[IC] Port - 75% + Left Numpad Keyboard (Cancelled)

[online]

Cancelled due to the difficulty of running a group buy.

More

Hi there,

I want a keyboard with a numpad on the left to use as a macro broad. Also, split spacebars / dual Fn Minila like layout with navigation keys map to layers on the left.

So I designed a keyboard with numpad on the left, 112 keys, multi-layout, split spacebars supports.

Let me introduce Port.

Design

I decided to keep the keyboard design very simple and minimal (or others call it plain).
4 degree
146 x 21 x 412.7mm















PCB
QMK, Multi-layouts, ISO support
TBC: USB-C / Mini USB



Let me know what you think, any input would be appreciated, but keep in mind this is my very first attempt at designing keyboard. (go easy on me )

[Paopawdecarabao]

Gonna watch this thread +1. I have a 65% southpaw using for work. Would like to upgrade to this in the future.

[flying1911]

I would love to see this happen. A few things you may consider:

- A steeper slope. 4 degrees seems a bit too flat.

- Reverse numpad support

- Spicing things up a little in terms of design; but again, if this keeps cost down then be it. Based on the render, option for a translucent bottom would be nice.

[LightningXI]

All that split spacebar support is gonna end up in a hell of a swiss-cheese PCB...

I agree -- Reverse Numpad support and a steeper incline (personally 6-8 degrees) would be nice.

[speaktobrett]

Very nice design! I love the simplicity of it all.

Also, 4 degree angle suits me fine ... i don't need carpal tunnel!

[rymnd6c28]

LOVE IT! Perfect layout for me, and the design is a no BS no gimmick one. Although you may want to consider a spaced arrow key and thicc plate like 3mm. Would definitely join if the price are sub 250USD

[SomePunkassKid]

I'm very interested.
I like the convenience of a numpad on the left.

Sent from my Potato using Tapatalk

[MatchstickMan]

Yeah, +1 for being able to mirror the numpad would be great.

[portbaron]

Looks good, no more than 6 degrees though.

[Laughmaster]

I like it! Sort of like a compromise between the Southpaw 65+ and fullsize. Personally I'm partial to having a dedicated F-row and the bit of separation between the numpad and the main part of the board, so I'd almost certainly be in if this goes to GB

I'd also like a mirrored numpad option, and the front bezel looks a bit too tall to me (might just be because of the angle?). It also looks like you only put in a space for one indicator light; and TBH I don't really like the position of it. Stepped capslock support would also be nice.

[HardcoreDesk]

I'd rather have a board that supports the more common WKL/7u spacebar layouts than one that supports so many different split space options

[ErgoMacros]

@Laughmaster -- Looks to me like a stepped CapsLock is indicated, that key is in the key map, off to the right.
Enjoy!

Agree nice layout, and agree more than 1 LED would be nice, and Online it's your keyboard be true to your vision too!

[Laughmaster]

@Laughmaster -- Looks to me like a stepped CapsLock is indicated, that key is in the key map, off to the right.
Enjoy!

Ahh, that it is. I was looking for it below, thanks for pointing that out!

[online]

Thanks for the kind words and feedback! I'm so happy to find out there're people like this kind of layout.

PCB layout option is updated to include a mirrored numpad. I'm thinking to remove some split spacebar options, namely 2.25|2.75|1.25 (not 2.25|1.25|2.75) and maybe dual 3.0 option. Please let me know when layout you want the least.

I will consider to increase incline from 4 degrees to 6 degrees.

[ErgoMacros]

Yep, the 2.25|2.75|1.25 and the dual 3.0 option would be my least favorites, although I may not join the buy.

[flying1911]

Thanks for the kind words and feedback! I'm so happy to find out there're people like this kind of layout.

PCB layout option is updated to include a mirrored numpad. I'm thinking to remove some split spacebar options, namely 2.25|2.75|1.25 (not 2.25|1.25|2.75) and maybe dual 3.0 option. Please let me know when layout you want the least.

I will consider to increase incline from 4 degrees to 6 degrees.

I imagine this could be a dream board for a lefty like myself.

Split space bars seem trendy these days, but IMO they are aesthetically unpleasing, and there's no need for them on a more than 60% layout.

[tectonicplate]

I'd be in for this, perfect for what I do. Anything to keep costs down while retaining what's going on now would be greatly appreciated. I like the idea of split and/or small spacebars, but I probably would go with a 6.25 for this build. The split 3u is tempting though. Definitely would go for the mirrored numpad. I might prefer something closer to 6° if given the option. Really into the layout and the cleanliness for the overall design… it's a strength here. In a perfect world, a white case option would be the cherry on top for me, but I know that can add a bit to cost. Excellent first pass, if you hadn't said so, I'd never have known. Please make this happen.

[SomePunkassKid]

Correct me if I'm wrong, but I'm pretty sure it's close to impossible to find 3u keys.

My Mistel has the same problem.

Sent from my Potato using Tapatalk

[MatchstickMan]

Yeah, ditto on the 3u keys. As I understand, they're extremely uncommon, so I think you'd be safe nixing that option (might also help make the PCB design a bit more simple). I'm definitely +1 for split spacebar options.

[t8c]

3u are starting to pop up in newer EnjoyPBT sets.

Signature Plastics also has them in SA profile. I say keep 'em.

[megastyle]

I'd likely jump in on this as well. That bit of extra space to the right of the number pad would solve my only gripe with the Southpaw 65.

