[IC] MEME | Gasket-Mount 65% (Dead 5/10/2018)

[Krelbit]

Project is dead, read latest update.

CLICK FOR LATEST UPDATE



Hello, and welcome to MEME.



Now, I've never made or run a keyboard group buy before, but I do have limited experience in running group buys, having run a couple in preparation for something bigger, like this. I currently operate switchmod.net.

MEME is a gasket-mounted 65% that pulled quite a bit of aesthetic inspiration largely from the look of Topre Realforce boards. The board was originally meant as a one-or two-off, but due to the financial unfeasibility of the entire circumstance, I decided to run it as a group buy. However, I have mostly maintained the design choices that were made, and will not change the board any further than I have up until now, bar some small improvements along the way.

The board features:

• 6061 anodized aluminum
• A QMK-Compatible PCB
• An anodized 6061 aluminum badge that is able to be screwed out and replaced as accent pieces. The badge will feature the word "meme," but a blank variant will also be available.
• Two replaceable daughterboard pcbs, one USB-mini and one USB-C, which can be interchanged.
• An anodized aluminum plate that supports switchtop removal
• 8 Custom made Silicone Gaskets
• M65-A rubber feet

The MEME will be machined and anodized in the United States. I think it's important to be able to maintain constant contact with my machinist and have them understand me 100%. I believe that this will also vastly expedite the wait times and any issues can be addressed much faster.

I am currently working on having a prototype made, so I will just put my to-do list here:

• Finish Board Design
• Finish PCB Design
• Contact Elastomer Company regarding gaskets
• 3/13/2018 Put in order for prototype PCBS
• 3/23/2018 Receive and test prototype pcbs
• Start machining the prototype case
• Assemble the prototype board
• Run the group buy.

The group buy will be a raffle-style buy, with 30 available units. I am projecting a target price of $450 per kit before shipping.

Included Layouts:



PCB+ Daughterboard:

More

password: spoiler

Thank you for checking out MEME! There will be more info made available on this thread as the project progresses.



Thank you to riotonthebay, jchan94, hineybush, ai03, and the various slacks and discords I'm in for supporting my endeavor into actual keyboards.

More Renders: https://www.flickr.com/photos/102874444@N07/sets/72157691556531834


Update 2 - 3/13/2018:

Prototype PCBs have been ordered! They will be in my hands hopefully by the month's end.

Thank you for your continued interest in my project.

Update 3 - 3/23/2018:

Prototype PCBs have arrived! They'll be by the beginning of April. After we see that everything works, especially regarding the daughterboards, I'll move on to getting the prototype case made.



Production PCBs will be matte black with a white silkscreen. The pictured prototypes are not indicative of the final product, and are only for test purposes.

Update 4 - 4/4/2018:
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=94467.msg2588080#msg2588080

Update 5 - Road bumps and Progress: 4/10/2018

Snag hit, we've got some small problems with the daughterboard, JST connector cables, and the PCB.

We've rectified our issues but will need new prototype pcbs. +1 1/2 week to project time while those arrive.

Thanks to Wilba for helping us out with our troubles, and for a hookup.

Prototype Case Status: Waiting for a quote, and ready to place an order.
Gasket Status: In production.

Removed colors Brown, Orange, Yellow, and Olive Drab from color table. Orange will be available as a badge color, but not as a case color. Gold is close enough to yellow to not need both.

Want to vote the on final PCB Color? Cast your vote here: https://www.strawpoll.me/15478962

PCB color will be picked from the strawpoll at the end of the IC.

Update 4/30/2018: oof

Final quotes have just arrived, and they're actually a lot higher than I expected them to be. I am considering running this at a lower volume because I do not believe I can reach MOQ otherwise with this increased price. The new case would cost near $550, and the PCB, plate, gaskets, and screws would end up costing more. The revised kit pricing would be around $675, which is unacceptably high to me.

I'm going back to the drawing board a bit to see if I can make any changes that lower the price at all.

I am also now considering overseas manufacturing, but as a complete newbie in the field, I don't know where to go and what to use. As a student with finals week approaching, I don't even really have the time to look into it at the moment.

What do you guys think of this change in plans?

PS: If you've got another source I could look into for machining, let me know.

PPS: Also considering running 2 cases and ending the project.

5/10/2018: Project Death

I've moved manufacture of this project to the East, and thus, the original intent of getting a very low quantity buy can be re-fulfilled. 2-5 MEMEs will be made, and none will be available publicly.

This post marks the death of the project for the public.

