[IC] CNC Aluminum Case for Topre RealForce TKL keyboards

[dgneo]

Please block the right menu key, not the right winkey, as makes it impossible to use with an 86u.

Perhaps this might be a compromise solution. It provides that WKL look for 87U users, would have a nice symmetry (1u blockers, each the same distance from their closest key boundary), and would be compatible with both models.

Would be absolutely amazing

Mockup:

[norbauer]

Please block the right menu key, not the right winkey, as makes it impossible to use with an 86u.

Perhaps this might be a compromise solution. It provides that WKL look for 87U users, would have a nice symmetry (1u blockers, each the same distance from their closest key boundary), and would be compatible with both models.

Would be absolutely amazing

Mockup:

Show Image

87U folks could also swap that right winkey with their context menu button if they preferred.

[hayt]

Please block the right menu key, not the right winkey, as makes it impossible to use with an 86u.

Perhaps this might be a compromise solution. It provides that WKL look for 87U users, would have a nice symmetry (1u blockers, each the same distance from their closest key boundary), and would be compatible with both models.

Would be absolutely amazing

Mockup:

Show Image

+1 thx DG

[avid]

One idea is to sell single unit blockers, like Duck has done with the Lightsaver 2.
This way everyone can config it the way they want.

http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

[norbauer]

One idea is to sell single unit blockers, like Duck has done with the Lightsaver 2.
This way everyone can config it the way they want.

http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

I would also be totally open to something like this. Let me know what you guys think.

[mkarlsson]

Does anyone know if UK model 88U would fit this case?


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[avid]

I really like the single-blocker units and would prefer that if it was possible.

[Auk]

Blockers integrated into the case are much prettier...

Also, more color matching issues with anodizing?

[norbauer]

Does anyone know if UK model 88U would fit this case?

I would assume so based on how the keys are configured, but I could say with greater certainty if you could send me a pic of the plate.

[avid]

Blockers integrated into the case are much prettier...

Also, more color matching issues with anodizing?

If everyone had a RF86 that would be a better idea, but the reality is most people got the 87 version. This way everyone can config the way they want.

[norbauer]

Blockers integrated into the case are much prettier...

Also, more color matching issues with anodizing?

I agree with your first statement but we may have to compromise if everybody wants different things. Yes, absolutely, anodizing would be much trickier with the blockers as separate parts. It would be slightly better since I'll only be offering clear Type II and Type III colors, which don't use dye.

[fine_italian_leather]

I agree that having the WKL version of the case block the left windows key and the right menu key on a 87u seems like the best option.

[mkarlsson]

Does anyone know if UK model 88U would fit this case?

I would assume so based on how the keys are configured, but I could say with greater certainty if you could send me a pic of the plate.

Thanks Ryan, don't own one... yet, but thinking on it just because of this case. Checking Keyboardco but it's so expensive... By now I only have a novatouch waiting for your R2 case 🤤

Does anyone own a 88U?

Thanks!


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[Auk]

re 91u JIS layout: are the Win keys on that model in the same place as the 86u?

I can certainly see the need to compromise somewhere, and some people will be disappointed for sure, but as I see it this case is exceptional, so 'cheap' solutions are maybe not the way to go.

Noted the comments on popularity of 86u, is it even available to buy new anywhere? I think if the 91u doesn't line up with the 86u, then I would maybe lean toward building the WKL design around the 87u/88u as those are the keyboards that are available.

[dgneo]

Please block the right menu key, not the right winkey, as makes it impossible to use with an 86u.

Perhaps this might be a compromise solution. It provides that WKL look for 87U users, would have a nice symmetry (1u blockers, each the same distance from their closest key boundary), and would be compatible with both models. (This is all assuming that the 86u even has the same plate as the 87u and is thus compatible with my case in the first place, of course.)

I can snap some pics of the PCB tomorrow (86u) if you'd like, just let me know.

