[IC] ASK55 - Alps 14.5u Keyboard (Photos & Pre-Launch IC)

[Rob27shred]

I don't know what an 8x14.5u Apple layout is.  Can you post a layout image?

Oh, okay I see.  I had no idea the space bar was that crazy on the M0116.  Does it feel janky?

The M0116 is my favourite layout of all time. Because the spacebar isn't ridiculously long, it's actually pretty well stabilised!

I'll update the original post to make the layouts clear. Thank you!

I had the opposite experience with the spacebar on a M0116. I got a really clean one for a good price awhile back, so I originally planned to just use it as is. Well the spacebar on it absolutely killed it for me,
(Attachment Link)
Because of the switch being offset so far to the right on the spacebar it would bind like crazy & always come back to rest crooked AF. I tried lubing the stabilizers/post & even went as far as hot gluing the wire holders into the plate cause I thought the left one might have been popping out with no luck. Just a bad design choice to put the switch where they did & unfortunately there is not much that can be done to fix that IME. What really kills me is the cap has a post for a centered switch which would have made the spacebar work perfectly.

Anyways, enough about that damned spacebar LOL! I really like this board design you've come up with & will hopefully be joining since I have a batch of very clean SKCM Oranges from my aforementioned M0116 that need a good home. Question though, will you be able to use the M0116s spacebar on a centered switch with this kit? I also like the size of it & think if it was on a centered switch all the problems I had with it on the offset switch will go away.

Bummer that you're not having a good time with it! The only thing I don't like is how they're ABS  But there may be something in the pipeline for this...

As for using the centre stem: I've just checked versus the PCB and it doesn't support the use of the centre stem. However, with a bit of wire you'd be able to conjure something if you were set on it! That said, the plate is also built with the use of the right-hand stem in mind but it wouldn't be too hard to move!

Show Image

Thanks for checking it out & the quick response! Kinda a bummer, but like you said if I am determined to get the switch in the center with a M0116 spacebar it is definitely possible with a little planning & elbow grease. Actually who knows being able to build the board myself may allow me to get the offset switch setup working properly. While it was a frustrating experience it probably was more to do with my specific M0116 &/or it's spacebar than the overall design, since the binding I experienced doesn't seem to be be a common complaint with them. Still very interested in the ASK55 either way!

As for the original M0116, AEK, AEKII, etc. spacebars, I agree them being ABS vs all the other old apple caps being PBT is pain. I managed to snag a pretty white AEK spacebar from the guy on e-bay that sells old apple caps, but one of the posts that hold the stab guide is cracked. Then I haven't had much luck retrobrighting any of the yellowed ones I got, so I am most certainly intrigued by the little nugget you dropped about something possibly being in the works about that too!

[pizza_is_a_lie]

Nothing major to report over the last week. Manufacturer one is still working on their protos; I'll be placing an order with manufacturer two this week (pending some more funds).

[pizza_is_a_lie]

As you may be aware, we're working with two manufacturers on our last prototype revision. We've requested prototypes of our cases in UV/scratch resistant frosted polycarbonate and 6063 grey aluminium.

Manufacturer one is pricier than manufacturer two. However, their track record is phenomenal; they are the go-to manufacturer for very premium, very special boards. They know the community and they have a very keen eye for detail.

Manufacturer two is less costly. I don't believe that they are as privy to the community though they have worked with a good number of designers and produced successful and desirable boards.

Why am I telling you this?

I'm a sucker for perfection. I set out to deliver a product that I would, first and foremost, be proud to own myself. With this in mind, I've received the prototypes from manufacturer one today and they are bang on the money. They're gorgeous. Flawless, even. I can't fathom how delectable they are. They blow all of the the previous prototypes out of the park.

But, I'm eager to see if a cheaper manufacturer can deliver a product that rivals this quality. So, once I receive the prototypes from manufacturer two, I'll compare them versus the prototypes from manufacturer one in order to decide who we proceed with. I'll share my reasons and justifications. I'd hate to price people out of it however quality is my top priority.

Once this is done, we'll get some glamour shots prepared and then... then we can get hyped!   

[yui_]

As you may be aware, we're working with two manufacturers on our last prototype revision. We've requested prototypes of our cases in UV/scratch resistant frosted polycarbonate and 6063 grey aluminium.

