.com/WASD-Keyboards-Wire-Keycap-Puller/dp/B00AZCGF7KShow Image(https://images-na.ssl-images-amazon.com/images/I/51vTPe83SzL._SL1200_.jpg)
Doubt it. If it does not work and you don't care about scratching the plastic case you will be replacing you could just use a table knife to open it up.
Post by: pixelpusher on Wed, 15 February 2017, 13:30:02
See https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=85676.msg2362990#msg2362990
Oh, thanks for pointing that out. Somehow I only saw the photo in the thread and didn't notice the imgur link. That is an awesome set of pics! I also concur with (and now understand) the statement about the awesome LED wall lights that geekzombie has on his wall. :))
Yeah those panels are awesome, but I looked and they are $200 each. And his setup includes 2. So, very cool, but $400 for that setup will take me some time to convince my wallet. Oh, have no doubt, it will probably happen... just need time.
Post by: zah on Wed, 15 February 2017, 21:13:01
(https://images.discordapp.net/.eJwNyMsNwyAMANBdGABs0_DJMhUiiKRKaoSdU9Xd23d8H3PP06xmVx2yOrcdUnluVpRn6c125n62Mg6xlS9XVEvdr_ZWcfgA8okShbhAgOiDo4SBvEfI2UfMlP8FGIFweRIhINnX6Ob7AwCAIuA.FDxxqFCqX2kefPHIo28gedxVUZ0?width=1632&height=918)
Post by: Lipton on Thu, 16 February 2017, 13:48:13
Had to open it up again and put in 2 layers of that padded lining
http://imgur.com/gallery/0OriR
(http://i.imgur.com/yFIT4js.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/gTnZdwh.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/x7FW6n2.jpg)
Post by: poolside on Thu, 16 February 2017, 14:30:08
Woot all installed :D
Had to open it up again and put in 2 layers of that padded lining
http://imgur.com/gallery/0OriRShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/yFIT4js.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/gTnZdwh.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/x7FW6n2.jpg)
Nice board! These grey/blue caps are a good match to the case.
Post by: Lipton on Thu, 16 February 2017, 14:45:36
Woot all installed :D
Had to open it up again and put in 2 layers of that padded lining
http://imgur.com/gallery/0OriRShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/yFIT4js.jpg)
Nice board! These grey/blue caps are a good match to the case.
Thanks! :D caps where from a round over at https://deskthority.net/
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Thu, 16 February 2017, 15:23:29
Woot all installed :D
Had to open it up again and put in 2 layers of that padded lining
http://imgur.com/gallery/0OriRShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/yFIT4js.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/gTnZdwh.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/x7FW6n2.jpg)
Where did you get that cable? The place I normally order custom cables from makes them with connectors that are too large for this case. How happy are you with the quality? The coil seems imperfect.
Post by: Lipton on Thu, 16 February 2017, 15:29:48
Woot all installed :D
Had to open it up again and put in 2 layers of that padded lining
http://imgur.com/gallery/0OriRShow Image(http://i.imgur.com/yFIT4js.jpg)
Where did you get that cable? The place I normally order custom cables from makes them with connectors that are too large for this case. How happy are you with the quality? The coil seems imperfect.
Got the cable from https://www.mimic-cables.com/
Great guy! I even ordered with the wrong USB end once, and after shipping it back to him, he fixed it
Post by: arhetue on Thu, 16 February 2017, 15:36:53
Now to decide if I like the DZ or the Nantucket on it better.... either way, very pleased! :thumb:
Post by: fublamchu on Thu, 16 February 2017, 15:52:55
Got it and its killer! Custom color worked out fantastically and the brushed finish is exactly what I was hoping for. Thanks a bunch Norbauer!.
Now to decide if I like the DZ or the Nantucket on it better.... either way, very pleased! :thumb:
good lord, that looks fantastic
Post by: nurbs on Thu, 16 February 2017, 16:19:04
On another note - and I may be in the minority on this - but I prefer the current form fitting usb connector design and not in favor of enlarging it. Not only does it look quite elegant, but it keeps the already fragile micro usb connector from wiggling around too much. Ryan said he followed the spec and used industry defined standard sizes. Wouldn't it then be common sense to have Pexon cables also follow the spec instead of Ryan having to enlarge the hole just to fit a non standardized Pexon connection?
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Thu, 16 February 2017, 17:39:20
Lovin' all these amazing pics! Keepem coming. Already mentioned this to Ryan in a PM, but it needs to be said again that he did an amazing job with the design and this GB.
On another note - and I may be in the minority on this - but I prefer the current form fitting usb connector design and not in favor of enlarging it. Not only does it look quite elegant, but it keeps the already fragile micro usb connector from wiggling around too much. Ryan said he followed the spec and used industry defined standard sizes. Wouldn't it then be common sense to have Pexon cables also follow the spec instead of Ryan having to enlarge the hole just to fit a non standardized Pexon connection?
Should add that Pexon is not the cable maker using these connectors, just the most popular one. I get why they chose the larger connector as micro usb cables are fragile (by design!), but that did not stop my micro usb cable from Pexon from breaking after two weeks.
I agree that a larger opening won't look as good and that the cable makers not following standards are the ones to blame. However, I am still in favor of increasing the size by a few millimeters simply because I think the number of R2 customers that are going to be bummed their custom cable does not fit is higher than the number of people that will care that the opening on the back is slightly larger.
Post by: geekzombie on Thu, 16 February 2017, 17:56:43
Lovin' all these amazing pics! Keepem coming. Already mentioned this to Ryan in a PM, but it needs to be said again that he did an amazing job with the design and this GB.
On another note - and I may be in the minority on this - but I prefer the current form fitting usb connector design and not in favor of enlarging it. Not only does it look quite elegant, but it keeps the already fragile micro usb connector from wiggling around too much. Ryan said he followed the spec and used industry defined standard sizes. Wouldn't it then be common sense to have Pexon cables also follow the spec instead of Ryan having to enlarge the hole just to fit a non standardized Pexon connection?
Should add that Pexon is not the cable maker using these connectors, just the most popular one. I get why they chose the larger connector as micro usb cables are fragile (by design!), but that did not stop my micro usb cable from Pexon from breaking after two weeks.
I agree that a larger opening won't look as good and that the cable makers not following standards are the ones to blame. However, I am still in favor of increasing the size by a few millimeters simply because I think the number of R2 customers that are going to be bummed their custom cable does not fit is higher than the number of people that will care that the opening on the back is slightly larger.
IMHO, that's a false dichotomy. The issue I'd be focused on in the hardware design is not primarily the small subsets of the population using custom cables or 'caring' about the larger opening -- it's the matter of whether it reduces the durability of the solution in the long run (cable, case or board): does this change increase the risk of damage to the USB connection, the cable, or does it introduce the possibility of foreign contaminants getting underneath the PCB?