[avid]

re 91u JIS layout: are the Win keys on that model in the same place as the 86u?

I can certainly see the need to compromise somewhere, and some people will be disappointed for sure, but as I see it this case is exceptional, so 'cheap' solutions are maybe not the way to go.

Noted the comments on popularity of 86u, is it even available to buy new anywhere? I think if the 91u doesn't line up with the 86u, then I would maybe lean toward building the WKL design around the 87u/88u as those are the keyboards that are available.

86 was last sold in dec 2013. 91u seems to have the same layout as 86 for the three keys on each side.

[Puddsy]

One idea is to sell single unit blockers, like Duck has done with the Lightsaver 2.
This way everyone can config it the way they want.

http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

I would also be totally open to something like this. Let me know what you guys think.

I hate single unit blockers with a passion.

[clasicks]

One idea is to sell single unit blockers, like Duck has done with the Lightsaver 2.
This way everyone can config it the way they want.

http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

I would also be totally open to something like this. Let me know what you guys think.

I hate single unit blockers with a passion.

Agreed, its either all in or all out. I think that the method DGNEO provided, that accommodates both the 86u and 87u is the most logical thing to do.

[norbauer]

One idea is to sell single unit blockers, like Duck has done with the Lightsaver 2.
This way everyone can config it the way they want.

http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

I would also be totally open to something like this. Let me know what you guys think.

I hate single unit blockers with a passion.

Agreed, its either all in or all out. I think that the method DGNEO provided, that accommodates both the 86u and 87u is the most logical thing to do.

I would say that option remains my favorite as well. Is there anyone who doesn't like that solution (i.e., 1u blockers each spaced 1.5u from the bottom-right and bottom-left of the QWERTY region)?

[Auk]

I would say that option remains my favorite as well. Is there anyone who doesn't like that solution (i.e., 1u blockers each spaced 1.5u from the bottom-right and bottom-left of the QWERTY region)?

This is an interesting solution, I don't hate it,* but symmetry around the spacebar is more attractive.



Before making a final decision I'd very much want to know with high confidence how many people want winkeyless for the 86u/91u. If serious demand isn't there I would accommodate the 87u/88u with the best possible version for those layouts.


EDIT: *I don't hate it, but I don't think I'd buy it either.

[avid]

Is single unit blockers something that could be produced alongside offering the WKL version?

[norbauer]

OK, for everyone interested in a WKL option, please take this survey. This should help clarify matters.

[romevi]

Went to go fill it, but now I don't know what I want. I ended up picking WKL around QWERTY, but the blockers are fine too.

[kmba]

Even though I prefer wkl centered around spacebar visually, I voted for centered on qwerty because I actually use Windows key for shortcuts and this board idmt programmable to swap it to menu key. And I'd rather not map is in the os since I use multiple boards and don't want menu as win in all.

[cynviloq]

I prefer centered around Space, but would buy any, EXCEPT the version with the 2U on the right.

I generally still prefer 3 keys to the right of Space to give myself options (generally used as a couple FN keys and an Apps/Menu key).

[FSund]

Does anyone know if UK model 88U would fit this case?

I would assume so based on how the keys are configured, but I could say with greater certainty if you could send me a pic of the plate.

Thanks Ryan, don't own one... yet, but thinking on it just because of this case. Checking Keyboardco but it's so expensive... By now I only have a novatouch waiting for your R2 case 🤤

Does anyone own a 88U?

Thanks!

I have a 88UB, I could try to get some photos of the PCB, if I can coerce my wife to get her to bring it back from her office..!

How do I go about opening up the case? I've never done it, but I guess I should start practicing for when the Norbauer case is ready.

[FSund]

Does anyone know if UK model 88U would fit this case?

I would assume so based on how the keys are configured, but I could say with greater certainty if you could send me a pic of the plate.

Thanks Ryan, don't own one... yet, but thinking on it just because of this case. Checking Keyboardco but it's so expensive... By now I only have a novatouch waiting for your R2 case 🤤

Does anyone own a 88U?