No need for split space here, and I'm cool with the flatter 4-degree slope.

[online]

3u is not common for sure, but as some of you said - it starts getting popular, most of the SP SA group buy include 3u spacebar in their spacebar kit now. DSA and ePTB supports 3u as well. I wish GMK offer 3u, many nice sets I'd love to use but can't, that's the only reason I opted for 2.75u in the dual fn layout.

[online]

I'd likely jump in on this as well. That bit of extra space to the right of the number pad would solve my only gripe with the Southpaw 65.

No need for split space here, and I'm cool with the flatter 4-degree slope.

So glad to know someone is valuing the space(s)!
I could have just make a flipped 96key PCB use pair existing 96 cases and call it a day. (actually, I did)
When using 96keys without the spaces, I often pressed the wrong keys, especially Esc and F-keys. I had to look down to make sure my figure landed on the right key before pressing.

[Zytyx]

Minila bottom row with a grid numpad would be the dream layout for me. I'd also prefer the 4 degree over the 6 degree.

[Kawamashi]

Very nice project !

I'm fine with a 4-degrees slope.

I'd likely jump in on this as well. That bit of extra space to the right of the number pad would solve my only gripe with the Southpaw 65.

No need for split space here, and I'm cool with the flatter 4-degree slope.

So glad to know someone is valuing the space(s)!

Speaking of space, IMHO your project'd be really terrific with a little bit of space between the arrows and the rest of the board, like this one (or this one).

For me, a board like the E7 with a numpad on the left = instabuy.

[helix999]

a little bit of space between the arrows and the rest of the board

Love the simplicity of the overall design and hopefully that keeps the price down. Would also agree that a little space to separate the arrow keys is always helpful.  Definitely interested.

[tectonicplate]

a little bit of space between the arrows and the rest of the board

Love the simplicity of the overall design and hopefully that keeps the price down. Would also agree that a little space to separate the arrow keys is always helpful.  Definitely interested.

Agree with many of these comments. All of the margin zones (f-row—both vertical and horizontal gaps—and numpad column) are consistent and well-placed, which is a big part of the design success. I'm also down with 4° if that's where it pans out.

There is definitely an uptick in the 3u presence over here in the west. I'm also hesitant to commit, but between SP and other eastern keycaps vendors, as others have mentioned, it's becoming less of an exotic option. The double 3u keeps it real though… but hey… we all know this hobby isn't for the faint of heart.

[GSV-CargoCult]

Love it.  Love the ISO support too, and the slight gap between the num row and F keys. Any idea on timelines?

[nguyenhimself]

I love it. I skipped on the Southpaw mostly due to its case design. Here we have a very good-looking minimalist case. Also pleased to see the various layouts for the numpad.

Overall this checks a lot of boxes for me. Looking forward to more.

Any pricing though?

[KeLorean]

i missed the last southpaw so would love to get in on this. hoping for standard price point


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[quake4mhg]

Interested!

[Acereconkeys]

How tall is the case at the front? Seems rather tall. I am worried that a tall front + low angle will make this uncomfortable to type on.

[Skryzskruzzle]

I'm definitely interested. Any rough ideas on pricing/timeline yet?

[rumlyne]

If I hadn't gone down the ortholinear rabbithole, I'd definitely want one of those! Great idea!

[TheMastermind]

Thanks for the kind words and feedback! I'm so happy to find out there're people like this kind of layout.

PCB layout option is updated to include a mirrored numpad. I'm thinking to remove some split spacebar options, namely 2.25|2.75|1.25 (not 2.25|1.25|2.75) and maybe dual 3.0 option. Please let me know when layout you want the least.

I will consider to increase incline from 4 degrees to 6 degrees.

I am in favor of adding a bit more incline as the front is quite tall.

[yap68]

Neat design. I would like a 6° slope and spaced arrow keys.

[dyrdevil]

I really, really like this. In fact, I was just daydreaming about my ideal layout and it looked like this.

I'd be in favor of more standard bottom rows as I like a 7u space, but that would likely mess up your vision.
If you remove 3u spacebars, would 1.5 | 1 | 1.5 |     6     | 1.5 | 1.5 still work?


hoping for standard price point - if so, I'm IN.

[wgsunrise]

If this really happens and the price is reasoable (<$400). I will definitely be in.

[travwal]

I will watch this project with great interest

[_ODIN_]

Interested

[wrongshoe]

Really like this layout

[jenggo]

hmmm... been waiting for this...

[Retrias]

been looking for something like this , very interested in the product

[_ODIN_]

Are you willing to support a 7u space bar?

[rn00175]

Loved my extended Southpaw, and just love the simple aesthetics on this one.
Anywhere from 4 to 8 degrees is fine for me, so color me interested.

What colors are going to be offered?

[Rensuya]

Are you willing to support a 7u space bar?

I second the 7u, Nice design!

[tex_live_utility]

Would be in favor of a 0.25u blocker next to arrows. Without a gap it can be easy to press the wrong key.

[Praxis]

Definitely interested in this; I missed the Southpaw extended, and actually prefer this as it has a function row.  Southpaw is something I've wanted to try for ages as a way to move my mousing closer to center without losing too much layout. 

[LXVRGS]

Made an account to say that I'm definitely in, as long as the price isn't too excessive. This layout is is pretty close to endgame for me.

[MFahim]

Basically a southpaw extended with a F-row. Looks great!