[GB] ComPact SQ - 1800 Inspired [COMPLETE]

[lac29]

I just found out about this and wanted to double check ... this group buy is over right?  The deadline is passed I think based on the original post?

[alienman82]

I just found out about this and wanted to double check ... this group buy is over right?  The deadline is passed I think based on the original post?

correct but more group buys for different layouts are to come

[fliptrik]

Hmmmm. Seeing these boards with the aluminium plate is making me start to regret not picking one up with my order haha.

[breitling]

Looking awesome - can't wait to get mine! I'm in BC too but did not get mine today

[building_an_ergo]

Hmmmm. Seeing these boards with the aluminium plate is making me start to regret not picking one up with my order haha.

I agree! I thought just the top plate being aluminum would look terrible, but it actually looks great.

I doesn't help that mine is still sitting there with only enough keycaps to cover half of it...

[Rodgaroon]

Hmmmm. Seeing these boards with the aluminium plate is making me start to regret not picking one up with my order haha.

I agree! I thought just the top plate being aluminum would look terrible, but it actually looks great.

I doesn't help that mine is still sitting there with only enough keycaps to cover half of it...

Haha I know what you mean. I got the "coke set" and plan on putting that on the board. But for now I have a granite set with a non granite num pad ready to go. the font is a bit different but at least it is the same profile.

[Glissant]

First of all I want to thank azhdar for their amazing offer to help me get this board built. Second of all I decided I didn't want to wait, so I desoldered my mx mini-u instead xD.
And I have to say that my lubed 68g gaterons feel amazing with this board. I took some half assed photos as I don't have the light to set up a good shot.



And here's the album with some random shots.


http://imgur.com/a/eNhtS

[Dee1]

I picked mine up from the post office today! I won't have time to look at it until I'm home though.

Thanks for the awesome GB!

[WinterIsle]

First of all I want to thank azhdar for their amazing offer to help me get this board built. Second of all I decided I didn't want to wait, so I desoldered my mx mini-u instead xD.
And I have to say that my lubed 68g gaterons feel amazing with this board. I took some half assed photos as I don't have the light to set up a good shot.

Show Image

And here's the album with some random shots.


http://imgur.com/a/eNhtS

I think you forgot to peel off the plastic wrap on the other side of the acryl plate  :eek:
Nice Keyboard and pictures despite of the "H"

[Glissant]

Nope didn't forget. Just decided that i wouldn't remove it since it's on the bottom. I almost left the top layer on too, but it had lifted on a corner so I had to remove it because it was ugly

[breitling]

so I've been messing around with my board, took it apart to do indicator LED's cause I originally forgot. when I did this I noticed a small problem, 2 dead RGB led's.. luckily one of them was only slighty messed up one of the 4 leads wasn't soldered on so it wouldn't do green but a quick solder fixed that one.. the other one seems to be stuck doing whatever the hell it wants.. which is sort of a pain and I'd like to replace it.

 so @Leeku is there a part number I could order to replace this LED? or what this kind of SMD is  it called... just want to make sure I get the right kind. Also are the RGB led's glued to the PCB or something? I tried to desolder it to take it off since it was slightly annoying me but I didn't want to force it off..

Just received mine, and it already comes with two extra RGB LED's in the package with all the screws. Did you check yours?

[Glissant]

so I've been messing around with my board, took it apart to do indicator LED's cause I originally forgot. when I did this I noticed a small problem, 2 dead RGB led's.. luckily one of them was only slighty messed up one of the 4 leads wasn't soldered on so it wouldn't do green but a quick solder fixed that one.. the other one seems to be stuck doing whatever the hell it wants.. which is sort of a pain and I'd like to replace it.

 so @Leeku is there a part number I could order to replace this LED? or what this kind of SMD is  it called... just want to make sure I get the right kind. Also are the RGB led's glued to the PCB or something? I tried to desolder it to take it off since it was slightly annoying me but I didn't want to force it off..

Just received mine, and it already comes with two extra RGB LED's in the package with all the screws. Did you check yours?

No extra RGB LEDs in my package with the screws.

[kiwi99]

so I've been messing around with my board, took it apart to do indicator LED's cause I originally forgot. when I did this I noticed a small problem, 2 dead RGB led's.. luckily one of them was only slighty messed up one of the 4 leads wasn't soldered on so it wouldn't do green but a quick solder fixed that one.. the other one seems to be stuck doing whatever the hell it wants.. which is sort of a pain and I'd like to replace it.

 so @Leeku is there a part number I could order to replace this LED? or what this kind of SMD is  it called... just want to make sure I get the right kind. Also are the RGB led's glued to the PCB or something? I tried to desolder it to take it off since it was slightly annoying me but I didn't want to force it off..

Just received mine, and it already comes with two extra RGB LED's in the package with all the screws. Did you check yours?

None in mine, do you mean indicator LEDs? I'm talking about the square ones on PCB.

