Update (October, 25) - KBDfans just uploaded the IC for the RGBKnob on their site! Go check it out and reserve yours: KBDfans IC (https://kbdfans.com/products/rgb-knob)
(https://i.imgur.com/X9Msp2X.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/JH41wjA.jpg)(https://i.imgur.com/rMJ1CVO.jpg)
Update (July, 5) - Updated the Q&A with questions related to Wireless/Bluetooth, Vial software, Polycarbonate and more. (Go to the last part of the IC to view the Q&A)
(https://i.imgur.com/T1L2qhC.png)
RGB Knob Google form (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScTAmcVgUgbfDj4RhIaKrRuhpgnb4TA2A3mMKxclIOHFjjeBw/viewform?usp=sf_link/)
Introducing the
RGB Knob
by SmoothFaces
(https://i.imgur.com/SPCpVNU.jpg)
Firmware
The RGB knob will run QMK firmware.
While basic configuration can be done via VIA Config, to make the most of your RGB Knob this will need to be done with custom code so that a bigger variety of controls can be added for a smoother and more enjoyable experience. Commands such as double press, press & rotate are some of the ones being currently added and tested.
It will come flashed so all you need to do is plug and enjoy!
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Colors & material
Body color options: Anodized 6061 aluminium (for pastel lilac, black and other*) & e-white (electrophoresis)
Knob color options & material: Anodized 6061 aluminium (for pastel lilac, black and other*); e-white (electrophoresis); Stainless steel miror finish; Polycarbonate
(* - there will be a fourth color. For that, we invite you to join our google form below so that you could help pick the one. The most voted one will be the final decision after manufacturer confirmation.)
(https://i.imgur.com/xBlfGBj.png)
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Size and dimensions
As small as the palm of your hand, the RGB Knob is a super compact and minimalistic looking controller that will fit anywhere, anytime.
The RGB Knob consists in 6 individual parts: Bottom piece, Top piece, Knob, PCB(with ec12 encoder), PC light diffuser and 2 rubber feet.
(https://i.imgur.com/0h2D77n.png)
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Ugh, screws!
Besides internal ones, we don't like to see exposed screws on our products. For that reason we decided to use magnets to secure and hold the case closed. Both the bottom and top part come with 4 magnets on each corner that secure them together. To connect the parts, simply let the top piece fall above the bottom one (see video below). To disconnect it, hold down the knob and push the top part up.
The RGB Knob will only use 3 screws. 2 to hold the pcb inside the case and 1 to secure the Knob into the encoder. Without it, the knob would be wobbly and not offer a comfortable movement when rotated. That's why the knob has a hole on the side.
(https://i.imgur.com/G3EvTLC.mp4)
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Gallery
(https://i.imgur.com/JspmkOE.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/TOfayPT.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/V7fWzJ3.mp4)
More
(https://i.imgur.com/zM9a2lJ.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/AfC9sGo.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/T6LGCrU.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/t5H6aPk.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PKAln1s.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/0fQ1rF9.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/vEkSxeG.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/LNiNZh4.jpg?1)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ia1DVsf.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/PEedveX.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/dwKBZJB.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/lj2WlHg.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/QvgBVhq.jpg) (https://i.imgur.com/E6u2JER.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/5RdEjzn.mp4)
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Prices and details
Price: We intend to keep to the RGB Knob at a price of around 85usd + cheap and reliable shipping, if we reach the MOQ of 150 unities
GB Date: As soon as we gather enough interest, we will be ready to start.
Vendors: working on that.
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Q&A
Wireless mode?
For the moment, no. Although we thought about it before starting the project we decided to keep this first round without bluetooth. Not only to keep the price cheaper but also because we wan't to bring the second version of this volume controller (R2) in the future, with a higher amount of features such as a numpad and lot's of new things to come with wireless version.
Add an Oled as a layer indicator?
Exactly the same answer as above. Highly considering that for the next one.
Will you be using Vial software for a wider range of knob controls?
YES.
Polycarbonate case?
As you might’ve seen, we posted some pictures with the full body PC material. As much as we would wish to offer that version we are not offering it for the moment as we are not satisfied with what the manufacturer delivered. We tried to sand by hand to get a cleaner but corners didn’t get as we wished
We will definitely have that on the second version of this project, very soon.
Can the knob be taller?
Yes, it can. The knob will come in the lowest position. But you can easily make it (around) 1cm taller by adjusting the height it is sitting at.
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Special mentions
There are tons of people we want to mention because of their support, assistance and continuous help to develop this product. Here will mention all we can remember, in no specific order.
e11i0t23, Saurabh, Sam Buddy, ai03, Pylon, UltraSafe, Nabzio, Darth, Hopkin, Miyo, s.nagy, Crokto, kakan, Proph and all the people from the Keyboard atelier server.
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If you want us to bring this project to life sooner, please fill the google form bellow.
That would be of great help to us :)
RGB Knob Google form (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScTAmcVgUgbfDj4RhIaKrRuhpgnb4TA2A3mMKxclIOHFjjeBw/viewform?usp=sf_link/)
SmoothFaces Discord (https://discord.gg/KdTQbzQDsT)
(https://i.imgur.com/zWg1Irp.png)
[url=https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=113534.0][img width=306 height=112]https://i.imgur.com/kyBaAox.png[/img][/url]Link if you want to use our signature thumbnail