geekhack
geekhack Marketplace => Group Buys and Preorders => Topic started by: oneproduct on Mon, 26 September 2011, 19:14:13
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Edit 3:
Okay well I took measurements (in millimeters), downloaded an educational version of AutoCAD, struggled for a bit to figure out how it works, then came up with dimensions for the front face so far.
I forgot to add the LED holes, will do that later.
Here's the AutoCAD file if anyone wants it. Basically a key has a width of 18mm and the space between keys is 1mm. I might go over the casing dimensions between clusters and from clusters to the edge of the case again as I'm going to borrow a set of calipers from my friend. These were done using just a ruler. http://www.mediafire.com/?88ky2a0njbcdtt6
[ATTACH=CONFIG]36289[/ATTACH]
I have to take care of the 3D aspects of it next. Have to learn how to use AutoCAD a bit more before I tackle that.
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Edit2: I have exams until December 16th, so I won't start working on it till after that.
Edit: Just bought a Filco TKL second hand from the classifieds here because I like brown more than blue so will probably be doing a case for that instead. Waiting for it to arrive in the mail then I'll take some measurements and try to get as many as I can made, which will probably be at most 10. The price will probably be about $30-50 for the case itself and I'll be paying for them all myself and worrying about selling them after, so you won't have to prepay or anything. If and when I do get them, I'll be giving priority to the people that replied first.
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So I recently found out that my friend's dad owns a metalworking company and I asked him if he would be able to make a metal case for my Leopold TKL and we're currently exploring that option. At first I was just going to get one for myself, but then thought that other people here might be interested as well. I wanted to see if I could design something that worked with TKL Leopolds, Filcos and anything else of similar dimension.
I was just going to do the top part of the two part case, because the bottom part has all the cable routing channels and would be considerably harder to manufacture. Also, since you generally don't look at the bottom it's not such a big deal. The next thought that came to mind then was how to attach the metal top to the original bottom, as I'm not sure if replicating the little plastic snap in system that the original Leopold case uses is feasible because the metal likely wouldn't be flexible enough to insert and remove in such a system. I was also wondering if other keyboards use something else.
In any case, if somebody with a TKL keyboard other than a Filco is interested, could you take some precise measurements of your casing (preferably in millimeters)? Things I would need are the size and position of each of the key area cut-outs (esc key area, each of the F* key areas, insert/delete/etc area, and so on), the distance from these areas to the edge of the casing, where any holes for the USB cable would need to be cut and some information/measurements regarding how the top part of the case attaches to the bottom.
Hopefully the cases between the different brands are similar enough that it would need little to no changes between them. If somebody has a good idea about how to attach the metal top to the original bottom I'd be glad to hear it. I'm not sure about how much something like this costs or when we're going to actually get it done, but I was just trying to see if other people were interested so that I can make a more adaptable design rather than just making one for a TKL Leopold.
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Filco, plu-87, CM Storm quick/rapid fire, and a few others are all extremely similar as they are made by the same place.
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About measurements, I think that you should check the thread for The Phantom (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?20184-The-Phantom-and-interest-check) -- which is a PCB (and plate?) for a Filco Tenkeyless case. There has been talk about different keyboard cases in there.
I would suggest that you don't make it fit the original Leopold bottom. Instead, I think that you should design it so that the bottom is made from a piece of sheet metal (or plastic) that fits inside the bottom opening of a routed top case. Then the bottom would not have to be routed, only to be cut and get some counter-sunk screw holes. Use additional plastic spacers (stock parts) to screw it together. If people want to lift the back, then they could put some lifters in the screw holes (see the thread about the alu poker).
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Your friend's dad is going to be like, "What's the point of getting metal keyboard cases?"
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I would suggest that you don't make it fit the original Leopold bottom. Instead, I think that you should design it so that the bottom is made from a piece of sheet metal (or plastic) that fits inside the bottom opening of a routed top case. Then the bottom would not have to be routed, only to be cut and get some counter-sunk screw holes. Use additional plastic spacers (stock parts) to screw it together. If people want to lift the back, then they could put some lifters in the screw holes (see the thread about the alu poker).
I have an arcade stick (think arcade cabinet joystick and buttons) I made of wood in this way. The thing that's different here is that the Leopold has cable channels along the original bottom and the detachable USB cable attachment point is not coming out from the back side of the top piece but from partway along the bottom plate inside the channelling, though I suppose it could be moved to stick out through the side.
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How much are we talking in terms of price? I would be interested at about ~30 USD, even though I know that probably won't be feasible.
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I have a tenkeyless leopold. I wouldn't want something that was chrome, but a nice brushed aluminum similar to mac cases or a black anodized finish would be awesome. I don't really feel like taking mine apart though. A top half would be great.
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I would be interested in some type of brushed/matte aluminum for my Filco. It would heavily depend on the price as well.
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You're doing this just for looks then?
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Well... yeah, why else? Lol
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I would love a red anodized aluminum look.
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If a full 104 key could be done and it was a brushed metal design I would definitely get one.
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I'm interested in stainless steel cases for the KBC Poker,
depending on the price I'd buy more than one... :)
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Interested depending on price
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For those that are interested in using it with something other than a Leopold, can someone provide me with measurements so I can see just how similar they are?
