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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: densus designs on Thu, 26 January 2023, 02:56:04

Title: [IC] Alveus | GB Raffle Live!
Post by: densus designs on Thu, 26 January 2023, 02:56:04
Introducing Alveus

(https://imgur.com/N1euQVX.png)

Raffle Link:
https://forms.gle/wF3U3CYNPEhawPQn6 (https://forms.gle/wF3U3CYNPEhawPQn6)

Updates:
More
Big Update: 24/04/23

Final Brown prototype has arrived with polycarbonate weight!

Final pricing is 455usd for MX and 465usd for EC
Get ready for some build streams and videos!!!

Sound Tests have been uploaded on discord, along with many more pictures!

Update: 17/02/23
(https://imgur.com/UQCcX9P.png)

Units: Units will be increased from 20 to 50!

Pricing: The price will be reduced from 500usd to...... 450usd! :WowBuddy:

EC & MX: I'm very pleased to announce that buyers will be able to choose between MX and EC as their base option. With EC the base price increases slightly to 460usd, while MX stays at 450usd.

Colours: I have decided to only run this board in Black and Brown.
Why? - Biggie puts it best: Mo MoneyColours, Mo Problems. Plus these timeless colours will match a lot of sets. If it's that big a deal, you can always re-ano the board to your desired colour.



FRL has always been one of my favourite layouts, it was only some time before I would release my own take on it.

My Discord (https://discord.gg/Xrm5GsKWk8)
(https://imgur.com/PhYLJJr.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Specs

WKLFRL
Top mount
18.8mm front height
8° Typing angle
Weighs 2.2kg unbuilt
Weighs 2.5kg built with EC
Brass / Polycarbonate internal weight
Stainless steel backplate
MX PCB by Mechlovin'
EC PCB by Cipulot

(https://imgur.com/C0AE0oH.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Inspirations

Land Rover Defender 90 front grill for the backplate
Realforce R1 for the spacing between the alphas and nav cluster

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Internals

Alveus features a huge internal brass weight, weighing around 1.24kg itself.
It has a nice cable tunnel on the under-side, The weight also covers the 4 screws which hold the backplate in place!
There will also be an option in the GB to swap to a polycarbonate weight, reducing the weight from 2.23kg unbuilt with brass -> 1.17kg with polycarbonate.
Helps make Alveus a good portable board as well as changing the acoustics.

(https://imgur.com/W4jODyZ.png)
(https://imgur.com/IyP2fPn.png)
(https://imgur.com/YcPxajj.png)
(https://imgur.com/5DgLCxk.png)
(https://imgur.com/1BHKzcP.png)
(https://imgur.com/Yk2LLhD.png)


(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Screws

Alveus will come with both silver steel and blackened steel screws.
This gives the option to the user to change the screw colour to match their board, keycap set etc.
Silver screws will be 316 stainless steel grade screws.
Blackened steel screws will be made of high grade steel.

(https://imgur.com/3NzgU7e.png)
(https://imgur.com/70W8QwU.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
EC Kit and Parts

(https://imgur.com/mIuhGyC.png)
Above is a screenshot of the updated EC PCB, with the added split backspace and moved screw holes around some of the 2u keys.

Pricing for EC Kit - $110usd

As well as this, Densus X KLC EC Parts are still in the prototyping stage, with samples coming in a few weeks to a month for all the parts.
If the timing works out, I will be able to create a separate bundle for the exact number of parts needed for the board.
These parts will have MX stems and will be available for a lower price than other aftermarket MX-stem EC parts currently out there.

In case you still prefer to buy from other sources, here is a list of all the parts needed:
1x 7u wire
2x spacebar housings and stems
64x 1u housings and sliders
4x 2u housings, sliders and wires
68x domes
68x EC springs

(https://imgur.com/mAc805Y.png)
(https://imgur.com/KlkHe6r.png)
(https://imgur.com/z0oDaEh.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Carry Case

Each alveus will include one of these carry cases. 1680D exterior and handle, Reversed YKK zippers with mil-spec paracord pullers and 2 elastic pockets to store all your plates and goodies!
(https://imgur.com/7bis3v0.png)
(https://imgur.com/BcUk5Z2.png)
(https://imgur.com/mctAddy.png)
(https://imgur.com/7XJPveo.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Colours

Only Black and Brown, this has been done to keep QC more simple and make the project easier to manage.

(https://imgur.com/YV08dno.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Layout

(https://imgur.com/pAwSyWV.png)

MX PCB Supports:
Split backspace, ISO, split right shift support and split/regular caps lock.
The MX PCB also supports 2x 1.5u as well as 3x 1u for both rows of the nav cluster.