This has certainly been a learning experience and I will take everything into my next project, which will also be not only gasket mounted, but also cheaper.

Thank you for your continued interest in the project.

Apologies for those of you who I accidentally hyped.

Krelbit, Switchmod.net.

[LightningXI]

Lovely rendering and detailed IC opening post. I will be interested depending on financial ability.

 I'd love to hear more about the usage of gasket mount as this progresses.

Will the PCB be easily replaceable despite being custom?

Sent from my mobile using Tapatalk

[Cavemann6]

  nice byron

[anthorix]

hell ye, more gasket mount keebs pls

[dyrdevil]

I really like the look of this.
Price seems a little on the high side for me
Will different colors be possible?

[Zambumon]

Good progress. Nice to see that daughter boards are becoming a thing 

[Krelbit]

Lovely rendering and detailed IC opening post. I will be interested depending on financial ability.

 I'd love to hear more about the usage of gasket mount as this progresses.

Will the PCB be easily replaceable despite being custom?

Sent from my mobile using Tapatalk

Sadly, it is a fairly nonstandard pcb, as it uses JST connectors to branch onto the daughterboard. Extras will be offered at group buy.

nice byron

Thanks, chravez.

[Remsky]

Really like the option between mini and C. Definitely interested. 

[Krelbit]

hell ye, more gasket mount keebs pls

hell ye

Really like the option between mini and C. Definitely interested. 

Thank you!

I really like the look of this.
Price seems a little on the high side for me
Will different colors be possible?

Sorry it's a bit too expensive! The gasket mounting and the badge, which I consider to be the two main features of the board, are kind of a pain to machine and therefore cost quite a bit more.
Different colors will be available.

[mgsickler]

Count me in man. Good work and I really like the gasket mounts. Pretty nice.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[bluesclera]

Guess i'm the only one that doesn't know what a gasket mount is?

[Puddsy]

disappointed you did not keep the original name of penisboard

Guess i'm the only one that doesn't know what a gasket mount is?

the plate is held in place by rubber gaskets as opposed to screws

[crtexcnndrm99]

disappointed you did not keep the original name of penisboard

Guess i'm the only one that doesn't know what a gasket mount is?

the plate is held in place by rubber gaskets as opposed to screws

Honey pls. Ghetto gasket mount is the way to go.. rubber o-rings on the screw mounts (think, same way as a washer on a screw)

Works like a charm on an acrylic board.. probably not so well trying to fit inside a sandwich style alu case

Edit: this board well inspired. Will be good

[Krelbit]

Count me in man. Good work and I really like the gasket mounts. Pretty nice.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Thanks, Mike! Love ya.

Guess i'm the only one that doesn't know what a gasket mount is?

The plate will be held in place with silicone gaskets, rather than screws. This results in a really tight and secure friction fit for the plate.

disappointed you did not keep the original name of penisboard

Pls, that wasn't even the real name.

disappointed you did not keep the original name of penisboard

Guess i'm the only one that doesn't know what a gasket mount is?

the plate is held in place by rubber gaskets as opposed to screws

Honey pls. Ghetto gasket mount is the way to go.. rubber o-rings on the screw mounts (think, same way as a washer on a screw)

Works like a charm on an acrylic board.. probably not so well trying to fit inside a sandwich style alu case

Edit: this board well inspired. Will be good

Cheers!

[xondat]

this upsets me greatly and I will get one

[hineybush]

I'm super excited to be a part of this project!

[YisSerL]

This looks great.  Hopefully can be lucky enough when the raffle time comes.

[Krelbit]

this upsets me greatly and I will get one

xoxo

I'm super excited to be a part of this project!

I'm super excited to be a part of this project too.

This looks great.  Hopefully can be lucky enough when the raffle time comes.

Thanks!

[olivia]

I love it more than love itself <2

[mago]

Really nice looking board 

[Kevadu]

Clean but attractive.  I like it.

...wish it had costar support though

[xondat]

Clean but attractive.  I like it.

...wish it had costar support though

Get on it hiney/krel, this is true meme status

[Krelbit]

I love it more than love itself <2

<2

Really nice looking board 

Thank you!

Clean but attractive.  I like it.

...wish it had costar support though

costar is a sin and you should feel bad

Clean but attractive.  I like it.

...wish it had costar support though

Get on it hiney/krel, this is true meme status

no pls

[xondat]

Clean but attractive.  I like it.

