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geekhack Marketplace => Artisan Services => Topic started by: jdcarpe on Wed, 10 September 2014, 14:40:00

Title: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 10 September 2014, 14:40:00
Coming soon from Carpe Keyboards...


THE JD45 KEYBOARD



(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/tVGSTbf.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/UAKTHWb.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/CTKKKJg.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/bygQ8lX.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/xbngByG.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/9DD2Qui.jpg)


(http://i.imgur.com/1KTWwfc.jpg)



Stay tuned to this thread for more info!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 12 September 2014, 09:57:14
THE JD45 KEYBOARD LAYOUT


(http://i.imgur.com/Lf1hXqi.jpg)
(all the options below the main section are bottom row options)


Red = not compatible with Alps switch
Amber = suboptimal Alps support (pad isn't pretty but it will work)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: absyrd on Fri, 12 September 2014, 09:58:55
Where are you on this already? Just design phase? Direct-wiring one up? Or does "coming soon" mean you will actually be producing a batch in the near future?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Fri, 12 September 2014, 09:59:20
I don't like JD anymore. He comes out with too much cool stuff and my wallet isn't happy. Can you please slow down with all the awesome? Space it out for us who aren't #legitballin?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 12 September 2014, 10:01:39
Where are you on this already? Just design phase? Direct-wiring one up? Or does "coming soon" mean you will actually be producing a batch in the near future?

It's just the design phase right now. Since I don't know KiCAD, I need to work with someone to help with the PCB.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Fri, 12 September 2014, 10:09:01
saw this on the twitter sign me up :P
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SL89 on Fri, 12 September 2014, 10:22:45
JD is there any way this could be symmetrical?

For me having 2 1.75 units would make the most sense to have the left one be Backspace and the right one the Spacebar.

So if BS is down there have a left shift, a right shift at 1.75 as well

above that Capslock / Ctrl and Enter at 1.50 and so on.

Idk why but i am having a hard time articulating this. Let me see if i can just show you what i mean.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: abjr on Fri, 12 September 2014, 10:51:35
Okay, opening for comments. :)


Also, the bottom row should have options. So you could use either:

* 1.25-1-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1-1.25
* 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1.25-1
* 1.25-1.25-1.25-1-1.75-1.75-1-1.25-1.25-1.25
* 1.25-1.25-1-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1-1.25-1.25


I think I might like a bigger target for my thumbs ... what about the following option:

1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 2.75 - 2.75 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25

Also, I like how the right side of row 3 ends in 1u - 1.25u, rather than the 1.25u - 1u of the JD40. I'm trying to concoct some method in my head where I can reverse those 2 keys on my SmallFry by doing some surgery on the keycap mounts :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: margo baggins on Fri, 12 September 2014, 10:55:01
That's very cool bro!

When I finish building all the JD40's, Im going to knuckle down with Kicad and get it learnt , but that will likely miss this project. But once I have, you can reclaim those favours :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 12 September 2014, 11:08:16
Okay, opening for comments. :)


Also, the bottom row should have options. So you could use either:

* 1.25-1-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1-1.25
* 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1.25-1
* 1.25-1.25-1.25-1-1.75-1.75-1-1.25-1.25-1.25
* 1.25-1.25-1-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1-1.25-1.25


I think I might like a bigger target for my thumbs ... what about the following option:

1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 2.75 - 2.75 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25

Also, I like how the right side of row 3 ends in 1u - 1.25u, rather than the 1.25u - 1u of the JD40. I'm trying to concoct some method in my head where I can reverse those 2 keys on my SmallFry by doing some surgery on the keycap mounts :)

I could include that, theoretically, but I was trying to keep it stabilizer-free. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: abjr on Fri, 12 September 2014, 11:48:00
Okay, opening for comments. :)


Also, the bottom row should have options. So you could use either:

* 1.25-1-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1-1.25
* 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1.25-1
* 1.25-1.25-1.25-1-1.75-1.75-1-1.25-1.25-1.25
* 1.25-1.25-1-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1-1.25-1.25


I think I might like a bigger target for my thumbs ... what about the following option:

1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 2.75 - 2.75 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25

Also, I like how the right side of row 3 ends in 1u - 1.25u, rather than the 1.25u - 1u of the JD40. I'm trying to concoct some method in my head where I can reverse those 2 keys on my SmallFry by doing some surgery on the keycap mounts :)

I could include that, theoretically, but I was trying to keep it stabilizer-free. :)

I guess if I were paying more attention I would have seen that's what you were going for. Ignore me :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: byker on Sat, 13 September 2014, 13:17:29
Very cool JD!  ;D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Sent on Mon, 15 September 2014, 04:07:06
BadAss is right.  You need to stop coming out with such cool stuff.  I already want one.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Mon, 15 September 2014, 16:05:21
So, JD & I have PM'd about this, since I occasionally deal with a shop with a giant laser ... My own self, I'd like to see a "GON Skinny" case made of the plate. Its small enough to extend to the left/right, bend twice, and you've got 'feet' to hold it up. 304 stainless would be strong enough but if you wanted aluminum, you might extend the top and bottom...More 'foot' to solder around when it gets that far but so long as you have the cutouts you probably only have to deal with it once.

How tall are those "legs" ... one inch? That'd be enough to clear the PCB and teensy-with-pin-plastics, right?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Tiramisuu on Mon, 15 September 2014, 19:11:09
Hmm,

try...

 unsplit the space bar.   Make the first row keys equal size so I can have an alt, ctrl, fn on both sides of the space bar and I'm sold.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Sent on Mon, 15 September 2014, 19:47:14
No way.  I love the split spacebar.  No stabs to deal with and this gives us an extra modifier key we can program to whatever we want/need.  I'm honestly hoping more boards go down this route in the future.  Most of us only hit the spacebar in a fairly controlled space/area, anyways. 
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Mon, 15 September 2014, 19:53:42
Hmm,

try...

 unsplit the space bar.   Make the first row keys equal size so I can have an alt, ctrl, fn on both sides of the space bar and I'm sold.



No way.  I love the split spacebar.  No stabs to deal with and this gives us an extra modifier key we can program to whatever we want/need.  I'm honestly hoping more boards go down this route in the future.  Most of us only hit the spacebar in a fairly controlled space/area, anyways. 

Yeah, spacebar is staying split on this one. If you want a long spacebar, there's always the JD40. :)

If you want, you can configure the bottom row as 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-[space]-[space]-1.25-1.25-1.25-1, so you have 3.5-unit for your spacebar(s), and plenty of symmetry to work with on both sides.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: futaris on Thu, 25 September 2014, 03:23:07
47 Keys. Looks good.  If you don't split the spacebar and throw away another key, then you get 45. :)

I like the bottom row ending in 1.25-1-1.25, and the row above it ending in 1-1.25. Means you can have arrow keys in the bottom right.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 25 September 2014, 06:35:45
I like the bottom row ending in 1.25-1-1.25, and the row above it ending in 1-1.25. Means you can have arrow keys in the bottom right.

Yes that was my intention, and the reason that is the "default" layout shown in the mockup. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: futaris on Sat, 27 September 2014, 21:47:48
It's not far off a Filco Minila with a row and a column removed.

But on that board, they moved the ZXCV row 0.25" left.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: tyvar1 on Wed, 01 October 2014, 04:11:38
This looks really good! Looking forward to seeing the results :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: meow a cat on Fri, 17 October 2014, 00:31:29
This board looks great JD!

I love these small boards.  ;D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: byker on Fri, 17 October 2014, 00:34:54
How can you tease us before my smallfry board even arrives?  :p From one thing to the next!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Fri, 17 October 2014, 03:53:16
Another interesting looking board from the house of JDCarpe! Did you get a PCB designer signed up for this yet?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: oneproduct on Sat, 18 October 2014, 08:34:04
I'm very interested in this. For the same reason we don't include the F# (function row) on 60% keyboards I also prefer not to use the number row on keyboards when I can have a virtual numpad on a function layer.

The only comment I would have is that my thumb usually rests on the spacebar between where the third and fourth keys on the homerow would be (D and F) so on your layout my thumb wouldn't reach the 1.75 keys, but the keys one spot outwards towards the edges of the board from them.

If you could have a variation of the bottom row where the 1.75 keys could be moved slightly outwards it would be wonderful. If not I could just use the 1.25 keys as spacebar/backspace though so it certainly wouldn't be the end of the world.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dante on Sat, 18 October 2014, 08:40:44
I only have one question: Alps?

(Please say no so my wife won't murder me in my sleep)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 18 October 2014, 09:35:38
I'll try to knock out an MX/Alps PCB later today.  May I add an optional spacebar position?

Where should CAPS, NUM and FN be?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Sat, 18 October 2014, 09:57:48
Ron, our hero.

I'd make the PCB, but I always get stuck at the controller, so many tracks, such little space.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: yasuo on Sat, 18 October 2014, 09:59:22
Ron, our hero.

I'd make the PCB, but I always get stuck at the controller, so many tracks, such little space.
at least you hero for syml :))
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:31:12
Here you go.  Full backlighting, a centered spacebar position,  and an alternate 2x backspace key included.

Oh, Cherry MX and Alps-compatible as promised.

I'll run the Teensy under R2C12-13 once the layout is final.  (Assuming JD likes it, etc.)

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

[edit]

Fixed the bottom row so a 6.25 can actually fit between the other keys.

[/edit]
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: BunnyLake on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:32:12
Here you go.  Full backlighting, a centered spacebar position,  and an alternate 2x backspace key included.

Oh, Cherry MX and Alps-compatible as promised.

I'll run the Teensy under R2C12-13 once the layout is final.  (Assuming JD likes it, etc.)

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

witch craft
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:35:45
I'll try to knock out an MX/Alps PCB later today.  May I add an optional spacebar position?

Where should CAPS, NUM and FN be?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

Awesome, thanks, Ron! You can add whatever spacebar positions you feel would be useful. I usually assign Caps Lock to a function layer on the 1.25 key on the second row. Fn I usually put on the bottom row somewhere, and Num Lock as a fn layer on Esc. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: yasuo on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:37:03
Here you go.  Full backlighting, a centered spacebar position,  and an alternate 2x backspace key included.

Oh, Cherry MX and Alps-compatible as promised.

I'll run the Teensy under R2C12-13 once the layout is final.  (Assuming JD likes it, etc.)

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
so fast and simply
btw what software you make pcb i never see pcb like that's look easy :))
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:41:07
That looks great, Ron! I don't know how hard it would be to include bottom row options for the following:

Also, the bottom row should have options. So you could use either:

* 1.25-1-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1-1.25
* 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1.25-1
* 1.25-1.25-1.25-1-1.75-1.75-1-1.25-1.25-1.25
* 1.25-1.25-1-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1-1.25-1.25
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:43:57
Needs more bluetooth :D ;)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: yasuo on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:50:47
Needs more bluetooth :D ;)
get korean40% sir
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sat, 18 October 2014, 10:57:11
Needs more bluetooth :D ;)
get korean40% sir

It is very nice but that price is out of my range at the moment.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 18 October 2014, 11:32:21
That looks great, Ron! I don't know how hard it would be to include bottom row options for the following:

Also, the bottom row should have options. So you could use either:

* 1.25-1-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1-1.25
* 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1.25-1
* 1.25-1.25-1.25-1-1.75-1.75-1-1.25-1.25-1.25
* 1.25-1.25-1-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1-1.25-1.25

Sorry, I missed that.  I'll see what I can do.

I'd also like to squeeze in an arrow cluster option like the TG3.  Of course that is a 15x6 board, so it will be harder to accomplish.

Question:  Did you look at a 12.5 x 4 size? It eliminates unobtainable keycaps without expanding the matrix vs. a JD40.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

[edit]

Attached is a 12.5 x 4 PCB I drew up a month or so ago as an exercise.

[/edit]
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 18 October 2014, 11:45:26
That looks great, Ron! I don't know how hard it would be to include bottom row options for the following:

Also, the bottom row should have options. So you could use either:

* 1.25-1-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1-1.25
* 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1.25-1
* 1.25-1.25-1.25-1-1.75-1.75-1-1.25-1.25-1.25
* 1.25-1.25-1-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1-1.25-1.25

Sorry, I missed that.  I'll see what I can do.

I'd also like to squeeze in an arrow cluster option like the TG3.  Of course that is a 15x6 board, so it will be harder to accomplish.

Question:  Did you look at a 12.5 x 4 size? It eliminates unobtainable keycaps without expanding the matrix vs. a JD40.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Yes, I looked at doing it that way, but I didn't like the lack of symmetry I came up with for some reason.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 18 October 2014, 18:02:33
Also, the bottom row should have options. So you could use either:

* 1.25-1-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1-1.25
* 1-1.25-1.25-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1.25-1.25-1
* 1.25-1.25-1.25-1-1.75-1.75-1-1.25-1.25-1.25
* 1.25-1.25-1-1.25-1.75-1.75-1.25-1-1.25-1.25

Ok, the bottom row can have all four of those options, which are really having the 1x key in position 1, 2, 3, or 4.  However, Alps switches are not designed for optional placements, so Alps users can have only one, possibly two of the four options.  For sure I could give MX users all four choices, but Alps users would be limited to the 1x on the outside positions and possibly also the second-to-outside positions.

A. 1 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.75 - 1.75 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1 (MX and Alps)
B. 1.25 - 1 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.75 - 1.75 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1 - 1.25 (MX and possibly Alps)
C. 1.25 - 1.25 - 1 - 1.25 - 1.75 - 1.75 - 1.25 - 1 - 1.25 - 1.25 (MX only)
D. 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1 - 1.75 - 1.75 - 1 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 (MX only)

Attached is a rough layout of the bottom row with all four options for both switch types.  1/3 of the bottom row has shorts, so no go.

JD and Alps-users, please advise on the constrained option I propose above.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 19 October 2014, 12:08:27
Further work on the bottom row has occurred.  I can make everything work EXCEPT bi-lateral symmetry for Alps.  There is no combination of switch positions that enable Alps switches to be mirrored on the bottom row without impacting the 4-way MX options.

I can do non-mirrored symmetry for Alps switches, e.g.

1 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.75 - 1.75 - 1 - 1.25 - 1.25 - 1.25.

Should I make using Alps switches possible, but not optimal?

JD's or Alps-fan's input would be helpful here.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 19 October 2014, 12:38:07
Yes, what you have for Alps would be fine. Our primary focus should be the availability of options for MX switches, with compatibility for Alps as important, but secondary.

Having only one bottom row option for Alps will simplify plate design for Alps, since Alps are dependent on the plate, where MX can be PCB mounted.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 19 October 2014, 13:04:30
Yes, what you have for Alps would be fine. Our primary focus should be the availability of options for MX switches, with compatibility for Alps as important, but secondary.

Having only one bottom row option for Alps will simplify plate design for Alps, since Alps are dependent on the plate, where MX can be PCB mounted.

Gotcha,  Here is what I did.

#1 Added Alps pads on every bottom row switch position where they would fit without impacting the MX layouts.  See attachment #1.

#2 Added a central MX switch position to enable use of a 6x spacebar if desired.  Or not, of course.  See attachment #2 for an example.

If this looks good, I'll attach the Teensy and run traces.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 19 October 2014, 13:26:59
Looks like a winner to me. :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dante on Sun, 19 October 2014, 14:38:44
Yes, what you have for Alps would be fine. Our primary focus should be the availability of options for MX switches, with compatibility for Alps as important, but secondary.

Having only one bottom row option for Alps will simplify plate design for Alps, since Alps are dependent on the plate, where MX can be PCB mounted.

I tossed around the idea in another thread for doing hybrid Cherry/Alps PCB - but keeping all the stabilized keys as Cherry MX only and all 1x1 Alps.

It is relatively easy to fill in all the 1x1's with DoubleShots/PBT's from old Alps boards and much easier sourcing stabilizer compatible MX caps.

In my case I'd do everything with Matias Quiet Pro switches except the space bar which would be MX Tactile Gray, and O-Ring MX Clears on Shifts/Enter/BackSpace.

A bit crazy but if you are a flexible person it will make the Engineers life a lot easier :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 19 October 2014, 14:41:52
Yes, what you have for Alps would be fine. Our primary focus should be the availability of options for MX switches, with compatibility for Alps as important, but secondary.

Having only one bottom row option for Alps will simplify plate design for Alps, since Alps are dependent on the plate, where MX can be PCB mounted.

I tossed around the idea in another thread for doing hybrid Cherry/Alps PCB - but keeping all the stabilized keys as Cherry MX only and all 1x1 Alps.

It is relatively easy to fill in all the 1x1's with DoubleShots/PBT's from old Alps boards and much easier sourcing stabilizer compatible MX caps.

In my case I'd do everything with Matias Quiet Pro switches except the space bar which would be MX Tactile Gray, and O-Ring MX Clears on Shifts/Enter/BackSpace.

A bit crazy but if you are a flexible person it will make the Engineers life a lot easier :)

You will be able to do exactly what you propose with this PCB.  Also with the GH-122.

Looks like a winner to me. :D

Ok, I'll take next steps.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Sun, 19 October 2014, 16:24:59
Looks real good Ron. Some pointers on how you go about deciding the position fro the Teensy and then running those tracks would be immensely helpful.

Thanks.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 20 October 2014, 11:33:02
Looks real good Ron. Some pointers on how you go about deciding the position fro the Teensy and then running those tracks would be immensely helpful.

Thanks.

Ok; I'll try.  This is not completely set in stone, but here are the steps I used to get to the incomplete layout attached.  (OBTW, The latest layout is attached.)

PHASE ONE: THE SWITCH LAYOUT:


1. Start with a switch footprint in a .75x.75" outer boundary, and an inner .55x.55' boundary marked as well.
2. Place a diode and a resistor between the inner and outer perimeter.
3. Add row and column traces (and LED signal and ground traces, if applicable), and run them to the edge of the outer boundary.
4. Replicate the initial cell into a short row to see how it fits together.  Return to Step 2 until they fit together properly.
5. Take another switch foot print (as used in Step 1) and place it anywhere in the test row to find problems.  Return to Step 2 until there are no problems.
6. Take PCB-mount stabilizer patterns and place them in the test row to find problems.  Return to Step 2 until there are no problems.
7. Take the resulting product of the iteration process, and use it as a base cell for PCB layout.
  NOTE:  Sometimes the resulting base cell contains two switches.  This is typically the case when there are multiple places with optional 2x switch positions, like a numpad area.

8. Carefully lay out the first row of switch positions.  Check for problems, and probably go all the way back to Step 2.
9. Lay out the rest of the rows EXCEPT THE BOTTOM ROW.  Check for problems, and possibly go all the way back to Step 2.
10. Lay out the bottom row.  Check carefully for shorts and pads inside of holes.  Avoid stabilizer keep-away zones.
11. Publish the draft layout to get member feedback.  Iterate Steps 8-11 as needed until consensus or approval is obtained.
12. Publish the "final" switch layout and announce that no more input will be welcomed EXCEPT problems identified with the layout.

Now you have the board, populated by switch cells and extra mounting positions.

PHASE TWO: BASELINE TRACES AND CONTROLLER:


1. Connect the row, column, and LED traces where stagger has left gaps.  Do this carefully to avoid shorts and gaps.
2. Identify any peculiarities with the matrix, and adjust the rows and columns to fix this problem.

EXAMPLE:  On the JD45, the upper-right switch is physically in Row 1, Column 13.  But it would be the only switch in Column 13, which would be a waste of a pin.  So, In this case, I ended Row 1 with Column 12, and re-assigned physical R1C13 to electrical Row 4, Column 12. This is a slight hassle in layout and firmware, but it means that the PCB remains electrically a 12x4 grid, which will reduce pin count and possibly allow re-use of the JD40 firmware.


3. Find a place where the Teensy will fit around the switch positions.  Avoid as many passives as possible, as they will be buried.  Also, take care to avoid blocking traces from switch pads that can't be moved.  On this layout, that meant ensuring that Teensy pins B3, B7, and D0 are offset to allow the LED leads for switch 2,12 to escape between the Teensy's pads.

  NOTE: Don't forget to mirror the Teensy so it is in the proper orientation on the opposite side of the PCB from the switches!

