bbbbqq's amazing split matrix keyboard (Formerly wiring questions)

[bbbbqq]

I've gone ahead and mocked up what I'm thinking of doing:



Previously:
http://i.imgur.com/iQXX2.png

Basically, a split keyboard with a modified matrix layout.

Features:
Swappable ALPS switches
Modified layout
Matrix key layout
Split layout (think Kinesis Freestyle)
Fully programmable
Multiple layers


[size=+2]Several observations: [/size]
1. Capslock is useless. As a result, I've enlarged the left Shift key to take that place.
2. I do not like having ctrl where capslock is, as it still involves reaching over. Instead, I am still arranging keys, but will most likely involve a palmed ctrl.
3. Alt, which I use very regularly, is normally under Z and X, which is not ideal for me. So, I plan on moving it under X and C, like on the MS Ergo4000. Far more comfortable.
4. Right side spacebar will be an Fn key, probably. Still haven't decided yet, but I still need a way to do Fkeys and I don't want another row. I never use my right hand for spacebar, though.
6. Each hand will be seperate, like on the Kinesis Freestyle. Standard layouts are too cramped, but I still want smaller keyboards for games.
7. Will be using ALPS, most likely.
8. Programming controllers is going to be a pain.

[size=+2]Checklist ![/size]
[ ] Make fancy 3d mockups
[ ] Figure out wiring and such
[ ] Design pcb
[x] Order Switches
[x] Switches arrived
[ ] Order Keycaps
[ ] Keycaps arrived
[ ] Order Controller

[ ] Finish design
[ ] Build the thing
[ ] Program it

[size=+2]Questions:[/size]
I need the cheapest possible keycaps I can find to do this project. Where can I find the cheapest keycaps ?

[TheProfosist]

Check out the phantom and dox projects that should give you some ideas how things should be done

[bbbbqq]

Had a look through a bunch of projects; so basically, it's wired as such:


Does it really matter which pins are used on a teensy ?

[ishtob]

pins matter, but they are different based on what firmware you are using

[Soarer]

If you write your own firmware, or can modify one, then you could choose almost any pins. But obviously not Vcc, GND, RST or AREF. Also probably not PD6 since it has the internal LED on it (although you could use it, you might prefer to have the LED usable).

Which leaves the PB0..7 pins as the logical choice for the sense (reading) lines, since it's a complete 8 bit port with nothing already on it.

Then there's 15 (or 16 counting PD6) other pins to use as strobes or lock LED outputs.

It's possible to use a single pin for both strobing and lock LED output. The Ortek MCK-84 has three diodes fitted to enable this. For an NKRO matrix these diodes would not be needed.

[bbbbqq]

Updated the front page

Still need to design the pcb and figure out how to do the controller

[SmallFry]

I can help with the controller, I have an AIKON controller board in the works. It will be done soon I hope... I have to reorder the PCB's though, I made the first batch wrong:frown:

[bbbbqq]

Been looking through the AIKON things, and I do have some questions:
1. Looking at the pdf's, it looks like it has room for 18 rows and 11 columns; don't you mean it the other way, since even a 10 keyless board has 17 columns. Or am I mistaken and looking at it the wrong way, or does it even matter at all, as long as they're connected correctly ?
2. From the "experimenting with the AIKON controller" thread, I just wire it up, put in the jumper, and then start the program and presto ?
3. When do you hope to have the controller ready ? It looks absolutely amazing. Estimated price ?

Love your work

[Soarer]

Rows and columns on the matrix don't necessarily correspond to rows and columns on the key layout (and usually don't). Also, it's fairly arbitrary which way round row and column are in the matrix. It's clearer to think of strobes (outputs from the controller) and senses (inputs). I guess AIKON strobes each row, and senses the columns, since there are usually more strobe lines than sense lines.

[SmallFry]

I hope to have it ready by mid-February. School is quite demanding for me and getting work time on the AIKON with my dad is harder yet. Sorry for any delays to your project. You could also just create your own with the deskthority schematics. I imagine the price to be around $30.00 or so, but since I haven't figured everything out I don't have a concrete price for you. Also, thanks for the compliments to me and my father's work.

[CeeSA]

maybe you would like to test your layout a bit before making the final product.
therefor i would recommend a tipro matix keyboard.
i do little experiments with my as the (bad qly) pic show.

very easy to programm with Windows Software.

[bbbbqq]

Hmm, I can't seem to find any of those tipro boards anywhere Would be great to try it out, though.

On the plus side, switches should be here soonnnn

[SmallFry]

Try looking on Ebay or on Deskthority?

[bbbbqq]

Did a lot of editing and measuring, and have come to the conclusion that fingers are not the same length, and so a straight matrix keyboard will not be very ergonomic. However, with the measuring, I've determined the perfect spacing for the keys such that it needs a fairly even movement to actuate the key above or below the homerow.
Measured it out too. On a standard staggered layout, center of F to center of B is 38mm. On this, it is about 31mm. Should save a lot on hand strain.