...wish it had costar support though

Get on it hiney/krel, this is true meme status

no pls

don't be a cat

[nguyenhimself]

I like it. This is in fact what I thought the Norbaforce would end up looking like.
But please OP, please consider changing the name
There's no way in hell am I going to tolerate seeing the word "meme" whenever I look down on my keyboard 
Laugh if you want, but yeah, serious deal-breaker for me :[

[Krelbit]

I like it. This is in fact what I thought the Norbaforce would end up looking like.
But please OP, please consider changing the name
There's no way in hell am I going to tolerate seeing the word "meme" whenever I look down on my keyboard 
Laugh if you want, but yeah, serious deal-breaker for me :[

Blank badges will be available.

You'll still have to call it your MEME, though.

[Manticzeus]

Any possibility of an option for blocked corners?

[Krelbit]

Any possibility of an option for blocked corners?

I don't see it as an improvement.

So no.

[Sshimosawa]

So down

[Kevadu]

Clean but attractive.  I like it.

...wish it had costar support though

costar is a sin and you should feel bad

I do feel bad.  I feel bad for all the poor souls out there who can't experience the glory that is costar and are suffering under the oppression of awful cherry stabs.

[afrokobe]

this upsets me greatly and I will get one

xoxo

I'm super excited to be a part of this project!

I'm super excited to be a part of this project too.

This looks great.  Hopefully can be lucky enough when the raffle time comes.

Thanks!

I'm super excited you're super excited to be a part of your own project

[Krelbit]

So down

Thanks!

this upsets me greatly and I will get one

xoxo

I'm super excited to be a part of this project!

I'm super excited to be a part of this project too.

This looks great.  Hopefully can be lucky enough when the raffle time comes.

Thanks!

I'm super excited you're super excited to be a part of your own project

I'm super excited that you're super excited for me to be super excited to be part of my own project

[yuppie]

You have my support.

[pixelpusher]

Oh man, this looks too good to pass up.  That black with the blue badge... right when Blue on Black is shipping.  You nasty, nasty man.

[Harms]

Amazing looking board!

[crtexcnndrm99]

All you need is to make this TKL and the world will be a better place.

[pr0ximity]

Very najs. Why gaskets on the top as opposed to the bottom of the plate? I've wondered if it would change how it feels, potentially a little softer? Though that might depend a bit on how tight if a fit it is.

[amnesia0287]

Very najs. Why gaskets on the top as opposed to the bottom of the plate? I've wondered if it would change how it feels, potentially a little softer? Though that might depend a bit on how tight if a fit it is.

If the gasket is on the bottom then it can be compressed which could produce some awful sounds since the plate could start tapping on the top case.

[typischt]

This looks super nice!
There is no ISO support, correct?

[Krelbit]

You have my support.

You have my love.

Oh man, this looks too good to pass up.  That black with the blue badge... right when Blue on Black is shipping.  You nasty, nasty man.

Honestly I have no idea that set existed until now.

All you need is to make this TKL and the world will be a better place.

Half the inspiration came from the KeyCult No. 1, which is a gasket mounted tkl. The creator, riotonthebay, even helped out with giving me a source to get gaskets from! Check it out if you haven't yet seen it. I'll probably only ever make 65%s, because it's the only layout I use.

Very najs. Why gaskets on the top as opposed to the bottom of the plate? I've wondered if it would change how it feels, potentially a little softer? Though that might depend a bit on how tight if a fit it is.

If the tolerances aren't 100% on point we'd probably have rattle issues when putting the gaskets on the bottom.

This looks super nice!
There is no ISO support, correct?

Thank you!
I believe ISO and ANSI should have seperate pcbs and plates. A combined PCB/plate, in my opinion, compromises switch feel and overall stability for the appeasement of a smaller audience. If I were more confident in myself, I would expand the group buy to a possible 60 units with another group buy (and MOQ of 30) for the ISO version, but only if the ISO variant could hit MOQ, which I don't believe it can on its own. Therefore, there is no, and will never be, ISO support on my boards.

[Rob27shred]

Pulling at my heart strings here Krelbit, 65%, gasket mounted, swappable daughter boards for whatever connection you want! I'm so down for this board, just hope I can get lucky enough to have the money in pocket & get in on the GB when it happens. Awesome work on this for sure!

[Krelbit]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

[xondat]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

[Krelbit]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

[ghostjuggernaut]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

Personally I prefer hex. However i like having matching sizes throughout which can be tricky using hex. I think Phillips is possibly the best in that regard, especially since you don’t really need to crank down on them in this sort of application.

[yookwh]

Would the board come with both a blank and a MEME badge? Or would we have to purchase both (If that's an option)?