This step requires trial and error, and typically I get it wrong for the first few passes.  Also, it may need to be moved once I try to connect row, column, and LED traces.

I try to keep the Teensy as far up the PCB as I can, to go with the natural slope of the keyboard.  A surface-mount controller can fit under the spacebar or over the arrow-cluster, but not so much the Teensy, unless you are willing to have a very tall keyboard.  For the JD45, I placed it over switch 2,12 because that position had the fewest components in the way.

Next up:

PHASE THREE: SIGNAL TRACES

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Mon, 20 October 2014, 11:56:01
Thanks Ron, I'm well-versed with everything that has been mentioned thus far (Thanks to regack <3), but in all my attempts, I get stuck after placing the Teensy or the controller circuit under the spacebar, then routing the signal traces, specially with the SMT controller and it's associated components.

I think I just need to practice more :/
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 20 October 2014, 12:42:42
Thanks Ron, I'm well-versed with everything that has been mentioned thus far (Thanks to regack <3), but in all my attempts, I get stuck after placing the Teensy or the controller circuit under the spacebar, then routing the signal traces, specially with the SMT controller and it's associated components.

I think I just need to practice more :/

I'll finish the process flow as I finish the layout.  Next up will be the steps you wonder about.

And for me, practicing at increasing scale is key.  First I did the GH LED strip PCB.  Then came the GH36.  Now the JD45 just for practice.  Soon the GH-122/153, which will be the ultimate keyboard PCB.

I do a lot of exercises as well.  PCB layouts that never go anywhere.  Experiments with controller traces.  Sometimes I just take a controller and make traces from the controller out to stub traces.  This lets me try different paths and combinations.

Anyhow, yes.  Practice layouts, and try to get some of them printed so you get real-world experience with how your designs turn out when you try to solder them up.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Mon, 20 October 2014, 12:52:26
Thanks a lot Ron!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 30 October 2014, 19:55:54
Greetings Alternative Keyboard Fans!

Here is the JD45 13x4 PCB (v.141019g5 to be precise.)

It has:

 - Original JD45 layout, including split "spacebar".
 - Cherry MX and Alps compatibility.
 - Optional upper RH 2x position.
 - Four different bottom row modifier options (three 1.25 plus one 1.0 on each side -- arrange them as you like.)
 - Spacebar can be either dual 1.75 keycaps OR a 6.0 spacebar.  (Stabilizer mounts not included.)
 - Support for PCB-mount switches.
 - All diodes have identical orientation and are marked on both front and back sides for easy placement.
 - Teensy 2.0 with no diodes or resistors hiding underneath!

And...

 - Full backlighting with PWM brightness control.

Because only one row has more than 12 columns, I wired the 13th switch as Row 4, Col 12.  This could be changed.  Also, the PCB is exactly 9.75" x 3.00", although that too can be changed if extra room is desired for mounting holes.

There are lots of leftover pins, so if I should wire one or two as (e.g.) CAPS or NUM, just let me know which switch(es) should have those LEDs.

Current Matrix is:

COL1  B3
COL2  B7
COL3  D0
COL4  D1
COL5  D2
COL6  D3
COL7  C6
COL8  C7
COL9  B5
COL10 B4
COL11 D6
COL12 B6

ROW1  F0
ROW2  F1
ROW3  F4
ROW4  F5

LED01  D7 (PWM)

Please let me know what is next.  Naturally, JD has veto over everything, including any changes.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

p.s.  The LED circuit is powered by a Fairchild MPSA29 3-pin transistor, which costs 54 cents at Mouser.  As requested elsewhere, I placed its solder pads with 0.10" (2.54mm) spacing to enable easier soldering.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Fri, 31 October 2014, 12:16:38
PCB-mounted stabs, please. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 31 October 2014, 12:22:58
Looks great, Ron. As always with you. :)

PCB-mounted stabs, please. :)

I'm not sure that is feasible, with the constraints of the traces and holes for switch mounting options.

You can always use it with no stabilizers, as was my original design intention.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 31 October 2014, 13:22:24
I was wanting a JD40, but this is awesomer...

(I am an English Graduate, I allow myself to invent that word. :)))
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 31 October 2014, 14:38:51
Thanks!  PM me your logo, please.

I think I can fit stab mounts for the 6.0 spacebar.  However, I do not know how available those spacebars actually are.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Looks great, Ron. As always with you. :)

PCB-mounted stabs, please. :)

I'm not sure that is feasible, with the constraints of the traces and holes for switch mounting options.

You can always use it with no stabilizers, as was my original design intention.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 01 November 2014, 11:31:14
Two things:

#1 I cannot find definitive spacings for the 6.0 spacebar mounts.  Cherry, Blackwidow, and SP seem to be different.  And even DT does not have spacing listed for the 6.0 stems.  I'll try and measure a DSA 6.0 spacebar I happen to have, but so far, no stab mounts.

#2 Big Logo, little board.  How large should be, and should it step on switch, diode, and position numbering legends?  As a test, I scaled it to .75" tall, and slammed it over the Teensy.  The attached image is in 1:1 scale at 72DPI.

JD, Q2 is for you.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 01 November 2014, 15:53:12
Let me see if I can get some 6.0 spacebar measurements for you, Ron. I have lots of those offset Cherry ones from G8X-1800s.

The Cherry 6.0-unit spacebar has stems that are 3.75" between the outer (stabilizer) stems. The stem for the switch is offset 0.375" to the right of center.

The SP DSA 6.0-unit and TG3-BL82 6.0-unit spacebars both have stems that are 3.00" between the outer (stabilizer) stems, with a centered spacebar stem.




As for the logo, I don't mind if it overlaps things. Sort of like how the [CTRL]ALT 60 looks, if you have seen that. You could try it at 1", but anywhere between 0.5"-1.0" should look fine. I leave placement to your discretion. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 01 November 2014, 18:46:53
Ok, since I have the switch centered, I'll go with the 3.0" stabs. Also <sigh> I might as well add an offset position for those Cherry spacebars.

Re the logo, unless you object, I will put it where it is in the mock-up.  Please PM me with any other text you would like on the silkscreen layers.

Thanks for the quick reply!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

Let me see if I can get some 6.0 spacebar measurements for you, Ron. I have lots of those offset Cherry ones from G8X-1800s.

The Cherry 6.0-unit spacebar has stems that are 3.75" between the outer (stabilizer) stems. The stem for the switch is offset 0.375" to the right of center.

The SP DSA 6.0-unit and TG3-BL82 6.0-unit spacebars both have stems that are 3.00" between the outer (stabilizer) stems, with a centered spacebar stem.




As for the logo, I don't mind if it overlaps things. Sort of like how the [CTRL]ALT 60 looks, if you have seen that. You could try it at 1", but anywhere between 0.5"-1.0" should look fine. I leave placement to your discretion. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Sat, 01 November 2014, 18:49:49
Dear samwisekoi,

Thanks for making the PCB for this board. I'm extremely excited for yet another of JD's wonderful boards but my wallet is already crying. So maybe I shouldn't be thanking you :P.

Sincerely,

Captain BadAss

(But seriously, it boggles my mind how fast you whipped together the KiCad file for this board. You're awesome :) )
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 01 November 2014, 19:44:50
(But seriously, it boggles my mind how fast you whipped together the KiCad file for this board. You're awesome :) )

I cheated.

Here is the temporary silkscreen layout.  Outline logo is temporary.

Off to dinner.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

(http://imgur.com/Lew3670.png)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 02 November 2014, 09:51:39
Ok, now we have:

 - Filled JD45 logo centered and placed to avoid holes.
 - Moved switch legends to avoid logo.
 - PCB-mount stabilizer support for SP 6.0x spacebar.

I could not add an offset spacebar location AND retain Alps compatibility for the split "spacebar" position, so I did NOT include support for the 6.0 Cherry offset spacebar.  Sorry.

(http://i.imgur.com/4gTvWIE.png)
JD45 PCB v.141019h3 by samwisekoi 2014

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Tue, 04 November 2014, 08:37:26
It is beautiful!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 04 November 2014, 08:47:14
Ron, would it be possible to add stabilizer holes for the 2.0-unit backspace? Other than that, it looks great!!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Tue, 04 November 2014, 09:36:32
Done.  Ugly trace mods, but done.  Cheap little PCB as well.

(http://i.imgur.com/rE0m7r6.png)
JD45 PCB v.141019h5 Final Candidate 2

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 04 November 2014, 11:44:03
Would it be prudent to include a few mounting holes, do you think?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Tue, 04 November 2014, 11:49:59
I don't want to sound like a jerk, I really appreciate your work Ron, however I think you should try to avoid the use of right angles in traces, it's just a bad practice, I know it has become less of a problem, but I still think it should be avoided if possible.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Tue, 04 November 2014, 19:57:58
Would it be prudent to include a few mounting holes, do you think?

Did you notice the FC2?  Final Candidate 1 had corner mounting holes, but they were too tight.  I can bring them back, but to do so it would be best to add some board space on the edges.  Shall I?

I don't want to sound like a jerk, I really appreciate your work Ron, however I think you should try to avoid the use of right angles in traces, it's just a bad practice, I know it has become less of a problem, but I still think it should be avoided if possible.

Hmmm. Really?  Do you think it matters for a digital circuit this small?  What I miss are rounded corners and curved traces from hand-drawn silkscreen masks, but that isn't really an option.   I can make more diagonals, but PCB-mount holes are a real constraint to a good radial layout.

But seriously, do you think there is a difference in signal strength or reliability from right angles on a board this small?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Tue, 04 November 2014, 23:35:31
As I wrote in my earlier post, it probably really doesn't make a difference, but just for best practice.

Edit: And it looks pretty :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 05 November 2014, 12:12:07
As I wrote in my earlier post, it probably really doesn't make a difference, but just for best practice.

Edit: And it looks pretty :)

Hmmm.  I agree that a board designed with the aesthetics of diagonal traces in mind looks really good.  However, I think that a retrofit often looks worse:

(http://i.imgur.com/xZHyxCT.png)
JD45 PCB v141019h6 (with diagonal traces) by samwisekoi 2014

I don't think I am going to take this any further.  I will probably re-do the upper-right corner, simply because it is too crowded no matter what,

Also, I think if I grow the PCB from 9.75" x 3.0" to 10.0" x 3.0", I can place mounting holes in the four corner without compromise.  So I will do that.

But not this morning.  My PCB layout time is over for the day.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Wed, 05 November 2014, 15:43:49
Oh gawd, that PCB. hahahahahaha
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 06 November 2014, 09:12:25
Okay.  Final Candidate 3.

 - Dimensions are now 10.00" x 3.00"
 - Four mounting holes at .125" in from each corner, .125" (3.2mm) diameter.
 - Added extra pads: Ground, V+ (5v), Spare_1 (B1), Spare_2 (B2)
 - Moderate clean-up of upper RH corner (now with more diagonals!)

(http://i.imgur.com/f9PMqv8.png)
JD45 PCB v141019h7 Final Candidate 3 by samwisekoi

Enjoy!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

p.s. No matter what, that upper RH stabilizer has to be very close to the Teensy's solder pads.  I believe it will work with the latching stab mounts, but I don't have one of the new screw-in PCB-mount stabs to test.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 06 November 2014, 09:34:21
Da best!

Time for prototypes...
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: azhdar on Thu, 06 November 2014, 09:49:52
I've seen no mention off it in the thread but the PCB won't be ISO-ready ?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 06 November 2014, 10:00:28
What is this ISO? Never heard of it. ;)

This little beast uses a 1.75-unit key where Enter would be. With these few keys, I don't believe ISO Enter would be any advantage.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 06 November 2014, 10:22:00
Da best!

Time for prototypes...

Thank you very much.  We should have a real-time conversation about next steps.  I'll send you an e-mail when I get in to the office in a short while.

What is this ISO? Never heard of it. ;)

This little beast uses a 1.75-unit key where Enter would be. With these few keys, I don't believe ISO Enter would be any advantage.

Also, totally wouldn't fit!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: pharaoh on Fri, 07 November 2014, 00:47:37
I'm really looking forward to this board :3
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Fri, 07 November 2014, 18:37:13
Depending on timing, I could pitch in to be a beta tester. PM me if that's a third wheel you'd want to attach to this rolling monst^H^H^H project.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 13 November 2014, 11:58:00
So....


A little update for you guys.


Completely unbeknownst to Ron (samwisekoi) and everyone in this thread, when I first dreamed up this idea, I asked Joey Quinn to help me by making a PCB using SMT components. When Ron posted his first iteration of the through hole and Teensy version, I thought it was different enough to proceed with both versions. So now, as of this moment, there exist two (basically) complete PCB designs for the JD45. Ron's version, which uses a Teensy 2.0 for a controller, through hole electronics, and SUPPORTS FULL LED BACKLIGHTING. And Joey Quinn's version, which uses SMT electronics and an ATmega32U4 for a controller, has pads and holes for LEDs, but no traces to them (same as in the JD40).


In a departure from the JD40, you DO NOT need a plate for switch mounting. Heck, you don't even NEED stabilizers, since the "default" configuration uses a split spacebar, with no keys on the board over 1.75-units. Of course, I can have some plates made, if people want or need them.


Another difference between the two PCB versions you will notice immediately is the logo design. Both logos were designed by lastpilot. The one I gave Ron is the GH60 logo, modified by me for the JD45. The one I gave Joey Quinn was made for me by lastpilot specifically for the JD40, but I modified it just slightly to work with the JD45. HUGE THANKS TO LASTPILOT FOR HIS OUTSTANDING LOGO DESIGNS!!


If anyone is interested in testing a prototype JD45, and being one of the first to have the JD45 experience, I'm looking to sell some beta testing spots to fund the prototypes. Cost will be around $27 per board, plus shipping (first class in a bubble mailer). This initial run will be Ron's through hole-and-Teensy version. In the near future, I will do the same for Joey Quinn's SMT version. REMINDER THAT THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO GUARANTEE THAT PROTOTYPE BOARDS WILL FUNCTION CORRECTLY, IF AT ALL.


Ron has said he will post a render of his final design in this thread when he gets a chance. In the meantime, here is a render of the Joey Quinn PCB:

(http://i.imgur.com/atTZv30.png)

(http://i.imgur.com/OswPU8W.png)


The #hype is real. :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Thu, 13 November 2014, 12:19:10
In.
PM inbound.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 13 November 2014, 12:19:57
Sent you some messages JD :).
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Thu, 13 November 2014, 12:37:28
Sent you some messages JD :).

You want it cuz its purple... ;D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Thu, 13 November 2014, 12:59:07
Sent you some messages JD :).

You want it cuz its purple... ;D Whoops...connection timed out.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Thu, 13 November 2014, 13:05:04
I love the look of OSH park boards. Purple FTW!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 13 November 2014, 13:07:11
I love the look of OSH park boards. Purple FTW!

Speaking of this...who's the manufacturers of the white PCBs? Like the Phantom ones or the (I think) manufacturer of xwhatsit's controllers?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 13 November 2014, 13:24:50
I love the look of OSH park boards. Purple FTW!

Speaking of this...who's the manufacturers of the white PCBs? Like the Phantom ones or the (I think) manufacturer of xwhatsit's controllers?

Most PCB fabs have white as an option. I like white, but I'm leaning toward blue.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Thu, 13 November 2014, 13:31:44
Blue would be sweet, what company does that color.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 13 November 2014, 13:34:39
Blue would be sweet, what company does that color.

Most fabs seem to offer green, white, black, red, blue, or yellow soldermask. With black, white, or yellow silkscreen.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Thu, 13 November 2014, 13:41:33
ooh, yellow on black sounds nice. But black text on a red board could be cool too.

MK has expanded their collection of PCB mount switches ... I'm thinking this is the time to get some MX greens.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 14 November 2014, 09:15:54
So now we have to compete for affection?  JD says he loves us both equally...

JD45 through-hole PCB in White-on-Blue with full backlighting:

(http://i.imgur.com/3aFbK1n.png)

(http://i.imgur.com/KLijnAw.png)
JD45 PCB v141019h7 by samwisekoi 2014.

Also, please note that this would be the first time almost any of us will actually see the "GH60" unicorn logo.  :cool:

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 18 November 2014, 08:39:29
If anyone is interested in testing a prototype JD45, and being one of the first to have the JD45 experience, I'm looking to sell some beta testing spots to fund the prototypes. Cost will be around $27 per board, plus shipping (first class in a bubble mailer). This initial run will be Ron's through hole-and-Teensy version. In the near future, I will do the same for Joey Quinn's SMT version. REMINDER THAT THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO GUARANTEE THAT PROTOTYPE BOARDS WILL FUNCTION CORRECTLY, IF AT ALL.

I've had a few people send me money already, and I THANK YOU VERY MUCH for your support, and for helping me fund a small round of prototype boards.

ANYONE ESLE WANT IN??

I would like to get these ordered in the very near future, if anyone is interested in being one of the first to have and test the JD45 PCB.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 18 November 2014, 08:42:59
I think this time I will wait until the bugs are worked out. But looking forward to seeing this board made.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: margo baggins on Tue, 18 November 2014, 09:06:40
in in in,

weirdly i just pm'd you before seeing this.

in 4 2, one for me and one for bunny - you getting cases cut?

I can get some cut here if you let me have a copy of the dxf.

thanks :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: BunnyLake on Tue, 18 November 2014, 09:08:52
in in in,

weirdly i just pm'd you before seeing this.

in 4 2, one for me and one for bunny - you getting cases cut?

I can get some cut here if you let me have a copy of the dxf.

thanks :)

+ 1
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Flamingchook on Tue, 18 November 2014, 15:30:00
PM sent. Very keen to test one of these. It looks like the perfect evolution of the JD40 layout.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: adrl on Tue, 18 November 2014, 16:33:07
I might be interested.

What extra parts are needed other than pcb and switches?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Tue, 18 November 2014, 18:46:21
I might be interested.

What extra parts are needed other than pcb and switches?
The first round will require a Teensy 2.0 and through hole diodes.

Unsure if the second round will come with the 32U4 attached or loose, so TQFP soldering, then SMT diodes, and one of the supports backlighting so resistors and matching LEDs (SMT?) will be called for in that case but not the other run.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: adrl on Tue, 18 November 2014, 22:41:02
The first round will require a Teensy 2.0 and through hole diodes.

Unsure if the second round will come with the 32U4 attached or loose, so TQFP soldering, then SMT diodes, and one of the supports backlighting so resistors and matching LEDs (SMT?) will be called for in that case but not the other run.

Thanks for the response!

I wonder where I can source them in Canada?
I guess this will be a fun project to do.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 24 November 2014, 09:12:13
If I knew how to solder, I would be in for one. I really do want to build a compact board in the near future though. This looks like it will be the board.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 24 November 2014, 10:39:52
Reply from one PCB designer (me) regarding building the through-hole "Blue" version.

This is the easiest one to build yourself.  Every part will use easy-to-solder through-hole leads, so no mucking about with hot air and solder paste.  All of the the diodes go the same direction, and can be mounted on either side of the board.  Backlighting is optional, but if you want to go that route, this board uses a 54-cent transistor to power the LEDs.

Parts list:
 - PCB, probably $25 or less.
 - Teensy 2.0 with pins $19.00 from PJRC:  here (https://www.pjrc.com/store/teensy_pins.html)
 - Diodes 100 for $3.30 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=1N914TRvirtualkey61370000virtualkey78-1N914)
 - Socket for Teensy (optional) $1.67 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=110-44-624-41-001000virtualkey57510000virtualkey575-11044624)
 - LED transistor (required to use backlighting) 54 cents from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=MPSA29virtualkey51210000virtualkey512-MPSA29)
 - Switches to taste.  Get 50 MX Black for $18.00 from Techkeys.us:  here (http://techkeys.us/collections/accessories/products/keyboard-switches)

Adding LEDs?
There are thousands of LEDs you can choose, red, blue, and white being the most popular.  The specific resistor you need depends on the LED you choose, but here is a web site that will help determine the resistor value you need:
http://led.linear1.org/led.wiz
NOTE: Source voltage is 5, number of LEDs is 1.  Forward voltage and current vary by LED.