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For those that are interested in using it with something other than a Leopold, can someone provide me with measurements so I can see just how similar they are?
The case design of the KBC Poker is much more simple,
just a bottom part (~293x102x27mm) and no top...
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I am interested but i fear that the ridiculous shipping costs from the us / canada to the eu will kill, like always, the deal ;(
Could you upload the generated CAD file when it is done ? Maybe someone in the eu could handle out something.
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The measurement from main to arrow cluster is quite important since it differs between Filco/Leopolds and others. Details here. (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?22257-Dude-your-favorite-keyboards&p=420504&viewfull=1#post420504)
Good to know. Would be nicer to have the measurement of the thickness of the casing between the clusters though as that leaves less room for error than measuring between the center of the first switches in the clusters. Would also need the distance from the main cluster to the function row and the spacing between and all other relevant things still.
@TheSoulhunter
Indeed it is and there's some sort of group buy going on for it already. I actually just got my Poker in the mail today, so maybe I'll see about making a case for that as well, though it's likely that the one from the other group buy will be a better fit.
@Spharx
Still awhile before things get done, but if they do I'll be sure to send you whatever we end up using, feel free to remind if I ever post some pictures of a finished product, but for the next few days I'm drowning in school work. After that I'll start working on the details of this. Just trying to collect some information for now.
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Indeed it is and there's some sort of group buy going on for it already. I actually just got my Poker in the mail today, so maybe I'll see about making a case for that as well, though it's likely that the one from the other group buy will be a better fit.
Where? I saw a steel case on the KBC forums, but it was a unikat and sold already :/
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Where? I saw a steel case on the KBC forums, but it was a unikat and sold already :/
Over here:
http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?22304-Aluminum-case-for-Poker
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Oh, that one, but thats aluminum...
Was talking about something like this (http://bbs.kbc-china.com/thread-6331-1-1.html) ;)
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I'm interested in a Leopold Metal Case.
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I'd probably be interested, depending on price and appearance.
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Interested, depending on price.
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My interest level is growing, depending on price, now that it looks like there will be a Leopold TKL clear switch version available.
I said I wasn't going to buy any more boards, BUT...
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Oh, that one, but thats aluminum...
Was talking about something like this (http://bbs.kbc-china.com/thread-6331-1-1.html) ;)
Man if it looks anything like that I am down.
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might be interested, depending on price
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This would get a lot more traction if it fit filcos.
If we were able to get filcos to work, this paired with The Phantom board that we are working on would be amazing. I had planned on buying a PLU 87 just for the case, but this, even if it is a lot more expensive would be a much better option.
Sent from my EVO
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wheres the price
(http://i.imgur.com/5ASYa.jpg)
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Will let you know when I figure out the price, but in the brief conversations about it that I've had with my friend it would probably be between $30-50. He said that I wouldn't have to pay anything to use the equipment itself, just for the materials and the labor. He also told me that his dad's shop is mostly for specialty things that can't be made on an assembly line, i.e. he does mostly custom, one-of-a-kind things that he sells for quite a high price, so he doesn't want to make these in mass quantities, but he wouldn't mind making "several" of them. Not sure how many he means by that, but I'm guessing not more than 10 or so, but that seems to be about the level of interest for now.
I'm really occupied at university right now with midterms so I can't quite start giving this the attention it needs but I'll let you know when something starts happening. For the moment I was really more just trying to see if there was enough interest to see if it was worth me trying to get more than one made, and obviously people are interested. If somebody does want it for something like a Filco, I still need measurements though as I only have a Leopold, not only in terms of the spacing of the keywells but also where I would need to put a hole for the USB cable.
I'm still not sure exactly how I want to do the bottom piece, if at all, because I wouldn't be able to mimic the cable routing that the Leopold has on the bottom and I'm not sure if there would be another way to get the detachable mini USB to get to the plug if I didn't have the routing on the bottom. I'll have to open up my case again and see if I can move the mini USB attachment point so that it could reach the backside of the case rather than being in the middle of the bottom side, but even then you'd the lose the routing options and right now I'm actually using the left side route rather than the straight back one, so I'm not too eager to lose it.
I'd like more opinions on that. Should I just make a top metal piece and leave the original bottom so the routing stays intact? It would also keep the cost towards the lower side and leave things more simple, but then you'd have a metal case top with a plastic bottom, but you never see the bottom so I'm not sure that matters. I'm sure that there are some of you that wouldn't be interested without it being fully metal though. Makes me wish that I had a Filco because it would be so much easier to decide in that case as the Filco bottom is flat I assume.
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If the material is thick enough it should be possible (tho slightly more expensive) to mimic the original routing by milling grooves in the bottom, no?
Btw, I made this drawing (http://soulhunters-crappy-website.com/misc/Filco_Board_v.02.pdf) 3 years ago for a similar project (never happened, lost access to the machines at work),
dont remember how accurate it was, but apart from the LED holes it seems correct,
perhaps its a good start for a Filco case...
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I'm fine with a plastic bottom and only supplying the top piece. I'm in if its in that price range. Black anodized would be my preferred color, as it is subtle but sexy and would match perfectly with a lot of my other stuff. For example, this:
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28401[/ATTACH]
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If you are going to make it, even if you don't have access to the machinary, as long as you have the CAD drawing file, you can always find some CNC shop to make more for your for the cost of material and labor.