[sony]

I already have a spot right??? 🤔

[Puddsy]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

hex > all

[Krelbit]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

Personally I prefer hex. However i like having matching sizes throughout which can be tricky using hex. I think Phillips is possibly the best in that regard, especially since you don’t really need to crank down on them in this sort of application.

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

hex > all

I think I'll use a slot for the badge, as that'll be removed much more often and has a higher chance of stripping. Plus, you'll never see it anyways. Hex for the rest, though.

I already have a spot right??? 🤔

🤔 There are no spots in this raffle.

Would the board come with both a blank and a MEME badge? Or would we have to purchase both (If that's an option)?

You will receive both, but alternative colors will have to be purchased.

[frostbyte-gaming]

Super hyped for this board that top bezel tickles my fancy, I love it. 

[p_blaze]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

Personally I prefer hex. However i like having matching sizes throughout which can be tricky using hex. I think Phillips is possibly the best in that regard, especially since you don’t really need to crank down on them in this sort of application.

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

hex > all

I think I'll use a slot for the badge, as that'll be removed much more often and has a higher chance of stripping. Plus, you'll never see it anyways. Hex for the rest, though.

I already have a spot right??? 🤔

🤔 There are no spots in this raffle.

Would the board come with both a blank and a MEME badge? Or would we have to purchase both (If that's an option)?

You will receive both, but alternative colors will have to be purchased.

+1 I've seen too many hex bolts stripped

[Purp]

Not sure if it was asked previously, but will we be able to get the blank plaques engraved from you instead of blanks?

[pr0ximity]

Very najs. Why gaskets on the top as opposed to the bottom of the plate? I've wondered if it would change how it feels, potentially a little softer? Though that might depend a bit on how tight if a fit it is.

If the gasket is on the bottom then it can be compressed which could produce some awful sounds since the plate could start tapping on the top case.

While that would make sense for a very soft gasket, I don't think im practice it would be very likely. The gaskets on the Keycult are quite compressed already, and the gasket on the 356mini (which is under the plate) is much thicker and softer yet it does not chatter at all.

[Krelbit]

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

Personally I prefer hex. However i like having matching sizes throughout which can be tricky using hex. I think Phillips is possibly the best in that regard, especially since you don’t really need to crank down on them in this sort of application.

Well, I've happened upon a first crossroad. Having never run a keyboard group buy before, I honestly don't know which type of screw is more popular in the community!

Hex or Phillips?

Aesthetic: hex, slot, phillips
Function: slot, phillips, hex

If it strips, good luck getting a hex out easily

I've certainly been there...

Would using different screw heads for different places (like, slot for the badge and hex/phillips for the main body) be a good idea?

hex > all

I think I'll use a slot for the badge, as that'll be removed much more often and has a higher chance of stripping. Plus, you'll never see it anyways. Hex for the rest, though.

I already have a spot right??? 🤔

🤔 There are no spots in this raffle.

Would the board come with both a blank and a MEME badge? Or would we have to purchase both (If that's an option)?

You will receive both, but alternative colors will have to be purchased.

+1 I've seen too many hex bolts stripped

I've been there, man.

Super hyped for this board that top bezel tickles my fancy, I love it. 

Thanks!

Not sure if it was asked previously, but will we be able to get the blank plaques engraved from you instead of blanks?

Sadly not. Text is cnc'd.

[pixelpusher]

Not sure if it was asked previously, but will we be able to get the blank plaques engraved from you instead of blanks?

You could have them engraved somewhere local, but of course it would be raw aluminum where it was engraved, since it would go through the anodized color.  Still could look cool though, if you're really wanting it personalized.

[Kafka]

I've stripped too many hex screws to trust them.

[Krelbit]

I've stripped too many hex screws to trust them.

If enough interest is there, I could possibly offer a seperate set of screws with a different heads.

[ramnes]

Nice. Want 60%. Not sure about having "meme" written on the top of my board tho.

[amnesia0287]

I've stripped too many hex screws to trust them.

Stop using the wrong key.

[Krelbit]

Nice. Want 60%. Not sure about having "meme" written on the top of my board tho.

Unless this goes absolutely perfectly and I come out of the buy 100% wanting to do more keyboards another board is out of the option.

There are blank badges for those who aren't a fan of the meme badge.

[blacksimon]

This looks great, I wish you looked this good bby

[Krelbit]

Update made to OP. Will comment here as well.

