tl;dr - GB opens 10/29, raffle for 50 spots, WK and WKL available in e-black and e-white;
Here's the last big update for this project before the GB goes live!
To quickly re-cap the last two months: the second round of case and PCB prototypes turned out great, the commissioned prototypes were delivered, and I’ve been working on setting up the business side of things. (Oh, and we welcomed a new baby so I haven't slept since August...) Check the top post for the updated photos and build log. Everything’s pretty much ready to go so without any further ado, here are the details:
The group buy will be limited to 50 units and spots will be decided by a raffle which will open on October 29th. The raffle will run for a week, at which point I’ll send out invoices, take payment through my fancy new
online store, and get production rolling.
The following configurations will be on offer, each with its own separate MOQ:
- Standard Layout (MOQ: 20)
- Winkeyless Layout (MOQ: 20)
- Option of black or white e-coat finish with either layout
Apart from that:
- The weight and plate will be sand-blasted stainless steel
- The PCB will be black, soldered (not hot-swap!) with support for ISO, stepped caps, split shift/backspace
- The final price will be $450 + plus shipping + local taxes
Note that there will be no support for:
- ALPS
- ANSI/6.25U spacebar bottom row
- Hot swap
- Cover/window for exposed portion of PCB
The final kit will be nearly identical to the round 2 prototype pictured in the new build log. The following are the differences:
I’ve changed the silicone foot pads to domed bumpers Why: the domes provide better isolation and are more stable on uneven surfaces
The weight will be available in sand-blasted SS only Why: the weight part has proven difficult to machine reliably and I’ve been getting more consistent results with the SS. Also, the SS is much less prone to tarnish and discoloration than the brass.
E-coat rather than anodizing Why: the e-coat adheres better to the sharp corners than anodizing pigment for a more consistently even finish. I’ve worked with the manufacturer to offer a black option alongside the white.
The actual front height measurement is now approximately 14.5mm (depends on the compression in the bumper feet) Why: I’ve made small allowances for flex in the PCB. This is about a business-card-thickness taller than originally planned, but obviously still quite low.
Replaced the foam pad under the PCB with strips Why: Out of an abundance of caution, I don’t want any foam putting pressure on SMD components
PCB panelization changed Why: moved the breakaway tabs so that they are not visible through the slot in the bottom
Add ultra-low profile screws for spacebar stab Why: These screws will be included to replace the standard stabilizer screws so that they don’t protrude from the case.
I expected fulfillment to take 4-6 months but I’m not going to commit to a timeline. My experience with the lineup of suppliers has been great so far so I have no reason to expect delays but once I place the orders it is completely out of my hands and the parts arrive when they arrive.
I think that’s everything for now. If you have any question or if there’s anything you’d like to see (specific photo, video, measurement, &c.) please let me know so that I can post it before the raffle opens.
Cheers!