EC PCB Supports:
Split and regular caps lock. Split backspace is currently in the process of being added.

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Plates

For plates, There will be a wide variety of plates available.
This includes Red Aluminium, Black Aluminium, Carbon Fiber, PC, POM and possibly FR4.
Plate files will be released after units ship, not for commercial use.

Half plates for Aluminium and CF are still options i'm looking into.
This section will be updated when I decide if to offer them.

(https://imgur.com/HoxkZF1.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Gallery
   
(https://imgur.com/DGIm24Y.png) 

(https://imgur.com/gJ8sxpO.png) 

(https://imgur.com/PhYLJJr.png) 

(https://imgur.com/xEULUK1.png) 

(https://imgur.com/I7PfJWk.png)

(https://imgur.com/XKXErcn.png)

(https://imgur.com/4McSCqM.png)

(https://imgur.com/v9KAKKx.png)

(https://imgur.com/3jvAL1G.png)

(https://imgur.com/XnJ508c.png)

(https://imgur.com/WenrKpI.png)

(https://imgur.com/42KTknk.png)

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Changes

- Decrease the height of the feet slightly
- JST connector seen in the photos has changed to a Molex connector, this board will feature the C4 daughterboard.
- Adding split backspace to the EC PCB
- adding more plate materials

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Pricing & Units

- Units: 50 units.
- When Now!!
- How much? $455usdfor MX, $465usd for EC,  + shipping
- Vendors Me, I'm located in Malta, boards are likely to be shipped out via MaltaPost or DHL Express.
- GB Methodgoogle forms raffle.


(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
What's Included

Base:
Top and bottom case (6063)
Red aluminium plate (5052) + PCB (options of MX and EC)
Internal brass weight
Stainless steel backplate
daughterboard + cable
Custom carry case
Rubber feet + screws
Stickers + small surprise!

Base Options:
You can now choose between MX or EC with the base kit, With EC the price increases to 465usd, while MX is 455.

Note for EC plates:
Aluminium EC plate has threads on the plate,
Carbon fiber EC plate uses included nuts.

(https://imgur.com/jN2K2tC.png)
Credits

yz - the legend whose input helped shaped this board, a true real one.
Mechlovin’ - for making some of the best looking PCBs out there.
Cipulot -the EC messiah, helping everyone experience oneness with cup rubber.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: whirlwind on Thu, 26 January 2023, 02:58:28
Wowza, amazing! Good luck with the IC!  :eek:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: TjarleN on Thu, 26 January 2023, 03:07:33
this is a really cool board, love all the custom ec projects. Cip <3
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: Cipulot on Thu, 26 January 2023, 03:42:54
The Alveus FRL keyboard with Topre support is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile typing experience. With its durable construction and responsive keys, this keyboard is built to last and provide a comfortable typing experience for years to come. Additionally, the Topre support means that you'll enjoy a unique, smooth typing experience that you won't find with traditional mechanical keyboards. So if you're looking for a keyboard that combines durability, comfort, and performance, the Alveus FRL keyboard with Topre support is the way to go.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: puggo69 on Thu, 26 January 2023, 04:49:09
:hippo:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: The Pig on Thu, 26 January 2023, 04:51:03
Wow, the EC trend is so great! Spreading the domey feeling to everyone  :eek:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: VXQN on Thu, 26 January 2023, 04:51:42
Very cool board. Wish the nav–alpha gap was 0.25u though.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: densus designs on Thu, 26 January 2023, 05:46:31
Quote from: VXQN on Thu, 26 January 2023, 04:51:42
Very cool board. Wish the nav–alpha gap was 0.25u though.

Thank you for the feedback, I was inspired by the Realforce R1 keyboard which has the 0.5mm spacing.
Another piece of feedback i've head is to match the spacing to the bezels, however i much prefer sticking to the 19.05 grid.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: ocm on Thu, 26 January 2023, 07:02:28
Very, very cool. Consider my interest checked. :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: a_saker on Thu, 26 January 2023, 10:24:42
Looks very nice, IC filled out  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: Thebloodyez on Thu, 26 January 2023, 10:47:08
FRL & EC is too good GLWIC  :p
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: flores on Thu, 26 January 2023, 12:34:39
Very sick project and genuinely has my interest, GLWIC :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: densus designs on Thu, 26 January 2023, 14:34:07
Updated the IC with more info on the internal weight, screws, changes that have/will be made. More pictures have also been uploaded.
Thank you all very much for your feedback and help deciding on plate materials and colour options.  :)
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: densus designs on Thu, 26 January 2023, 23:17:18
I’m incredibly pleased to announce that I will be able to offer most plate materials requested and voted for in the IC. This includes PC for MX and EC, Pom for MX, Half Alu and CF plates for MX, FR4 for MX and EC. Steel has also been quite popular, so I will be looking into pricing and see if it’s feasible to offer at such a low moq.
Thank you all for your kind words on this IC, apart from a few people who can’t read the estimated pricing and units  :D.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: packman86 on Fri, 27 January 2023, 07:07:58
This looks like a must-buy for anyone interested in this layout! Nice work, Densus!
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: densus designs on Fri, 27 January 2023, 07:23:34
Quote from: packman86 on Fri, 27 January 2023, 07:07:58
This looks like a must-buy for anyone interested in this layout! Nice work, Densus!