Update 1: Currently working with the elastomer company, and will have gaskets finalized by 3/12/18 or 3/13/18. Color choices came in, and I have asked for anodization color chips. The choices for color are:

• Silver
• Violet
• Red
• Brown
• Green
• Black
• Orange
• Gold
• Blue
• Olive Drab
• Yellow

There are 11 Colors here, and I'd like to chop it down to 7. After I get the color chips, I will hold a vote for colors.

I've added a couple items to the to-do list pertaining to these matters.

Thank you for your continued interest in my project.

[xondat]

Pink please

[Marutks]

what is gasket mount?   is it better than top mount?

[xondat]

what is gasket mount?   is it better than top mount?

The top and bottom piece clamp the plate in between, and where the plate touches them, there is Silicone. Not better, just different.

[Rob27shred]

I've stripped too many hex screws to trust them.

Stop using the wrong key.

Truth, LOL! Hex screws can be frustrating when you don't have the proper size key, but considering they are so common with kits I'd recommend investing in a decent set of hex keys that has all the common metric & SAE sizes. Something like this, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-SAE-Metric-Long-Arm-Hex-Key-Set-26-Piece-HLAHKSM26PC/202934869

[Krelbit]

I've stripped too many hex screws to trust them.

Stop using the wrong key.

Truth, LOL! Hex screws can be frustrating when you don't have the proper size key, but considering they are so common with kits I'd recommend investing in a decent set of hex keys that has all the common metric & SAE sizes. Something like this, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-SAE-Metric-Long-Arm-Hex-Key-Set-26-Piece-HLAHKSM26PC/202934869

Do boards usually include their own hex screw? If so I'd like to hop on that as well.

Pink please

Show Image

no thnx xoxo

[Puddsy]

I've stripped too many hex screws to trust them.

Stop using the wrong key.

Truth, LOL! Hex screws can be frustrating when you don't have the proper size key, but considering they are so common with kits I'd recommend investing in a decent set of hex keys that has all the common metric & SAE sizes. Something like this, https://www.homedepot.com/p/Husky-SAE-Metric-Long-Arm-Hex-Key-Set-26-Piece-HLAHKSM26PC/202934869

Do boards usually include their own hex screw? If so I'd like to hop on that as well.

Pink please

Show Image

no thnx xoxo

my weaven had a hex tool, my mira didn't

[HardcoreDesk]

Not sure if this has been asked already, but what's the chance of getting customized nametags? If not, then do you have any estimate of what it might cost for an individual to get the blank tag engraved?

[Krelbit]

Not sure if this has been asked already, but what's the chance of getting customized? If not, then do you have any estimate of what it might cost for an individual to get the blank tag engraved?

Very low chance of customized badges. The text is cnc'd on.
No idea about engraving costs.

[MajorclaM]

Not sure if this has been asked already, but what's the chance of getting customized nametags? If not, then do you have any estimate of what it might cost for an individual to get the blank tag engraved?

Very low chance of customized badges. The text is cnc'd on.
No idea about engraving costs.

Would you be opposed to releasing a template for the badge in case people wanted to make custom badges by 3d printing or otherwise?

[crtexcnndrm99]

Brown/beige (read: beige) would be amazing

[Krelbit]

Not sure if this has been asked already, but what's the chance of getting customized nametags? If not, then do you have any estimate of what it might cost for an individual to get the blank tag engraved?

Very low chance of customized badges. The text is cnc'd on.
No idea about engraving costs.

Would you be opposed to releasing a template for the badge in case people wanted to make custom badges by 3d printing or otherwise?

I hadn't actually thought of that. Sure, I'll release the files after the buy is done.

[dubious]

good **** go౦ԁ ****👌 thats ✔ some good👌👌**** right👌👌there👌👌👌

[Krelbit]

Update 2 - 3/13/2018: Prototype PCBs have been ordered! They will be in my hands hopefully by the month's end.

[Cavemann6]

Update 2 - 3/13/2018: Prototype PCBs have been ordered! They will be in my hands hopefully by the month's end.

 

[Krelbit]

Update 3 - 3/23/2018

Prototype PCBs have arrived! They'll be by the beginning of April. After we see that everything works, especially regarding the daughterboards, I'll move on to getting the prototype case made.

EDIT: Production PCBs will be matte black with a white silkscreen. The pcbs pictured are not final.

[xondat]

Prototype PCBs have arrived! They'll be by the beginning of April. After we see that everything works, especially regarding the daughterboards, I'll move on to getting the prototype case made.

They're terrible, I love it.