Manufacturer one is pricier than manufacturer two. However, their track record is phenomenal; they are the go-to manufacturer for very premium, very special boards. They know the community and they have a very keen eye for detail.

Manufacturer two is less costly. I don't believe that they are as privy to the community though they have worked with a good number of designers and produced successful and desirable boards.

Why am I telling you this?

I'm a sucker for perfection. I set out to deliver a product that I would, first and foremost, be proud to own myself. With this in mind, I've received the prototypes from manufacturer one today and they are bang on the money. They're gorgeous. Flawless, even. I can't fathom how delectable they are. They blow all of the the previous prototypes out of the park.

But, I'm eager to see if a cheaper manufacturer can deliver a product that rivals this quality. So, once I receive the prototypes from manufacturer two, I'll compare them versus the prototypes from manufacturer one in order to decide who we proceed with. I'll share my reasons and justifications. I'd hate to price people out of it however quality is my top priority.

Once this is done, we'll get some glamour shots prepared and then... then we can get hyped!   

You're the designer, and it's your product. I know you'll make the best decision in the end!
So excited for this one! 

[pizza_is_a_lie]

Very brief update:

• Awaiting manufacturer 2's prototypes, in manufacture now
• New revamped website will go live once manu 2's prototypes arrive

We're not done... we've not even started! 

[EMC Labs]

Very brief update:

• Awaiting manufacturer 2's prototypes, in manufacture now
• New revamped website will go live once manu 2's prototypes

We're not done... we've not even started! 

Great to hear about the updates.

[dom]

I'm a sucker for perfection. I set out to deliver a product that I would, first and foremost, be proud to own myself.

Take your time, make it perfect and we'll follow
6063 aluminium sounds perfect and, as a fanboy, I can't wait to see the prototypes, to be honest!

[pizza_is_a_lie]

I'm a sucker for perfection. I set out to deliver a product that I would, first and foremost, be proud to own myself.

Take your time, make it perfect and we'll follow
6063 aluminium sounds perfect and, as a fanboy, I can't wait to see the prototypes, to be honest!

Show Image

Thank you for the feedback!

I bring news. The second (cheaper) manufacturer is sending two consignments after missing half of the protos off the first delivery. I've received the first consignment today. First impressions are OK. They're clearly not as good as our more expensive option; they have a few scratches on non-outside edges which I'm not too impressed with. The delivery mess-up doesn't fill me with hope either.

However, I'll await the second consignment before I get some pictures out and come to a decision. Though, early indication would be that I'd be more satisfied with a better quality finish which our first manufacturer has proven that they can deliver.

[Jampot_298]

I'm a sucker for perfection. I set out to deliver a product that I would, first and foremost, be proud to own myself.

Take your time, make it perfect and we'll follow
6063 aluminium sounds perfect and, as a fanboy, I can't wait to see the prototypes, to be honest!

Show Image

Thank you for the feedback!

I bring news. The second (cheaper) manufacturer is sending two consignments after missing half of the protos off the first delivery. I've received the first consignment today. First impressions are OK. They're clearly not as good as our more expensive option; they have a few scratches on non-outside edges which I'm not too impressed with. The delivery mess-up doesn't fill me with hope either.

However, I'll await the second consignment before I get some pictures out and come to a decision. Though, early indication would be that I'd be more satisfied with a better quality finish which our first manufacturer has proven that they can deliver.

Great news! Can't wait!

I'm not sure how other people feel but personally I'd be willing to pay a bit extra in order to have a better quality final product, so I'd be happier with manu 1

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

[dom]

I'm not sure how other people feel

Same

[pizza_is_a_lie]

I'm not sure how other people feel

Same

Yeah, it's crossed my mind. I am conscious of the price though I am a sucker for the crème de la crème. I wouldn't be happy with something which wasn't perfect. We'll know more in a week or so. Manu 2, the cheaper manu, have asked for some pictures and details so we'll see what comes of that too.

[Jampot_298]

Great! Sounds like you're on it! I'm also a sucker for perfection and Im really into boards with small details to appreciate. Thanks for keeping us updated!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

[sendpie]

any minor updates ?

[pizza_is_a_lie]

Great! Sounds like you're on it! I'm also a sucker for perfection and Im really into boards with small details to appreciate. Thanks for keeping us updated!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

any minor updates ?

I recognise that it's been a while; I've been caught up with quite a few things out in the real world.