Post by: PurpleURP on Fri, 17 February 2017, 09:27:54
Post by: Lipton on Fri, 17 February 2017, 13:51:43
How do you prevent static shocks on this thing? Lol, it's annoying and I have a slight phobic of static shocks. From trauma as kid who went to middle school in Michigan, that had carpeted floors and metal lockers. Not to mention indoor heaters that tried to kill you all the time. Hehe...
(http://i.imgur.com/frNot5X.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/3k9ZyRy.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/RJte5Qn.jpg)
Post by: unoab on Fri, 17 February 2017, 16:06:48
How do you prevent static shocks on this thing? Lol, it's annoying and I have a slight phobic of static shocks. From trauma as kid who went to middle school in Michigan, that had carpeted floors and metal lockers. Not to mention indoor heaters that tried to kill you all the time. Hehe...
always wear one of these when going to type:
(https://chioszrobots.files.wordpress.com/2013/09/anti-statioc-wrist-chiosz-robots.jpg)
:p
Post by: orpheo on Sat, 18 February 2017, 03:00:34
The novatouch as a very sturdy USB connector already, no need to have the case do the job then.
Filing down a plastic connector is not the end of the world. No drama here hehe.
Post by: pixelpusher on Sat, 18 February 2017, 21:11:43
Quick question and more photos of my cable from mimic-cables (https://www.mimic-cables.com/).That's a good question, but I don't think there is a solution. I have a tex case that shocks me too. For a while I thought the PCB was shorting to it, but then I realized it was just the shoes I was wearing... they pick up a ton of static. So... try different shoes? (and now you're probably going to say you aren't wearing shoes)
How do you prevent static shocks on this thing? Lol, it's annoying and I have a slight phobic of static shocks. From trauma as kid who went to middle school in Michigan, that had carpeted floors and metal lockers. Not to mention indoor heaters that tried to kill you all the time. Hehe...
Post by: Lipton on Sat, 18 February 2017, 21:40:12
Post by: testplsignore on Sat, 18 February 2017, 23:31:19
Post by: adamcobabe on Sun, 19 February 2017, 04:02:13
Wow, the cases are back on Originative, but at 450 instead of 375 :(
I think it may include a Novatouch keyboard... maybe. There's a bullet point with the following:
"Includes Novatouch in original case and CNC Aluminum case"
Post by: testplsignore on Sun, 19 February 2017, 06:21:46
I'm mostly sad because I missed out on the old price by only an hour or so. :(
Post by: ramnes on Sun, 19 February 2017, 07:01:51
:)
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 19 February 2017, 09:43:11
Here's a quick sound test of my Novatouch with Ryan's case, Hypersphere's rings and some Krytox lube:
:)
Thanks for the video Ramnes. I've been thinking of trying some hyperspheres, and this makes them seem very nice. :)
Post by: Lipton on Sun, 19 February 2017, 09:43:56
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/5utayi/aluminum_all_the_things/
Perfect!
(https://i.redditmedia.com/T-IxnLhvvEzosNh_iWnPCIx0cVQNeCq2-I9M0_LxEJM.jpg?w=1019&s=262e60cc9e6ea6b3d95e1062d43426a8)
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Sun, 19 February 2017, 11:31:47
Here's a quick sound test of my Novatouch with Ryan's case, Hypersphere's rings and some Krytox lube:
:)
Thanks for the video Ramnes. I've been thinking of trying some hyperspheres, and this makes them seem very nice. :)
I also installed some hypersphere rings and lubed my stabilizers when swapping case. Really happy I did (had my doubts when I first heard of them), the purchasing experience was great, he shipped them out a few hours after i made my order on ebay.
Had previously done a case swap on my masterkeys board. Really happy with the experience and the case both times. Well done Norbauer. Once my MC Rebirth keycaps arrive and I get a new cable from Mimic I will have two endgame boards.
Should add: my first case was missing one of the screws that hold the top and bottom parts together. It does not make a difference however as 7 out of 8 screws is more than enough to hold them together. The 2nd case had an extremely minor anodizing imperfection on the side but its only noticeable from very specific angles under certain lighting conditions. Extremely satisfied with the cases but felt I should point these things out.
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 19 February 2017, 12:49:58
The 2nd case had an extremely minor anodizing imperfection on the side but its only noticeable from very specific angles under certain lighting conditions. Extremely satisfied with the cases but felt I should point these things out.
I'm sorry to hear about even a very minor cosmetic flaw, but I'm glad you're not troubled by it. For whatever it's worth, I have fortunately found that any anodizing imperfections I have encountered so far on the cases can be removed with a bit of water, some Bon Ami powder, and a gentle rub with a paper towel.
I spoke to the factory about these small (and thankfully rare) residue spots, and they said they would normally have caught these spots and addressed them, except that I asked them to rush and get the cases in the air before the long Chinese New Year factory closings began—and thus there wasn't time to do one final close visual inspection of all surfaces after the cases came back from anodizing. Lesson learned for the future; don't plan any group buys for several weeks on either side of CNY. ;)
Post by: LechnerDE on Mon, 20 February 2017, 18:03:12
I finally got my case today.
(http://i.imgur.com/K3hNyGD.jpg)
I am really impressed with the premium quality. It’s twice as heavy as those TEX TKL cases (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=280)!
I went for the white one, but haven’t decided yet which set works best with it.
(http://i.imgur.com/vT4Lv9a.jpg)
Thanks for the great GB - looking forward to Round 2 :thumb:
Post by: clickstops on Wed, 22 February 2017, 14:03:04
(http://i.imgur.com/HryJ8Ur.jpg)
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 22 February 2017, 14:17:25
I just posted this elsewhere so I'm sorry if you see it twice, wanted to share. LOVE this case. Thanks for doing such a great job throughout the drop Norbauer.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/HryJ8Ur.jpg)
Beautiful photo, clickstops! Thanks for sharing this. :D
Post by: nurbs on Wed, 22 February 2017, 14:34:53
Also, it is addicting.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 22 February 2017, 14:58:57
The recess on the case looks great with a magnetic adapter.
Also, it is addicting.
Nice! Where does one obtain such a thing?
Post by: LightningXI on Wed, 22 February 2017, 15:07:26
Also, that magnetic adapter is awesome, where do you get it?
Post by: nurbs on Wed, 22 February 2017, 15:09:46
The recess on the case looks great with a magnetic adapter.
Also, it is addicting.
Nice! Where does one obtain such a thing?
Amazon!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MCZB2KR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Post by: LightningXI on Wed, 22 February 2017, 15:12:15
The recess on the case looks great with a magnetic adapter.