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If the material is thick enough it should be possible (tho slightly more expensive) to mimic the original routing by milling grooves in the bottom, no?
Btw, I made this drawing (http://soulhunters-crappy-website.com/misc/Filco_Board_v.02.pdf) 3 years ago for a similar project (never happened, lost access to the machines at work),
dont remember how accurate it was, but apart from the LED holes it seems correct,
perhaps its a good start for a Filco case...
There would be too much to cut in order to make the groove for the USB attachment point I think. The metal would have to be quite thick. I'm fairly certain that if I were going to do a metal bottom I would just see if the attachment point could be moved to the back of the case similar to how it is on a Filco. Now that I think of it, I'm pretty sure that when I opened up the case I noticed that the cable was quite long, so that's probably feasible if I were going to do that.
[ATTACH=CONFIG]28405[/ATTACH]
If those measurements are accurate then that would be an excellent start for a Filco case. The only thing missing is the position and size of the hole for the USB cable.
I'm fine with a plastic bottom and only supplying the top piece. I'm in if its in that price range. Black anodized would be my preferred color, as it is subtle but sexy and would match perfectly with a lot of my other stuff. For example, this:
(Attachment) 28401[/ATTACH]
I don't think he has any machinery to do that, so if you wanted to get it anodized you'd have to find someplace of your own to get it done.
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So what kind of look is it going to be then? Brushed aluminum?
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Might end up doing some in aluminum (will see if brushed is possible, though smooth is pretty snazzy too I think) and some in steel and then people can pick what they prefer. If you end up not liking the look of either it's no big deal, I'm not asking people to commit. I'm going to pay for it up front with my own money and worry about finding them homes after, or better yet, I might just start with one of each and then make more if people like the look. When I have something to show I'll take some pictures and people can decide then, I just wanted to know if there was interest to know if I should plan to make more than one and to be able to make layouts for brands other than the Leopold since there are many others that are similar in shape.
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Yeah, that works. Like I said I'm in for one pretty much regardless of the finish, it's probably going to go really well with my setup no matter what.
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If it fits a CM Storm I am 100% in for one.
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I am interested in one of these cases depending on what it look like and how much it is going to cost.
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I am fully interested in one of these pending the final look.
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semi interested as well.
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interested in one, if you don't have too many orders yet.
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Interested in one depending on look, weight and price.
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Interested as well if it will fit a Filco.
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interested, Filco / CM Storm / Poker
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Interested in the leopold/filco/poker.... screw the cm storm.
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Do you have the measurements that you need for the filco?
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News from me: I've found a place where I possibly could use a cnc machine for a pretty low payment ;)
Now I need only some aluminum and the files for the machine cutting tasks.
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OnlineMetals (http://www.onlinemetals.com/) or Cut2Size (http://www.cut2sizemetals.com/)
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Do you have the measurements that you need for the filco?
Someone had some measurements before but he said that maybe the LED holes weren't in the right place and it was also missing the position where the hole would need to be cut for the USB cable and where the screws go through the bottom to join into the top I believe. I think if you go back a page or two you should be able to find it, would be great if someone could confirm.
Though as I mentioned I'm only going to be able to get about 10 of these made when I do get around to it (still in midterm season at university so preoccupied for another week or two) and now it looks like there's /too/ much interest heh. I haven't counted how many people were interested but if there's 10 leopold people in here it's likely that I'll stick to that one design to keep things cheap and simple.
I'll try to give this thread a little bit more attention when I get some time but I think geekhackers are familiar with waiting a long time for group buys so I'm not too worried. In any case, I won't ask people to pay up front because I don't even have all the details prepared and when the time comes I'll pay for everything then worry about trying to sell them to people who are interested.
News from me: I've found a place where I possibly could use a cnc machine for a pretty low payment ;)
Now I need only some aluminum and the files for the machine cutting tasks.
Oh? What kind of a price are you getting from there? Aluminum itself is very inexpensive, like maybe $4 for a sheet to use for a keyboard case so that shouldn't be a problem. If the price is reasonable might be better to go with that since I'd imagine you'd be able to make as many as you want whereas the place I'd be using is doing me a favor and I wouldn't be able to get too many.
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Just a thought, if you make the case for Filcos and Leopold/CM Storm, there will be unneeded LED holes. :/
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ooo, cool idea
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Oh? What kind of a price are you getting from there? Aluminum itself is very inexpensive, like maybe $4 for a sheet to use for a keyboard case so that shouldn't be a problem. If the price is reasonable might be better to go with that since I'd imagine you'd be able to make as many as you want whereas the place I'd be using is doing me a favor and I wouldn't be able to get too many.
Nahh its more or less also a favor too. A friend of mine told me that I could possibly use some machines if I call his name and pay something about 5 - 10 €. I need to have the cut file but since i don't even saw a cnc machine in my life I pretty much have to depend on you.
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Just a thought, if you make the case for Filcos and Leopold/CM Storm, there will be unneeded LED holes. :/
Each model would have it's own case design, so don't worry about that. When I talk about them being similar I just mean that by taking one design and making a few changes it would match another case. I won't just be using one case design. However if there are 10 people who want it for a Leopold I might just make the Leopold to keep things simple. At this point though I'm pretty sure I'll only be considering Leopold and Filco and skipping out on anything else, so no CM storm or anything else.