I'm still tasked with liaising with the cheaper manu to see if there's any resolution to their imperfections. Otherwise, we'll crack on with manufacturer one.

[Jampot_298]

Great! Sounds like you're on it! I'm also a sucker for perfection and Im really into boards with small details to appreciate. Thanks for keeping us updated!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

any minor updates ?

I recognise that it's been a while; I've been caught up with quite a few things out in the real world.

I'm still tasked with liaising with the cheaper manu to see if there's any resolution to their imperfections. Otherwise, we'll crack on with manufacturer one.

Epic! Sounds great, I can't wait for this!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

[yui_]

Are there currently any plans for a wider selection of plate materials? I would personally love for carbon fibre to be offered.

[Jampot_298]

Are there currently any plans for a wider selection of plate materials? I would personally love for carbon fibre to be offered.

Same I'd love to know as well!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

[jrs]

When is this running, and how much will it cost?

[pizza_is_a_lie]

Hey guys, apologies for the lack of updates. Work has been crazy plus me and my better half have just bought a puppy! So, time is a bit here-there.

Keep peeled. 

[Chesebro]

Looks great! Cant wait for more updates

[d00deitsnik]

I'm pretty excited for this. Can't wait! (But I can wait till after December since these next few months are looking pretty expensive at the moment  )

[Jampot_298]

I'm pretty excited for this. Can't wait! (But I can wait till after December since these next few months are looking pretty expensive at the moment  )

Yep same dude! Im trying to manage my finances properly as well so I can afford this lovely board!

Sent from my ONEPLUS A6003 using Tapatalk

[Cods]

I bought a donor (U/S) AEK and Alps keycaps and switches just for this. Sweet.

[djeucalyptus]

Still so excited for this... can't wait! And can't decide which keyset(s) to build this for. So many choices! I'm loving it. And can wait as long as needed to make it happen! (Also, where's the puppy photo?!?)

[pizza_is_a_lie]

I'll get the project rolling again this month with some anticipated dates and better pricing after the Christmas period !

Because of the expected low volume (compared to other, more in-demand group buys) and the quality we strive to deliver, it will impact the price. We endeavour to ensure that our cases cost between $350 and $550, depending on chosen options/materials. We'll know more when I get quotes re-validated.

Instead, for now, how about a fresh new website? 

[sendpie]

sweet ! thank you for the updates, its been awhile 

[pizza_is_a_lie]

Happy new year!

Not forgotten, guys. Don't worry. Though, Brexit is looming so I'll update you if things change on the EU shipping front.

I'll also get an interest check form out to ensure that we can hit the MOQs we require.

 

[pizza_is_a_lie]

It's late and I'm getting nagged in to bed. However, we have proto photos!

https://paradigm.parts/projects/ask55

[gnhuy91]

sexy! love the clear pc build

[pizza_is_a_lie]

Pre-launch IC is now UP! Please make sure you register your interest so we can accurately gauge numbers ready for a February launch!

sexy! love the clear pc build

Cheers for the kind words I can't emphasise how tidy it really is.

[mode]

I don't know what an 8x14.5u Apple layout is.  Can you post a layout image?

Oh, okay I see.  I had no idea the space bar was that crazy on the M0116.  Does it feel janky?

The M0116 is my favourite layout of all time. Because the spacebar isn't ridiculously long, it's actually pretty well stabilised!

I'll update the original post to make the layouts clear. Thank you!

I had the opposite experience with the spacebar on a M0116. I got a really clean one for a good price awhile back, so I originally planned to just use it as is. Well the spacebar on it absolutely killed it for me,
(Attachment Link)
Because of the switch being offset so far to the right on the spacebar it would bind like crazy & always come back to rest crooked AF. I tried lubing the stabilizers/post & even went as far as hot gluing the wire holders into the plate cause I thought the left one might have been popping out with no luck. Just a bad design choice to put the switch where they did & unfortunately there is not much that can be done to fix that IME. What really kills me is the cap has a post for a centered switch which would have made the spacebar work perfectly.

Anyways, enough about that damned spacebar LOL! I really like this board design you've come up with & will hopefully be joining since I have a batch of very clean SKCM Oranges from my aforementioned M0116 that need a good home. Question though, will you be able to use the M0116s spacebar on a centered switch with this kit? I also like the size of it & think if it was on a centered switch all the problems I had with it on the offset switch will go away.