Red:
 - Red 3mm, 2.05 V, 20mA LEDs, 50 for $4.60 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=LTL1CHJETNNvirtualkey57820000virtualkey859-LTL1CHJETNN)
 - Resistors, through-hole, 1/4watt, 150ohms, 100 for $4.00 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=CCF07150RGKE36virtualkey61300000virtualkey71-CCF07150RGKE36)

Blue:

 - Blue 3mm, 3.5 V, 20mA LEDs LEDs, 50 for $9.00 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=LTL17KTBS3KSvirtualkey57820000virtualkey859-LTL17KTBS3KS)
 - Resistors, through-hole, 1/4watt, 82ohms, 100 for $4.00 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=CCF0782R0GKE36virtualkey61300000virtualkey71-CCF0782R0GKE36)

White:
 - White 3mm, 3.3 V, 20mA LEDs LEDs, 50 for $14.60 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=LTW-420D7virtualkey57820000virtualkey859-LTW-420D7)
 - Resistors, through-hole, 1/4watt, 100ohms, 100 for $4.00 from Mouser:  here (http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=CCF07100RGKE36virtualkey61300000virtualkey71-CCF07100RGKE36)

I will add more LED choices if that would be helpful to anyone.

NOTE REGARDING MIXING LEDS:
It is possible to have different LED colors on the same keyboard.  Simple even.  However, you must ensure that each LED has the proper resistor.  So, for example, if you used the above red LEDs in most places, those LEDs should have 150ohm resistors.  And then if you used the white LEDs listed above for the WASD cluster, those LEDs would require 100ohm resistors.  Each switch position has one resistor position.  Simply install the correct resistor for the LED you used in that particular switch.


 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Tue, 25 November 2014, 10:05:48
More details for the experts.

Attached are:

1) The schematic of the v.1 PROTOTYPE board I am about to order for JD.  The JD45 logo is hidden so the traces can be seen.

2) The associated DXF file of the mechanicals of the board.  It is 10.000" x 3.000" with four 0.125" diameter mounting holes at 0.125" in from each corner.

Enjoy!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SL89 on Tue, 25 November 2014, 10:25:24
Oh wow, i forgot about this, ive been away longer then i realized.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: codyeatworld on Tue, 25 November 2014, 10:42:34
So happy that this version supports full backlighting!

Awesome work everyone!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 26 November 2014, 13:08:39
Prototype order placed.  It will be initially rejected when the humans notice that we keyboard folk like to have overlapping holes and pads.  I will accept the board as-is, and then in about two weeks or less 12 will arrive at my office in California.

More when I know more.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 03 December 2014, 23:01:37
Would anyone know where I could get a housing manufactured for this board?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Thu, 04 December 2014, 13:10:33
Would anyone know where I could get a housing manufactured for this board?
I've not seen any .dxf of .svg drawing suggested, but Samwioski described what's needed regarding mounting holes ... 10x3 and four holes immediately in from the corners, so  ....

Ponoko deals in acrylics, and has okay prices but you have to buy the whole 'sheet' of plastic plus you pay for cutting time. Granted the sheets are really small but because of that, you might have to buy the largest for this board ... I don't have their template .svgs around, it seems.

BigBlueSaw (.com? I think) does one-offs for reasonable prices (considering) and deals with thin metals as well as acrylics.

I haven't dealt with either of these companies, but you might consider looking in the phone book for makerspaces that have lasers ... acrylic can be cut with 100w lasers which are moderately inexpensive. 16ga steel can be cut with a 1500w CO2 laser but you're dealing with a machine shop at that point who don't like small orders. Other forum members might come up with further suggestions, too.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 06 December 2014, 21:12:51
If you like my JD40 keyboard, the predecessor to the JD45, please vote for it in the Deskthority Awards. :)

http://deskthority.net/final-vote-f84/best-space-saving-or-compact-keyboard-2014-t9311.html
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 07 December 2014, 09:19:47
I've not seen any .dxf of .svg drawing suggested, but Samwisekoi described what's needed regarding mounting holes ... 10x3 and four holes immediately in from the corners, so  ....

Actually, I posted a DXF file several posts above.

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=62641.msg1545241#msg1545241

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 0100010 on Tue, 09 December 2014, 11:33:08
If this board was 14x4 instead of 13x4, I'd be all over it - http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/12b25856c1a3b1d9109955b41d1647f7
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 09 December 2014, 12:53:56

If this board was 14x4 instead of 13x4, I'd be all over it - http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/12b25856c1a3b1d9109955b41d1647f7

Just wait for JD45 Mk.II or JD50...
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 0100010 on Tue, 09 December 2014, 13:13:20

If this board was 14x4 instead of 13x4, I'd be all over it - http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/12b25856c1a3b1d9109955b41d1647f7

Just wait for JD45 Mk.II or JD50...

NICE!  Please feel free to use the above layout.   :thumb:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 10 December 2014, 13:42:02
If you like my JD40 keyboard, the predecessor to the JD45, please vote for it in the Deskthority Awards. :)

http://deskthority.net/final-vote-f84/best-space-saving-or-compact-keyboard-2014-t9311.html

Just saw the link...sorry. I would have voted for your JD40, I love it!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 15 December 2014, 15:59:25
Working through another LED circuit, I had an aha moment about the JD45.  At some point in the design cycles, I rotated the silkscreen semicircle for the backlight transistor.  Note that the CIRCUIT is fine, just the little picture of the transistor is rotated.

So, to make it all be happy, just install the transistor on the back with the flat towards the bottom (spacebar) edge of the board.

Then all will be well.

- Ron | samwisekoi

p.s.  Electrically-minded readers will immediately see that upside-down, the transistor would have to let the backlight current flow FROM the emitter TO the collector. This works poorly with an NPN transistor.  but rotate it 180, and we have C to E when B is high and life is good!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 17 December 2014, 10:54:48
I'll just leave this here...

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 17 December 2014, 21:21:34
I'll just leave this here...

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Now that I have a JD40, you are making me want one of these... :confused:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Wed, 17 December 2014, 23:24:57
Guys I've got to tell you, I'm very impressed by this work.  Seems like a more usable layout than the 40.

Here you go:
[attachimg=1]

I copied the layout form page 2
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Melvang on Thu, 18 December 2014, 00:01:47
I would be down for round 2 when it is available.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Thu, 18 December 2014, 12:50:39
I would be down for round 2 when it is available.

I believe this is just a prototyping round.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Thu, 18 December 2014, 12:58:18
I believe this is just a prototyping round.
[/quote]

Well, round one then. And SpamRay said he wanted in once the bugs were worked out (IE not a prototyping round)

Also, Metalliqaz that's looking good but, err, I don't see a new revision of the beta mapping software. Do we get to to play with that screen? ;-)

(Attachment Link)

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 23 December 2014, 09:17:04
Default key layout (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/88175a676b24608cebd5e34dec04cfe5)?

(http://i.imgur.com/u8LVtCJ.png)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Melvang on Tue, 23 December 2014, 09:24:09
Default key layout (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/88175a676b24608cebd5e34dec04cfe5)?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/u8LVtCJ.png)


Looks good to me.  Though personally I think I would swap Fn and delete.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Tue, 23 December 2014, 23:48:48
Default key layout (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/88175a676b24608cebd5e34dec04cfe5)?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/u8LVtCJ.png)


What is FIG?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 24 December 2014, 00:26:15
Default key layout (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/88175a676b24608cebd5e34dec04cfe5)?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/u8LVtCJ.png)


What is FIG?

Oh, FIGures. Its for the numpad layer, while SYMbol is for the number row and symbols layer. Basically two specific Fn layers.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: byker on Wed, 24 December 2014, 00:58:15
Default key layout (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/88175a676b24608cebd5e34dec04cfe5)?

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/u8LVtCJ.png)


What is FIG?

Oh, FIGures. Its for the numpad layer, while SYMbol is for the number row and symbols layer. Basically two specific Fn layers.

The layout looks really nice JD. Its a shame this has come out before I even have my Smallfry in my hands! I guess I will have to save up for one of these next to compare them directly myself.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 06 January 2015, 23:59:07
Any update on the status of the prototypes?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 07 January 2015, 10:12:29
Any update on the status of the prototypes?

Yes.  The boards are in, and finally the holidays are over and I can build #1 as a test.  Continuity tests passed, visual inspection revealed a couple of silkscreen mistakes/lack of clarity, and I shot a how-to video up through diodes and resistor mounting.  Next up (today?) I'll finish the build and flash the Teensy.

FYI, the white on blue looks really, really good.  Nice call JD!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 07 January 2015, 10:29:05
Awesome news, Ron! Can't wait. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 07 January 2015, 10:39:03
As this materializes, the real question is how to get a pair of 1.75u keys to be convex like an actual spacebar...hmmm
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 07 January 2015, 10:40:52
As this materializes, the real question is how to get a pair of 1.75u keys to be convex like an actual spacebar...hmmm

If you find out the answer, please let us know! :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 07 January 2015, 10:46:20
As this materializes, the real question is how to get a pair of 1.75u keys to be convex like an actual spacebar...hmmm

If you find out the answer, please let us know! :D

Will do...
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 07 January 2015, 14:37:41
As this materializes, the real question is how to get a pair of 1.75u keys to be convex like an actual spacebar...hmmm

If you find out the answer, please let us know! :D

Okay, I just got word from Melissa @ SP that they will have some of these (http://keyshop.pimpmykeyboard.com/products/specialty-custom-keys/family-g20-esports-gaming) available in 1.75u in the coming weeks.

It is better than standard concave, methinks...
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 08 January 2015, 14:37:01
It be built and backlit!

Working on getting the firmware working now.

For now, enjoy the pix!

 - Ron | samwiseko
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Thu, 08 January 2015, 14:42:50
Looks great! White on blue was a cool choice.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 08 January 2015, 15:14:29
Looks great! White on blue was a cool choice.
White backlighting and Raindrop keycaps would be awesome on this board.

(Sadly, I have neither.)

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Thu, 08 January 2015, 15:59:18
Yeah that would be sweet, are there backlight options or just on and off?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: derezzed on Thu, 08 January 2015, 17:58:43
I wish all keyboards could accommodate a split space bar.  You're doing the Lord's work.  I used to think my first DIY keyboard would be an Ergodox.  Now, I not so sure. 
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 09 January 2015, 11:27:04
Yeah that would be sweet, are there backlight options or just on and off?

That is a firmware question (jdcarpe or mettiqaz), but the LED circuit is controlled by a PWM pin for variable control for LED brightness.

TL;DR The PCB supports dimming; making it work via software is out of scope of my part in this project.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Tue, 13 January 2015, 21:13:09
Updated.  Does this work at all for the JD45?
https://www.dropbox.com/s/o8jefdzqcvbdkoe/Easy_keymap_multiplatform_20150113.zip?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ek2ugi0zli8p3kt/Easy_keymap_20150113.zip?dl=0
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 14 January 2015, 10:26:46
Updated.  Does this work at all for the JD45?
https://www.dropbox.com/s/o8jefdzqcvbdkoe/Easy_keymap_multiplatform_20150113.zip?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ek2ugi0zli8p3kt/Easy_keymap_20150113.zip?dl=0

Thank you very much!

I will try as soon as I get to the office -- where the first prototype JD45 is currently.

FYI to other prototypers: if this version works, I'll be shipping the rest of the boards out shortly.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 14 January 2015, 10:57:29
Updated.  Does this work at all for the JD45?
https://www.dropbox.com/s/o8jefdzqcvbdkoe/Easy_keymap_multiplatform_20150113.zip?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ek2ugi0zli8p3kt/Easy_keymap_20150113.zip?dl=0

Thank you very much!

I will try as soon as I get to the office -- where the first prototype JD45 is currently.

FYI to other prototypers: if this version works, I'll be shipping the rest of the boards out shortly.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

Is it too late to get in on the prototyping action? Were there any extras?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 14 January 2015, 11:01:00
Updated.  Does this work at all for the JD45?
https://www.dropbox.com/s/o8jefdzqcvbdkoe/Easy_keymap_multiplatform_20150113.zip?dl=0
https://www.dropbox.com/s/ek2ugi0zli8p3kt/Easy_keymap_20150113.zip?dl=0

Thank you very much!

I will try as soon as I get to the office -- where the first prototype JD45 is currently.

FYI to other prototypers: if this version works, I'll be shipping the rest of the boards out shortly.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

Is it too late to get in on the prototyping action? Were there any extras?

Yes, sorry. All the prototypes are spoken for.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 14 January 2015, 12:42:43
This message was typed on the first ever JD45 keyboard!

Thanks to metalliqaz for the quick-turn on a custom version of Easy_Map.


Time to get this board onto a better base than the stack of Post-Its it is currently using!

Also, I have changed the default map just a bit for (I think) easier use.

Anyhow, Prototype #1 is complete, and I am ready to ship boards out.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Wed, 14 January 2015, 12:47:55
SQUEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE. I'm excited to see these prototypes in pictures :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Wed, 14 January 2015, 13:13:20
If you need a volunteer for a second round of testers, I'm in.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: tyvar1 on Wed, 14 January 2015, 13:16:24
Looking great! :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 14 January 2015, 13:23:01
OK, fine.  Here you go.

From my experience, these are the wrong keycaps and LEDs for this board.  White LEDs and blue-and-white keycaps would be best.

I do find the JD45 an easier board to use than the JD40.  The 13 keys on the top row means it better matches the Escape and Tilde rows on a normal keyboard.  I am not sure yet about the Space/Backspace combo in this layout.  I might move Backspace to the Menu position, and get back a pair of space bars.  Using the Num Lock keycap for FN2 makes intuitive sense when i need to type numbers or symbols.

Anyhow, here are some photos.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:05:58
This is beautiful, I'd love to get my hands on one when they are available.

Any thoughts on when that may be?

Best,
neverused
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:18:32
This is beautiful, I'd love to get my hands on one when they are available.

Any thoughts on when that may be?

Best,
neverused

I need to think about what should be included with the group buy. Once people have had a chance to get these prototypes, build them, and test them a bit, I'll start trying to get everything together for a group buy via [CTRL]ALT.



OK, fine.  Here you go.

From my experience, these are the wrong keycaps and LEDs for this board.  White LEDs and blue-and-white keycaps would be best.

I do find the JD45 an easier board to use than the JD40.  The 13 keys on the top row means it better matches the Escape and Tilde rows on a normal keyboard.  I am not sure yet about the Space/Backspace combo in this layout.  I might move Backspace to the Menu position, and get back a pair of space bars.  Using the Num Lock keycap for FN2 makes intuitive sense when i need to type numbers or symbols.

Anyhow, here are some photos.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Ron, how are you liking those uniform sphericals on the JD45?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Oobly on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:28:06
This project is fantastic. Really don't know how I missed it before now.

I've been working on a similar size and layout board and actually used the first prototype at work today for coding :) Split spacebar is awesome. It makes accessing Fn layers so much easier. I was surprised how quickly I got used to it, particularly for typing the numbers and symbols on the number keys.

It's kind of liberating using such a small board and still getting all the functionality you need.

This design suits working on a PC more than my design, though (different use case), I'd very much like to order one of these when the GB starts (although my wallet needs some recovery time, too many great SA profile set GB's running..)

These boards need some Hack'd by Geeks caps!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:30:47
These boards need some Hack'd by Geeks caps!

Luckily, the designer and the GB leader got together and decided it would be a good idea to include the keycaps for it in the GB!!

:))
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:31:46
These boards need some Hack'd by Geeks caps!

Luckily, the designer and the GB leader got together and decided it would be a good idea to include the keycaps for it in the GB!!

:))

Only problem I've got is I'm seriously considering ordering a 2nd set of those caps for when I get a jd45 someday.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:34:03
These boards need some Hack'd by Geeks caps!

Luckily, the designer and the GB leader got together and decided it would be a good idea to include the keycaps for it in the GB!!

:))

Only problem I've got is I'm seriously considering ordering a 2nd set of those caps for when I get a jd45 someday.

That's a problem how? ;)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:36:20
These boards need some Hack'd by Geeks caps!

Luckily, the designer and the GB leader got together and decided it would be a good idea to include the keycaps for it in the GB!!

 :))

Only problem I've got is I'm seriously considering ordering a 2nd set of those caps for when I get a jd45 someday.

That's a problem how? ;)

[attachimg=1]  :p
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:37:48
^^

WalletHack'd
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 14 January 2015, 14:55:03
^^

WalletHack'd

Correction: WalletHaxxored!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 14 January 2015, 16:23:40
Ron, how are you liking those uniform sphericals on the JD45?

Not liking them as-is.  They look cool, however!

I have a big bag of MX Blacks I use for prototyping, and those, plus the big keycaps, and the total lack of plate or case make this a very flexy set-up.

The whole thing look really neat, with no PCB underhanging the keycaps.  The actual keytops are nice, so I'll give the spericals a nod just for that.  But not with MX Blacks, and not without some additional structure.

I may drop some Retro DSA 'caps on it next.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FrostyToast on Wed, 14 January 2015, 16:37:16
How would one go about getting a case for pcb mounted boards?
It seems like it's intended for a sandwich design that requires a plate.

EDIT: Does the layout in the OP require any stabilizers? The reason why I wanted PCB mount in the first place was because I wanted a board I could test out typing on.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 14 January 2015, 16:51:17
How would one go about getting a case for pcb mounted boards?
It seems like it's intended for a sandwich design that requires a plate.

EDIT: Does the layout in the OP require any stabilizers? The reason why I wanted PCB mount in the first place was because I wanted a board I could test out typing on.

You can still plate mount the switches, even when they can mount to the PCB without a plate. So JD40-style plate cases are a viable option with these. There are also mounting holes in the corners, which could be used to mount the PCB into a tray style case.

The layout in the OP absolutely DOES NOT require any stabilizers. That was one of the design goals! :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FrostyToast on Wed, 14 January 2015, 16:55:05
How would one go about getting a case for pcb mounted boards?
It seems like it's intended for a sandwich design that requires a plate.

EDIT: Does the layout in the OP require any stabilizers? The reason why I wanted PCB mount in the first place was because I wanted a board I could test out typing on.

You can still plate mount the switches, even when they can mount to the PCB without a plate. So JD40-style plate cases are a viable option with these. There are also mounting holes in the corners, which could be used to mount the PCB into a tray style case.

The layout in the OP absolutely DOES NOT require any stabilizers. That was one of the design goals! :D

Sweet. This will probably be the board that I use to test out switches meaning that you will likely get two orders from me! ;D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Fri, 16 January 2015, 15:15:36
I keep staring at this thread willing it to post updates. 

I want one now! 

(http://lifebeinggirly.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/veruca-salt.jpg)



No worries, take your time and get it right.  Very excited for this!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 16 January 2015, 15:19:09
I keep staring at this thread willing it to post updates. 

I want one now! 

Show Image
(http://lifebeinggirly.files.wordpress.com/2013/11/veruca-salt.jpg)




No worries, take your time and get it right.  Very excited for this!

(http://i.imgur.com/GDPl2dh.png)




j/k
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 16 January 2015, 15:21:23
Update: I need to go buy bigger mailers.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Fri, 16 January 2015, 15:39:40
I'll buy bigger mailers.

Support the cause!

(http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/16/9be8092504a961d9dba2a276d6077a75.jpg)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FrostyToast on Mon, 19 January 2015, 08:48:11
Update: I need to go buy bigger mailers.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

I will pay extra to have mine shipped in a box.
I would not trust a bubble mailer for shipping a PCB ever.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Melvang on Mon, 19 January 2015, 08:52:39
Update: I need to go buy bigger mailers.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

I will pay extra to have mine shipped in a box.
I would not trust a bubble mailer for shipping a PCB ever.

I shipped Enablers with bubble mailers.  Even international.  Hell I shipped a Teensy break out board to Australia in just an envelope.  That one had a sticker on it that it couldn't be machine sorted though.  That one arrived with no issues as well.  All in all I think PCB's (with no smd components installed) are a little more durable that what a lot of people realize.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FrostyToast on Mon, 19 January 2015, 08:55:24
Update: I need to go buy bigger mailers.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

I will pay extra to have mine shipped in a box.
I would not trust a bubble mailer for shipping a PCB ever.