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On the topic of the case itself, if I just did the top piece in metal and kept to the original bottom (which seems to be the plan for the moment because of the Leopold's wire channeling on the bottom), do you think that the screws attaching the top and bottom together would be enough to hold it in place or would it need something else in addition? I'm referring to how on the normal case there are some plastic snaps along the outside of the top piece that fit into grooves on the bottom piece. Likely won't be able to imitate that with metal because you probably wouldn't want to try to have to bend the metal to get it out of those grooves if you ever wanted to open the case so if the three screws aren't enough then I need to come up with something else in addition that leaves the top part of the case still removable.
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The CM Storm might fit in a Leopold case.
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The CM Storm might fit in a Leopold case.
No, it won't. The holes on the PCB are different.
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It'd probably be fine, but not as durable. I'd just test it out with your first one and see. *shrug*
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No, it won't. The holes on the PCB are different.
He's back!
Hey, our buddy's been kicking ass in the debates lately.
Media still calls him a nonentity though. Lol.
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It'd probably be fine, but not as durable. I'd just test it out with your first one and see. *shrug*
Probably what I'll end up doing, but was just trying to think ahead a bit. It won't be rubber band tight like with the plastic snaps but it will still be skin tight, so I think it should be okay.
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He's back!
Hey, our buddy's been kicking ass in the debates lately.
Media still calls him a nonentity though. Lol.
Yeah that's good to know, though that 999 guy sure piss me off.
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Interested, Filco TKL
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I am interested in a ficlo TKL, or if only a leopold TKL option is available .
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I am highly interested in this, any speculation as to what the price per unit would be?
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I am highly interested in this, any speculation as to what the price per unit would be?
Probably somewhere in the $30-$50 range I imagine.
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Just got myself a Filco second hand from the classifieds here and am letting my brother use my Leopold for now so probably going to do this for Filcos rather than Leopolds now lol. In any case, waiting for it to arrive in the mail then I'll take some measurements myself and try to get as many made as I can.
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may i buy ur metal case for filco TKL?
or this still waiting for finishing?
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may i buy ur metal case for filco TKL?
or this still waiting for finishing?
Haven't started yet. Just wanted to see if people were interested so I would know if I should just make one or several. When I have something I'll post some pictures.
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i'm interest with ur GB...please make some pict bro...i'll join this GB then :D
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i'd like to see how these turn out and i'd probably want one.
you are hand making these then? i wanna try and get a digital file to see if i can get some of these CNC machined.
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aw shoot mines not TKL :[
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i'd like to see how these turn out and i'd probably want one.
you are hand making these then? i wanna try and get a digital file to see if i can get some of these CNC machined.
A machine is going to make the cuts and folds then the four corners will be welded by hand. There will be a digital file for the machine's part, need to make it once I get my Filco that's in the mail.
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A machine is going to make the cuts and folds then the four corners will be welded by hand. There will be a digital file for the machine's part, need to make it once I get my Filco that's in the mail.
So it is not milled out a solid piece or metal? I don't quite get your description. Do you have a picture to describe the folding and welding? Thanks.
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I'd say that milling it out of a solid piece of metal would be too cost-prohibitive. 2"X13"X5" or whatever pieces of metal aren't cheap, and there's a lot of waste.
The way I see what he means is that they'll cut out a "plus" shape, then fold the corners up, and weld the edge. I imagine it'd look excellent.
Now does this go around (cover) the plastic case, or replace it entirely. If it's #2, I'd be interested in one (for a Cmstorm QF rapid).
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Count me in :becky:
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mmm... I think this is in principle a better idea than doing it for the Leopold, because I like Filcos... but I think I'm out now because I have a Filco 104 and a Leopold tenkeyless and I can't see buying another keyboard just to use the cool case :/
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interested
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count me in :)
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Very interested!
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If he ends up doing a full replacement case and any of you don't want/need your plastic case, please let me know!
Thanks.
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you know, just a thought here, but if the "phantom" ever comes together, this could be the basis for the "geekhack keyboard..."
I mean, I need another keyboard like a hole in my head, but still.
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you know, just a thought here, but if the "phantom" ever comes together, this could be the basis for the "geekhack keyboard..."
I mean, I need another keyboard like a hole in my head, but still.
We will be kicking off the Phantom order thread ReallSoonNow(TM).
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This + Phantom PCB <3
Lets make this happen!
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metal case for tkl Filco? I am more interested than all these other people!
Sign me up
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Me thinks not many people are paying attention to the 'limited run of 10' comment.
...but I'm guessing not more than 10 or so...
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people notice it but it does only make sense to sell to the highest bidders, also if op sees a lot of demand he might want to increase the supply.
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Again... didn't seem like it was the OP that was the determining factor on quantity.
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This + Phantom PCB <3
Lets make this happen!
was thinking the same thing
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I sure am interested in this and a Phantom PCB. If it weren't for this project, I would make or commission a metal case myself.
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Again... didn't seem like it was the OP that was the determining factor on quantity.
Yea, I'm not in control of this. The reason why I can't mass produce them is because the place I'd be getting them from does custom made orders that are typically expensive, almost like one of a kind artsy things, so this isn't really worth their time. Me being able to do this at all is because it's my friend's dad that owns the place.