Thanks!

I have a 88UB, I could try to get some photos of the PCB, if I can coerce my wife to get her to bring it back from her office..!

How do I go about opening up the case? I've never done it, but I guess I should start practicing for when the Norbauer case is ready.

I found some images in an old GH thread, and there are some (off-angle) shots of the PCB in the beginning of this video. Does that help? If not I'll try to get some pictures of the PCB this weekend.

[Burt Macklin]

Even though I prefer wkl centered around spacebar visually, I voted for centered on qwerty because I actually use Windows key for shortcuts and this board idmt programmable to swap it to menu key. And I'd rather not map is in the os since I use multiple boards and don't want menu as win in all.

Same here, I need just one Winkey for shortcuts - but also like the integrated blockers.
Centered on qwerty is ideal.

[clasicks]

filled out the survey, thanks for giving us a chance to vote!

[dgneo]

Filled out, thanks for the vote!

[pixelpusher]

I went to fill out the survey and then realized I really don't want to sway it one way or the other b/c I'm not sure I'll do WKL in the end.  On the fence

[avid]

I went to fill out the survey and then realized I really don't want to sway it one way or the other b/c I'm not sure I'll do WKL in the end.  On the fence

If you're on the fence - wouldn't single blocker units be the best idea? That way you can config it as you want and run WKL or WK as you like.
This also makes production easier - since he just has to do one version (WK) + single unit blockers as separates.

[hayt]

This is only my opinion but I find the single blocker units to be quite hideous.

[DALExSNAIL]

This is only my opinion but I find the single blocker units to be quite hideous.

Don't you dare lad

[clasicks]

I went to fill out the survey and then realized I really don't want to sway it one way or the other b/c I'm not sure I'll do WKL in the end.  On the fence

If you're on the fence - wouldn't single blocker units be the best idea? That way you can config it as you want and run WKL or WK as you like.
This also makes production easier - since he just has to do one version (WK) + single unit blockers as separates.

I understand you would like removable blockers, but TBH how would this even be implemented? a plastic clip on to the plate with an aluminum cover? something mounted on the side wall of the case?


I for one would not like a case with holes ( if he does one universal design to accomadate removable blockers and none ) if was to purchace a traditional layout.

Why are you so into removable blockers, seems ghetto.

[kmba]

Removable blockers are hideous.

[DALExSNAIL]

Removable blockers are hideous.

Shut ur **** mouth

[xondat]

Removable blockers are hideous.

+1

Traditional blocker placement should be the only option, anything else is just a compromise not worth taking.

[avid]

I understand you would like removable blockers, but TBH how would this even be implemented? a plastic clip on to the plate with an aluminum cover? something mounted on the side wall of the case?


I for one would not like a case with holes ( if he does one universal design to accomadate removable blockers and none ) if was to purchace a traditional layout.

Why are you so into removable blockers, seems ghetto.

Haha, it's a small trade-of in terms of look, but a huge step up overall.

You remove the Sliders and there is a screw from the bottom holding the blocker in place.
http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

[clasicks]

I understand you would like removable blockers, but TBH how would this even be implemented? a plastic clip on to the plate with an aluminum cover? something mounted on the side wall of the case?


I for one would not like a case with holes ( if he does one universal design to accomadate removable blockers and none ) if was to purchace a traditional layout.

Why are you so into removable blockers, seems ghetto.

Haha, it's a small trade-of in terms of look, but a huge step up overall.

You remove the Sliders and there is a screw from the bottom holding the blocker in place.
http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

Is there an image in that link I am not seeing of the mounting style? looks bad tbh

[kmba]

I understand you would like removable blockers, but TBH how would this even be implemented? a plastic clip on to the plate with an aluminum cover? something mounted on the side wall of the case?


I for one would not like a case with holes ( if he does one universal design to accomadate removable blockers and none ) if was to purchace a traditional layout.