I shipped Enablers with bubble mailers.  Even international.  Hell I shipped a Teensy break out board to Australia in just an envelope.  That one had a sticker on it that it couldn't be machine sorted though.  That one arrived with no issues as well.  All in all I think PCB's (with no smd components installed) are a little more durable that what a lot of people realize.

Perhaps.
Although you have to keep in mind that enablers and teensies would be a lot smaller. Although if you shipped a whole unbroken sheet of enablers safely, maybe I could trust you on that.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Mon, 19 January 2015, 08:56:49
Update: I need to go buy bigger mailers.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

I will pay extra to have mine shipped in a box.
I would not trust a bubble mailer for shipping a PCB ever.

I shipped Enablers with bubble mailers.  Even international.  Hell I shipped a Teensy break out board to Australia in just an envelope.  That one had a sticker on it that it couldn't be machine sorted though.  That one arrived with no issues as well.  All in all I think PCB's (with no smd components installed) are a little more durable that what a lot of people realize.

Perhaps.
Although you have to keep in mind that enablers and teensies would be a lot smaller. Although if you shipped a whole unbroken sheet of enablers safely, maybe I could trust you on that.

I've sent JD40 PCBs to people in bubble mailers before, with no breakages. Then I've sent steel switch plates the same way which arrived bent to hell. I guess it just depends on the carrier, and how they are feeling that day.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FrostyToast on Mon, 19 January 2015, 09:01:49
Update: I need to go buy bigger mailers.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

I will pay extra to have mine shipped in a box.
I would not trust a bubble mailer for shipping a PCB ever.

I shipped Enablers with bubble mailers.  Even international.  Hell I shipped a Teensy break out board to Australia in just an envelope.  That one had a sticker on it that it couldn't be machine sorted though.  That one arrived with no issues as well.  All in all I think PCB's (with no smd components installed) are a little more durable that what a lot of people realize.

Perhaps.
Although you have to keep in mind that enablers and teensies would be a lot smaller. Although if you shipped a whole unbroken sheet of enablers safely, maybe I could trust you on that.

I've sent JD40 PCBs to people in bubble mailers before, with no breakages. Then I've sent steel switch plates the same way which arrived bent to hell. I guess it just depends on the carrier, and how they are feeling that day.

Yeah... I'll probably ask for a box since I am international as well.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 19 January 2015, 11:34:19
I'll run postage pricing and let everyone know.  I am happy to ship First Class in a tough mailer for free.  If you want special handling, send me a PM, and I'll calculate the cost to ship it any way you like.  You pay shipping, and it will be shipped however you want it to be shipped!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Wed, 21 January 2015, 17:43:31
If one falls through, I'd love to pay for a prototype. I'd have it built in a day or day two and running at work the next day.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Thu, 22 January 2015, 12:50:59
Just got a tracking notice for something. All things considered I think it's this board (?)

Glad I have a teensy for it. Guess I'll have to acquire another for the upcoming SD60, too. At least I have switches ready & waiting!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 22 January 2015, 13:17:37
Just got a tracking notice for something. All things considered I think it's this board (?)

Glad I have a teensy for it. Guess I'll have to acquire another for the upcoming SD60, too. At least I have switches ready & waiting!

Yup.  jdcarpe, CPTBadAss, AKMalamute, Thechemist, and pharaoh all went out USPS Priority Mail today.  That is all of the CONUS addresses I believe I have.

Because of the concerns about shipping in an envelope, I went looking for harder packaging.  Oddly enough, they don't seem to sell shipping boxes for 3" x 10" x 1/16" items.   :eek:

So I packed them in corrugated cardboard, which seems plenty tough.  However, I will wait for these to arrive safely before I ship inter-continentally.  Recipients, please advise!

Also, I included the following errata:

#1 The transistor legend on the back side of the PCB is incorrect (upside-down).  The transistor should be mounted with the flat edge facing down!  (I put a label on every PCB showing the correct orientation.)

#2  WARNING: There are a pair of auxiliary (AUX) ports for V+ and Ground next to the Teensy pads.  Don't use the AUX pads by mistake, or the Teensy will be mis-located by one pin.

[attachimg=1]
Don't make these assembly errors.  Trust me on this!

I think that is all for now.  I am off to get a base cut for a Swill "case" for my JD45.  Photos when it is done.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

p.s.  The JD45 for iamtootallforthis made it to the post today as well.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 22 January 2015, 22:21:21
Yup.  jdcarpe, CPTBadAss, AKMalamute, Thechemist, and pharaoh all went out USPS Priority Mail today.  That is all of the CONUS addresses I believe I have.

Oh man am I excited!!!! Thank you samwisekoi and jdcarpe for all your wonderful work. Now to make sure I don't mess this PCB up like I did with my JD40.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Thu, 22 January 2015, 23:23:09
Eagerly awaiting for the beta testers to do their work so I can get my hands on one too.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 22 January 2015, 23:26:11
Yup.  jdcarpe, CPTBadAss, AKMalamute, Thechemist, and pharaoh all went out USPS Priority Mail today.  That is all of the CONUS addresses I believe I have.

Oh man am I excited!!!! Thank you samwisekoi and jdcarpe for all your wonderful work. Now to make sure I don't mess this PCB up like I did with my JD40.

Yours is coming to me first, though. I was going to solder the diodes, Teensy, and resistors/transistor for you, leaving only switches and LEDs. But I can send it to you bare, if you want... :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: joey on Fri, 23 January 2015, 08:36:30
What are the transistors for?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Fri, 23 January 2015, 08:39:41
What are the transistors for?

It's for the backlight.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Fri, 23 January 2015, 08:58:21
Yup.  jdcarpe, CPTBadAss, AKMalamute, Thechemist, and pharaoh all went out USPS Priority Mail today.  That is all of the CONUS addresses I believe I have.

Oh man am I excited!!!! Thank you samwisekoi and jdcarpe for all your wonderful work. Now to make sure I don't mess this PCB up like I did with my JD40.

Yours is coming to me first, though. I was going to solder the diodes, Teensy, and resistors/transistor for you, leaving only switches and LEDs. But I can send it to you bare, if you want... :)

This time around? I'll wait for your assembly work. Always wanted a board you worked on tbh.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sat, 24 January 2015, 09:45:05
So, did I mention I tried a 1.3 x .7 IC socket for the Teensy?  Works a treat, and allows removal of the Teensy to solder the switch that is hidden under there.  Somewhere up "above"  in this thread is a parts list that includes a buying link from Mouser.  The IC socket is much lower-profile than the giant stand-offs PHRC sells as a "socket", but the IC socket has holes sized for wire leads, not big flat pins.

So to use it, you need to buy the Teensy without pins from PJRC, solder in some resistor leads AS pins, and trim them to length.  I did this by seating the leads into the socket firmly and then sliding the Teensy down onto them.  Solder, remove, trim, and use.  Also, I removed the center crossbar from the socket so I could get to the switch leads later.

Anyhow, I mention this because if someone wants to solder the Teensy before the switches, they will discover the |\ switch (which I used for Enter) cannot be soldered after the Teensy is installed.

So either solder that one switch (and an LED if desired) before you solder on the Teensy -- or use a socket.  Or discover that it is practically impossible to de-solder and remove a Teensy!

Potato pics attached.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

p.s.  Please excuse the wonky passives.  I was experimenting with a new process for mass soldering.  It worked, but was not attractive.  Electrically they are fine.

Yup.  jdcarpe, CPTBadAss, AKMalamute, Thechemist, and pharaoh all went out USPS Priority Mail today.  That is all of the CONUS addresses I believe I have.

Oh man am I excited!!!! Thank you samwisekoi and jdcarpe for all your wonderful work. Now to make sure I don't mess this PCB up like I did with my JD40.

Yours is coming to me first, though. I was going to solder the diodes, Teensy, and resistors/transistor for you, leaving only switches and LEDs. But I can send it to you bare, if you want... :)


Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Sat, 24 January 2015, 09:49:59
That's a really cool idea ron. For those who want to know which part Ron is referring to, I found the post with the parts list: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=62641.msg1544331.msg#1544331. Wish I saw this sooner so I could try it out.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: pharaoh on Sat, 24 January 2015, 14:37:26
 :eek: IT HAS ARRIVED! :eek:

(https://i.imgur.com/N9NVLUe.jpg)

*breathing intensifies*
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Sat, 24 January 2015, 15:00:23
Very jealous
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Sat, 24 January 2015, 17:33:03
:eek: IT HAS ARRIVED! :eek:

Show Image
(https://i.imgur.com/N9NVLUe.jpg)


*breathing intensifies*

Mine too. Eager to start building it. (opened the slim packaging. Created and effective; no damage during the trip.

So, since I have absolutely no LEDs to speak of, would I better served by waiting for the SD60 and just build this one as-is, or can I expect to put LEDs in later and just reflash the Teensy? Is the only viable place to put LEDs, the middle of the switch?

And someone remind me, are these getting dedicated LEDs as if for caps-lock? Or all LEDs are on the one circuit?

It would actually be kinda cool to have the lights respond to keystrokes ... even if it's all of them at once, which is what I'd assume would happen, I could have my own strobe light depending on how fast I typed...

Saturday Evening Edit:
(http://i.imgur.com/B9kY2dx.png)

That would be my current running theory of how it'll be programmed. Of course (re)programability was one of the main reasons I turned to GH, and mechanical keyboards in the first place.

That and hardware dvorak, which is, lets face it, almost the same topic as reflashing your keybard.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Sat, 24 January 2015, 23:43:11
How eagerly do we need replies about the prototype? I'm actually thinking this could be a cool first backlit board but I seem to only have two LEDs after building my phantom. I didn't buy any parts before now because I'm normally a "who needs backlight" kinda guy but this is small enough it would be kinda cool to do.

I've got diodes attached, and two switches (with my last two LEDs) and will get the Teensy attached sometimes this weekend. That will at least let me flash the controller and test everything with aquakeys.

Late night edit: LEDs and parts ordered. Should be here in a week or whatever.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 25 January 2015, 11:05:57
Good to see the boards made it.  Recipients: what do you think about that packaging for international shipping?

The LEDs are all on a single circuit, controlled by PWM pin D7.  As far as I can tell, the current JD45-compatible version (20150113 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=62641.msg1593093#msg1593093)) of Easy_Keymap doesn't have backlighting control enabled at all, so if you add LEDs, they all will be on at a medium light level.  There is no way to have the LEDs chase keystrokes, at least not by design.

I did not put a CAPS LED circuit in because I don't know where you are going to put your Caps Lock key.  So if you want a CAPS LED, then some clever wiring and firmware will be required.  Assigning the CAPS function to D7 would turn any LEDs on, and then you could populate whatever LED position you want to be your Caps Lock LED.  If you are going to use an unassigned pin for the CAPS LED circuit, then FYI, I am planning to use F7 for CAPS on the SD-60, which will be pin-compatible with the JD45.

Again, recipients, please let me know what you think about the packaging.  Specifically if you think it would be suitable for international shipments.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 25 January 2015, 11:28:05
Good to see the boards made it.  Recipients: what do you think about that packaging for international shipping?

The LEDs are all on a single circuit, controlled by PWM pin D7.  As far as I can tell, the current JD45-compatible version (20150113 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=62641.msg1593093#msg1593093)) of Easy_Keymap doesn't have backlighting control enabled at all, so if you add LEDs, they all will be on at a medium light level.  There is no way to have the LEDs chase keystrokes, at least not by design.

I did not put a CAPS LED circuit in because I don't know where you are going to put your Caps Lock key.  So if you want a CAPS LED, then some clever wiring and firmware will be required.  Assigning the CAPS function to D7 would turn any LEDs on, and then you could populate whatever LED position you want to be your Caps Lock LED.  If you are going to use an unassigned pin for the CAPS LED circuit, then FYI, I am planning to use F7 for CAPS on the SD-60, which will be pin-compatible with the JD45.

Again, recipients, please let me know what you think about the packaging.  Specifically if you think it would be suitable for international shipments.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

I think the packaging would work for international recipients, but one thing I think should be done would be to secure the board to one side of the cardboard to prevent sliding as mine slid somewhat and ended up poking through the tape on one side.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 25 January 2015, 11:59:50
I think the packaging would work for international recipients, but one thing I think should be done would be to secure the board to one side of the cardboard to prevent sliding as mine slid somewhat and ended up poking through the tape on one side.

Yes, that is simple to do.  I am also going to go with fiber-reinforced tape around the edges.  Good old brown reinforced box tape, if they still make it.

Thanks!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Sun, 25 January 2015, 13:43:15
Recipients: what do you think about that packaging for international shipping?

It will work but I would add another layer of cushion. Either box up the box, or lay some thin foam inside the box. And yes keep it from sliding which would probably be done best by foam on the inside.

I've seen plenty of boxes arrive at work, crushed; but those were computers or monitors which necessitated a box -- this was almost an envelope, which will encourage different handling techniques of the workers conveying it. So it's probably fine, I would just, for myself, wish for a bit more of a crush zone.

Were you to wrap it in bubble wrap, however, it would lose that envelope shape, increasing it's exposure to mishandling. So, go thin and everything should get there.

And, thanks for your input on caps-lock lights. Writing firmware for such things is not in my immediate future but that's fine. This will just be a backlit board, then.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Sun, 25 January 2015, 14:53:41
Out of curiosity, what is the projected timeline for this keyboard? I'm eager to purchase one or help out in another round of prototyping (I'm a maker at heart so I'd like to be able to help if I can).

Has there been discussion with bunny regarding a group buy or availability through ctrl alt?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: berserkfan on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:00:37
JD, just asking since you kindly directed me here.

Do you think you can build this much lower? That should be a help to people who don't use wrist rests, and it will take up less space.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:03:05
JD, just asking since you kindly directed me here.

Do you think you can build this much lower? That should be a help to people who don't use wrist rests, and it will take up less space.

That's only possible with an SMT version which is in the works. The reason they are so tall is to make room for the teensy.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:09:55
If you are desperate, you could connect the teensy with wire leads and move it to the back of the pcb to slow the front to angle down.

Any progress updates?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 28 January 2015, 22:10:54
Out of curiosity, what is the projected timeline for this keyboard? I'm eager to purchase one or help out in another round of prototyping (I'm a maker at heart so I'd like to be able to help if I can).

Has there been discussion with bunny regarding a group buy or availability through ctrl alt?


Once I have everything worked out as far as plates, some kind of case, etc., there will definitely be a group buy through [CTRL]ALT. They have the logistics team in place now to ensure that delays, such as have happened with the GH60 group buy, don't happen this time.


JD, just asking since you kindly directed me here.

Do you think you can build this much lower? That should be a help to people who don't use wrist rests, and it will take up less space.

Unlike the JD40, the JD45 has the Teensy mounted under the 1.75-unit key on the right side, second row from the top. So the front edge should be able to be much lower in profile than was possible with the JD40. You also get one more column, which should make for a better typing experience.


Also, as Joey Quinn mentioned, there is also a separate version which maintains most of the design elements, which uses SMT electronics, instead of a Teensy and through hole components. That would allow the PCB to be mounted as low as any other keyboard PCB.


@Ron, packaging was great, and the PCBs arrived here safely.


I want to give a huge thank you to Ron of Samwisekoi Designs for making the through hole PCB for the JD45 project, and for doing ALL the logistics in getting the prototypes made and delivered.


Also, huge thanks to Joey Quinn, who made the SMT version PCB!!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 29 January 2015, 08:34:13
JD, thanks very much and you and everyone else are very welcome!

Regarding height, I am using a "Swill case" for mine, which is fundamentally a 1/4" (5mm) piece of foam and a piece of wood, plastic, or metal that is as thick as the end of a USB cable.  (I will find and post the thread here.)  That makes the PCB float 3/8" (8mm) above the desk, and if you wanted to make a wedge shape, it could be lower than that at the leading edge.

The result is approximately 1/2" lower than the JD40/Smallfry keyboard.  On mine, the switches are much taller than the case itself.

[takes some measurements...]

The height from my desk to the top of the front edge of the PCB is 10mm exactly.  The height from the top of the PCB to the highest point on a DSA keycap is 18mm.  The result is the same height at the front edge (28mm) as my Leopold TKL with Imsto low-profile keycaps.  Swill recommends thinner foam, so if you wanted, you could shave 1/8" (2-3mm) off of the height at the front edge.

So I think it is pretty low as-is.

Regarding component height, jdcarpe is correct that placing the Teensy at the back allows a lower front edge, and that the Teensy is taller than an SMD controller.  But even without the Teensy, I don't think the overall height would be much lower than it is.

I'll try and get some comparison photos taken and uploaded.  JD40, JD45, Poker, and traditional TKL.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: alexofthewest on Thu, 29 January 2015, 16:54:22
I was really wanting to get my hands on a jd40 with ergo clears, but Now that this popped up I would much rather aquire one of these beauties. I would like to order a fully assembled one once you guys finish ironing  out your plan.  I hope you offer it in clears or clears with different springs.

-> you should make one with a bluetooth option since its already such a portable keyboard.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Melvang on Fri, 30 January 2015, 00:45:01
There is some sexy **** going on in here. I think if I was to get one of these production beauties, it would be the SMD version just to try and build that myself.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 30 January 2015, 09:49:45
I got out my PokerX that I haven't used in quite a while, and man oh man is it low.  I have my JD45 flat and populated with SA keycaps, but still it is taller than the BACK of the Poker.  (Measured at the edge of the keycaps.)

The front keycap edges of the Poker X are also lower than the front keycap edges on my Leopold TKL.

So, yeah, I am going to agree that for everyday use, the JD needs a lowered front edge, something like a doorstop.  I don't do wood, but I think what it needs is a Swill case, with 1/8" (3mm) foam, and a wooden base made from a 1x3 that is ripped diagonally.  That would make a base with a 1/8" height in front and 7/8" in the rear.  (3mm to 22mm, front to back.)

Pics attached below.  A banana is too big, so keycap-puller for scale.

a. Poker X vs. Poker II
b. Poker X vs. JD45
c. Poker X vs JD40
d. JD40 vs JD45 (with Nuclear Data Green SA Row 3 keycaps)

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: potatowire on Sat, 31 January 2015, 21:31:10
If anyone else was unfamiliar with the Swill Case, his site is here:

http://swillkb.com/

and the GH thread is here:

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=51872.msg1144912#msg1144912
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 01 February 2015, 09:42:51
If anyone else was unfamiliar with the Swill Case, his site is here:

http://swillkb.com/

and the GH thread is here:

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=51872.msg1144912#msg1144912

Thank you for finding and posting that info.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 01 February 2015, 10:19:49
Ron, where did you get those caps you're using on your JD40? Those are awesome!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 02 February 2015, 14:45:44
Ron, where did you get those caps you're using on your JD40? Those are awesome!

Thanks!  I got them from WASD Keyboards.  I had them custom UV-printed to match the Fn layers.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Mon, 02 February 2015, 20:52:48
EDIT: pretty sure I figured it out  :'(

So I don't know that much about LEDs or the like, but I've about half-wired mine, and have LEDs in the switches that are attached.

In order to see if there were any obvious problems with the LED behavior, I plugged it in, as is, and have programmed it. The switches that are attached send keystrokes as expected but only one LED lights up. Of the dozen or more on the board (closer to two dozen) only the right alt lights up.

Now, there is actually a drop-down choice for LEDs, and I think it was set to FnLock (I have locking function layers but that's for 2 & 3 and those don't have switches yet) Should I rebuild the firmware with it set to unassigned? Have I screwed everything up?

edit w/solution: I guess LEDs work backwards from diodes? I used a multimeter to test where to put the legs, and found that with the short leg touching ground, live probe touching the long leg, I'd still get nothing but the energy would light up the LED, a little. But not going the other way.

I further assumed that, like diodes, you put the place that needed ground, into the square hole. Now it seems I've got twenty-some LEDs, clipped into place, that are backwards.

...this is why I don't normally try to mess with these things.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Tue, 03 February 2015, 11:25:19
EDIT: pretty sure I figured it out  :'(

So I don't know that much about LEDs or the like, but I've about half-wired mine, and have LEDs in the switches that are attached.

