Need help with picking parts

[WannaBeOCer]

I saw a video yesterday where a Phantom keyboard was put together. When ever I tried to do research all the useful links brought me to this forum. Before I dive right in, I wanted to know what options I have beside the Phantom PCB and where I can order them from. I am planning on building a 87 key keyboard. Also if you do recommend a PCB can you also link to a compatible aluminium housing + plate. I am also looking for a board that has firmware support because I am not familiar to programming. 

I saw a few different PCBs but could not find where to order them. Seems like the only two I see that are 87 boards is the MX-1800 and Phantom.

Thank you

[loud_asian]

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=50580.0

I think this will interest you. Its multiple pcbs with different layouts for each pcb. Groupbuy also has acrylic and metal cases for sale.

[WannaBeOCer]

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=50580.0

I think this will interest you. Its multiple pcbs with different layouts for each pcb. Groupbuy also has acrylic and metal cases for sale.

Fantastic! I was looking for a PCB that would allow me to mount the switches directly on the PCB. Also do you have any clue where I can get MX Clears with diodes inside? Or can I put my own diodes inside MX Cherries?

[dorkvader]

http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=50580.0

I think this will interest you. Its multiple pcbs with different layouts for each pcb. Groupbuy also has acrylic and metal cases for sale.

Fantastic! I was looking for a PCB that would allow me to mount the switches directly on the PCB. Also do you have any clue where I can get MX Clears with diodes inside? Or can I put my own diodes inside MX Cherries?

easiest way is to desolder them from a G80-8200 or g80-8113, but be careful! many have browns. Also all USB ones have jumpers instead of diodes: very annoying.

You can order clears with diodes as a normal part number but I recommend just soldering diodes to the bottom. opening all the switches is a pain!

of course if you are going for ergo clears it's not so bad. Keep in mind you can't do backlit with in-switch diodes, so it's up to you.

You can put your own diodes in there though if you want: they accept a standard size 1n4148 through hole diode.