Also, it is addicting.
Nice! Where does one obtain such a thing?
Amazon!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MCZB2KR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Oh-ho! Thank you so much.
Post by: clickstops on Wed, 22 February 2017, 15:20:56
Beautiful photo, clickstops! Thanks for sharing this. :D
For sure!
Post by: Blazestorm on Wed, 22 February 2017, 16:17:44
I don't really want to spend $450 on a set from Originative when I already have the main board. (And the grey is already sold out).
Post by: LightningXI on Wed, 22 February 2017, 16:19:31
Is there going to be a Round 2? =)
I don't really want to spend $450 on a set from Originative when I already have the main board. (And the grey is already sold out).
I feel ya - I got two Novatouch's around, and I'd love to get an alu for one of them.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 22 February 2017, 16:39:10
Is there going to be a Round 2? =)
Yes, absolutely. I'm just working out some final details with the factory, which should take just another few days.
If you're interested in participating in a second round, please fill out this quick, two-question, survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H2YF2CX
I was going to combine r2 with a group buy for a RealForce cases, but that will take me a while to design and from what I can tell there isn't necessarily much cost advantage to batching the orders. And since the r2 cases dropped, folks keep bugging me to do a r2, so I figured might as well get that rolling soon. :D
If you haven't already, you can visit the Shopify store I set up for the last group buy, and I have sign-ups there on the homepage (bottom right) where you can join the mailing list, for folks who don't look at GH all the time. http://shop.norbauer.com
Post by: LightningXI on Wed, 22 February 2017, 16:41:42
Is there going to be a Round 2? =)
Yes, absolutely. I'm just working out some final details with the factory, which should take just another few days.
If you're interested in participating in a second round, please fill out this quick, two-question, survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H2YF2CX
I was going to combine r2 with a group buy for a RealForce cases, but that will take me a while to design and from what I can tell there isn't necessarily much cost advantage to batching the orders. And since the r2 cases dropped, folks keep bugging me to do a r2, so I figured might as well get that rolling soon. :D
If you haven't already, you can visit the Shopify store I set up for the last group buy, and I have sign-ups there on the homepage (bottom right) where you can join the mailing list, for folks who don't look at GH all the time. http://shop.norbauer.com
Survey filled! I love this idea. I would buy it basically any day now.
Post by: Blazestorm on Wed, 22 February 2017, 16:44:22
Is there going to be a Round 2? =)Yes, absolutely. I'm just working out some final details with the factory, which should take just another few days.
Awesome, I'll wait for that then.
When you say Realforce... you mean 104 or 108-RGB or TKL? Cause I have many other Realforce boards that could use upgrades too =) I could lend out my Realforce-RGB if there's a chance we can get an aluminum case for it.
I only bought the Novatouch from Originative to pair it with this case and MX key-caps. They added the case options a few days *after* I had already ordered, and at a higher price than this GB.
Thanks!
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 22 February 2017, 17:59:38
and at a higher price than this GB.
I think Originative is doing the community a valuable service by keeping Novatouch boards readily available to the community in the US, and by making the group buy CoolerMaster cases available in an on-demand way. Remember that when we order cases through a group buy there is a non-trivial lead time while they are manufactured, shipped to me, and then re-shipped. When you buy from Originative, you're paying for the convenience of immediate gratification. I for one don't want to get in the business of shipping keyboard cases all day; it's more than enough doing the occasional group buy, believe me. ;) To support an on-demand e-commerce and fulfillment infrastructure like they have at Originative takes a lot and costs a lot. So, for whatever it's worth, I think their pricing is more than fair. But I'm happy to do a second group buy if people still want cases, for those who don't mind waiting; for everybody else, I recommend having a look at what Originative has for sale. :)
Post by: Troif on Wed, 22 February 2017, 18:02:37
The recess on the case looks great with a magnetic adapter.
Also, it is addicting.
Nice! Where does one obtain such a thing?
Amazon!
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01MCZB2KR/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
WOWWWWW!!! Bought!!! :p
Post by: Viking_Robot on Wed, 22 February 2017, 18:11:09
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 22 February 2017, 18:19:42
If i could get a case for my 87 RF i would lose my mind. When is this happening?
I'm afraid the honest answer is "whenever I can get around to it." :) I've already got the spare 87U to experiment with and have been conducting some tests, but it'll probably be another month or two before I finalize a design. I want to see if I can come up with something creative and interesting. The RealForce has always been my first keyboard love.
Post by: Blazestorm on Wed, 22 February 2017, 18:38:09
and at a higher price than this GB.I think Originative is doing the community a valuable service by keeping Novatouch boards readily available to the community in the US, and by making the group buy CoolerMaster cases available in an on-demand way.
I agree that it is nice for the community to have. Just that the prices feel excessive at times, and constantly changing(increasing). As someone else mentioned, the price went from $375 to $450 since the last time they listed. Why the increased cost? Are they really helping the community or helping to line their pockets? I see arguments both ways... =)
I think Amazon or another 3rd party fulfillment service could serve the same purpose with a lot less overhead and price fluctuation than Originative. I found some that have flexible pricing that could support group buys, so you don't even have to deal w/ shipping the cases for your group buy.
Anyways, looking forward to seeing what's coming up next. Thanks.
Post by: Arallu on Wed, 22 February 2017, 23:46:09
Is there going to be a Round 2? =)
Yes, absolutely. I'm just working out some final details with the factory, which should take just another few days.
If you're interested in participating in a second round, please fill out this quick, two-question, survey:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/H2YF2CX
I was going to combine r2 with a group buy for a RealForce cases, but that will take me a while to design and from what I can tell there isn't necessarily much cost advantage to batching the orders. And since the r2 cases dropped, folks keep bugging me to do a r2, so I figured might as well get that rolling soon. :D
If you haven't already, you can visit the Shopify store I set up for the last group buy, and I have sign-ups there on the homepage (bottom right) where you can join the mailing list, for folks who don't look at GH all the time. http://shop.norbauer.com
Thanks! Joined and survey taken
Post by: axtran on Thu, 23 February 2017, 07:01:41
Post by: beamingrobot on Thu, 23 February 2017, 07:54:22
Post by: DannyHuynh on Thu, 23 February 2017, 13:35:02
and at a higher price than this GB.I think Originative is doing the community a valuable service by keeping Novatouch boards readily available to the community in the US, and by making the group buy CoolerMaster cases available in an on-demand way.
I agree that it is nice for the community to have. Just that the prices feel excessive at times, and constantly changing(increasing). As someone else mentioned, the price went from $375 to $450 since the last time they listed. Why the increased cost? Are they really helping the community or helping to line their pockets? I see arguments both ways... =)
I think Amazon or another 3rd party fulfillment service could serve the same purpose with a lot less overhead and price fluctuation than Originative. I found some that have flexible pricing that could support group buys, so you don't even have to deal w/ shipping the cases for your group buy.