In order to see if there were any obvious problems with the LED behavior, I plugged it in, as is, and have programmed it. The switches that are attached send keystrokes as expected but only one LED lights up. Of the dozen or more on the board (closer to two dozen) only the right alt lights up.

Now, there is actually a drop-down choice for LEDs, and I think it was set to FnLock (I have locking function layers but that's for 2 & 3 and those don't have switches yet) Should I rebuild the firmware with it set to unassigned? Have I screwed everything up?

edit w/solution: I guess LEDs work backwards from diodes? I used a multimeter to test where to put the legs, and found that with the short leg touching ground, live probe touching the long leg, I'd still get nothing but the energy would light up the LED, a little. But not going the other way.

I further assumed that, like diodes, you put the place that needed ground, into the square hole. Now it seems I've got twenty-some LEDs, clipped into place, that are backwards.

...this is why I don't normally try to mess with these things.

Light-Emitting Diodes are indeed diodes.  That is, one-way streets for electricity.  LEDs on all my PCBs follow these conventions:

#1 Long lead into the square hole.
#2 Short lead into the round hole.

#3 Power flows into the square hole, and goes into the LED.
#4 Power flows out of the LED into the round hole.
#5 Power flows from the round hole to the resistor, and from there to ground.

If you follow #1 and #2, the LED is installed properly.  If you don't do that, or forget the resistor, it won't work.  Also, for backlighting circuits, you must install the transistor.  Again, if you don't, the backlighting LEDs won't work.  Single LED circuits, e.g. CAPS, do not use a transistor.  (Also, if you install an LED backwards, it won't work, but it won't be hurt.  Just switch it around.)

So:

a) Install the transistor correctly.  I included an Errata sheet with each JD45 PCB to show you how.
b) Install the resistors.  They are not directional, but they must be installed; one per LED.
c) Install the LEDs with the long wire in the square hole and the short wire into the round hole.

Then they should just work.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

p.s.  Square holes generally mean POWER, not ground.

p.p.s.  Electronics geeks, I understand the specifics about diodes and positive and ground, but the convention above makes it easier for non-eGeeks to follow.  I refrained from using a square hole for the collector lead on the transistor, even though in this use case it carries Vcc+.  So if you already understand about anodes, cathodes and PNP vs NPN junctions, just let the above explanation stand as is.  Please?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Tue, 03 February 2015, 11:54:50
Great info...I will have to store these jewels in my mind for when I attempt my future builds. Utterly invaluable, sir.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Tue, 03 February 2015, 13:50:13
Duly noted, and I'll start putting the LEDs back in (removed them all last night). But the reason I made this mistake, is because you test a 'normal' diode the opposite way. That is, if you put the black multimeter probe (that's ground, right?) at the square hole (where the mark is, typically) you'll get a reading. No idea what the multimeter is measuring _in_ but 650 seems to be what 4148N stabilizes at. But the LEDs, as I say using the same settings on the multimeter (resistance? The manual was useless is there a good site for reading what the settings on a multimeter do?) LEDs always read as 'dead' but putting the black probe on the long leg makes it light up ... suggesting power is flowing, and that leg should be in the same place as the n-key-rollover diode went ... black probe testing at the square hole.

They're just somehow, backwards.

As 00ZeR0 said, invaluable information; thank you for your help.


I fuess there's no need to double-post. I'm typinf on it now, and I see no one called me on my typo.
I have two Fs & no F_H key & the Y is in the wronf spot.

Also I screwed up three LEDs but I'm not foinf back to fix it now.

double-also: crap! It has no fewer than 4, 1.75x keys! Final construction as I built it (were the a,b,c,d options ever explained?) sees the bottom row as follows: 1.25x, 1.25x, 1.25x, 1x, 1.75x, 1.75x, 1.25x, 1.25x, 1x, 1.25x.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 06 February 2015, 10:12:57
I ordered the IC socket, resistors, and transistor yesterday. As soon as they arrive, I'll be able to build mine! :D

Note: I attempted to use SIP sockets instead of the IC socket to mount the Teensy, since they have the same pin pitch. Fail. Ended up desoldering the SIP sockets.

Ron, you said that to install the Teensy, you first installed the socket, then placed pins in the socket holes, then placed the Teensy over that and soldered. How did you keep the solder from flowing through to the socket connectors? Just use very little solder at first?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 06 February 2015, 11:42:36
I ordered the IC socket, resistors, and transistor yesterday. As soon as they arrive, I'll be able to build mine! :D

Note: I attempted to use SIP sockets instead of the IC socket to mount the Teensy, since they have the same pin pitch. Fail. Ended up desoldering the SIP sockets.

Ron, you said that to install the Teensy, you first installed the socket, then placed pins in the socket holes, then placed the Teensy over that and soldered. How did you keep the solder from flowing through to the socket connectors? Just use very little solder at first?

I put the leads in place like a little picket fence, and then put a tiny drop of solder on a couple of leads about 1/4" up.  That way the Teensy was held up in the air during the soldering process.

Once everything was soldered, I pulled the Teensy back out of the socket and then trimmed the leads flush on top and to length on the bottom.

Does that make sense?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 06 February 2015, 11:46:56
I ordered the IC socket, resistors, and transistor yesterday. As soon as they arrive, I'll be able to build mine! :D

Note: I attempted to use SIP sockets instead of the IC socket to mount the Teensy, since they have the same pin pitch. Fail. Ended up desoldering the SIP sockets.

Ron, you said that to install the Teensy, you first installed the socket, then placed pins in the socket holes, then placed the Teensy over that and soldered. How did you keep the solder from flowing through to the socket connectors? Just use very little solder at first?

I put the leads in place like a little picket fence, and then put a tiny drop of solder on a couple of leads about 1/4" up.  That way the Teensy was held up in the air during the soldering process.

Once everything was soldered, I pulled the Teensy back out of the socket and then trimmed the leads flush on top and to length on the bottom.

Does that make sense?

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Ah, okay. Yeah that does make sense now. :)

Thanks!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Tue, 24 February 2015, 15:29:36
Any progress on this?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 24 February 2015, 15:58:05
Any progress on this?

I just built my prototype this past weekend. Works great! But I really need a case of some kind.

I'm working on a couple things before making it available. Call it lessons learned from the GH60.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Tue, 24 February 2015, 16:18:02
Well if you need another tester, (http://www.elvis-planet.com/i'll%20be%20there%20front.jpg)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Wed, 25 February 2015, 12:21:04
Here is an off the wall question for you electronic engineers: Is a 2k2 resistor good to use with a single White LED? What color LED's could I use this resistor with?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Wed, 25 February 2015, 12:36:27
Sam posted some values in the SD-60 thread I think. Also, http://led.linear1.org/1led.wiz
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Flamingchook on Wed, 25 February 2015, 22:32:37
The international prototypes haven't gone out yet have they?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 04 March 2015, 10:50:21
Big announcement coming soon...

#hype
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 04 March 2015, 10:51:06
[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Wed, 04 March 2015, 10:52:04
Big announcement coming soon...

#hype

JD45 now with brown switches
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 04 March 2015, 12:56:39
Big announcement coming soon...

#hype

JD45 now with brown switches
Damn, you guessed it already. :(

;)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 04 March 2015, 13:21:32
Big announcement coming soon...

#hype

JD45 now with brown switches
Damn, you guessed it already. :(

;)

AND PBT caps!!!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Wed, 04 March 2015, 20:23:46
Big announcement coming soon...

#hype

I assume he's referring to what we've been cooking up together.

Sorry for potato quality.



Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Wed, 04 March 2015, 20:34:22
Wow that looks sharp.  Good stuff
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: meow a cat on Wed, 04 March 2015, 23:49:45
Wow, that looks great.. the hype was real.  ;D

Count me in for a prototype case and PCB if that happens..

Watching this project with interest! The JD40 is one of my favourite keyboards I've had the pleasure of owning, and the JD45 looks like it's going to be even better.

I love the bottom row in those renders!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Thu, 05 March 2015, 04:38:17
That's sexy!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 05 March 2015, 08:44:30
Unf. Will that sessy case work with the prototype PCBs you've sent out JD? Or will we have to re-build and purchase this kit?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 05 March 2015, 08:50:51
Unf. Will that sessy case work with the prototype PCBs you've sent out JD? Or will we have to re-build and purchase this kit?

Unfortunately, no. When I asked Wilba about doing a case for the JD45, he advised me that it would be much simpler to design a new case and PCB at the same time, rather than trying to design a case around either of the existing PCBs. I took that opportunity to revisit the layout options, and designed the bottom row to be more flexible.

Absolutely no offense was meant to either samwisekoi or Joey Quinn by going this route. They both helped me immensely in moving this project forward. I thank you both!



Also, I updated the OP with Wilba's sexy renders. Layout options for the bottom row are in the second post.

Both 6.25u and 6.00u spacebars are now supported. Both with support for Cherry offset stems, as well.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Thu, 05 March 2015, 09:19:36
I'm assuming the matrix will change?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 05 March 2015, 09:22:40
I'm assuming the matrix will change?

Yes, I will have Wilba send you the pinout schematic, and keep you updated with any changes as we go.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: sethk_ on Thu, 05 March 2015, 09:54:41
The bottom layout really does this for me, will there be LED support?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 05 March 2015, 09:56:47
The bottom layout really does this for me, will there be LED support?

Absolutely.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Thu, 05 March 2015, 11:20:02
This looks pretty sick, I love the new case.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: sethk_ on Sun, 08 March 2015, 17:55:58
Were there any prototype PCB's made for the first model?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 08 March 2015, 18:10:11
Were there any prototype PCB's made for the first model?
Yes, we had some prototypes made, but they were all sold to fund the prototype run (since it's very expensive, relatively, to have only 1-2 produced).
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: pharaoh on Fri, 20 March 2015, 11:30:10
HNNG

IT'S BEAUTIFUL
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: derezzed on Sat, 21 March 2015, 20:46:40
GRRRRRRRR!  Several months ago, when I first saw the design concept for the JD45 layout, I thought this was a nice-looking board with some features that I really appreciated, but I never considered getting one.  Since then, I've had my own journey of discovery regarding keyboard layouts and found that I can be effective at work with a small keyboard.  I'm planning on getting a Pok3r but I don't know when it will become available and  I'm open to buying a custom board if the right one becomes available before the Pok3r.  So, when I saw this thread pop up again, I took another look.  The JD45 is sooo close to the layout I designed for what I consider my ideal keyboard, that I was ready to commit to this.  Then I realized there were no ****ing dedicated number keys.  This could have been my new board.  If I didn't have to use numbers so much for work and gaming, I would be finding a way to buy one, maybe two, of these.   It stings that one design choice prevents me from getting a board that is so close to ideal for me and has the added benefit of someone else doing all the "heavy lifting" of design and manufacturing.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: cmadrid on Sun, 22 March 2015, 13:01:03
GRRRRRRRR!  Several months ago, when I first saw the design concept for the JD45 layout, I thought this was a nice-looking board with some features that I really appreciated, but I never considered getting one.  Since then, I've had my own journey of discovery regarding keyboard layouts and found that I can be effective at work with a small keyboard.  I'm planning on getting a Pok3r but I don't know when it will become available and  I'm open to buying a custom board if the right one becomes available before the Pok3r.  So, when I saw this thread pop up again, I took another look.  The JD45 is sooo close to the layout I designed for what I consider my ideal keyboard, that I was ready to commit to this.  Then I realized there were no ****ing dedicated number keys.  This could have been my new board.  If I didn't have to use numbers so much for work and gaming, I would be finding a way to buy one, maybe two, of these.   It stings that one design choice prevents me from getting a board that is so close to ideal for me and has the added benefit of someone else doing all the "heavy lifting" of design and manufacturing.

yeah! who needs all of the letter rows anyway!  :o


Not sure how you would fit dedicated numbers in there without function layers
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 22 March 2015, 13:03:49

GRRRRRRRR!  Several months ago, when I first saw the design concept for the JD45 layout, I thought this was a nice-looking board with some features that I really appreciated, but I never considered getting one.  Since then, I've had my own journey of discovery regarding keyboard layouts and found that I can be effective at work with a small keyboard.  I'm planning on getting a Pok3r but I don't know when it will become available and  I'm open to buying a custom board if the right one becomes available before the Pok3r.  So, when I saw this thread pop up again, I took another look.  The JD45 is sooo close to the layout I designed for what I consider my ideal keyboard, that I was ready to commit to this.  Then I realized there were no ****ing dedicated number keys.  This could have been my new board.  If I didn't have to use numbers so much for work and gaming, I would be finding a way to buy one, maybe two, of these.   It stings that one design choice prevents me from getting a board that is so close to ideal for me and has the added benefit of someone else doing all the "heavy lifting" of design and manufacturing.

Thanks!!

And...sorry? :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Sun, 22 March 2015, 13:11:04
If you want a number row, sounds like you want a 60%, no?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Sun, 22 March 2015, 21:30:56
I've been aware of this project since day 1, but haven't kept up with the thread.  Regrets all around!   :-\    Looks fantastic.

I can't wait to see where this is headed with the case and new PCB.   :thumb:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: derezzed on Wed, 25 March 2015, 19:49:44
If you want a number row, sounds like you want a 60%, no?

Yes, but JD made several great design choices that I won't find on a standard 60% board:  he got rid of the backspace key in the upper right, ditched the caps lock key, and made an impressive bottom row.  The only thing he could have improved, from my perspective, is to put the 1u key on the left side of the bottom row in between the two 1.75u keys.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: trigun0x2 on Wed, 15 April 2015, 10:12:24
Just finished up my prototype build!

Ignore the bottom row...

(http://i.imgur.com/UGGRB5K.jpg)

Potato picture calls for filters.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 15 April 2015, 10:15:50
Just finished up my prototype build!

Ignore the bottom row...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/UGGRB5K.jpg)


Potato picture calls for filters.

Very nice! Be sure to cross post that to https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=53617.0 :)

Interested to see some other angles, as well.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: trigun0x2 on Wed, 15 April 2015, 10:18:34
Just finished up my prototype build!

Ignore the bottom row...

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/UGGRB5K.jpg)


Potato picture calls for filters.
Very nice! Be sure to cross post that to https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=53617.0 :)

Interested to see some other angles, as well.

Once I get my nice camera back, will do!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 22 April 2015, 14:42:17
Let me just tease you guys a little with another render from Wilba:

(http://i.imgur.com/kmEWCtX.jpg)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Wed, 22 April 2015, 14:47:53
Soooooo much want. Reminds me of a blank hhkb.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Wed, 22 April 2015, 15:01:17
10u home rows turn me on.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: joey on Wed, 22 April 2015, 18:09:36
That looks amazing!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mattyIce on Wed, 22 April 2015, 23:45:06
Phenomenal. Amazing work.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: vivalarevolución on Thu, 23 April 2015, 07:52:22
Let me just tease you guys a little with another render from Wilba:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/kmEWCtX.jpg)


Moar modifiers!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 23 April 2015, 08:09:16
Let me just tease you guys a little with another render from Wilba:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/kmEWCtX.jpg)


Moar modifiers!

Okay, okay. The JD45 is all about options, of course.

(http://i.imgur.com/A7716yX.jpg)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Thu, 23 April 2015, 08:29:19
I had to talk JD out of his original idea...  :D

[attach=1]

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Thu, 23 April 2015, 08:45:28
Spaaaaaaaace
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 23 April 2015, 09:33:46
Let me just tease you guys a little with another render from Wilba:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/kmEWCtX.jpg)


Moar modifiers!

Okay, okay. The JD45 is all about options, of course.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/A7716yX.jpg)

This is cool.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FoC_Tow on Thu, 23 April 2015, 11:27:36
Let me just tease you guys a little with another render from Wilba:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/kmEWCtX.jpg)


Woah  :eek:
The renders of the case look amazing JD! <3 it soo much!  :thumb:

Will the plate be mounted from the top (poker style) or be sandwiched in between two case parts?
Either way this looks beyond incredible, can't wait for a prototype!  :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Thu, 23 April 2015, 12:19:19
Let me just tease you guys a little with another render from Wilba:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/kmEWCtX.jpg)


This is awesome! I'm gonna need it.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dante on Thu, 23 April 2015, 22:45:29
subscribed
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dante on Thu, 23 April 2015, 22:46:15
I had to talk JD out of his original idea...  :D

(Attachment Link)

This would be GENIUS and AWESOME with the SpaceFn layout(!!)

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: lolpes on Sat, 25 April 2015, 08:42:22
Let me just tease you guys a little with another render from Wilba:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/kmEWCtX.jpg)


That looks awesome!!  :eek:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MrRooks on Fri, 01 May 2015, 11:06:15
Here is my JD45 teaser:

(http://i.imgur.com/SG5f5orh.jpg)

Hopefully it goes well. 13 hour print.  ;D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 01 May 2015, 11:38:55
Here is my JD45 teaser:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SG5f5orh.jpg)


Hopefully it goes well. 13 hour print.  ;D
I'm jealous. I need to get myself a case!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FoC_Tow on Fri, 01 May 2015, 12:10:41
Here is my JD45 teaser:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SG5f5orh.jpg)


Hopefully it goes well. 13 hour print.  ;D

Wait, wheres the Twitch link? O=
We need a livestream of this historic event!  :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MrRooks on Fri, 01 May 2015, 12:46:45
Here is my JD45 teaser:

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SG5f5orh.jpg)


Hopefully it goes well. 13 hour print.  ;D

Wait, wheres the Twitch link? O=
We need a livestream of this historic event!  :)

I'm taking a time lapse video. ;) This is my biggest print yet so I'm hoping it goes well.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Fri, 01 May 2015, 13:39:32
Time lapse will be awesome.  Eagerly awaiting
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: FoC_Tow on Fri, 01 May 2015, 13:43:22
I'm taking a time lapse video. ;) This is my biggest print yet so I'm hoping it goes well.

Yaay excited for the time lapse! =)

Best of Luck and fingers crossed for the print Rooks!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MrRooks on Sat, 02 May 2015, 12:29:21
It's done! I'm happy with the result. There are a couple of issue spots but I need to spend some time with a file to clean it up. I still have to splice together the time lapse.

This is Wilbas model that I printed for jdcarpe.

(http://i.imgur.com/8yDD5q7h.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/x8aDJrYh.jpg)

(http://i.imgur.com/qrWnFFMh.jpg)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Sat, 02 May 2015, 13:13:23
It's done! I'm happy with the result. There are a couple of issue spots but I need to spend some time with a file to clean it up. I still have to splice together the time lapse.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8yDD5q7h.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/x8aDJrYh.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qrWnFFMh.jpg)

That came out beautiful, excellent work, especially for a print that big.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: joey on Sat, 02 May 2015, 14:26:53
Wow! I didn't think you'd be able to print a case like that!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: absyrd on Sat, 02 May 2015, 14:32:10
I expected a bigger mess, as well. Nicely done. Eagerly awaiting time lapse.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Sat, 02 May 2015, 19:40:54
That's awesome.  Be sure to post the completed project!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Joey Quinn on Sat, 02 May 2015, 20:37:55
It's done! I'm happy with the result. There are a couple of issue spots but I need to spend some time with a file to clean it up. I still have to splice together the time lapse.

This is Wilbas model that I printed for jdcarpe.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8yDD5q7h.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/x8aDJrYh.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qrWnFFMh.jpg)


Is it abs or pla? If it's abs you should use some acetone to smooth the surface for a different look.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Sat, 02 May 2015, 21:17:44
It's done! I'm happy with the result. There are a couple of issue spots but I need to spend some time with a file to clean it up. I still have to splice together the time lapse.

This is Wilbas model that I printed for jdcarpe.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8yDD5q7h.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/x8aDJrYh.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qrWnFFMh.jpg)


Looks great!

Since I sent you a copy of the case model, I've made a few minor tweaks to support walls that are higher than the plate (and those blockers in the corners that JD really wanted!) The PCB hasn't changed and will work with this case.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mylove1431 on Sun, 03 May 2015, 11:38:25
Look great ....... Im really interested in ur kb  :thumb:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Sun, 03 May 2015, 12:08:31
Samwisekoi here, back in from the cold.