[Krelbit]

Prototype PCBs have arrived! They'll be by the beginning of April. After we see that everything works, especially regarding the daughterboards, I'll move on to getting the prototype case made.

They're terrible, I love it.

Sadly, no one in the GB will get these in yellow. (unless you want to assemble some pcbs yourself)

[ghostjuggernaut]

Prototype PCBs have arrived! They'll be by the beginning of April. After we see that everything works, especially regarding the daughterboards, I'll move on to getting the prototype case made.

They're terrible, I love it.

Sadly, no one in the GB will get these in yellow. (unless you want to assemble some pcbs yourself)

I would 100% get this in yellow if offered. Tired of green and black pcbs.

[Krelbit]

Well, it seems I'll also be having a vote on the PCB color in the near future. I've seen many people tell me they prefer a non-black pcb.

[lac29]

I personally could care less about pcb color. As long as their is a plain ol black case version, I think I'm in. 65% + QMK + USB-C + split backspace makes this a winner for me.

[xondat]

I personally could care less about pcb color. As long as their is a plain ol black case version, I think I'm in. 65% + QMK + USB-C + split backspace makes this a winner for me.

So you care a little bit?



Neon pink PCB pls.

[Krelbit]

4/4/2018 Progression updates:

A purchase order has been sent in for the gaskets. They're cheaper than I expected, so now I'll make $27 from each board instead of $11. Go me.

It turns out that my anodization contact has told me that their anodization shifts from metal to metal and batch to batch, so they won't be able to get me consistent color chips at all. Nevertheless, I have been assured that the quality is quite high and I will see for myself when I order the prototype.

Speaking of the prototype, I have quotes coming in this weekend and expect to place an order for the prototype after the prototype pcbs have been tested and confirmed working. The parts are on their way to be assembled and tested as of today.

Also, here's a handful of renders using JTK Yolch and JTK Red Riot, because I gotta cross-promote to hit MOQ these days.

[peggisan]

will there be an option for just the PCB? been looking for a 65% uses micro/typeC

[Atredl]

will there be an option for just the PCB? been looking for a 65% uses micro/typeC

It uses a daughter board for the usb connection so it probably won’t work for your board.

[Krelbit]

will there be an option for just the PCB? been looking for a 65% uses micro/typeC

If you can somehow find a case and plate with daughterboard cutouts and no screw mounts, sure, I can sell you a set of pcbs. Otherwise you're out of luck.

[lac29]

Would you be willing to sell the prototypes if they work?

[Krelbit]

Would you be willing to sell the prototypes if they work?

The case, or the PCB? Only a couple PCBs will be assembled to see if the whole Jst connector mechanism works.

If you (or anyone) want(s) to buy the prototype case let me know. Just know that it'll probably be in the neighborhood of $700 for the prototype kit. (You're guaranteed a spot, I guess) I just need it to take pictures and test if everything is working alright.

[lac29]

So no chance of the prototype (everything) for whatever the production models will cost?

[Krelbit]

So no chance of the prototype (everything) for whatever the production models will cost?

No.

I'll end up fronting the $600 cost on the prototype myself. I've already bought PCBs and gaskets and that's where the extra 100 comes from. If anyone really wants in on the board they can buy the prototype, but they have to keep in mind that they probably won't get it until the gb is running.

Prototypes naturally cost more than their production counterparts so having the prototype set significantly higher if someone wants to buy it seems alright with me.

[floristfran]

have been hype since you first posted the first renders, going to buy this so hard


(also gmk watster pls)

[Krelbit]

have been hype since you first posted the first renders, going to buy this so hard


(also gmk watster pls)

Thanks for the support! Hopefully, I can move to group buy by the end of this month or the beginning of next month.

GMK Watsters were run and have shipped, try and get some off mechmarket or something lol

[Koobaczech]

(also gmk watster pls)

I've got some watsers for you bro, just gonna have to dig through my trash can

[floristfran]

(also gmk watster pls)

I've got some watsers for you bro, just gonna have to dig through my trash can

Sent from my ONE A2005 using Tapatalk

[Koobaczech]

Its an inside joke, i received some broken and had to throw them away xD

[Krelbit]

Road bumps and Progress: 4/10/2018

Snag hit, we've got some small problems with the daughterboard, JST connector cables, and the PCB.

We've rectified our issues but will need new prototype pcbs. +1 1/2 week to project time while those arrive.

Thanks to Wilba for helping us out with our troubles, and for a hookup.

Prototype Case Status: Waiting for a quote, and ready to place an order.
Gasket Status: In production.