Anyways, looking forward to seeing what's coming up next. Thanks.
probably because someone at reddit complained that Oco old price was apparently too low and therefore unfair to the GB people :eek: :eek:
Post by: Blazestorm on Thu, 23 February 2017, 21:45:55
I guess they can't win then... I'll stop *****ing until I find a better solution.and at a higher price than this GB.I think Originative is doing the community a valuable service by keeping Novatouch boards readily available to the community in the US, and by making the group buy CoolerMaster cases available in an on-demand way.
I agree that it is nice for the community to have. Just that the prices feel excessive at times, and constantly changing(increasing). As someone else mentioned, the price went from $375 to $450 since the last time they listed. Why the increased cost? Are they really helping the community or helping to line their pockets? I see arguments both ways... =)
I think Amazon or another 3rd party fulfillment service could serve the same purpose with a lot less overhead and price fluctuation than Originative. I found some that have flexible pricing that could support group buys, so you don't even have to deal w/ shipping the cases for your group buy.
Anyways, looking forward to seeing what's coming up next. Thanks.
probably because someone at reddit complained that Oco old price was apparently too low and therefore unfair to the GB people :eek: :eek:
Realforce RGB aluminum case! Let's do it!
I also bet they're doing an RGB TKL, which might have a case slightly incompatible with the original TKL they made. Unless you could design a case for both.
Post by: YH YOON on Thu, 23 February 2017, 22:51:37
r2?!?!?!
im' in now red color!!
Post by: DreLLin on Fri, 24 February 2017, 06:14:05
No option for white in the survey? :p
Yeah, please add white as an option again!!!
I know there were minor issues with the white powder coating but it still looked stunning!
Post by: pixelpusher on Fri, 24 February 2017, 08:25:33
Didn't you have some sort of experimental color that you ordered? Some sort of antique copper or brass or something? I'm racking my brain for new colors to try out in round 2 ;D
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 24 February 2017, 11:23:17
Yeah, please add white as an option again!!!
I know there were minor issues with the white powder coating but it still looked stunning!
OK, I'll consider that. I'm going to investigate if there are ways to improve the quality (I think maybe masking the interior was a made idea), but I think some of the issue is just inherent to powder coating. It's a process that really is best suited to large parts rather than small precision parts where they'll be evaluated up-close. But it is also really the only way (without getting super high-tech) to get metal a pure white color.
My plan is actually to do fewer colors this time, if at all possible, as it will allow us to qualify for using a more high-end anodizing vendor. A number of the cases from the anodizing vendor used in r1 came back with residue on them, which I had to spend a lot of time fixing before sending the cases out. This was a major drag and took me about two solid days. It ended up being fine, but it's an experience I would rather not repeat, so I'm hoping we can use a more production-style anodizing vendor this time. To qualify for that, we basically have a per-color MOQ of 50, so I'd like to converge on just one or two color options for r2. It'll improve quality control without our having to raise the price. That being said, powder coat is outside of those quantity buckets, really, so adding white back might not be an issue. I might just get all the powder coating done in the US.
Anyway, sorry. That was probably more info you wanted, but I'm kind of just thinking out loud. :rolleyes:
Post by: Blazestorm on Fri, 24 February 2017, 11:31:15
I'd also be down for a bare (finished) aluminum option. So people can get it anodized themselves. Back in my paintball days, most gun parts were anodized aluminum. And it was pretty common to re-anodize your gun. There were a lot of places doing small run, custom work. I don't remember the prices being too crazy either.
Maybe the clear (a.k.a. Silver) option fits that, just have to strip the clear anno.
Sent from my E5803 using Tapatalk
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 24 February 2017, 11:36:41
Ryan,
Didn't you have some sort of experimental color that you ordered? Some sort of antique copper or brass or something? I'm racking my brain for new colors to try out in round 2 ;D
I did. I ordered a simulated "copper" color, but to be honest it came back more like a metallic brown. I would describe it more as a "bronze." It wasn't quite the more orangey color what I was looking for, but it would go really well with something like a "Chocolatier" set or 1976. I'll put those two samples up for sale in my shop (http://shop.norbauer.com) at the same time as I launch the group buy r2.
JDragon specified an awesome custom color in dark blue; I believe some photos of it appear earlier in the thread. I like it so much that I've thought about adding it as a standard color next time, or at least something close to it. The dark green shown above was also pretty cool, though I'm not sure how many keysets are out there that it would match. Ninja Turtles maybe? ;)
I've also thought about adding a "brushed" option, independent of color.
Post by: autobot on Fri, 24 February 2017, 11:37:15
I'd like to converge on just one or two color options for r2. It'll improve quality control without our having to raise the price.
To that point, I'd suggest offering silver (apple aluminum) and dark grey (can you show pics of cool vs warm gray as your survey highlighted?). I plan on buying one of each of these colors :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 24 February 2017, 11:39:39
Maybe the clear (a.k.a. Silver) option fits that, just have to strip the clear anno.
True, but that wasn't a standard color in the last run; it was a custom that Originative ordered, along with one or two individuals.
I could always offer unfinished as an option for people who want to get their own finished. However, in my experience these days it's hard to find good anodizing shops in the USA. I don't know if it's based on actual facts, but people often blame the EPA for shutting a lot of them down.
Post by: JDragon on Fri, 24 February 2017, 12:25:58
Post by: eksuen on Fri, 24 February 2017, 13:33:18
My plan is actually to do fewer colors this time, if at all possible, as it will allow us to qualify for using a more high-end anodizing vendor. A number of the cases from the anodizing vendor used in r1 came back with residue on them, which I had to spend a lot of time fixing before sending the cases out. This was a major drag and took me about two solid days. It ended up being fine, but it's an experience I would rather not repeat, so I'm hoping we can use a more production-style anodizing vendor this time. To qualify for that, we basically have a per-color MOQ of 50, so I'd like to converge on just one or two color options for r2. It'll improve quality control without our having to raise the price. That being said, powder coat is outside of those quantity buckets, really, so adding white back might not be an issue. I might just get all the powder coating done in the US.
JDragon specified an awesome custom color in dark blue; I believe some photos of it appear earlier in the thread. I like it so much that I've thought about adding it as a standard color next time, or at least something close to it. The dark green shown above was also pretty cool, though I'm not sure how many keysets are out there that it would match. Ninja Turtles maybe? ;)
Do you plan to offer custom colors a la Round 1 even if you move to the high-end anodizing vendor? Green never tends to be popular and I doubt a dark green case will ever meet an MOQ of 50. But I want one so badly.