[breitling]

so I've been messing around with my board, took it apart to do indicator LED's cause I originally forgot. when I did this I noticed a small problem, 2 dead RGB led's.. luckily one of them was only slighty messed up one of the 4 leads wasn't soldered on so it wouldn't do green but a quick solder fixed that one.. the other one seems to be stuck doing whatever the hell it wants.. which is sort of a pain and I'd like to replace it.

 so @Leeku is there a part number I could order to replace this LED? or what this kind of SMD is  it called... just want to make sure I get the right kind. Also are the RGB led's glued to the PCB or something? I tried to desolder it to take it off since it was slightly annoying me but I didn't want to force it off..

Just received mine, and it already comes with two extra RGB LED's in the package with all the screws. Did you check yours?

None in mine, do you mean indicator LEDs? I'm talking about the square ones on PCB.

No, The square RGB LEDs.. I took a pic of them - there are two in mine. Mine did not come with indicator LEDs.. did yours??

[kiwi99]

so I've been messing around with my board, took it apart to do indicator LED's cause I originally forgot. when I did this I noticed a small problem, 2 dead RGB led's.. luckily one of them was only slighty messed up one of the 4 leads wasn't soldered on so it wouldn't do green but a quick solder fixed that one.. the other one seems to be stuck doing whatever the hell it wants.. which is sort of a pain and I'd like to replace it.

 so @Leeku is there a part number I could order to replace this LED? or what this kind of SMD is  it called... just want to make sure I get the right kind. Also are the RGB led's glued to the PCB or something? I tried to desolder it to take it off since it was slightly annoying me but I didn't want to force it off..

Just received mine, and it already comes with two extra RGB LED's in the package with all the screws. Did you check yours?

None in mine, do you mean indicator LEDs? I'm talking about the square ones on PCB.

No, The square RGB LEDs.. I took a pic of them - there are two in mine. Mine did not come with indicator LEDs.. did yours??

nope I didnt get indicators just making sure you we were talking about the same thing.. I wish mine had some LEDS 

[1deeg]

Holy crap. These look amazing. I need to pay more attention to the GB board

[gadzkun]

yayyyy my board finally comes 



its my first time build a custom board and i want to ask something..
i want to build my numpad like this



but since the acrylic plate on numpad is blocking the switch
i should cut the acry like this



so what i want to ask, is it okay to solder a switch pcb mounted?

[Glissant]

If your switches are PCB mount (with the small two pins on the sides if the center nub) then you'll be fine .

[Dansor]

Got my stuff, and except for a minor issue that is being resolved easily, it just looks spectacular.
I am so psyched to get this thing assembled.

So, I'm curious for opinions.
I ordered those clip-on pads from Massdrop, and was thinking about using them with this build.
But, I believe they only work with PCB-mounted switches.

Assuming this board can be properly assembled without the plate (I believe it can), how do you think this board would fair without a plate?
Comfortable?  Not comfortable?  Explode in a fiery inferno?

[iamtootallforthis]

Got my stuff, and except for a minor issue that is being resolved easily, it just looks spectacular.
I am so psyched to get this thing assembled.

So, I'm curious for opinions.
I ordered those clip-on pads from Massdrop, and was thinking about using them with this build.
But, I believe they only work with PCB-mounted switches.

Assuming this board can be properly assembled without the plate (I believe it can), how do you think this board would fair without a plate?
Comfortable?  Not comfortable?  Explode in a fiery inferno?

I'm pretty sure you need a plate for it.

[Dansor]

I'm pretty sure you need a plate for it.

Ah yes, you are correct.  You absolutely need the plate for the stabs, anyway.
I think it's time to start soldering tonight.  So psyched to get this board moving.
Thanks again Leeku and Meiosis! 

[kiwi99]

I'm pretty sure you need a plate for it.

Ah yes, you are correct.  You absolutely need the plate for the stabs, anyway.
I think it's time to start soldering tonight.  So psyched to get this board moving.
Thanks again Leeku and Meiosis! 

Its not the stabs stabs are PCB mounted, its the fact that there is no screw ins on PCB it connects to rest of the case with the plate.

[Phirr]

Did anyone with an acrylic plate have problems closing the switches? The plate's like a mm too thick to keep me from closing them.

[kiwi99]

Did anyone with an acrylic plate have problems closing the switches? The plate's like a mm too thick to keep me from closing them.

Closing them? Are you trying to do switch top removal because the plates don't support it.

[iamtootallforthis]

Did anyone with an acrylic plate have problems closing the switches? The plate's like a mm too thick to keep me from closing them.

Closing them? Are you trying to do switch top removal because the plates don't support it.

Sounds like it but I hope not.

[Phirr]

I mean do I have to glue the switches in? Top and bottom do not clip together.

[Steezus]

I mean do I have to glue the switches in? Top and bottom do not clip together.

There should never really be glue involved with keyboards. Could you upload a picture to help us better understand?

[Phirr]

Nevermind I'm just dumb. The switches just slot in. I've only built kbs before where you had to remove the switch top and sandwich the plate in.

[Steezus]

Nevermind I'm just dumb. The switches just slot in. I've only built kbs before where you had to remove the switch top and sandwich the plate in.