Waiting for my new Filco to arrive in the mail then I'll be able to kick things off.
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Well I cant wait for this to happen
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Well I cant wait for this to happen
Quit rushing me! :D
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I want it now!!
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I want it now!!
Your gonna corner the market on aluminum keyboards if you keep it up
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It's so shiny :mod:
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count me in as well!
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Quit rushing me! :D
We are not in a rush, but somehow need a case for the Phantom keyboard.
We need from you:
- price
- prototype (or at least a drawing, so we know how it looks like)
- a time-scale about when it will be available
We give you 24h to fulfil our demands.
Otherwise we will enforce drastic measurements against you!
The Phantom.
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I hereby apologize for that Phantom guy. It is only a stupid perl script without any sensibility.
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I know a few people here (work) that could be replaced by that perl script. :)
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I think we need to find another avenue for getting this case made, as oneproduct has said that this will be a very limited run if it even happens. So I think we should all be proactive and figure out how to get this going. obviously we are going to need a CAD drawing or something and then we can start getting quotes. I am pretty sure there will be interest for many more then 10 cases now with the phantom being ordered
oneproduct: once your prototype is done we will really have something to show people and hopefully some good measurements
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As mentioned in another case thread BiNiaRiS said he's got a local place that should be able to do the job. I asked him what sort of file they needed and no response as yet... I'm guessing this is the same place that's doing the plates for the Phantom?
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As mentioned in another case thread BiNiaRiS said he's got a local place that should be able to do the job. I asked him what sort of file they needed and no response as yet... I'm guessing this is the same place that's doing the plates for the Phantom?
I just talked with the place we are getting the plates made at. Apparently they only do waterjet cutting, no CNC milling but he's sending me some contact info of a few places near me that do it. I'm gonna call them today and find out what kind of file we need and maybe get some sort of price estimate.
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I just talked with the place we are getting the plates made at. Apparently they only do waterjet cutting, no CNC milling but he's sending me some contact info of a few places near me that do it. I'm gonna call them today and find out what kind of file we need and maybe get some sort of price estimate.
Cool! I hope this will pan out.
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Cool! I hope this will pan out.
me too I don't want to have to learn Korean just to get a cool keyboard
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Cool! I hope this will pan out.
We are still gonna need some sort of 3d file which I don't know how to make.
Sent from my EVO
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Bump. I am seriously interested.
I would prepay the costs of mine. :)
Filco Maj2 TKL by the way.
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Same here, to put a Phantom 7bit in that is.
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Same here, to put a Phantom 7bit in that is.
A metal case bottom for 7bit phantom would be excellent.
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I got the Filco TKL but am pretty busy now with end of school season coming up. All my projects are due in 2-3 weeks and then after that I have a week of exams. I for sure will do this though, just that it'll probably be during the winter break so you'll have to wait about a month. Also for all the people wanting a case for the Phantom, remember that I'm only going to be getting like 10 of these and I'll be distributing whatever I get in the order that people showed interest. >.>;
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Well could yo do like 10 custom for the Phantom 7bit also as the case need to be slightly different as these a few more keys.
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I don't think I'll be able to get much more than the few that I was already planning for, but when I get those done I suppose I'll ask how he feels about letting me make more.
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Hopefully there is a second run!
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How much would it cost to pay to use the machines? It is a metal workshop company so they must want money :D. Would be awesome if we could get them to agree to do the cases for the phantom group buy.
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The thing is that they don't really do mass production (though I'm not sure if there's a reason they couldn't), they do custom requests, so they don't make money on volume but rather because they make things that you can't find anywhere else and charge a premium because of that.
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Interested
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The thing is that they don't really do mass production (though I'm not sure if there's a reason they couldn't), they do custom requests, so they don't make money on volume but rather because they make things that you can't find anywhere else and charge a premium because of that.
Well once you have the file to make the casing it would be easy to just take that file and remake the casing at a another location.
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interested. pm when ready.
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interested. i want to make a phantom...
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when order thread open? x_x very interest...
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interested!
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Also interested for the Phantom, ideally 7bit style but whatever. Looks like I will miss the first round, hopefully there will be more to follow.
Do we know yet how these will look? Shiny, "brushed metal", or what?
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Not sure what's available. My friend just told me that if I brought him the design he could make the case. We mentioned either using aluminum or steel but other than that didn't get down to the physical part much. We both go to school together and have some of the same classes and we're pretty swamped so this cool project has been put on the sidelines till the end of semester in about 3 weeks like I said before. I also don't really think that there's going to be a second round, so as far as this interest check has gone it's been too successful lol, more demand than supply.
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Not sure what's available. My friend just told me that if I brought him the design he could make the case. We mentioned either using aluminum or steel but other than that didn't get down to the physical part much. We both go to school together and have some of the same classes and we're pretty swamped so this cool project has been put on the sidelines till the end of semester in about 3 weeks like I said before. I also don't really think that there's going to be a second round, so as far as this interest check has gone it's been too successful lol, more demand than supply.
Are you still gonna be able to do Leopold or is it only Filco now?
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Bump
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Still awhile to go before I can focus on it. My last exam is on December 16th, after that I'll be meeting with my friend to make this happen.
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You will probably get your aluminum case done before I will.
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I am still interested, maybe even in two.