Removed colors Brown, Orange, Yellow, and Olive Drab from color table. Orange will be available as a badge color, but not as a case color. Gold is close enough to yellow to not need both.

Want to vote the on final PCB Color? Cast your vote here: https://www.strawpoll.me/15478962

[Puddsy]

Removed colors ... Yellow ... from color table.

angery

[Krelbit]

Removed colors ... Yellow ... from color table.

angery

no eyebleed banana boards on my watch

[Puddsy]

Removed colors ... Yellow ... from color table.

angery

no eyebleed banana boards on my watch

i'm gonna reano my alice yellow because of this

[Krelbit]

Removed colors ... Yellow ... from color table.

angery

no eyebleed banana boards on my watch

i'm gonna reano my alice yellow because of this

not like this

[Wilba]

Thanks to Wilba for helping us out with our troubles, and for a hookup.

I'm always free to hookup when u r bby 

[sleepybrett]

No split spacebar, no sale.

[Krelbit]

No split spacebar, no sale.

No split spacebar, no Swiss cheese bottom row.

[Puddsy]

No split spacebar, no sale.

No split spacebar, no Swiss cheese bottom row.

swiss cheese bottom row is the worst

[oldcat]

very nice! I want Meme

[futurecrime]

Well nice. Hope I have keyboard cash when this raffles.

[Cavemann6]

Thanks for keeping us updated byron 

[emenelopee]

No split spacebar, no sale.

No split spacebar, no Swiss cheese bottom row.

swiss cheese bottom row is the worst

Swiss cheese bottom row? I don't know this term.

[Krelbit]

No split spacebar, no sale.

No split spacebar, no Swiss cheese bottom row.

swiss cheese bottom row is the worst

Swiss cheese bottom row? I don't know this term.

Swiss cheese bottom row is when the bottom row is absolutely teeming with holes.
Like a good hunk of swiss.

[emenelopee]

You mean with blockers and such? Or a bunch of smaller keys with their associated key edges?

I found this little lol from last year.

https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/62svvs/interest_check_sa_swiss_cheese/


/derail

[futurecrime]

You mean with blockers and such? Or a bunch of smaller keys with their associated key edges?

I found this little lol from last year.

https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/62svvs/interest_check_sa_swiss_cheese/

Show Image

/derail

On the pcb. To accommodate all the various switches and stabs combos.

[Puddsy]

You mean with blockers and such? Or a bunch of smaller keys with their associated key edges?

I found this little lol from last year.

https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/62svvs/interest_check_sa_swiss_cheese/

Show Image

/derail

like this

[emenelopee]

On the PCB! Alles klar.

[Jhors2]

On the PCB! Alles klar.

You can also end up with this as a plate:

[Krelbit]

On the PCB! Alles klar.

You can also end up with this as a plate:

Show Image

What monstrous black magick this be?

[floristfran]

On the PCB! Alles klar.

You can also end up with this as a plate:

Show Image

What monstrous black magick this be?

15u spacebar when

Sent from my ONE A2005 using Tapatalk

[dc_in_sf]

QMK 65% board, definitely interested.

[oldcat]

I want meme, now!

[oldcat]

any projection on when the raffle will start?

[Krelbit]

any projection on when the raffle will start?

I'd be inclined to say mid-May, but it could go a bit later.

[oldcat]

any projection on when the raffle will start?

I'd be inclined to say mid-May, but it could go a bit later.

Thank you very much for the reply.

[oldcat]

Would it be possible to have a MAO version for Meme? Thank you very much

[Krelbit]

Would it be possible to have a MAO version for Meme? Thank you very much

For this buy, no. The less variation, the better.

[oldcat]

Would it be possible to have a MAO version for Meme? Thank you very much

For this buy, no. The less variation, the better.

Thanks

[oldcat]

super dope. hope this will happen in the summer. money ready, just hoping to be lucky enough.

[Krelbit]

Update 4/30/2018: oof

Final quotes have just arrived, and they're actually a lot higher than I expected them to be. I am considering running this at a lower volume because I do not believe I can reach MOQ otherwise with this increased price. The new case would cost near $550, and the PCB, plate, gaskets, and screws would end up costing more. The revised kit pricing would be around $675, which is unacceptably high to me.

I'm going back to the drawing board a bit to see if I can make any changes that lower the price at all.

I am also now considering overseas manufacturing, but as a complete newbie in the field, I don't know where to go and what to use. As a student with finals week approaching, I don't even really have the time to look into it at the moment.

What do you guys think of this change in plans?