Of all of the sub-60 layouts I've tried, I have to say that the JD45 is the most useful on a day-to-day basis.  I like my JD40 (and even had custom WASD keycaps printed for it), but the JD45 adds just enough additional functionality for daily use.

(http://i.imgur.com/SZtqnZQ.jpg)
Samwisekoi's JD45. That bottom row "SHIFT" keycap has been replaced by a blank from SP.

I've moved to using BOTH of the split spacebar keycaps as SPACE, and use the extra 1.25 keys on the bottom row for backspace and delete.

Top row is ESC, Q, W , E, R, T, Y... or via NUMLOCK, ESC, 1!, 2@, 3#, 4$, 5%, 6^..., or via FN ESC, F1, F2, F3...

Anyhow, it works very well as a layout, but I too struggle with a case.  And keycaps.  I have a set of Nuclear Data Greens on it now, and I think they are just too tall.  I think the board would be better suited with DSA keycaps, but I don't have a set that includes a 1x FN, two 1.25x specials, and two 1.75x blanks.  So it is SA/NDG for now.

For those (like me) who forget where the "&" symbol is hidden, I am considering a macro key that would type the following hint sheet into a text editor:

Code: [Select]
FN:   ESC  F1  F2  F3  F4  F5  F6  F7  F8  F9  F10 F11 F12
NUM:  ESC  1!  2@  3#  4$  5%  6^  7&  8*  9(  0)  -_  =+
NORM: ESC  Q   W   E   R   T   Y   U   I   O   P   [{  ]}

And maybe another hint sheet for the bottom row assignments.

The new case/PCB combo looks nice.  I am still going to stay with through-hole for my designs, but for this board, the Teensy USB connection is .125" of pure annoyance.  With a USB cable attached, it makes for a very tall wedge, even with the front flat to the desktop.

My project list has grown too long, so I have recently taken the decision to do no more parallel projects, and instead finish all of my open projects one at a time to clear the great pile of unfinished things in my office/lab.  I recently finished a custom small form-factor high-speed rendering PC called "Violet Femme" for my wife, that I will probably post a build log somewhere.  Currently on my plate is my refurbishment/re-engineering of a Model F-122 with a very custom "Super Soarer" protocol converter PCB.  I'll post that build log here on GeekHack, probably starting later today.

And after that will be a case for the v.1 proto JD45.  That I will post here!

Very best to you all,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: neverused on Sun, 03 May 2015, 13:58:20
Samwisekoi here, back in from the cold.

Of all of the sub-60 layouts I've tried, I have to say that the JD45 is the most useful on a day-to-day basis.  I like my JD40 (and even had custom WASD keycaps printed for it), but the JD45 adds just enough additional functionality for daily use.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SZtqnZQ.jpg)

Samwisekoi's JD45. That bottom row "SHIFT" keycap has been replaced by a blank from SP.

I've moved to using BOTH of the split spacebar keycaps as SPACE, and use the extra 1.25 keys on the bottom row for backspace and delete.

Top row is ESC, Q, W , E, R, T, Y... or via NUMLOCK, ESC, 1!, 2@, 3#, 4$, 5%, 6^..., or via FN ESC, F1, F2, F3...

Anyhow, it works very well as a layout, but I too struggle with a case.  And keycaps.  I have a set of Nuclear Data Greens on it now, and I think they are just too tall.  I think the board would be better suited with DSA keycaps, but I don't have a set that includes a 1x FN, two 1.25x specials, and two 1.75x blanks.  So it is SA/NDG for now.

For those (like me) who forget where the "&" symbol is hidden, I am considering a macro key that would type the following hint sheet into a text editor:

Code: [Select]
FN:   ESC  F1  F2  F3  F4  F5  F6  F7  F8  F9  F10 F11 F12
NUM:  ESC  1!  2@  3#  4$  5%  6^  7&  8*  9(  0)  -_  =+
NORM: ESC  Q   W   E   R   T   Y   U   I   O   P   [{  ]}

And maybe another hint sheet for the bottom row assignments.

The new case/PCB combo looks nice.  I am still going to stay with through-hole for my designs, but for this board, the Teensy USB connection is .125" of pure annoyance.  With a USB cable attached, it makes for a very tall wedge, even with the front flat to the desktop.

My project list has grown too long, so I have recently taken the decision to do no more parallel projects, and instead finish all of my open projects one at a time to clear the great pile of unfinished things in my office/lab.  I recently finished a custom small form-factor high-speed rendering PC called "Violet Femme" for my wife, that I will probably post a build log somewhere.  Currently on my plate is my refurbishment/re-engineering of a Model F-122 with a very custom "Super Soarer" protocol converter PCB.  I'll post that build log here on GeekHack, probably starting later today.

And after that will be a case for the v.1 proto JD45.  That I will post here!

Very best to you all,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.
(http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/03/70523d82f2cb5e4abc0a504b6493d65b.jpg)

Good to see you back!

On topic: your layout makes me think I need a JD45 after I get my hands on a SD-60.  It looks great

Also eagerly awaiting the JD45
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MrRooks on Mon, 04 May 2015, 07:39:43
It's done! I'm happy with the result. There are a couple of issue spots but I need to spend some time with a file to clean it up. I still have to splice together the time lapse.

This is Wilbas model that I printed for jdcarpe.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8yDD5q7h.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/x8aDJrYh.jpg)


Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/qrWnFFMh.jpg)


Is it abs or pla? If it's abs you should use some acetone to smooth the surface for a different look.

It's ABS but acetone smoothing is easier said than done. Brushing it on doesn't provide the best results so you really need to do a vapor bath. I would have to come up with something big enough to use as an effective vapor bath for this.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 06 May 2015, 13:11:06
This may no longer be needed for many, but I took a 3D-print design I did for the JD40, and adapted it to the Rev.1 JD45.

This will attach and support the 3.00" x 10.00" JD45 Rev.1 PCB.

(http://i.imgur.com/KresrLm.png)
Samwisekoi JD45 Rev.1 Open Wedge Case Design

I am having a first run made by Shapeways.  Once I make sure it works, I'll provide the .STL file to whomever wants it and will make it available to be printed for you at Shapeways.com.  In white or black it is $55 ($50 without the PCB support braces.)  I will probably also make a matching 4x4 tiny numpad case for the GH-36.

Here is what this design looks like on a GH-36, albeit in a very different size and shape.

(http://i.imgur.com/f6dzf6k.jpg)
Samwisekoi GH-36 Open Wedge Case

Cheers,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 06 May 2015, 13:24:53
This may no longer be needed for many, but I took a 3D-print design I did for the JD40, and adapted it to the Rev.1 JD45.

This will attach and support the 3.00" x 10.00" JD45 Rev.1 PCB.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KresrLm.png)

Samwisekoi JD45 Rev.1 Open Wedge Case Design

I am having a first run made by Shapeways.  Once I make sure it works, I'll provide the .STL file to whomever wants it and will make it available to be printed for you at Shapeways.com.  In white or black it is $55 ($50 without the PCB support braces.)  I will probably also make a matching 4x4 tiny numpad case for the GH-36.

Here is what this design looks like on a GH-36, albeit in a very different size and shape.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/f6dzf6k.jpg)

Samwisekoi GH-36 Open Wedge Case

Cheers,

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Will this case work for the prototype JD45?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Wed, 06 May 2015, 13:50:25
This may no longer be needed for many, but I took a 3D-print design I did for the JD40, and adapted it to the Rev.1 JD45.

This will attach and support the 3.00" x 10.00" JD45 Rev.1 PCB.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KresrLm.png)

Samwisekoi JD45 Rev.1 Open Wedge Case Design

I am having a first run made by Shapeways.  Once I make sure it works, I'll provide the .STL file to whomever wants it and will make it available to be printed for you at Shapeways.com.  In white or black it is $55 ($50 without the PCB support braces.)  I will probably also make a matching 4x4 tiny numpad case for the GH-36.

Cheers,

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Will this case work for the prototype JD45?

Yes.  It was designed specifically for the JD45 prototype.

(http://i.imgur.com/SZtqnZQ.jpg)
JD45 Prototype without a case.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 06 May 2015, 14:06:31
This may no longer be needed for many, but I took a 3D-print design I did for the JD40, and adapted it to the Rev.1 JD45.

This will attach and support the 3.00" x 10.00" JD45 Rev.1 PCB.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/KresrLm.png)

Samwisekoi JD45 Rev.1 Open Wedge Case Design

I am having a first run made by Shapeways.  Once I make sure it works, I'll provide the .STL file to whomever wants it and will make it available to be printed for you at Shapeways.com.  In white or black it is $55 ($50 without the PCB support braces.)  I will probably also make a matching 4x4 tiny numpad case for the GH-36.

Cheers,

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Will this case work for the prototype JD45?

Yes.  It was designed specifically for the JD45 prototype.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SZtqnZQ.jpg)

JD45 Prototype without a case.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Awesome! I'll be getting one then! Thanks for doing this Ron!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: vivalarevolución on Thu, 07 May 2015, 06:53:21
Samwisekoi here, back in from the cold.

Of all of the sub-60 layouts I've tried, I have to say that the JD45 is the most useful on a day-to-day basis.  I like my JD40 (and even had custom WASD keycaps printed for it), but the JD45 adds just enough additional functionality for daily use.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/SZtqnZQ.jpg)

Samwisekoi's JD45. That bottom row "SHIFT" keycap has been replaced by a blank from SP.

I've moved to using BOTH of the split spacebar keycaps as SPACE, and use the extra 1.25 keys on the bottom row for backspace and delete.

Top row is ESC, Q, W , E, R, T, Y... or via NUMLOCK, ESC, 1!, 2@, 3#, 4$, 5%, 6^..., or via FN ESC, F1, F2, F3...

Anyhow, it works very well as a layout, but I too struggle with a case.  And keycaps.  I have a set of Nuclear Data Greens on it now, and I think they are just too tall.  I think the board would be better suited with DSA keycaps, but I don't have a set that includes a 1x FN, two 1.25x specials, and two 1.75x blanks.  So it is SA/NDG for now.

For those (like me) who forget where the "&" symbol is hidden, I am considering a macro key that would type the following hint sheet into a text editor:

Code: [Select]
FN:   ESC  F1  F2  F3  F4  F5  F6  F7  F8  F9  F10 F11 F12
NUM:  ESC  1!  2@  3#  4$  5%  6^  7&  8*  9(  0)  -_  =+
NORM: ESC  Q   W   E   R   T   Y   U   I   O   P   [{  ]}

And maybe another hint sheet for the bottom row assignments.

The new case/PCB combo looks nice.  I am still going to stay with through-hole for my designs, but for this board, the Teensy USB connection is .125" of pure annoyance.  With a USB cable attached, it makes for a very tall wedge, even with the front flat to the desktop.

My project list has grown too long, so I have recently taken the decision to do no more parallel projects, and instead finish all of my open projects one at a time to clear the great pile of unfinished things in my office/lab.  I recently finished a custom small form-factor high-speed rendering PC called "Violet Femme" for my wife, that I will probably post a build log somewhere.  Currently on my plate is my refurbishment/re-engineering of a Model F-122 with a very custom "Super Soarer" protocol converter PCB.  I'll post that build log here on GeekHack, probably starting later today.

And after that will be a case for the v.1 proto JD45.  That I will post here!

Very best to you all,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Sig auto-typed by my GH36 LH keypad.

Cool-lee-o.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 07 May 2015, 12:48:27
As I said, I am a big fan of the JD45 keyboard.  It has all the benefits of tiny, and enough space for useful sufficient mods.

So now, I am putting my money where my mouth is, and have DISCONNECTED my Filco TKL, and am just using the JD45 on my desk at home.  (This will be easier when the missing keycaps arrive as well as the prototype wedge case.)

To accomplish this task, I went through my keymap again, and came up with a new map.  I have already found some omissions, so a new rev will come soon.  But I think this version is good enough for now.  I could take a bunch of screen shots from Easy Keymap, but a spreadsheet makes it easier to see at a glance.

More
(http://i.imgur.com/n02oNrh.png)


The default layer is essentially as-shipped in Easy Keymap.  I have put Enter on the default layer because I use it more than I use |\.  I forgot the quote key altogether, so THAT will be added in the next version.  The hardest thing to get used to is the BACKSPACE key being on the bottom row.

The FN layer is for, well, function keys.  Because F2 is important, I cannot use the W for UP, so I mapped the arrow cluster to the bottom right.  This works well,  Also, this layer has some of the keys that are missing from the Default layer, but are not on the number row.  ESCAPE, |\ and INSERT are examples of that.  I use INSERT quite a lot (VIM) so I decided that ANY function layer would turn the DELETE key into INSERT.  This layer is pretty intuitive, especially the nav cluster.

The FN2 layer (or the NUMLOCK layer, as I think of it) is where the number row is embedded.I may use a locking switch for FN2.  DELETE becomes INSERT on this layer, and I might add the missing QUOTE key as well.  Of particular interest here is that FN2 turns the BACKSPACE key into FN3.

FN3 is where the little-used, but interesting things live.  The WASD cluster is here (thus the possibility of a locking switch.)  I definitely find myself using the FN3 nav cluster more than the FN nav cluster.  I have/will also stick the various Easy Keymap keys here.  Boot mode and Console are mapped here now, and things like LED control will go here too.

One thing I am trying on this layer is a series of FAQ macros.  Right now, I have defined two: M1, which lists the firmware version currently loaded,and M2, which shows the NUM row.

M1:
JD45 KEYMAP 150507b

M2:
~, 1!, 2@, 3#, 4$, 5%, 6^, 7&, 8*, 9(, 0), -_, +=

I may add more like M2.

Anyhow, that is my JD45 update for the day.

Cheers, all!

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 07 May 2015, 12:57:07
Very nice, Ron! I'm loving seeing your progress with actually using the JD45 on a daily basis. I decided I couldn't really use mine that way without some type of case, so I will definitely be interested in getting one of your wedge design cases printed for my prototype.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 07 May 2015, 13:14:41
Yes, a pad of Post-Its doesn't quite cut it.

Also, some upgrades to the macros:

M2:
Code: [Select]
TAB, Q,  W,  E,  R,  T,  Y,  U,  I,  O,  p,   [{,  ]}
`~,  1!, 2@, 3#, 4$, 5%, 6^, 7&, 8*, 9(, 0),  -_,  +=
ESC, F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8, F9, F10, F11, F12

 - Ron | samwisekoi
(Auto-typed by my JD45 keyboard.)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Thu, 07 May 2015, 14:29:30
Yes, a pad of Post-Its doesn't quite cut it.

Also, some upgrades to the macros:

M2:
Code: [Select]
TAB, Q,  W,  E,  R,  T,  Y,  U,  I,  O,  p,   [{,  ]}
`~,  1!, 2@, 3#, 4$, 5%, 6^, 7&, 8*, 9(, 0),  -_,  +=
ESC, F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8, F9, F10, F11, F12

 - Ron | samwisekoi
(Auto-typed by my JD45 keyboard.)


OMG, this is.... brilliant.  I always forget what I have mapped to the various FN layers.  The keyboard should be able to tell you what it's map is.  Why have I never thought of that before?  I think I'm going to add this so it can be automatic, so you don't have to update macros manually. Cool?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Thu, 07 May 2015, 14:54:51
Yes, a pad of Post-Its doesn't quite cut it.

Also, some upgrades to the macros:

M2:
Code: [Select]
TAB, Q,  W,  E,  R,  T,  Y,  U,  I,  O,  p,   [{,  ]}
`~,  1!, 2@, 3#, 4$, 5%, 6^, 7&, 8*, 9(, 0),  -_,  +=
ESC, F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, F6, F7, F8, F9, F10, F11, F12

 - Ron | samwisekoi
(Auto-typed by my JD45 keyboard.)


OMG, this is.... brilliant.  I always forget what I have mapped to the various FN layers.  The keyboard should be able to tell you what it's map is.  Why have I never thought of that before?  I think I'm going to add this so it can be automatic, so you don't have to update macros manually. Cool?

Thanks and yes, please!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
(Auto-typed by my JD45 keyboard.)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 08 May 2015, 09:22:22
Day Two, and SOME of this 'only use the JD45' is fine.  I think it will help my touch-typing. The tiny keyboard is cool now that I've got it up on the temporary case-base.

However, any keys that can exist on ALL function layers, should be on all function layers.  I put QUOTE on FN+SEMICOLON, and I also should enable it there on the FN2 layer so I don't have to stop and think every time I type the word don't.

Also, I find that my writing has degraded.  Apparently, when I stop my train of thought to think about an upcoming FN, FN2, or FN3 key combo, I drop words out of my mental buffer, and they don' get typed at all!  I need more editing now.

I find this phenomenon odd.  Anyone else have similar experiences?

 - Ron | samwisekoi
(Auto-typed by my JD45 keyboard.)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 08 May 2015, 09:30:11
When I have something like an apostrophe assigned to a function layer, I find that I do not tend to use words that require them.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Fri, 15 May 2015, 03:47:39
A prototype of the milled aluminium case is being made now, and soon I will order some of the "new" prototype PCBs with the built-in ATmega32U4.

The plan is, I order 5-10 PCBs, solder the SMD parts (ATmega32U4, diodes, resistors, etc.), make sure they work, and then sell the spares at cost.
But a prototype PCB without a case is a bit hard to sell... so...

Here are some renders of an alternate case. It's similar in style to JD40 and Planck cases. It uses a brushed stainless steel switch plate and bottom plate, and a 10mm spacer made of wood or acrylic. You could call this the "budget" option, since it will be a lot cheaper than a milled aluminium case, and available at the same time as the prototype PCBs, not some far away group buy. As a very rough estimate, the price might be around $60 total for the case, and around $40 for the SMD assembled PCB (i.e. not inc. switches).

[attach=1]

[attach=2]

[attach=4]

[attach=3]

The main reason to show it off now is to see if anyone would be interested in getting one of the JD45 prototype PCBs if they could get one of these cases.
Based on interest, I can then decide how many prototype PCBs to order, and how many of these cases to get made, and get a better idea of actual cost.

There will be at most 7 PCBs available (since I won't order more than 10 prototypes, JD wants 2, and I'll keep 1).

This is not a group buy, and no money will be collected before there are parts to ship.






Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: lolpes on Fri, 15 May 2015, 04:21:54
Sign me up for one pcb pls ;)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: meow a cat on Fri, 15 May 2015, 06:31:13
I'm interested in one PCB, if the case will be available!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Fri, 15 May 2015, 06:39:02
I'll take a PCB and budget case.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: berserkfan on Fri, 15 May 2015, 08:50:06
Sign me up for one pcb pls ;)

Wilba, I am not personally using the JD45, but I think your budget options are very beautiful and look excellent. Would you be able to offer the information (or stl files or whatever they're called) to other people to learn from? I am dreaming that someone will take your ideas and make them into a case for the GH36. Samwisekoi's efforts are heroic, but I think your casings are significantly better value and more attractive than his design.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 15 May 2015, 09:26:45
Sign me up for one pcb pls ;)

Wilba, I am not personally using the JD45, but I think your budget options are very beautiful and look excellent. Would you be able to offer the information (or stl files or whatever they're called) to other people to learn from? I am dreaming that someone will take your ideas and make them into a case for the GH36. Samwisekoi's efforts are heroic, but I think your casings are significantly better value and more attractive than his design.

I agree!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
(Auto-typed by my JD45 keyboard.)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: AKmalamute on Fri, 15 May 2015, 12:05:59
I'm right on the fence about requesting a prototype (budget case). I've got one of the v.1 prototypes samwisekoi wrote up, and am using it caseless ... which is awkward because it's short enough to slip between my legs if I set it on my lap and it flops around if I type on it while set on one leg.

 ANYway a wooden case sounds fascinating, and I might indeed be able to get another version of this keyboard.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Fri, 15 May 2015, 12:27:31
Wilba, I am not personally using the JD45, but I think your budget options are very beautiful and look excellent. Would you be able to offer the information (or stl files or whatever they're called) to other people to learn from? I am dreaming that someone will take your ideas and make them into a case for the GH36. Samwisekoi's efforts are heroic, but I think your casings are significantly better value and more attractive than his design.