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 24 February 2017, 14:32:41
Do you plan to offer custom colors a la Round 1 even if you move to the high-end anodizing vendor? Green never tends to be popular and I doubt a dark green case will ever meet an MOQ of 50. But I want one so badly.
Interesting. I was thinking maybe no because the custom colors proved to be a bit of an administrative nightmare for me. At the same time, I found it kind of exciting and rewarding to see different colors people ended up with. So, yeah, maybe for custom colors I could get those done at the prototyping anodizing shop but the group buy colors I'll get done at the production anodizing place.
This is all very interesting and thoughtful feedback. Please keep it coming, everyone. I'm still mulling all the different options and will have a conversation with the factory probably next week to see what our best approach should be.
Post by: zslane on Fri, 24 February 2017, 14:54:21
Post by: Blazestorm on Fri, 24 February 2017, 15:02:04
Maybe the clear (a.k.a. Silver) option fits that, just have to strip the clear anno.
True, but that wasn't a standard color in the last run; it was a custom that Originative ordered, along with one or two individuals.
I could always offer unfinished as an option for people who want to get their own finished. However, in my experience these days it's hard to find good anodizing shops in the USA. I don't know if it's based on actual facts, but people often blame the EPA for shutting a lot of them down.
I had no idea about the EPA thing. I had guys anodizing my parts in their garage... kinda sketchy, but it came out nice and was pretty cheap. There are even some guides still posted on how to DIY.
Seems like most of those paintball anodizing shops are still running, just higher prices than I remember. But they do much more complex (unique) anodizing jobs. Going to see what kind of quotes they have. One that looks good is actually in Canada, maybe they're getting around some of the EPA regulations being up there? =)
So I'll probably end up taking at least 1 clear/unfinished from one of these runs to try it out.
Post by: Viking_Robot on Sun, 26 February 2017, 13:57:07
If i could get a case for my 87 RF i would lose my mind. When is this happening?
I'm afraid the honest answer is "whenever I can get around to it." :) I've already got the spare 87U to experiment with and have been conducting some tests, but it'll probably be another month or two before I finalize a design. I want to see if I can come up with something creative and interesting. The RealForce has always been my first keyboard love.
Awesome, thanks for the reply. I signed up for the mailing list on your website. Looking forward to it.
Post by: nurbs on Sun, 26 February 2017, 16:06:51
Iphone 6 Plus SPACE GRAY
IPAD Smart Cover in CHARCOAL GRAY
Wacom Express Key ALUMINUM GRAY
Norbauer CNC Aluminum Case Originative Gray
Keycaps are EnjoyPBT black on dark gray cherry profile thick PBTs.
IMO, I was expecting more of the gray from the Wacom Express key remote for the Origintiave gray.
Ryan - if you can match that cooler gray from the Wacom Express key remote or the charcoal gray, I would be so down for R2!
(http://i.imgur.com/paHLgsO.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/nbiV4FM.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/LtXDEoZ.jpg)
EDIT: One last shot with just natural window sunlight from the right using the white USB cable as white balance:
(http://i.imgur.com/Poroeun.jpg)
Post by: Phenix on Sun, 26 February 2017, 18:07:58
Post by: norbauer on Sun, 26 February 2017, 20:44:01
Ryan - if you can match that cooler gray from the Wacom Express key remote or the charcoal gray, I would be so down for R2!
Interesting. Thanks for the suggestion, nurbs. In order to quality for higher per-color MOQ with the different anodizing vendor, I'm thinking of combining the black and gray options into a single "very dark gray," or charcoal or whatever we decide to call it. It would be pretty similar to the pics you posted, I think.
Post by: orpheo on Mon, 27 February 2017, 06:37:38
Saw Ryan's survey regarding the colors. I have the Originative gray, and was expecting a more cooler gray. While Originative's gray is cooler than the "warm gray" GB option, it still does tilt more towards the warmer end of the spectrum. Took some shots comparing the different aluminum grays. There is warm desk light from left, natural window light from right, and white LED light from the computers screen coming from the top.
Iphone 6 Plus SPACE GRAY
IPAD Smart Cover in CHARCOAL GRAY
Wacom Express Key ALUMINUM GRAY
Norbauer CNC Aluminum Case Originative Gray
Keycaps are EnjoyPBT black on dark gray cherry profile thick PBTs.
IMO, I was expecting more of the gray from the Wacom Express key remote for the Origintiave gray.
Ryan - if you can match that cooler gray from the Wacom Express key remote or the charcoal gray, I would be so down for R2!Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/paHLgsO.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/nbiV4FM.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/LtXDEoZ.jpg)
EDIT: One last shot with just natural window sunlight from the right using the white USB cable as white balance:Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/Poroeun.jpg)
Stop eye balling and use a gray card in conjunction with a photo editing software man.
Post by: nurbs on Mon, 27 February 2017, 13:20:09
Stop eye balling and use a gray card in conjunction with a photo editing software man.
They are not eyeballed. These were shot in 14-bit RAW and edited in Lightroom. I cropped out the white tear sheet for balancing on the first three. My screen is a Wacom 27qhd and color calibrated using an Xrite PRO.
I make a living as an artist and photographer and pretty much live in Photoshop, Maya, and Lightroom - so color calibration is important.
Post by: nurbs on Mon, 27 February 2017, 13:29:23
How is the Wacom for daily usage?
It's great! The screen is the Cintiq 27QHD which is wide gamut and supports 10-bit color. Pretty much work and stare at it all day.
I've been eyeing the new Mobilestudio Pro 16, but apparently lots of bugs with it.
Post by: nurbs on Mon, 27 February 2017, 13:41:02
Stop eye balling and use a gray card in conjunction with a photo editing software man.
They are not eyeballed. These were shot in 14-bit RAW and edited in Lightroom. I cropped out the white tear sheet for balancing on the first three. My screen is a Wacom 27qhd and color calibrated using an Xrite PRO.
I make a living as an artist and photographer and pretty much live in Photoshop, Maya, and Lightroom - so color calibration is the important.
EDIT: Also, most digital artists now use white along with a color checker. Not trying to start something or argue with you, but only responding because I deal with this color thing on a daily basis.
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 27 February 2017, 18:01:19
I'm SO happy that you helped me get this sorted out. :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 27 February 2017, 18:43:24
WOW! Ryan, I got my replacement case today! The silver is AMAZING. I was on about a 6/10 for the white but the silver is an 11. I want more! Bring on round 2.
I'm SO happy that you helped me get this sorted out. :thumb: :thumb: :thumb:
Awesome! I'm surprised it took so long to make its way to you, but I guess you're a long way from San Francisco. I'm so happy you like the case. :)
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Tue, 28 February 2017, 08:11:19
Ryan - if you can match that cooler gray from the Wacom Express key remote or the charcoal gray, I would be so down for R2!