Thank you Mr morning coffee, really appreciate your kind words!
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: densus designs on Fri, 27 January 2023, 15:19:31
Updated 27/1/23

Added more information about the EC kit and the upcoming EC Parts i'm working with KLC on.
More information regarding the plates and plate materials offered during the GB.

For those that are requesting the price of the board stay under $xxx, please just read the IC on how many units will be produced and the pricing.

For adding 6u spacebar stab cutout to the EC plate, i will be looking into this, as i'm all for adding OEM keycap support.

I've also been given feedback about having the option to have the EC Kit available as an option instead of MX, I will have to think more about this, since the cost for the pcbs is already looking on the higher end at such a low MOQ. This will require more thinking and the outcome will be updated in the IC.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: treeleaf64 on Fri, 27 January 2023, 18:32:40
The densus and    Rensus
This is the EC and  The treeleaf could not get it to work in 917   Very sad
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | An MX & EC FRL.
Post by: donaldmanny on Sat, 28 January 2023, 08:43:25
Motor Rotor
Theca
Alveus
Densus don't miss  :cool: 
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: densus designs on Tue, 31 January 2023, 12:57:30
Big Alveus Update

(https://imgur.com/UQCcX9P.png)

Units: Units will be increased from 20 to 50!

Pricing: The price will be reduced from 500usd to...... 450usd! :WowBuddy:

EC & MX: I'm very pleased to announce that buyers will be able to choose between MX and EC as their base option. With EC the base price increases slightly to 460usd, while MX stays at 450usd.

Colours: I have decided to only run this board in Black and Brown.
Why? - Biggie puts it best: Mo MoneyColours, Mo Problems. Plus these timeless colours will match a lot of sets. If it's that big a deal, you can always re-ano the board to your desired colour.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: treeleaf64 on Tue, 31 January 2023, 17:01:15
I like the font that The densus has used
It suits you Mr Densus
Thank you for this pricing update
Hello

What color will your EC Dome be?
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: Moods on Tue, 31 January 2023, 17:44:40
Hi Densus. This looks fantastic! Thank you  :cool:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: densus designs on Wed, 01 February 2023, 02:22:54
Quote from: treeleaf64 on Tue, 31 January 2023, 17:01:15
I like the font that The densus has used
It suits you Mr Densus
Thank you for this pricing update
Hello

What color will your EC Dome be?


The EC Domes will be available in 3 weights: 35g, 45g, 55gz
The colours of the domes are not shared as of now.
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: Devilosis on Mon, 06 February 2023, 21:55:41
FRL & EC!!!!  :thumb:
Any picture of the brown ano avai?
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: 4milk on Mon, 06 February 2023, 22:48:50
I am interested
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: densus designs on Tue, 07 February 2023, 01:49:17
Quote from: Devilosis on Mon, 06 February 2023, 21:55:41
FRL & EC!!!!  :thumb:
Any picture of the brown ano avai?

brown proto is currently getting made
ill upload images when it comes  ;D
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: busytimmy on Tue, 07 February 2023, 18:41:34
Dear Densus Designs,

Please consider my interest checked.

Kind regards,
busytimmy
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: catamscott on Wed, 08 February 2023, 13:59:56
great looking board, love the EC compatibility, and i'm glad to see the moq get raised a bit/price lowered  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Price now $450, Units 50!
Post by: Oogtug84 on Sun, 12 February 2023, 15:05:15
alveus so lit
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Big Update!
Post by: densus designs on Mon, 24 April 2023, 15:23:29
Big alveus update!

- final brown proto arrived
- polycarbonate weight has arrived, testing
- alveus will be sent to different streamers/creators to make videos, photos and build streams!!

stay tuned for GB info!
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | Big Update!
Post by: densus designs on Tue, 02 May 2023, 07:52:58
Group buy will be happening this month!
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | GB Raffle This Month!
Post by: moonsearch on Fri, 05 May 2023, 16:24:58
Good luck with the project
Title: Re: [IC] Alveus | GB Raffle This Month!
Post by: flying1911 on Mon, 08 May 2023, 03:49:17
nice