This looks really nice, and I think I'd like to get in on it. However, I've never built a board before. Would someone here advise me on which options to order? Here's what I'd like to end up with:
1. HHKB layout. Looks to me like I should get either SKB60 HHKB / Plate A, or SKB60 YAS / Plate B. I'm not clear on the difference.
2. Is split space-bar possible?
3. Which pcb to go with the above? I don't have a windows machine, so if there's a firmware download/upgrade necessary, could I do it on mac/linux?
4. How likely am I to destroy the pcb if I've never soldered before? In which case maybe a second pcb would be useful?
5. Was there a price estimate on shipping the above items to the U.S.? I haven't chosen my items on the order form yet, so I can't see shipping and paypal charges.
Thanks for your help.
1. HHKB is not for everyone. It is beautiful but not all can/want adapt to the layout. The YAS looks a little bit like HHKB because it has the narrower bottom row as well, not as much though. Most noticeable about the YAS is that it incorporates the arrow-cluster which is not common for 60% keyboards. That's why most program their arrow keys to another layer and access it via Fn key. If you rely heavily on the arrow keys then I recommend you go for the YAS version. It is also the only version that I can provide you with the PCB.
Take a look at the original GB here.
2. Yes, pretty much every plate/version supports some kind of split spacebar. of course you have to chose the right PCB to make it happen.
3. If you want HHKB, getting a SATAN PCB is probably the simplest solution for you. If you are on mac/linux then this is perfect. QMK firmware works better on these compared to windows. If you decide for YAS version, then you can just choose the PCB in the order form and you will get it as well. It does not run QMK, it runs L3 firmware, which has a GUI.
4. If you have never soldered before, you should really watch some youtube tutorials on that. Also practice before, don't let the PCB be the first thing you start soldering with. Stuff like how to install your stabilizers the right way is something you will have to look into as well. And switches of course.
5. Shipping, see opening post and the discussion. I mentioned other options in the discussion and I will explore further options. Paypal fees can't be much I think. Less than 2% in Germany I think, not sure.