Interesting. Thanks for the suggestion, nurbs. In order to quality for higher per-color MOQ with the different anodizing vendor, I'm thinking of combining the black and gray options into a single "very dark gray," or charcoal or whatever we decide to call it. It would be pretty similar to the pics you posted, I think.
This would be great. Would be on board for R2.
Also, maybe its time to update the status in the thread title?
Post by: orpheo on Tue, 28 February 2017, 08:30:22
Stop eye balling and use a gray card in conjunction with a photo editing software man.
They are not eyeballed. These were shot in 14-bit RAW and edited in Lightroom. I cropped out the white tear sheet for balancing on the first three. My screen is a Wacom 27qhd and color calibrated using an Xrite PRO.
I make a living as an artist and photographer and pretty much live in Photoshop, Maya, and Lightroom - so color calibration is the important.
EDIT: Also, most digital artists now use white along with a color checker. Not trying to start something or argue with you, but only responding because I deal with this color thing on a daily basis.
Sorry I didn't want to imply anything. Just I do digital photography for 15 years now and mixing light source in your case and not using a Grey card seems adventurous! To those eyes the apple phone doesn't look right at all... that's it, but the light bulb explains it. Kudos to you if you managed it with a white paper. I use a pro Grey card for colors in mix lighting sources any day, that is just my old habits man.
Post by: evangs on Tue, 28 February 2017, 10:37:42
https://imgur.com/gallery/JBoke (https://imgur.com/gallery/JBoke)
Thanks so much norbauer. The case looks stunning and really breathes new life into the skeletor set. I got a big thumbs up from the wife!
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 28 February 2017, 11:05:02
I finally got time to assemble my wife's board.
https://imgur.com/gallery/JBoke (https://imgur.com/gallery/JBoke)
Thanks so much norbauer. The case looks stunning and really breathes new life into the skeletor set. I got a big thumbs up from the wife!
Oh man! That is so ridiculously delightful. Love the combination of the keycaps and case.
Post by: LightningXI on Tue, 28 February 2017, 14:55:29
When should we expect the R2 to happen? In the middle of 2017? Later (Q3/Q4) this year? Would costs remain the same?
As for now, which colors would be most likely to be available?
I ask because I need to plan ahead in terms of budgeting and timing.
Post by: LDobler on Tue, 28 February 2017, 15:02:46
Post by: autobot on Tue, 28 February 2017, 15:07:07
Post by: Phenix on Tue, 28 February 2017, 15:19:53
Post by: norbauer on Tue, 28 February 2017, 16:02:56
Post by: clasicks on Wed, 01 March 2017, 07:01:06
Email has been subbed, money has been set aside.
Thanks!
Post by: pixelpusher on Wed, 01 March 2017, 09:45:11
[attach=1]
I was hoping for the Realforce case b/c I don't need another MX switch board and I disliked my Novatouch so much that I sold it, but I'm thinking about grabbing a Rapid-i and doing a switch swap for something unique. I do plan to try out a Realforce 87U at some point, so please don't give up on that project :)
Post by: pixelpusher on Wed, 01 March 2017, 09:49:06
The colors I'd be most interested in are: white, black, tan.
I'm with you here for sure, but with this particular case and the way it is assembled, paint is not a good option. So, we'd have to find another process for achieving lighter colors.
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 01 March 2017, 11:13:32
Don't suppose your manufacturer has the micro-arc oxidation process like the E8-V1 is offering?
(Attachment Link)
Interesting. I'm always interested in fun new finishing processes to explore, and we can always use a different third-party vendor for finishing. Where can I find more info about the E8-V1?
One thing I've been thinking about maybe exploring is a plating process. Something like a very shiny chrome or nickel finish might be cool.
Post by: cynviloq on Wed, 01 March 2017, 11:23:11
Don't suppose your manufacturer has the micro-arc oxidation process like the E8-V1 is offering?
(Attachment Link)
Interesting. I'm always interested in fun new finishing processes to explore, and we can always use a different third-party vendor for finishing. Where can I find more info about the E8-V1?
One thing I've been thinking about maybe exploring is a plating process. Something like a very shiny chrome or nickel finish might be cool.
White sample of the micro arc on a Matrix Abel: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=87572.msg2370462#msg2370462
Main GB thread: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=87572.0
Post by: pixelpusher on Wed, 01 March 2017, 14:42:45
[attachimg=1]
Post by: clasicks on Mon, 06 March 2017, 08:26:30
How are the anodizing choices going in regards to the IC - Any teaser on what colors may be offered for R2?
Post by: fine_italian_leather on Mon, 06 March 2017, 08:38:20
My precious.
(Attachment Link)
Looking nice. Nice to see a masterkeys for once (guessing it is based on the backplate), everyone with the case seems to be a novatouch owner.
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 06 March 2017, 09:18:38
My precious.
(Attachment Link)
Looking nice. Nice to see a masterkeys for once (guessing it is based on the backplate), everyone with the case seems to be a novatouch owner.
Yep, it's the "liberated" masterkeys that Ryan used for testing and sold on his shop. MX Reds in it. I have since picked up a rapid-i on ebay for $70 that is waiting for round 2 of this case :)
I really disliked my novatouch. I have owned 13 keyboards and the novatouch is the only one I've ever sold. The 45g topre is not for me.
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 06 March 2017, 10:59:06
A new week is upon us and my lust for a shiny brick of aluminum is growing by the day.
How are the anodizing choices going in regards to the IC - Any teaser on what colors may be offered for R2?
Sorry, I've been deep in other projects but have also been working on new keyboard stuff in the background. I'm currently getting a new prototype made in "almost black," which is to say charcoal gray. I'll post pics as soon as it arrives (a week or two). I also really want to offer a special or interesting finish, perhaps an upgrade at a slightly higher price if necessary. So I'm thinking of getting a prototype done with shiny chrome plating. Has anybody ever done this before on a keyboard case? Do you think there might be interest?
I'm also investigating mic-arc oxidation, as suggested above, as perhaps a way of providing a white finish without the problems of powder coat.
Post by: pixelpusher on Mon, 06 March 2017, 11:25:04
[attachimg=1]
Post by: clasicks on Mon, 06 March 2017, 12:28:27
Post by: need on Wed, 08 March 2017, 05:43:01
@norbauer, are there still plans for a Topre 87u case?
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 08 March 2017, 10:40:15
Maybe I should start a new IC thread separate from this group buy thread?