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Waiting for 17 Dec :(
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Interested depending on the price and looks, of course.
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Bump for interest
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Lol, stop with the bumping already. When I have something to post I will. Also, anybody who's expressing new interest at this point is too late since there's only going to be about 10 of them made!
Waiting for 17 Dec :(
It's also not going to happen the first day after I'm done with exams. Will need a few days to sort things out... and party to celebrate the end of the semester. :)
They close shop for Christmas though so I'm going to try to get it done before they do if I can.
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it seems to me that if this is "too successful" you should change it to preorder/prepay and get a bigger run of them done. it would even be cheaper.
is the case going to be top and bottom, or just bottom like in the poker case run? (i know there isnt a top for the poker, but you know what i mean)
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and if you have the drawing as well as the cnc or whatever program to run these, you can get them run other places. maybe pass the files off to someone who will actually do more of them?
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It will be either just top (since this is the more important part and the only half that you can see) or top and bottom.
I talked to him vaguely about trying to produce it in larger quantities, particularly because of the number of people needing cases for the Phantom, and it might be a possibility but I don't want to promise anything there. For now it'll just be a handful. This will also make for a good test run.
I'll try to upload whatever drawings I end up making so people can use it.
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Okay last post here for now, sorry for all the bumps :P
I would love one of these and hope this goes through! :D
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Think we could do a red anodized case? Or will you stick to a gray/black?
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It will just be the natural color of the metal, and it's likely going to be in stainless steel. Should give some real nice weight and sturdiness which tends to be considered a good thing. Might try one or two in aluminum.
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It will just be the natural color of the metal, and it's likely going to be in stainless steel. Should give some real nice weight and sturdiness which tends to be considered a good thing. Might try one or two in aluminum.
I'm liking the way you think!
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I'm quite the metal noob - would aluminum be more sturdy and/or thicker than stainless steel?
Edit - I would pay extra for a red anodized one... that would be epic, seriously.
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For the same amount of material, steel is heavier and stronger. Aluminum is used where a light metal is needed (it's still relatively strong, just not as much as steel). It also has a lighter color which some people prefer; think Mac stuff
I don't think they have the equipment to color the metal.
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And aluminium has the disadvantage, that it gets scratches easier. (without any surface treatment)
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Titanium is a nice alternative.
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Or red anodized aluminum? :P
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Im with csm725 on the red anodized, i loved how the ipod nano 4th gen looks :D
[ATTACH=CONFIG]34873[/ATTACH]
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It would be so sexy, imagine a Filco in red aluminum case and engraved black PBT keys....
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Titanium is a nice alternative.
agreed, especially titanium with a brushed finish looks amazing!
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agreed, especially titanium with a brushed finish looks amazing!
Or that heated up titanium look would be cool
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A titanium case would cost more than a NIB IBM M15.
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I have no doubts about that, however a smaller case like the poker could be still reasonable. It would sure look pimpy.
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I say we stick to red anodized :P
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i agree with csm
(http://i1213.photobucket.com/albums/cc467/jpm804/Keyboard%20Stuff/DPP_0137.jpg)
courtesy of jpm since he takes better pictures than i do.
btw, it looks awesome in person. and it's quite heavy
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:D
I can only hope I get one of these for the Filco... :D
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What is the total weight with the Poker innards??
For SCIENCE: Ripsters Quality~Fg Theorem (RipQFT) (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?22069-Ripster-s-Weight-Theorem-Build-Quality-is-Directly-Correlated-To-Weight-of-Keyboard).
And dude, true geeks always use Metric.
The poker with the original case weights slightly less than 400g. Abs plastic has a density of 1.05 g/cm3.
Do the math.
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It should be around 750g. If you add the feet it would be close to 800g.
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Considering, red would be awesome with a cm storm quickfire (with a different spacebar and plastidipped so the stupid logos don't show).
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Why are you going to plastidip? You're replacing the case.
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Exactly my line of thinking.
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Why are you going to plastidip? You're replacing the case.
lol, tired here yes i would not plastidip but I would still get a different spacebar
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I don't have time to catch up on all 11 pages of the thread yet, but put me on the "confirmed" list for being interested if this will fit Filco keyboards.
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if people are dead set on anodizing, i can get it done here locally. would have to ship them to me and i would distribute the ones that want a color.
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If that was the only way I could get it anodized I would pay.
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TKL anodized, i would be interested for sure.
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Nothing yet? Still preoccupied? =/
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i've been following this thread. i'm guessing you still don't have the prototype done yet?
i'm still interested in one, and willing to prepay for it.
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Nothing yet? Still preoccupied? =/
i've been following this thread. i'm guessing you still don't have the prototype done yet?
i'm still interested in one, and willing to prepay for it.
My friend (and his father who owns the company I was going to have them made at) went out of town for the Christmas holidays so I haven't been able to talk with him much. I'll have to wait till he comes back. Sorry for all the delays. I'll post something when I have something to show.
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Ah, sorry for the pushiness.
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Okay well I took measurements (in millimeters), downloaded an educational version of AutoCAD, struggled for a bit to figure out how it works, then came up with dimensions for the front face so far.
EDIT: Oops, forgot to add the LED holes, will do that later.