No worries, once the switches are soldered in then it will all hold together just fine between the switches, plate, and PCB.

[kiwi99]

got my jtk stormtrooper in the mail.. Canadapost has been so nice to me lately ! :eek

[Steezus]

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got my jtk stormtrooper in the mail.. Canadapost has been so nice to me lately ! :eek

Very nice! I'm so excited for my set to come in as well, kicking myself for not picking up a Compact SQ. The simplicity of BoW caps and Silver anodization looks amazing. :thumb:

[nathanrosspowell]

Mines landed here (Quebec, Canada) safe and sound. Thanks leeku for marking it as a gift 

Build will commence shortly, this thing is amazing, can't wait to light up those duck feet!

[Dee1]

I'm wishing now that I had bought the alu skin as well... it looks incredible!

[gadzkun]

If your switches are PCB mount (with the small two pins on the sides if the center nub) then you'll be fine .

im use zealio and it had two pin on the side, so i guess it will be fine
ty for the help.
oh yeah another question, should i clipped the two pins if im go for plate mounted?

[Glissant]

If your switches are PCB mount (with the small two pins on the sides if the center nub) then you'll be fine .

im use zealio and it had two pin on the side, so i guess it will be fine
ty for the help.
oh yeah another question, should i clipped the two pins if im go for plate mounted?

No just keep the switches the way they are. The pins will only help you ☺

[gadzkun]

If your switches are PCB mount (with the small two pins on the sides if the center nub) then you'll be fine .

im use zealio and it had two pin on the side, so i guess it will be fine
ty for the help.
oh yeah another question, should i clipped the two pins if im go for plate mounted?

No just keep the switches the way they are. The pins will only help you ☺

you really a big help . thanks again glissant.

[nathanrosspowell]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

[McPwned]

Picked up my board today.  I'm excited to put this thing together; please forgive me however, for I am an idiot and have to ask: what is the correct way to remove the "bookends" on the PCB?  Are you supposed to just snap it off?  I started to do that, and the entire PCB creaked like I was about to shatter it.  I think I'm just being paranoid, but I could use some confirmation, as one would reassure a toddler.

[nathanrosspowell]

Picked up my board today.  I'm excited to put this thing together; please forgive me however, for I am an idiot and have to ask: what is the correct way to remove the "bookends" on the PCB?  Are you supposed to just snap it off?  I started to do that, and the entire PCB creaked like I was about to shatter it.  I think I'm just being paranoid, but I could use some confirmation, as one would reassure a toddler.

Yes they are to be snapped off. Just put your thumbs on either side of the dashed part and turn your hands inwards, slow and steady, there is now way the PCB should be creaking 

[kiwi99]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

Show Image

very nice build! where did you end up getting ano screws I've been looking around to find a good selection?

[nathanrosspowell]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

Show Image

very nice build! where did you end up getting ano screws I've been looking around to find a good selection?

It was a RC enthusiasts site in the UK (where my family are based)  :(  Looked hard and couldn't find anything the right spec anywhere else.

[McPwned]

Yes they are to be snapped off. Just put your thumbs on either side of the dashed part and turn your hands inwards, slow and steady, there is now way the PCB should be creaking 

Yeah, was perfectly fine.

Switches are all in place now, ready for soldering.  Too bad I didn't get any indicator LEDs with the kit - weird, 'cause I thought I asked for them.  Guess I'll have to scrounge up a few post-haste.

[drewba]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

Show Image

Holy balls batman, hyperfuse looks so good with the aluminum top case. Nice work!

[redbanshee]

It was a RC enthusiasts site in the UK (where my family are based)    Looked hard and couldn't find anything the right spec anywhere else.

Whats the spec exactly? Probably gonna end up getting some screws, would love to know!

[McPwned]

Very pleased!  Thanks leeku!

[nathanrosspowell]

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Very pleased!  Thanks leeku!

Real nice    I had considered going for the split space bar and Gateron PBT blanks myself! But, hyperfuse called 

[ImpendingxDoom]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

Show Image

Just saw your full post on /mk so I can safely say you should have some RGBs to solder on specifically for the feet. That would be why you don't have any color in them! Take a look:

[nathanrosspowell]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

Show Image

Just saw your full post on /mk so I can safely say you should have some RGBs to solder on specifically for the feet. That would be why you don't have any color in them! Take a look:

Show Image

OH! Thanks a bunch man! 

[Rodgaroon]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

Show Image

Just saw your full post on /mk so I can safely say you should have some RGBs to solder on specifically for the feet. That would be why you don't have any color in them! Take a look:

Show Image

U just made my day

[iamtootallforthis]

Got mine built. Typing on it right now 

Just need to play about with the firmware tool to get the layout I want, but overall I'm very impressed.

Downside to the Alu bottom skin is that almost no light gets into the duck feet 

Lil preview of my build:

Show Image

Just saw your full post on /mk so I can safely say you should have some RGBs to solder on specifically for the feet. That would be why you don't have any color in them! Take a look:

Show Image

I don't know what I'm looking at regarding the LEDs for the feet.