I'm surprised, my M0116 doesn't bind on the spacebar at all, and it's not the cleanest example of an M0116 and I've not gotten around to cleaning it properly.

[mounds]

Do we have any price estimates as of yet?

I'm really reluctant to release anything before receiving the prototypes but I understand that price is important. What I will share is that, at lowest MOQ, the sets will price between $325 and $475 depending on materials. This includes all fees etc except postage.

I will add that I'm working with a manufacturer who is absolutely at the top of the tree when it comes to workmanship and our prototypes will affirm this 

Rough, but still interested in PCB + plates if anything.

[pizza_is_a_lie]

I had the opposite experience with the spacebar on a M0116. I got a really clean one for a good price awhile back, so I originally planned to just use it as is. Well the spacebar on it absolutely killed it for me,
(Attachment Link)
Because of the switch being offset so far to the right on the spacebar it would bind like crazy & always come back to rest crooked AF. I tried lubing the stabilizers/post & even went as far as hot gluing the wire holders into the plate cause I thought the left one might have been popping out with no luck. Just a bad design choice to put the switch where they did & unfortunately there is not much that can be done to fix that IME. What really kills me is the cap has a post for a centered switch which would have made the spacebar work perfectly.

Anyways, enough about that damned spacebar LOL! I really like this board design you've come up with & will hopefully be joining since I have a batch of very clean SKCM Oranges from my aforementioned M0116 that need a good home. Question though, will you be able to use the M0116s spacebar on a centered switch with this kit? I also like the size of it & think if it was on a centered switch all the problems I had with it on the offset switch will go away.

I'm surprised, my M0116 doesn't bind on the spacebar at all, and it's not the cleanest example of an M0116 and I've not gotten around to cleaning it properly.

I wonder if the stabs are different based on year/country of manufacture? Maybe slightly different tolerances or something? Not too sure. Much like you, my experience has always been really good 

Do we have any price estimates as of yet?

I'm really reluctant to release anything before receiving the prototypes but I understand that price is important. What I will share is that, at lowest MOQ, the sets will price between $325 and $475 depending on materials. This includes all fees etc except postage.

I will add that I'm working with a manufacturer who is absolutely at the top of the tree when it comes to workmanship and our prototypes will affirm this 

Rough, but still interested in PCB + plates if anything.

I know how you feel, bud. I really did fight for some cheaper manus but their quality just isn't all that  This manu is the real deal though, rest assured.

Case aside, the plates are flawless and the PCB works a treat too 

[gnhuy91]

are we still on track for Feb launch?

[meatsmoothies]

super excited to see this happen, just found out about this

[monteyalps]

This is a must buy for me, I've got several sets of M0116 keycaps sitting in my office..

Hype!

[Cods]

Super keen for my first Alps build.

[ZyBeR]

Any ETA for the GB?

[toniwonkanobi]

Any ETA for the GB?

Yeah! I'd like to know too

[Cods]

Hey @pizza_is_a_lie - just checking that this is (as per your web page) still alive, but just sleeping for the moment. Very keen!

[toniwonkanobi]

Hey @pizza_is_a_lie - just checking that this is (as per your web page) still alive, but just sleeping for the moment. Very keen!

Same here—very interested in this project. This is the only ~60% project I'm aware of which accommodates the NeXT non-ADB (AAE) ANSI layout. I've pinged the proprietor a couple of times, but I feel like this is on indefinite hold :/

[Cods]

 

[Icemanrec]

is this project still moving forward? im keen to start an alps build, i have the switches and the keycaps, i need the keyboard

[netbike]

Hi there, just received the blank pcb and am going to solder up the board.  Is there any information where I can build the layout and flash the board? 

thanks

[toniwonkanobi]

Hi there, just received the blank pcb and am going to solder up the board.  Is there any information where I can build the layout and flash the board? 

thanks

Ahh. You got one? Nice! I missed those FS threads on r/mechmarket. Sad. The pizza guy is as unresponsive here as he is on reddit. I was able to exchange a few PMs on reddit, but he ghosted me after that. I hope someone else makes a similar project which supports the NeXT keyboard. I love that thing and its keycaps; no one else has done a similar 60% project supporting that particular vintage board 😢

[kajahtaa]

Seems like OP had a difficult year.

Hopefully some day the board will run.

[treeleaf64]

The prelaunch IC link doesnt work

[treeleaf64]

Also can we get photos of what the inside mounting looks like?