Here's the AutoCAD file if anyone wants it. Basically a key has a width of 18mm and the space between keys is 1mm. I might go over the casing dimensions between clusters and from clusters to the edge of the case again as I'm going to borrow a set of calipers from my friend. These were done using just a ruler. http://www.mediafire.com/?88ky2a0njbcdtt6
[ATTACH=CONFIG]36289[/ATTACH]
I have to take care of the 3D aspects of it next. Have to learn how to use AutoCAD a bit more before I tackle that.
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If it'll fit my PLU-87 I'm interested. When I actually get my hands on it I'll post measurements.
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I would be interested in this.
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Your measurements are 100% consistent with my Filco.
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i've been following this thread. i'm guessing you still don't have the prototype done yet?
i'm still interested in one, and willing to prepay for it.
I'm with WhiteFireDragon, if and when it's finally scheduled to commence fabricating, PLEASE pm with payment details. This is one purchase I do not want to miss out on.
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I would be interested. I would love to put CM storm guts in one. It looks the same as the Filco.
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I would be interested. I would love to put CM storm guts in one. It looks the same as the Filco.
The PCB has a hole in a different spot for the stabilizer it rests on (that holds the top case to the bottom case). It is moved likely to account for the mini USB plug and cable routing on the bottom. See my post on it, here:
http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?23753-CM-Storm-Quick-Fire-Rapid-Filco-Majestouch-2-TKL
Depending on how the case is held together, it may or may not work.
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Thanks for the link Dorkvador. I had a feeling it might be something like that. Moving the holes or mounts will be easy. Having to possibly shave the metal while keeping it looking machine cut will be harder.
I guess it will all depend on how expensive the case will be. I'm still interested though.
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Count me in for sure as well.
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It will just be the natural color of the metal, and it's likely going to be in stainless steel. Should give some real nice weight and sturdiness which tends to be considered a good thing. Might try one or two in aluminum.
If you are going to go Stainless Steel, PLEASE put me down as the Number One person interested in handing over money to you via Paypal......Instantly.
Unlike some other people here I don't mind Stainless Steel, because you never need to paint it, it's just so damn sexy to look at. It's just how you will weld the joins in the flat sheet of stainless, very few welders can use a torch to successfully join up sheets/plates of this kind and make it look nice.
I'm so following this thread.........nothing interests me as having a keyboard case made for a Filco in 100% Stainless Steel. And from the recent Metal Key-cap buy this will be my Ultimate - Keyboard.
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Lol I really have to get this back on track. My Filco has been sitting here naked with the casing off forever. I'll try to finish the blueprints tomorrow, just need to add the LED holes, take the measurements of the sides and the USB cable hole. I'm still not sure what the best way to get the top case attached to the original bottom is. I kind of want to be lazy and just use the one screw that goes from the bottom to the top case. Personally I think that's probably enough since it's not like the keyboard is going to do all that much except sit on a desk but I'm sure other people would like more. Doing two bends to get the metal to the sides and then to the bottom would be a good way to hug around the bottom of the casing and entomb it, but I'd need the Filco there with the machinery so that wouldn't be doable for other people I'd be mailing it to.
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every time i see this thread gets bumped, i'm just wishful for some prototype pics :(
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every time i see this thread gets bumped, i'm just wishful for some prototype pics :(
^ This. Or a rough price quote? Pretty please?
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every time i see this thread gets bumped, i'm just wishful for some prototype pics :(
Easy solution is to have people not bump it then :lol: You can be sure that when I have something cool to show that I'll be running over here with pictures and video.
^ This. Or a rough price quote? Pretty please?
Posted an estimate a long time ago actually. The metal itself is not expensive, just the labor required to work it and I was guessing that it would be no more than $50. If I get a more accurate estimate (particularly if it's higher) I'll let it be known.
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Posted an estimate a long time ago actually. The metal itself is not expensive, just the labor required to work it and I was guessing that it would be no more than $50. If I get a more accurate estimate (particularly if it's higher) I'll let it be known.[/QUOTE]
Oops my bad then! Ok I'll be keeping a close eye on this thread then!
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You can be sure that when I have something cool to show that I'll be running over here with pictures and video.
That's equivalent to porn in these here parts.
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I would defiantly be interested if it was made of aluminium. Imsto made some gorgeous aluminium cases for the Poker. http://geekhack.org/showwiki.php?title=Island:24907
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Not to derail here but have you guys seen the aluminum case that litster had made? It is quite nice, but I think he mentioned that there would be now group buy or CAD file. I think it was posted somewhere in the phantom thread.
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Er wah? Thought litster's was acrylic...
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there was an aluminium case in a different thread that litster started:
http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?24594-Aluminum-Case-for-Filco-Tenkeyless&highlight=phantom+aluminum (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?24594-Aluminum-Case-for-Filco-Tenkeyless&highlight=phantom+aluminum)
But you are correct, the one proposed for the phantom is acrylic, and I'm guessing that won't change any time soon.
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Oh, and I want one of these cases too. Just want to make that clear.
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Ah, yeah that one... I wrote that one off since it won't be going into production.
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Interested! Got my Filco a week ago... I've been looking for something to make it special. :)
EDIT: Any chance they could be anodized? I'd love a black, durable keyboard, and not one that stands out by being polished and overly shiny.