Regarding the 87u case, I definitely want to do it. I have already started to sketch out some ideas, but keyboards are just a hobby for me and not a full-time job, so I just squeeze time in here and there when I can, and it's hard for me to predict when I'll get unexpected surges of free time. I hope to have something to show in the coming weeks, however. I should probably start an IC for that one too.
Post by: cynviloq on Wed, 08 March 2017, 11:59:06
If nobody is into the shiny chrome idea, I'm happy to drop my investigations. It isn't really my cup of tea either, but I wanted to try to give people some interesting options. Makes my life easier just to do anodizing, however, so you'll get no complaint from me. :) If anybody would want a shiny chrome case, please speak up.
Maybe I should start a new IC thread separate from this group buy thread?
Regarding the 87u case, I definitely want to do it. I have already started to sketch out some ideas, but keyboards are just a hobby for me and not a full-time job, so I just squeeze time in here and there when I can, and it's hard for me to predict when I'll get unexpected surges of free time. I hope to have something to show in the coming weeks, however. I should probably start an IC for that one too.
R2 thread!!!
Post by: Burt Macklin on Wed, 08 March 2017, 13:14:01
I should probably start an IC for that one too.
Please do so :thumb:
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 08 March 2017, 13:48:28
I'll probably wait a week or two until I have conducted a bit more research and experimentation on the 87u before starting and IC on that one, but I def would love to do such a project.
Post by: Burt Macklin on Fri, 10 March 2017, 07:01:36
Post by: pixelpusher on Fri, 10 March 2017, 17:02:43
Just so you know, Masterkeys Pro S and Rapid-i boards have upside down switches for led illumination and I found out today that they are NOT compatible with Cherry profile keycaps. It still seems crazy to me, but I've confirmed and found other threads here and there that also confirm. So, all of those cool GMK sets I own like Skeletor, Hydro, Dolch, Hyperfuse, Monkey; and the ones I have coming later like Terminal, Coniferous, and [hopefully] Nautilus... will have issues with R3 keys hitting the switch housing and not properly bottoming out. So think twice before you grab one of those keyboards. The case is awesome. Just really pissed that I discovered the issue with the MX boards. I have no idea about the Novatouch compatibility since I sold mine a while back. Currently evaluating what SA or DSA caps I have that can replace my Dolch set in this beautiful case. Grrr. angry.
If you have a Masterkeys S or Rapid-i in this case AND you have cherry profile caps on it, do me a solid and try out the caps lock row. See if they sound/feel a bit muted when they bottom out. And don't hate me for pointing it out :'(
Post by: cynviloq on Fri, 10 March 2017, 17:07:28
Going to post this here in case anyone had similar intentions as I did.
Just so you know, Masterkeys Pro S and Rapid-i boards have upside down switches for led illumination and I found out today that they are NOT compatible with Cherry profile keycaps. It still seems crazy to me, but I've confirmed and found other threads here and there that also confirm. So, all of those cool GMK sets I own like Skeletor, Hydro, Dolch, Hyperfuse, Monkey; and the ones I have coming later like Terminal, Coniferous, and [hopefully] Nautilus... will have issues with R3 keys hitting the switch housing and not properly bottoming out. So think twice before you grab one of those keyboards. The case is awesome. Just really pissed that I discovered the issue with the MX boards. I have no idea about the Novatouch compatibility since I sold mine a while back. Currently evaluating what SA or DSA caps I have that can replace my Dolch set in this beautiful case. Grrr. angry.
If you have a Masterkeys S or Rapid-i in this case AND you have cherry profile caps on it, do me a solid and try out the caps lock row. See if they sound/feel a bit muted when they bottom out. And don't hate me for pointing it out :'(
NovaTouch isn't backlit so there shouldn't be issues.
Post by: Blazestorm on Fri, 10 March 2017, 17:26:15
Sent from my E5803 using Tapatalk
Post by: zslane on Fri, 10 March 2017, 17:33:37
GMK stabilized keys will clack on the slider housing (shift, enter, backspace), but they still work.
Really? How disappointing. That completely undermines the signature thock sound of Topre switches.
I am now rethinking my consideration to put GMK Nautilus on my NovaTouch.
Post by: Blazestorm on Fri, 10 March 2017, 19:02:10
GMK stabilized keys will clack on the slider housing (shift, enter, backspace), but they still work.
Really? How disappointing. That completely undermines the signature thock sound of Topre switches.
I am now rethinking my consideration to put GMK Nautilus on my NovaTouch.
O-rings stop the clack on everything except "Enter" because it's the lowest profile, but o-rings are mushy. Well actually if you're light enough you won't clack w/ an o-ring'd "Enter" but it still louder than the rest. I'm testing out some solutions for it though. Maybe adding some very thin padding (just so it's not plastic on plastic) on the slider housing, or on the underside of the keycaps.
Just had a thought of putting a hypersphere ring on the top of the housing, I have 6 extras from the two sets I bought.
Post by: adamcobabe on Thu, 23 March 2017, 14:42:38
Post by: norbauer on Thu, 23 March 2017, 14:50:45
Anybody found/tried different riser feet? Angle is too tall for me with the included feet. Most others that I've looked into screw in from the inside of the case. Anyone found some what work for this case?
The ones that MassDrop recently sold do fit through the holes. I can vouch at least that they can be screwed into the case from the inside. Because the screw heads have a chamfer on the underside and I don't have a chamfer on the screw hole interior, however, the screw head sits a little proud (raised above the surface) of the case interior, and this may interfere with the underside of some PCBs. I haven't actually tested that yet. Anybody else had any success using other feet with the case?
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 24 March 2017, 14:35:56
Post by: testplsignore on Sat, 25 March 2017, 05:00:47
Are you judging interest for an FC660C Alu case in R2? :p
Hasu is currently working on a custom controller and the FC660C is plate mount so the install is similar to a Realforce or Novatouch.
Post by: norbauer on Sat, 25 March 2017, 11:51:51
Hey norbauer,
Are you judging interest for an FC660C Alu case in R2? :p
Hasu is currently working on a custom controller and the FC660C is plate mount so the install is similar to a Realforce or Novatouch.
Not for r2 of this case, but so many people have asked me about it now that I might consider making such a case. I'm worried that I would feel like a bit of a fraud making a case for a keyboard that I don't own or use (I feel that the best stuff gets made when hobbyists are designing things to scratch their own itches). But, that doesn't mean that if I tried the keyboard that I might not end up liking it. ;) So, yeah, I've been thinking of ordering one to play around with. Can you recommend the best place to buy one?
Post by: testplsignore on Sat, 25 March 2017, 12:13:04
(Sometimes they can be a little hard to get a hold of, due to demand)
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1323 (https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1323)
To me it's the ideal cross between a HHKB and a Realforce, it's plate mounted and the quality of the build is fantastic. The domes also seem to feel like a cross between 45g and 55g Topre, which is a big plus.
