Author Topic: Split mechanical vertical layout keyboard compatible with a Rollermouse  (Read 7205 times)

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Offline bibidibop

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Hi,

After health issues do to computing, and now that I can use a computer nearly normally again, besides learning a new layout and being attentive to my working position, I am changing my tools.

First, I have a Rollermouse and I love it. I wanted a vertical layout to go with (it’s specially easier when you are learning a new layout like I do, but it’s in general better), so I bought a TypeMatrix, not finding a split one to go with my Rollermouse. Then, one of my symptoms came back harshly (ulnar nerve pain), so I had to get back to my split Fujitsu keyboard (KBPC). Now, I’m still looking for a split mechanical vertical layout keyboard compatible with a Rollermouse, and with enough switches to use my new layout…

These were interesting but:

‑ Not Rollermouse friendly or not enough switches or not split or not vertical
http://uniquekeyboard.com/
https://ergodox-ez.com/
atreus.technomancy.us/
http://www.artlebedev.com/everything/optimus/tactus/
https://ultimatehackingkeyboard.com/
https://shop.keyboard.io/
https://www.trulyergonomic.com/store/index.php
http://allthingsergo.com/blog/reviews/matias-keyboard-review/

‑ Not available yet or any more
http://www.keymouse.com/ (without RM)
http://www.ergocanada.com/detailed_specification_pages/datadesk_technologies_smartboard_darwinboard.html#images
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=44940.0
https://www.crowdsupply.com/multiplxd/axios-keyboard
http://mousefan.telcontar.net/image/pkkb.htm
http://www.techpin.com/the-ergo-keyboard-from-nicolas-tavlas/

‑ Not sure worth it
https://deskthority.net/wiki/File:Mtron1.jpg

So I think that I will get a Maltron 3D, if it’s made in good labour condition (it would be worth the price then). Otherwhise, I would hesitate with the Kinesis Advantage, faster to have and cheaper.

Do you think they are Rollermouse friendly? Is the Maltron trackball as good?
Is the trackball version programmable? I fear for my layout, as there isn’t switches on the right…

Thanks for your comments!

Offline davkol

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WTF is vertical layout…?

Anyway, rollermouse won't work with a split keyboard, unless you put it in front of one half, or *maybe* next to it with swapped axis.

Offline bibidibop

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It means straight vertical key columns  :)

It works with my KBPC… (but not vertical keys…)
« Last Edit: Fri, 01 July 2016, 11:08:30 by bibidibop »

Offline hoggy

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How about 2 point of sale keyboards?  Access and tipro are worth looking at.
GH Ergonomic Guide (in progress)
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=54680.0

Offline MajorKoos

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  • Location: Bay Area
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How about this:
http://unikeyboard.io/product/diverge-tm/

The bottom looks thin enough to get it in real close to the Rollermouse so you don't have to move around as much.
I've got a VE.A on the way in similar hopes.

Offline vivalarevolución

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  • Location: Naptown, Indiana, USA
  • Keep it real b/c any other way is too stressful
I had this dilemma at one time.  The problem with the Rollermouse and ergonomic keyboards is that rollerbar is position to close to front edge of your keyboard, which often is raised up, so you have to do quite the hand gymnastics to use the rollerbar.  Or if you place the Rollermouse in the middle of two split halves, your hands must move to reach the mouse.

Perhaps another option to consider is the Mousetrapper.  I have had some success using a Mousetrapper with my keyboards with a high profile front edge, such as a beam spring or Model F.  I do not use split keyboards anymore, so I cannot attest to the compatibility of Mousetrapper with a split keyboard.  However, the Mousetrapper seems less available than it used to be.  They are based in Sweden, so if you live in Europe, it could be easier to obtain.
Wish I had some gif or quote for this space, but I got nothing

Offline hoggy

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The diverge tm looks like it might be close to what you're after.

Here's a picture of two Access AKC-090s set up in a similar way
GH Ergonomic Guide (in progress)
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=54680.0

Offline bibidibop

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Thank you for the answers.

The problem of the Diverge TM is that there isn’t enough switches… But the customized Access and Tipro seem exactly what I was looking for!
What would be the price for customized ones?

I already bought a Maltron (no notification of your answers, in a hurry). I’ll see how it is (it seems easy to resell)…

@vivalarevolución what is your keyboard?

« Last Edit: Tue, 12 July 2016, 12:04:32 by bibidibop »

Offline hoggy

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Access keyboards appear frequently on eBay.co.uk.

You'll need a PC with a ps2 port, not an adapter. Or, hold out for a USB one.  There's a guide somewhere on Deskthority.

Tipro are easier to program and support more layers than access.

Ps2 Access are nkro, tipro are 2kro.

Bear in mind that if you program in layer, you won't be able to activate it on one keyboard, and use it on the other.

Another alternative would be to get a larger keyboard, and move the modifiers to the middle, much like the type matrix.

GH Ergonomic Guide (in progress)
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=54680.0