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I don't like how you can see the bottom piece on litster's one, though it does make it much easier to attach. There are a few other ways that I wanted to try, such as making a little alcove with an inner ledge in the top piece that a lower piece could recede into and sit on, but the machinery I'll have access to can't really do all the small bends in the metal I would need (it's meant for larger scale things). I'm also not too eager to replace the bottom piece because it has ribs on the inside to incline the keyboard which, if I recall, litster had talked about being a problem as well since it removed the incline of the PCB and subsequently the keys you type on.
It won't be anodized. Maybe someone could try to find a place that can do that afterwards though.
My friend said we might be able to give this a first shot this Saturday (assuming I get the AutoCAD file done in time!). His dad who owns the factory had a heart attack recently and his doctor ordered him away from work but his older brother is handling the factory in the meantime so we should still be able to do this. I've also got lots of homework but I think I can delay it a bit. I never get that much done on Saturday anyways, last minute Sunday homework is always the best!
What kind of thickness does everyone want? The cost of the metal is by the pound so it will be directly proportional to the thickness. Most of the cost come from the labor though so the thickness is more about the look. I was thinking about 3/16" stainless steel, after that it looks too thick I think. 1/16" aluminum might be nice for people who like the minimalist apple look.
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I was hoping that this could be a good alternative Phantom case, given the Filco/Phantom cross compatibility. Not sure how shell thickness will affect internal room for the plate, but given that Phantom plate is slightly thicker than a Filco's, that would be my concern in selection.
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No, Phantom's plate is not thicker than Filco's. They are the same. I made that wrong assumption because I didn't file down the corners enough previously. They are the same thickness.
In any case, plate thickness should not affect case fitting. There is a lot of room in there.
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You still taking interests for the KBC Poker cases? If so, whats prices and colour options?
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You still taking interests for the KBC Poker cases? If so, whats prices and colour options?
When was OP ever taking interest for poker cases? He mentioned filco only, and a very limited run too.
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My friend said we might be able to give this a first shot this Saturday (assuming I get the AutoCAD file done in time!).
Scratch that, apparently /he/ has homework to do this weekend.
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When was OP ever taking interest for poker cases? He mentioned filco only, and a very limited run too.
somewhere there is a thread with a poker with a case that linked here to express interest.
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Vortex will be mass producing aluminum cases for the Poker in March it seems. I'll probably be getting one of those myself.
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Definitely interested in a metal chassis for the Filco
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Vortex will be mass producing aluminum cases for the Poker in March it seems. I'll probably be getting one of those myself.
Any more information on "Vortex"?
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Any more information on "Vortex"?
Still nothing, just pictures. I've subscribed to their Facebook page to keep up to date.
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If this works for phantom, i want one.
3/16 STAINLESS STEEL?
Isnt that like, strong enough to kill an IBM Model M with?
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Still nothing, just pictures. I've subscribed to their Facebook page to keep up to date.
I was asking more about the company or person "Vortex", got a link to their facebook?
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I was asking more about the company or person "Vortex", got a link to their facebook?
http://www.facebook.com/Vortexgear
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http://www.facebook.com/Vortexgear
Cheers man
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have you guys seen these?? metal cases!
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.269321719802212.60277.241720585895659&type=1
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I saw it linked from your great finds thread. Both top and bottom and CNC'd so will be cooler than what I have planned. Probably available in color too. I just wonder what the price will be.
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would love something like this for the cm storm quickfire as it's case is sorta gross.
Best of luck
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would love something like this for the cm storm quickfire as it's case is sorta gross.
Best of luck
What? No way man! My case is awesome. It's very sturdy, and the texture is just right. What don't you like about it?
Anyway, from my compraison to filco photos (thanks Listster!) the main difference is the center support is moved over for the CMstorm (to accomodate the USB inlet). If I get a metal case, and it's an issue, I'll move it, and epoxy or weld it down. Maybe I'll make a USB heater circuit, to keep it warm, too.
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have you guys seen these?? metal cases!
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.269321719802212.60277.241720585895659&type=1
I feel like a black engraved set with titanium escape and spacebar would go very well with it .
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Or an all metal set of keys!
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What? No way man! My case is awesome. It's very sturdy, and the texture is just right. What don't you like about it?
Anyway, from my compraison to filco photos (thanks Listster!) the main difference is the center support is moved over for the CMstorm (to accomodate the USB inlet). If I get a metal case, and it's an issue, I'll move it, and epoxy or weld it down. Maybe I'll make a USB heater circuit, to keep it warm, too.
Hm, perhaps I'm confused. Would this case not also replace the top panel of the casing? I don't have a problem with the sturdiness of the case itself, just all the logos all over the top of it.
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Are there still any of these left? I'd take 1 x aluminium? Plus shipping to the UK I'm guessing that should total to around 130 dollah?
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It's an interest check. The product is being designed. There isn't even solid pricing yet, let alone any orders. Did somebody skip to the end and not even read the first post ;-/
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this project has been abandoned for the time being...
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Yea. Swede is now in the process of making one though. Guess I'll close this thread.
edit: seems this thread was broken by one of the forum resets. The pictures are all missing and it doesn't properly recognize me as the owner so I can't close it.
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I have a tenkeyless leopold. I wouldn't want something that was chrome, but a nice brushed aluminum similar to mac cases
I echo this.
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Man I would love one of these!