The programmable controller hasu is working on will pretty much be the icing on the cake :D
Post by: nightdriver on Sun, 26 March 2017, 20:40:56
Hey norbauer,
Are you judging interest for an FC660C Alu case in R2? :p
Hasu is currently working on a custom controller and the FC660C is plate mount so the install is similar to a Realforce or Novatouch.
i feel like i've seen some alu cases for those already on massdrop...
Post by: hpfalcon on Sun, 26 March 2017, 20:55:35
i feel like i've seen some alu cases for those already on massdrop...
those were for the f660m
Post by: networkdrift on Sun, 26 March 2017, 22:27:08
Post by: nightdriver on Mon, 27 March 2017, 15:22:38
Post by: norbauer on Mon, 27 March 2017, 15:29:37
Post by: Phenix on Mon, 27 March 2017, 17:24:12
any news regarding my idea with the improved switch-openers?
Post by: fax668 on Wed, 29 March 2017, 17:17:06
[attach=1] [attach=2]
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 07 April 2017, 12:53:51
Post by: Phenix on Fri, 07 April 2017, 14:13:25
Here is a video I made about producing round 1. :Dmaybe add an link?
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 07 April 2017, 14:18:28
maybe add an link?
Hey Phenix. Not sure which link you mean, but:
Here is the Reddit thread (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/641zhz/a_video_essay_i_made_about_running_a_geekhack/)
And the video itself on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjXufiHaAmI)
And Round 2 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=88759)
Post by: Phenix on Fri, 07 April 2017, 14:25:25
maybe add an link?
Hey Phenix. Not sure which link you mean, but:
Here is the Reddit thread (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/641zhz/a_video_essay_i_made_about_running_a_geekhack/)
And the video itself on YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjXufiHaAmI)
And Round 2 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=88759)
thanks norbauer, meant the video. my phone didnt showed it to ms
Post by: ihalatch on Fri, 07 April 2017, 18:50:35
Post by: numerus on Sat, 08 April 2017, 09:12:59
Post by: Phenix on Sat, 08 April 2017, 12:23:11
Just happy that i manage yesterday evening to Order one of those crazzy Case in Tactical Gray so happy :cool:cant wait for it ;D :thumb:From originative?
@norbauer: Would it be possible that you make an ERGODOX case in R3? (or something comparable, eyeing the Kurplop Planet 6 / Dactyl)
Post by: pixelpusher on Sat, 08 April 2017, 15:20:54
Question:
Will R2 have better results on the powder coating (tricky masking issues) since it's done by a different shop?
Post by: Gajible on Wed, 12 April 2017, 02:36:12
(https://i.imgur.com/FfuvdR0.jpg)
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 12 April 2017, 09:43:19
I'm almost set with my "twins" pic (I have a clear anodized and a warm gray). Just waiting for a new keycap set to come in.
Question:
Will R2 have better results on the powder coating (tricky masking issues) since it's done by a different shop?
Yes, totally different shop this time around (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=88759), much higher-end, local to me here in the Bay Area. That's why the powder finishes are so expensive this round compared to last. =\
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 12 April 2017, 09:44:35
Here's my Norbatouch, dome-swapped with BKE-2010 domes. GMK Stormtrooper with some purple flair!Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/FfuvdR0.jpg)
Beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
Do you know what the gram-weight is on the BKE domes? I did a dome-swap on my RealForce to 30g domes and love it.
Post by: nightdriver on Wed, 12 April 2017, 21:01:18
Post by: Gajible on Thu, 13 April 2017, 17:15:19
Here's my Norbatouch, dome-swapped with BKE-2010 domes. GMK Stormtrooper with some purple flair!Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/FfuvdR0.jpg)
Beautiful! Thanks for sharing!
Do you know what the gram-weight is on the BKE domes? I did a dome-swap on my RealForce to 30g domes and love it.
I believe they are 45g, but the force curve is definitely different. They're much more tactile than any other Topre I've tried. The bump occurs at the bottom of the stroke as opposed to the middle and the rubber is substantially more snappy.
Would be cool to see a HaaTa force curve with them.
Post by: pixelpusher on Sat, 15 April 2017, 01:37:11
[attach=1]
Post by: nightdriver on Tue, 18 April 2017, 18:09:40
Post by: yonghf on Wed, 30 August 2017, 04:44:51
(http://i.imgur.com/qIYIjJn.jpg)
Post by: nightdriver on Wed, 30 August 2017, 20:00:35
Here's mine :)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/qIYIjJn.jpg)
that's pretty much what i'm typing on right now, except it's in a vortex case instead (shh don't tell ryan!)
Post by: norbauer on Wed, 30 August 2017, 20:38:50
Here's mine :)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/qIYIjJn.jpg)
that's pretty much what i'm typing on right now, except it's in a vortex case instead (shh don't tell ryan!)
Hehe. I actually think that the Vortex cases are greatly underrated. I have about three of them around here and really like them.
Post by: Blazestorm on Thu, 31 August 2017, 12:01:09
Will take pictures later after I tear apart the Novatouch, probably tonight.
Post by: Blazestorm on Fri, 01 September 2017, 10:25:01
(http://i.imgur.com/9fiwK2c.jpg)
It only looks like that from certain angles, otherwise it's a very deep blue.
Easiest Keyboard "mod" I've ever done too... just popped off the Novatouch case (without removing keycaps), took out the plate, stuck the USB port on the new case, dropped the plate in, reassemble. Usually you have to pull keycaps or something to access the screws needed, but this was super easy. The box w/ foam made a nice workstation to keep the aluminum parts from sliding around on the table.
Post by: elcubismo on Fri, 01 September 2017, 12:40:59
Post by: norbauer on Fri, 01 September 2017, 16:42:19
Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/Rvz72t2.jpg)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/9fiwK2c.jpg)
It only looks like that from certain angles, otherwise it's a very deep blue.
Easiest Keyboard "mod" I've ever done too... just popped off the Novatouch case (without removing keycaps), took out the plate, stuck the USB port on the new case, dropped the plate in, reassemble. Usually you have to pull keycaps or something to access the screws needed, but this was super easy. The box w/ foam made a nice workstation to keep the aluminum parts from sliding around on the table.
Awesome pics! But this is the r1 thread. ;) I saw you posted over in r2 and will respond there as well, but I just wanted to clarify for folks reading this who might be confused.
As suggested by Auk over in the r2 thread, I'll lock this thread now to prevent any further confusion. Thanks for everyone who participated in this first keyboard case project I ever did!
More recent runs:
Round 2.5 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=91292.0) open through 10 Sept 2017
Round 2 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=88759.new)