Sure, I'll share the DXF files and/or help others make similar things. Nothing that special about them, really.... you could probably do the same thing with swill's plate building tool and a bit of Inkscape... SolidWorks just makes things look pretty. But don't hold me to the guess on the price... it's based on the cost of other plate files and not based on a firm quote yet.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 15 May 2015, 13:19:50
And here is my latest case effort -- fresh in the door from Shapeways.  Kind of a potato pic, but I'll do a better job once I have my JD45 mounted.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Fri, 15 May 2015, 23:43:11
What material is that?

Also, I never followed up on the backlighting for the JD45.

Clearly I have it configured wrong... I have D7 for both the Caps LED and the backlight.  What's it supposed to be?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 15 May 2015, 23:56:18
A prototype of the milled aluminium case is being made now, and soon I will order some of the "new" prototype PCBs with the built-in ATmega32U4.

The plan is, I order 5-10 PCBs, solder the SMD parts (ATmega32U4, diodes, resistors, etc.), make sure they work, and then sell the spares at cost.
But a prototype PCB without a case is a bit hard to sell... so...

Here are some renders of an alternate case. It's similar in style to JD40 and Planck cases. It uses a brushed stainless steel switch plate and bottom plate, and a 10mm spacer made of wood or acrylic. You could call this the "budget" option, since it will be a lot cheaper than a milled aluminium case, and available at the same time as the prototype PCBs, not some far away group buy. As a very rough estimate, the price might be around $60 total for the case, and around $40 for the SMD assembled PCB (i.e. not inc. switches).

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

The main reason to show it off now is to see if anyone would be interested in getting one of the JD45 prototype PCBs if they could get one of these cases.
Based on interest, I can then decide how many prototype PCBs to order, and how many of these cases to get made, and get a better idea of actual cost.

There will be at most 7 PCBs available (since I won't order more than 10 prototypes, JD wants 2, and I'll keep 1).

This is not a group buy, and no money will be collected before there are parts to ship.

I'd possibly be in for one depending on price.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Sat, 16 May 2015, 03:59:04
Updated renders of the "budget case" design which will be available with the prototype PCBs (see my previous posts).
I tweaked the outer dimensions, refined the USB cutout, and added extra screws.

[attach=1]

[attach=2]

[attach=3]

[attach=4]
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: meow a cat on Sat, 16 May 2015, 04:17:51
Updated renders of the "budget case" design which will be available with the prototype PCBs (see my previous posts).
I tweaked the outer dimensions, refined the USB cutout, and added extra screws.

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

(Attachment Link)

Looks great, I'm definitely in for a PCB and a budget case.

Any renders of the acrylic spacer? Have you guys decided whether you're going to offer both, or just wood?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Sat, 16 May 2015, 05:20:43
Any renders of the acrylic spacer? Have you guys decided whether you're going to offer both, or just wood?

Here's a render with a translucent acrylic spacer. The actual spacer may be less translucent than this, more "white".
I have to get quotes on both materials and see if I can offer both.

[attach=1]
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: meow a cat on Sat, 16 May 2015, 05:38:45
Any renders of the acrylic spacer? Have you guys decided whether you're going to offer both, or just wood?

Here's a render with a translucent acrylic spacer. The actual spacer may be less translucent than this, more "white".
I have to get quotes on both materials and see if I can offer both.

(Attachment Link)

Thanks for the render, that looks great. I think I would prefer a clear spacer over a white one. If it's white acrylic, I'd most likely pick a wood spacer.

Any guesses on wood type? I'm assuming it's not set in stone until after the quotes.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Mon, 18 May 2015, 17:56:11
What material is that?

Sorry, I missed that question.  It is 3D-printed plastic.  Shapeways calls it "Strong & Flexible Plastic" (https://www.shapeways.com/materials/strong-and-flexible-plastic).  Here it is with a JD45 Prototype keyboard installed.  Unicomp "Model M" for scale.  (Also to show the design inspiration!)  My goal was a very tiny version of the classic IBM Model M case shape.

(http://i.imgur.com/8a01uym.jpg)
JD45 Prototype Case Edge View. Samwisekoi 2015.

(http://i.imgur.com/MTzCKgv.jpg)
JD45 Prototype Case Front View. Samwisekoi 2015.

I think I'd like this case a tad taller in back, but it looks and feels good.  The internal support rails work to keep the PCB rigid during typing.  Send me a PM if you want to print or buy one yourself.  It fits a 3.00" x 10.00" PCB, and should fit or be easy to modify to fit the prod boards as well.

Many thanks to GH'er RabRhee and MP at SP for the Retro DSA keycaps I was missing for this build!

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 18 May 2015, 20:03:23
Very nice
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: flabbergast on Wed, 20 May 2015, 04:34:29
In case there are some proto PCBs left, I'd take one. I can do SMT soldering myself, as long as the parts are at least 0603, ideally at least 0805.
EDIT: A case as well.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mylove1431 on Wed, 20 May 2015, 05:08:00
What material is that?

Sorry, I missed that question.  It is 3D-printed plastic.  Shapeways calls it "Strong & Flexible Plastic" (https://www.shapeways.com/materials/strong-and-flexible-plastic).  Here it is with a JD45 Prototype keyboard installed.  Unicomp "Model M" for scale.  (Also to show the design inspiration!)  My goal was a very tiny version of the classic IBM Model M case shape.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/8a01uym.jpg)


really nice ........... :thumb:
JD45 Prototype Case Edge View. Samwisekoi 2015.

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/MTzCKgv.jpg)

JD45 Prototype Case Front View. Samwisekoi 2015.

I think I'd like this case a tad taller in back, but it looks and feels good.  The internal support rails work to keep the PCB rigid during typing.  Send me a PM if you want to print or buy one yourself.  It fits a 3.00" x 10.00" PCB, and should fit or be easy to modify to fit the prod boards as well.

Many thanks to GH'er RabRhee and MP at SP for the Retro DSA keycaps I was missing for this build!

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: nobodyknowsmyname on Tue, 02 June 2015, 14:08:43
In for one of the proto PCBs w/ SMD and "affordable" wood case if they are still available.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Tiramisuu on Tue, 02 June 2015, 14:55:41
I really need a bigger allowance.

Both the jd40  and jd45  are nice.   A little creativity in cases and these become my favorite boards.

I
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: krbuck on Tue, 25 August 2015, 16:44:24
This would be perfect for my first custom board. So cool and I'm blown away by JDCarpe's past work. I just want to be sure - we are still waiting for availability?

Thanks!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 25 August 2015, 16:46:43
This would be perfect for my first custom board. So cool and I'm blown away by JDCarpe's past work. I just want to be sure - we are still waiting for availability?

Thanks!

Just an FYI Jdcarpe is currently away on a cruise and he would probably be the one to answer this question. He should be back in around a week.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: krbuck on Tue, 25 August 2015, 17:39:29
This would be perfect for my first custom board. So cool and I'm blown away by JDCarpe's past work. I just want to be sure - we are still waiting for availability?

Thanks!

Just an FYI Jdcarpe is currently away on a cruise and he would probably be the one to answer this question. He should be back in around a week.

Ah, ok. I skimmed over this thread a few times; must have missed the status. Sorry for that! Here's a pic of a kitten.
(https://media3.giphy.com/media/gnUqgU5820KRi/200.gif)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:19:53
is everyone busy preparing X'mas? this thread appears to be  a bit too quiet...
just like to appreciate JD's offer on a JD45: this is THE ONLY keyboard that i use at work and home now.
and also to show off my Alder case :p
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:21:51
Oh my, I want that. That case is beautiful.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:29:03
is everyone busy preparing X'mas? this thread appears to be  a bit too quiet...
just like to appreciate JD's offer on a JD45: this is THE ONLY keyboard that i use at work and home now.
and also to show off my Alder case :p

Very nice work on the case for your prototype!

Any luck on the BT front yet?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jbondeson on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:30:28
Oh my, I want that. That case is beautiful.

I would like to second that. A great way to do the usb cutout as well!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:33:29
the BT module is on its way and should arrive this week.
i will be experimenting with it when i have all the hardware ready.


Very nice work on the case for your prototype!

Any luck on the BT front yet?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Tue, 03 November 2015, 10:37:26
thank you both!
yeah i like the case a lot, even more than before i made it.
Alder is the lightest hardwood that i can find in my area and that makes the keyboard super light.
i don't feel a thing when it travel with me everyday in my passenger bag.

Oh my, I want that. That case is beautiful.

I would like to second that. A great way to do the usb cutout as well!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Tue, 03 November 2015, 23:16:44
the BT module comes late today, i hook up everything and it almost works. ;D
exception being the PD5 used in the scan matrix, when the UART communication is  enabled, is used as the XCLK and a few keys associated to PD5 will not respond...the other keys work with no problem though.

i will have to dig into the atmega32u4 data sheet and see if i can keep PD5 from being used as the XCLK pin.
the last time that i play with micro controllers were more than 10 years ago so this might take me sometime.

at the same time if anyone has experience with UART/USART communication with AVR controllers could shed some light on the way around this it would be very much appreciated.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Thu, 05 November 2015, 12:33:14
so i eventually figure out the culprit:

on the PCB, D3 and D5 of the controller were shorted during soldering, so when ever D3 is used, D5 gets messed. =) and D3 happens to be the TX pin for UART.

[attach=1]

after some desoldering and cleaning up, now my JD45 is happily typing via BT  :) ;) :D ;D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 05 November 2015, 12:34:55
after some desoldering and cleaning up, now my JD45 is happily typing via BT  :) ;) :D ;D

:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Thu, 05 November 2015, 12:54:20
:eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

This is really a good one,  took me sometime to trace it down. Now that the keyboard is able to talk to the BlueFruit, I will go on to commit the code changes needed later this week.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Thu, 05 November 2015, 16:17:29
so i eventually figure out the culprit:

on the PCB, D3 and D5 of the controller were shorted during soldering, so when ever D3 is used, D5 gets messed. =) and D3 happens to be the TX pin for UART.

(Attachment Link)

after some desoldering and cleaning up, now my JD45 is happily typing via BT  :) ;) :D ;D

:-[ Sorry, my bad.

Glad you got it all working, though!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Thu, 05 November 2015, 16:53:39
:-[ Sorry, my bad.

Glad you got it all working, though!

oh no, there is nothing wrong with the PCB, the two pins gets shorted when the controller was soldered.
I don't have the right tool, using a tiny knife could not get the two pins separated, so i just desoldered the chip, clean it a bit, and then soldered it back, and it just works =)

so the PCB is still good  :thumb:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Thu, 05 November 2015, 17:08:44
:-[ Sorry, my bad.

Glad you got it all working, though!

oh no, there is nothing wrong with the PCB, the two pins gets shorted when the controller was soldered.
I don't have the right tool, using a tiny knife could not get the two pins separated, so i just desoldered the chip, clean it a bit, and then soldered it back, and it just works =)

so the PCB is still good  :thumb:

I was the one who soldered the SMD components... I didn't see that bridge, or I would have fixed it myself.

FWIW most bridges like this can be fixed with copper braid (aka. desoldering wick).
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Thu, 05 November 2015, 17:27:56

I was the one who soldered the SMD components... I didn't see that bridge, or I would have fixed it myself.

FWIW most bridges like this can be fixed with copper braid (aka. desoldering wick).

Haha, IC
No problem. It's been a good practice to debug a keyboard that has the potential to be my end game.

BTW where are we in making the JD45 now? Would there be a GB in the near future?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 05 November 2015, 18:44:52
I'm hoping as soon as Bunny Lake can find some breathing room that we can get a GB going for them. He's been a busy man lately.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MikeTheTiger on Thu, 05 November 2015, 21:15:16
Cool. I like the layout of this one.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Frigid on Thu, 05 November 2015, 21:16:13
Looks Nice, happy there is an option for a single spacebar
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: lootbag on Thu, 05 November 2015, 21:40:16
I'm hoping as soon as Bunny Lake can find some breathing room that we can get a GB going for them. He's been a busy man lately.

This is good news!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Fri, 06 November 2015, 09:44:35
I really need to get to building my prototype board now that I have switches. Need to get a hold of all the resistors, LEDs and the controller.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Sun, 08 November 2015, 14:17:51
the firmware that would work with Wilba's PCB and talk to BlueFruit via PD3 has been merged to the QMK firmware repo: https://github.com/jackhumbert/qmk_firmware. ;)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MrRooks on Tue, 01 December 2015, 15:47:40
Just a little something something I printed.  :cool:

Design courtesy of Wilba

(http://i.imgur.com/0LR1YRP.jpg)

Full album:
http://imgur.com/a/QMROF
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 01 December 2015, 15:48:58
Just a little something something I printed.  :cool:

Design courtesy of Wilba

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0LR1YRP.jpg)


Full album:
http://imgur.com/a/QMROF

That's awesome! How long was the printing time for that?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MrRooks on Tue, 01 December 2015, 15:52:17
Just a little something something I printed.  :cool:

Design courtesy of Wilba

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0LR1YRP.jpg)


Full album:
http://imgur.com/a/QMROF

That's awesome! How long was the printing time for that?

Thanks! I printed it at an unnecessarily high res of 0.1mm per layer(0.35mm nozzle) and it took 20 hours and 15 minutes to complete.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Tue, 01 December 2015, 15:53:21
Just a little something something I printed.  :cool:

Design courtesy of Wilba

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0LR1YRP.jpg)


Full album:
http://imgur.com/a/QMROF

That's ****ing sexy as hell. Meowwwww
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 01 December 2015, 16:01:17
Just a little something something I printed.  :cool:

Design courtesy of Wilba

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/0LR1YRP.jpg)


Full album:
http://imgur.com/a/QMROF

That's awesome! How long was the printing time for that?

Thanks! I printed it at an unnecessarily high res of 0.1mm per layer(0.35mm nozzle) and it took 20 hours and 15 minutes to complete.

Definitely worth it though! It looks great plus there is less polishing to do if any at all.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SL89 on Tue, 01 December 2015, 16:07:43
Pardon me if I'm late to the party, but the fact that the JD45 is happening means there won't be anymore JD40's right? What ever happened to the SmallFry gb as well?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 01 December 2015, 16:11:10
Pardon me if I'm late to the party, but the fact that the JD45 is happening means there won't be anymore JD40's right? What ever happened to the SmallFry gb as well?
Actually, there are plans for a redesigned JD40 to be released concurrently with the JD45.

The SmallFry GB is still alive, I hope, and will use the redesign PCBs.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 01 December 2015, 16:13:37
What ever happened to the SmallFry gb as well?

So many things. It's has yet to deliver. :(

Edit: tapatalk is lagging today, so per what jdcarpe said if its using a new untested PCB who knows when it will happen. That buy has ruined 40% boards for me.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 01 December 2015, 16:19:29
Just to assuage your fears, Ray, I can tell you that I have assembled a JD40 using the new PCB, and it works great. Fully backlit, with a Forty kit from Round 5. Using one of my original plates to mount it in a wooden case from Badwrench.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: keshley on Thu, 03 December 2015, 07:19:08
I do a little dance in my head when there's new posts in this thread.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 03 December 2015, 08:27:28
I do a little dance in my head when there's new posts in this thread.

I don't want to reveal too much, but you're going to be doing a lot of head dancing really soon.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: LeandreN on Thu, 03 December 2015, 08:40:35
I'm ready to dance.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: keshley on Thu, 03 December 2015, 08:45:04
(http://31.media.tumblr.com/c0e5054d7c19af30847e995acbe815f7/tumblr_mt2z6dAeMh1ralxl7o1_r5_400.gif)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Thu, 03 December 2015, 11:45:07
May I have the next dance?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Sun, 06 December 2015, 00:22:23
Seems like great news is coming soon!
That is exciting.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:15:35
Just to let everyone know, I know a couple of ICs and mini GBs have popped up for other 40% designs, and that's fine.

BIG THINGS ARE CLOSE AT HAND FOR THIS PROJECT!!

You guys like anodized CNC milled alu cases? Matching plates? Fully assembled keyboards? DIY kits? All this is coming very soon!

How can this be, after a year in development, JD? Did you partner with a highly respected keyboard manufacturer, while keeping the integrity of a custom design?

All will be revealed very soon, my loyal followers. :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:16:34
Just to let everyone know, I know a couple of ICs and mini GBs have popped up for other 40% designs, and that's fine.

BIG THINGS ARE CLOSE AT HAND FOR THIS PROJECT!!

You guys like CNC anodized alu cases? Matching plates? Fully assembled keyboards? DIY kits? All this is coming very soon!

How can this be, after a year in development, JD? Did you partner with a highly respected keyboard manufacturer, while keeping the integrity of a custom design?

All will be revealed very soon, my loyal followers. :D

Ahh Yeah!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: keshley on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:18:00
(http://www.thatdrop.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/GIF-Dancing-A-Night-at-the-Roxbury-Chris-Kattan-dance-head-bob-Will-Ferrell-GIF.gif)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:22:07
Okay, so let's say I tried to follow the thread, but, because of its length, got lost. Just an example.

What's the status of this buy? My impression was that it was over and no longer taking orders, right? Just that the current orders have yet to be developed 100%?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:25:37
Okay, so let's say I tried to follow the thread, but, because of its length, got lost. Just an example.

What's the status of this buy? My impression was that it was over and no longer taking orders, right? Just that the current orders have yet to be developed 100%?

The "buy" was just a release of a few prototype boards. JD will be doing an actual release of the board soon as can be seen in what he posted above.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:38:18
Okay, so let's say I tried to follow the thread, but, because of its length, got lost. Just an example.

What's the status of this buy? My impression was that it was over and no longer taking orders, right? Just that the current orders have yet to be developed 100%?

The "buy" was just a release of a few prototype boards. JD will be doing an actual release of the board soon as can be seen in what he posted above.

Gotcha. Thanks!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Wed, 09 December 2015, 20:43:21
Just to let everyone know, I know a couple of ICs and mini GBs have popped up for other 40% designs, and that's fine.

BIG THINGS ARE CLOSE AT HAND FOR THIS PROJECT!!

You guys like anodized CNC milled alu cases? Matching plates? Fully assembled keyboards? DIY kits? All this is coming very soon!

How can this be, after a year in development, JD? Did you partner with a highly respected keyboard manufacturer, while keeping the integrity of a custom design?

All will be revealed very soon, my loyal followers. :D


JD your like one of the few people I still trust on here to run a successful keyboard buy but I'll believe it when I see it. :P
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 09 December 2015, 21:21:18
JD your like one of the few people I still trust on here to run a successful keyboard buy but I'll believe it when I see it.

Haha yeah, I agree with you, Ray. I haven't really hyped this in a while, because of the slow progress in getting to a finished product. But it shouldn't be much longer now. Since we have PCB, case, and plate designs already, ramp up to production should be significantly reduced. Of course, due diligence is key to a successful production run, so we won't be rushing anything to market before it is ready. Time from order to manufacturing to fulfillment will hopefully be kept to a minimum.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Thu, 10 December 2015, 00:37:40
Great news JD! I will keep watching this thread and will definitely get a second JD45 as I enjoy the current one so much.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: sean on Thu, 10 December 2015, 01:11:52
I still need to get my first JD45 :p
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Fri, 11 December 2015, 21:06:25
JD your like one of the few people I still trust on here to run a successful keyboard buy but I'll believe it when I see it.

Haha yeah, I agree with you, Ray. I haven't really hyped this in a while, because of the slow progress in getting to a finished product. But it shouldn't be much longer now. Since we have PCB, case, and plate designs already, ramp up to production should be significantly reduced. Of course, due diligence is key to a successful production run, so we won't be rushing anything to market before it is ready. Time from order to manufacturing to fulfillment will hopefully be kept to a minimum.

Let's get this hype train runnin'!!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Fri, 18 December 2015, 08:03:37
(http://i.giphy.com/l41lVOwdFwKQzb6ta.gif)'ed

i have a CNC willing to help with cases  :thumb:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: CPTBadAss on Fri, 18 December 2015, 08:07:45
I'm intrigued. Looking forward to those cases!