Why are you so into removable blockers, seems ghetto.

Haha, it's a small trade-of in terms of look, but a huge step up overall.

You remove the Sliders and there is a screw from the bottom holding the blocker in place.
http://duck0113.tistory.com/68

Yup those look gross.

[nmur]

Removable blockers are hideous.

+1

Traditional blocker placement should be the only option, anything else is just a compromise not worth taking.

yeah it's honestly looks like too much of a cost cut for something premium like this

fwiw, i wouldn't personally be opting for a WKL in any form with a RF except in the case of an 86U. otherwise the non-parallelism just looks wonky

[Lansky]

I would definitely be interested in this if it fits the 88UB as well. 

[norbauer]

Does anyone know if UK model 88U would fit this case?

I would assume so based on how the keys are configured, but I could say with greater certainty if you could send me a pic of the plate.

Thanks Ryan, don't own one... yet, but thinking on it just because of this case. Checking Keyboardco but it's so expensive... By now I only have a novatouch waiting for your R2 case 🤤

Does anyone own a 88U?

Thanks!

I have a 88UB, I could try to get some photos of the PCB, if I can coerce my wife to get her to bring it back from her office..!

How do I go about opening up the case? I've never done it, but I guess I should start practicing for when the Norbauer case is ready.

I found some images in an old GH thread, and there are some (off-angle) shots of the PCB in the beginning of this video. Does that help? If not I'll try to get some pictures of the PCB this weekend.

Thanks for finding these links. The overall PCB and plate profile look identical to me, so I would assume the 88 would fit in the same case as an 87. If anybody wants to loan me one for a day or two to test, I'm happy to confirm for certain.

[FSund]

Thanks for finding these links. The overall PCB and plate profile look identical to me, so I would assume the 88 would fit in the same case as an 87. If anybody wants to loan me one for a day or two to test, I'm happy to confirm for certain.

Here are some pictures I shot yesterday (with my phone, sorry!), although I'm not sure if they are of any further help. http://imgur.com/a/cLCWR

I hope you're able to borrow a keyboard to confirm, although I'm probably ordering a case even if you are unable to confirm beforehand.

[Lansky]

In case the pictures above aren't of high enough quality, let me know. I can take some with my DSLR if need be.

[norbauer]

Those pictures strongly suggest to me that the board would be compatible with my case. It has all the critical features (PCB cutout, plate tabs, etc.) and they appear to be in the right spots. I suspect that Topre uses the same plate and housing for all (or at least most) of their TKL boards.

[PerniciousPony]

An 88u is one of the only realforces I've not had.  The bottom row is the critical part, and it is identical to an 87u so there should be no issues with both the blocked and non-blocked cases.  In the situation a case with blockers is desired, Every bottom row layout works as well.

Here's an 87u with blockers


and here is an 86u with blockers.


An 89u and 91u JIS board will work with blockers as well as I pulled this case from a JIS 89u, and should be viable on the 88u as well.

[Wetherbee]

I can't fathom why anyone with an 87U would want to go Winkeyless. It just ruins the clean aesthetic for me and makes the keyboard less functional in pursuit of ... what.. ? A vintage look? That whole notion seems to clash with the space grey anodizing, which is clean and futuristic (although I suppose now it is just a standard thanks to Apple). Winkeyless takes the clean rectangular lines of the main keycluster and turns it into something like space invaders. That look is better suited to a vintage-looking powdercoat or a beige Model M. To me is just just looks weird on a tenkleyless board. The Windows key is very useful once you have all the macros down, and it can be remapped for a million different functional uses for folks who don't use windows. Keycaps seem readily available to change up look, so what are some of the reasons folks prefer Winkeyless? Is it really for the looks? Is there a functional reason or is it nostalgia?

[Blazestorm]

I don't get the WKL thing either, It's really just for looks. I use my Windows keys all the time, I use the menu/context key all the time. Why get rid of useful keys?