PS: If you've got another source I could look into for machining, let me know.

PPS: Also considering running 2 cases and ending the project.

[friglesnart]

I think taking your time to get this project done at an affordable price and in the hands of more people would be a worth while endeavor.

[Krelbit]

I think taking your time to get this project done at an affordable price and in the hands of more people would be a worth while endeavor.

This project would be done at an affordable price for fewer people. Now that I'm looking at more affordable low quantity options, I can get as few units of this board made as possible, as was the original intent.

I'm currently looking at quantities of 2, 5, and 10 boards made from a few different recommended manufacturers.

[pr0ximity]

If you're looking to get it manufactured in the US, then this is one of like six projects that has gone the same way.

If you'd like to pursue overseas manufacturing, there are plenty of other designers around here who I'm sure could connect you.

[Theswetiyeti]

I love this board  looks great seems unique just have a few questions will we be able to get replacement gaskets? what is the estimated lifespan of a gasket ?

[Krelbit]

I love this board  looks great seems unique just have a few questions will we be able to get replacement gaskets? what is the estimated lifespan of a gasket ?

A spare set of gaskets would be sent out with every plate, but now that we're moving away from mass production into small scale private production I'm not sure.

Gaskets are silicone so they won't degrade like rubber.

[Krelbit]

project's dead move on

[packman86]

f

[xondat]

f

[megaforce]

f

[Midori]

f

[frostbyte-gaming]

f

[DJ Shoko]

f

[Taeha Types]

f

[tomu]

f

[Puddsy]

capitalize your Fs

weak

[Shenpai]

F

Sent from my ONEPLUS A5000 using Tapatalk

[Puddsy]

F

good lad

[duckboi]

F

[hineybush]

wts meme $2000

 

[Allo]

*Taps plays in the background*

F

[Cavemann6]

f

[oh_chesteroni]

Sending positive vibez your way.

F

[LightningXI]

F

Sent from my mobile using Tapatalk

[Remsky]

F.
Rip lube daddy. He lubed me up when nobody else would :pepehands:

[floristfran]

F

Sent from my ONE A2005 using Tapatalk

[p_blaze]

F

[BobCarltheThird]

SUPER F

[Rob27shred]

F 
I was pretty interested in this board, sorry to hear it went south Krelbit.

[superhot]

Effin F

[oatmicro]

MEME: I don't feel so good

[superhot]

MEME: I don't feel so good

mr. krelbit i don't wanna go

[Krelbit]

still dead

[Tonkatonk]

F

[gnunin]

F

[Aerizu]

F

[Wilba]

↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → B A

[2Cas]

asdfsdf

[Remsky]

You're supposed to collect the money first, then lead everyone on a wild goose chase for 2 years, you big dumb

Then after 2 years is gone, print out shipping labels so people think it is shipping, but never bring the boards to the post office

[Theswetiyeti]

F

[amnesia0287]

↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → B A

You forgot to start the game, so I guess we’ll do 2 player mode:

↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → B A Start Start

[LightningXI]

↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → B A

You forgot to start the game, so I guess we’ll do 2 player mode:

↑ ↑ ↓ ↓ ← → ← → B A Start Start

At least get that right:

A common misconception is that the code ends with Start or Select Start. In many titles, the player must press Start after entering the code in order to start a game, or press Select to switch to two-player mode and then start the game, leading to the confusion.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konami_Code#Variations


Sent from my mobile using Tapatalk

[Krelbit]

wtb 16 copies of knack 2



still dead

[jimirolln]

i was sold on the gas kit hype...lul

 ) duped

[Krelbit]

Totally unrelated images

[Cavemann6]

Totally unrelated images

Show Image

Show Image

pls

[Krelbit]

The most unrelated image that I have ever posted

[xondat]

The most unrelated image that I have ever posted

Show Image

can't believe I paid $420,000 for this

[pr0ximity]

Can we have imaginary typing impressions when these pretend to ship? Interested in how they would have turned out.

[LightningXI]

Can we have imaginary typing impressions when these pretend to ship? Interested in how they would have turned out.

+1 about this as well. Would love to hear how it turns out.

[Aerizu]

[Krelbit]

What is that

where can i buy it

[xondat]

What is that

where can i buy it

some idiot gave me the files

gb soon

[Krelbit]

What is that

where can i buy it

some idiot gave me the files

gb soon

can i get a custom badge that says "jimirollin" on it

[Dotsandlines]

Are any of these out there to purchase? It's probably like finding a needle in a haystack