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 23 December 2015, 21:50:42
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)


HYPE TRAIN
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: keshley on Wed, 23 December 2015, 21:52:17
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

* keshley's head dancing commences *
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: ccarlitos2 on Wed, 23 December 2015, 21:52:26
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

Someone hold me. This is toooooo beautiful...
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Wed, 23 December 2015, 21:53:28
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

niiiiiice
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: stoic-lemon on Thu, 24 December 2015, 01:01:49
Oh my. That looks excellent.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: sean on Thu, 24 December 2015, 02:39:50
gimme pls
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 24 December 2015, 09:12:52
Also, don't be fooled by imposters. Vortex's upcoming 40% is no JD45. You can probably trust them to muck theirs up. :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 24 December 2015, 09:16:01
Also, don't be fooled by imposters. Vortex's upcoming 40% is no JD45. You can probably trust them to muck theirs up. :D
Now that is impressive, @jdcarpe inspiring so many other 40% boards.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Thu, 24 December 2015, 11:28:06
Also, don't be fooled by imposters. Vortex's upcoming 40% is no JD45. You can probably trust them to muck theirs up. :D
Now that is impressive, @jdcarpe inspiring so many other 40% boards.

thats the size board i'm starting off with for my first PCB ;) JD is very inspiring.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mashby on Thu, 24 December 2015, 15:02:14
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

Woah.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Steezus on Fri, 25 December 2015, 13:21:43
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

Stunning board jd, I can't wait to get my hands on one. :thumb:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: BaconEggandCheeseBagel on Fri, 25 December 2015, 18:13:25
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

This is a game changer - wouldn't have to lug my HHKB around and less cumbersome on my hands then a planck - ortholinear turns my thumbs into arthritic terrors.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dgneo on Sat, 26 December 2015, 07:58:51
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

(https://media.giphy.com/media/rl0FOxdz7CcxO/giphy.gif)

Beautiful work JD! :thumb:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Auxo on Thu, 31 December 2015, 02:47:20
I can't imagine how much this is gonna cost... but I can smell my wallet crying already. I'd love to at least have one someday tho, we'll see where my job hunt takes me for this haha!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: switchnollie on Fri, 01 January 2016, 19:35:11
Been searching for the right 40% for awhile now, seen a few but I've finally found the right one :)

Can't wait :D looks great.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: vivalarevolución on Sun, 03 January 2016, 10:43:16
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

Drool.  Keep them fanboys excited.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: enddot on Sun, 03 January 2016, 13:15:59
Oh boy. I'm not prepared for this. Cannot wait.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: swill on Fri, 12 February 2016, 21:29:41
Subscribing. But without arrow keys I would probably have a hard time. Maybe an opportunity to try the space fn stuff people have been using.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Fri, 12 February 2016, 23:27:38
Subscribing. But without arrow keys I would probably have a hard time. Maybe an opportunity to try the space fn stuff people have been using.

A lot easier to get used to than you might think.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: vivalarevolución on Sat, 13 February 2016, 05:57:33
Subscribing. But without arrow keys I would probably have a hard time. Maybe an opportunity to try the space fn stuff people have been using.

This is a constant battle that I flip flop on.  It is sometimes annoying to hold down another key to use the arrows.  One thing I have done is made a very accessible layer switch on the right mod cluster so I can use those without holding down another button, if I am doing heavy use of the arrow keys.  Still I like having arrow keys, especially if I am using them as a component of a macro.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: swill on Sat, 13 February 2016, 07:11:29
Subscribing. But without arrow keys I would probably have a hard time. Maybe an opportunity to try the space fn stuff people have been using.

This is a constant battle that I flip flop on.  It is sometimes annoying to hold down another key to use the arrows.  One thing I have done is made a very accessible layer switch on the right mod cluster so I can use those without holding down another button, if I am doing heavy use of the arrow keys.  Still I like having arrow keys, especially if I am using them as a component of a macro.
Ya. I am a developer, so I use the arrow keys a lot. I often use them while holding shift to do a selection. 
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 13 February 2016, 23:36:33
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Sun, 14 February 2016, 00:12:44
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)


It's so cute...
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 14 February 2016, 00:54:57
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)


I'm gonna need one of these! I need to rock my Hack'd on a 45%!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: whmeltonjr on Sun, 14 February 2016, 01:01:36
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)


I dig it. Definitely watching closely for more info. I could see myself owning one for sure.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: joey on Sun, 14 February 2016, 03:42:50
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)

Cuuuuuuuuuute!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Sun, 14 February 2016, 08:59:43
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)

That looks really awesome JD.

Your going to have me building more 40/45% boards lol 😄
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: vivalarevolución on Sun, 14 February 2016, 13:28:33
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)


Stop.  Just stop.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Sun, 14 February 2016, 14:36:19
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)

Caps with font printed function layer would be awesome.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 14 February 2016, 14:46:30
Caps with font printed function layer would be awesome.

The final versions will have a smaller top legend, with corner placement. And yes, they do have the default function layer printed on the front. :)

Of course, it's fully programmable, but the default layers should work for a start.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 14 February 2016, 18:36:35
Caps with font printed function layer would be awesome.

The final versions will have a smaller top legend, with corner placement. And yes, they do have the default function layer printed on the front. :)

Of course, it's fully programmable, but the default layers should work for a start.

Just black for the case and caps as of now?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 14 February 2016, 21:38:04
Just black for the case and caps as of now?

Black or silver anodized aluminum for the case and plates. Color matched.

Only black with white legends for the caps, which will be included with the assembled keyboard. DIY version assumes you bring your own switches and caps.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: whmeltonjr on Sun, 14 February 2016, 21:40:52
Too early to tell the price range?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Sun, 14 February 2016, 21:42:37
Caps with font printed function layer would be awesome.

The final versions will have a smaller top legend, with corner placement. And yes, they do have the default function layer printed on the front. :)

I actually kinda liked the huge centered legends. Sorta seemed apropos on such a cute li'l keyboard.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Sun, 14 February 2016, 21:57:27
Just black for the case and caps as of now?

Black or silver anodized aluminum for the case and plates. Color matched.

Only black with white legends for the caps, which will be included with the assembled keyboard. DIY version assumes you bring your own switches and caps.

Oh awesome!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 14 February 2016, 22:30:05
Too early to tell the price range?
I'm still working out final details, but you guys will know very soon. :)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dougp on Mon, 15 February 2016, 13:19:33
Any chance at getting just a case?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Mon, 15 February 2016, 15:37:56
Any chance at getting just a case?
Cases won't be sold separately, but you could always post a [WTB] in Classifieds and try to get one from someone who wanted the PCB and plate only. Not sure why you wouldn't want the PCB and plate, though.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dougp on Mon, 15 February 2016, 20:12:23
Any chance at getting just a case?
Cases won't be sold separately, but you could always post a [WTB] in Classifieds and try to get one from someone who wanted the PCB and plate only. Not sure why you wouldn't want the PCB and plate, though.

I'd actually want a plate / case - mostly because you said there wouldn't be fully customization, so I'd hand wire.  Guess it really depends on what you'll do for the PCB firmware, I still might pick up a kit.  Thanks!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 15 February 2016, 20:25:18
I'd actually want a plate / case - mostly because you said there wouldn't be fully customization, so I'd hand wire.  Guess it really depends on what you'll do for the PCB firmware, I still might pick up a kit.  Thanks!

Not sure what you mean by "fully customization", but the PCB supports multiple key layouts, and uses an ATMega32U4 with TMK or EasyAVR firmware, so you can do whatever you want on the firmware side. The PCB also supports switch LEDs (all LEDs in parallel, not individually controlled).

Also note there is not enough clearance in the case for a Teensy - there's only 3mm clearance under the PCB - it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Mon, 15 February 2016, 20:27:00
I'd actually want a plate / case - mostly because you said there wouldn't be fully customization, so I'd hand wire.  Guess it really depends on what you'll do for the PCB firmware, I still might pick up a kit.  Thanks!

Not sure what you mean by "fully customization", but the PCB supports multiple key layouts, and uses an ATMega32U4 with TMK or EasyAVR firmware, so you can do whatever you want on the firmware side. The PCB also supports switch LEDs (all LEDs in parallel, not individually controlled).

Also note there is not enough clearance in the case for a Teensy - there's only 3mm clearance under the PCB - it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.

i think this board needs a 2 piece case like the one i'm working on :D
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 15 February 2016, 20:33:09
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)


This is very impressive.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: appleonama on Mon, 15 February 2016, 20:34:37
"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/FwNaBhC.jpg)


large font on the keycap makes me feel uncomfortable  :confused:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 15 February 2016, 20:40:43
i think this board needs a 2 piece case like the one i'm working on :D

That would be pretty cool... and very easy for me to adapt the case design to be similar to yours... i.e. make a two-piece wooden case compatible with the PCB/plate.
If you want to do another one-off "JD45" project for "charity", let me know ;D
(I have the mad skillz but no CNC :()
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Mon, 15 February 2016, 21:27:27
i think this board needs a 2 piece case like the one i'm working on :D

That would be pretty cool... and very easy for me to adapt the case design to be similar to yours... i.e. make a two-piece wooden case compatible with the PCB/plate.
If you want to do another one-off "JD45" project for "charity", let me know ;D
(I have the mad skillz but no CNC :()
I'm game.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Mon, 15 February 2016, 22:13:04


...it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.

Speaking of TEX...

Everyone should know by now that this final, production PCB was designed by Wilba to my specifications. The case, also, was designed by Wilba along with the PCB, as the two go hand-in-hand. Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

I also want to acknowledge and thank both samwisekoi and Joey Quinn for their contributions to this project, in the form of previous PCB iterations, both through-hole and SMT based.

What I haven't formally announced yet is my manufacturing partner for this project. The production JD45 is being manufactured by none other than TEX in Taiwan! I am extremely proud to be partnered with TEX to bring this project to the community. Many thanks to Justin and everyone at TEX for helping make this dream project of mine a reality.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Mon, 15 February 2016, 22:16:33


...it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.

Speaking of TEX...

Everyone should know by now that this final, production PCB was designed by Wilba to my specifications. The case, also, was designed by Wilba along with the PCB, as the two go hand-in-hand. Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

I also want to acknowledge and thank both samwisekoi and Joey Quinn for their contributions to this project, in the form of previous PCB iterations, both through-hole and SMT based.

What I haven't formally announced yet is my manufacturing partner for this project. The production JD45 is being manufactured by none other than TEX in Taiwan! I am extremely proud to be partnered with TEX to bring this project to the community. Many thanks to Justin and everyone at TEX for helping make this dream project of mine a reality.

Can't wait to get one!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Mon, 15 February 2016, 22:18:09
Really cool stuff
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dougp on Mon, 15 February 2016, 22:59:17
I'd actually want a plate / case - mostly because you said there wouldn't be fully customization, so I'd hand wire.  Guess it really depends on what you'll do for the PCB firmware, I still might pick up a kit.  Thanks!

Not sure what you mean by "fully customization", but the PCB supports multiple key layouts, and uses an ATMega32U4 with TMK or EasyAVR firmware, so you can do whatever you want on the firmware side. The PCB also supports switch LEDs (all LEDs in parallel, not individually controlled).

Also note there is not enough clearance in the case for a Teensy - there's only 3mm clearance under the PCB - it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.

I'm an idiot and didn't read it right. I'm down with TMK.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Wilba on Tue, 16 February 2016, 03:00:30
Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: joey on Tue, 16 February 2016, 03:38:29
Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

(Attachment Link)
:))
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: chromatically on Tue, 16 February 2016, 10:47:33


...it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.

Speaking of TEX...

Everyone should know by now that this final, production PCB was designed by Wilba to my specifications. The case, also, was designed by Wilba along with the PCB, as the two go hand-in-hand. Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

I also want to acknowledge and thank both samwisekoi and Joey Quinn for their contributions to this project, in the form of previous PCB iterations, both through-hole and SMT based.

What I haven't formally announced yet is my manufacturing partner for this project. The production JD45 is being manufactured by none other than TEX in Taiwan! I am extremely proud to be partnered with TEX to bring this project to the community. Many thanks to Justin and everyone at TEX for helping make this dream project of mine a reality.

i need this in my life. amazing work everyone!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: osi on Tue, 16 February 2016, 12:11:38
This is exciting. Hopefully I will be able to join in!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: nickheller on Tue, 16 February 2016, 12:22:28
Can't wait for this!!!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 16 February 2016, 12:35:34
Okay, so...pricing. I know everyone is curious what the price will be for the JD45 keyboard. I think I finally have it nailed down.

There are several options you can choose from in this initial group buy. The featured product will be a completely assembled keyboard, to include CNC milled anodized aluminum case, in either black or silver color; completely programmable PCB with backlight support, with all electronics pre-soldered at the factory; CNC milled anodized aluminum switch plate (standard layout), color-matched to case; choice of Cherry MX switches (brown, blue, black, or red); and printed black ABS keycaps with front-printed function layer legends. This package is priced at $219.99.

As this project started with a hobbyist focus, there is also a DIY option available. This package includes the alu case, pre-soldered PCB, and either Alps (standard layout) or MX (universal) switch plate only. This package assumes that people will want to bring their own switches and keycaps. This package option reduces by $40 the price of the standard package.

The CNC milled anodized aluminum case is available in two versions. The standard version is a low profile, rectangular case, very similar in design to a TEX 60% alu case with front lip. Optionally, there is a higher walled case with the corners blocked, to give it a similar visual appreal as the popular HHKB. This case option adds $20 to the package price.

I will be shipping all orders for the initial group buy personally. Actual shipping cost for shipping to your location will be added to your order.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: LeandreN on Tue, 16 February 2016, 12:37:06
This is great news JD!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Tue, 16 February 2016, 13:34:17
Okay, so...pricing. I know everyone is curious what the price will be for the JD45 keyboard. I think I finally have it nailed down.

There are several options you can choose from in this initial group buy. The featured product will be a completely assembled keyboard, to include CNC milled anodized aluminum case, in either black or silver color; completely programmable PCB with backlight support, with all electronics pre-soldered at the factory; CNC milled anodized aluminum switch plate (standard layout), color-matched to case; choice of Cherry MX switches (brown, blue, black, or red); and printed black ABS keycaps with front-printed function layer legends. This package is priced at $219.99.

As this project started with a hobbyist focus, there is also a DIY option available. This package includes the alu case, pre-soldered PCB, and either Alps (standard layout) or MX (universal) switch plate only. This package assumes that people will want to bring their own switches and keycaps. This package option reduces by $40 the price of the standard package.

The CNC milled anodized aluminum case is available in two versions. The standard version is a low profile, rectangular case, very similar in design to a TEX 60% alu case with front lip. Optionally, there is a higher walled case with the corners blocked, to give it a similar visual appreal as the popular HHKB. This case option adds $20 to the package price.

I will be shipping all orders for the initial group buy personally. Actual shipping cost for shipping to your location will be added to your order.

At first the price seemed a bit high, but then I realized that's including a fully assembled board. Count me in!
Any mock-ups of the HHKB-style board? It sounds kinda cute, but I'm not sure if I'd like the missing keys on a scale this small. Just saw a mock-up of this style a page afore. Looks enticing.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: nickheller on Tue, 16 February 2016, 13:39:32
Gonna have to see pics of the higher case, I think it will look great, and I think I will have a hard time choosing.. Maybe I need two  :))
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: HoffmanMyster on Tue, 16 February 2016, 17:26:53
Gonna have to see pics of the higher case, I think it will look great, and I think I will have a hard time choosing.. Maybe I need two  :))

"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 16 February 2016, 18:19:43
Gonna have to see pics of the higher case, I think it will look great, and I think I will have a hard time choosing.. Maybe I need two  :))

"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN
That's it, thanks Hoffman. The low profile case comes even with the switch plate, while the higher walled case comes even with the bottom of the keycap skirt.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: joey on Tue, 16 February 2016, 18:26:22
Congrats jdcarpe! Very cool to pair up with TEX!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: iamtootallforthis on Tue, 16 February 2016, 19:36:02
Gonna have to see pics of the higher case, I think it will look great, and I think I will have a hard time choosing.. Maybe I need two  :))

"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

Now I need to get that higher case!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Tue, 16 February 2016, 21:06:25
what a nice keyboard!
any chance to add an option of PCB and plate only?
i've been thinking about making a JD45 using my own case and switches.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Tue, 16 February 2016, 21:22:01
what a nice keyboard!
any chance to add an option of PCB and plate only?
i've been thinking about making a JD45 using my own case and switches.

I don't have any plans to do that at this time. These will be packaged as assembled keyboards and DIY kits by the manufacturer, so there won't really be any way to offer individual components. And I will be shipping everything out of my house, so the fewer chances for me to mess things up, the better. ;)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: SpAmRaY on Tue, 16 February 2016, 21:32:53
Glad to see this coming to life. I'll have to live vicariously through all the pictures I'm sure will be posted when people start getting these.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: byker on Tue, 16 February 2016, 21:55:37
Glad to see this coming to life. I'll have to live vicariously through all the pictures I'm sure will be posted when people start getting these.

Yeah me too. After the Smallfry GB and the horrible exchange rate, I won't be in this group buy, but I am excited to see more pictures of the happy case JD45!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: MOZ on Wed, 17 February 2016, 06:43:21


...it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.

Speaking of TEX...

Everyone should know by now that this final, production PCB was designed by Wilba to my specifications. The case, also, was designed by Wilba along with the PCB, as the two go hand-in-hand. Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

I also want to acknowledge and thank both samwisekoi and Joey Quinn for their contributions to this project, in the form of previous PCB iterations, both through-hole and SMT based.

What I haven't formally announced yet is my manufacturing partner for this project. The production JD45 is being manufactured by none other than TEX in Taiwan! I am extremely proud to be partnered with TEX to bring this project to the community. Many thanks to Justin and everyone at TEX for helping make this dream project of mine a reality.



Great to see a member of the community able to collaborate with an established manufacturer. :thumbsup:
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: Vimto on Wed, 17 February 2016, 07:27:41
where do we order??
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 17 February 2016, 08:09:52
where do we order??
I am having a web site built to take the orders, and it should go live very soon. Once the group buy opens, I will be accepting orders for 30 days. I will post the order link here on GH, as well as on most of the usual social media.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: shem on Wed, 17 February 2016, 10:10:30
I wonder what the glorious retro grey keycaps were in the original Twitter sneak peek and if it's possible to get them somewhere.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: toidbb on Wed, 17 February 2016, 10:27:53

I wonder what the glorious retro grey keycaps were in the original Twitter sneak peek and if it's possible to get them somewhere.

Shem,

   So you mean the keyset in the pictures above?

   If so that is Hack'd by geeks keyset. The original GB is here https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=67446.0

   Right now the only way to get it is through the used market.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 17 February 2016, 11:53:24
Yes, it's no coincidence that the Hack'd By Geeks set includes compatibility with the JD45 keyboard. :)

Maybe I should look into offering another round of the set? Only problem is that SA is so backed up at SP that it would be months before production would begin.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: toidbb on Wed, 17 February 2016, 11:58:15

Yes, it's no coincidence that the Hack'd By Geeks set includes compatibility with the JD45 keyboard. :)

Maybe I should look into offering another round of the set? Only problem is that SA is so backed up at SP that it would be months before production would begin.

Better months than never? And at least you would be on the schedule. I do not see their queue decreasing in size anytime soon.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: shem on Wed, 17 February 2016, 12:39:43

Yes, it's no coincidence that the Hack'd By Geeks set includes compatibility with the JD45 keyboard. :)

Maybe I should look into offering another round of the set? Only problem is that SA is so backed up at SP that it would be months before production would begin.

Better months than never? And at least you would be on the schedule. I do not see their queue decreasing in size anytime soon.



Yeah, I mean these:
http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg

I'm ordering one in any case but with these it would be absolutely sweet.

Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Wed, 17 February 2016, 16:15:36

Yes, it's no coincidence that the Hack'd By Geeks set includes compatibility with the JD45 keyboard. :)

Maybe I should look into offering another round of the set? Only problem is that SA is so backed up at SP that it would be months before production would begin.

Better months than never? And at least you would be on the schedule. I do not see their queue decreasing in size anytime soon.
Agreed. I am definitely considering running another round with the same kit setup, especially since full compatibility with the JD45 is there. I will look into it and let you guys know.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: vivalarevolución on Wed, 17 February 2016, 16:18:49


...it's very similar to a Tex 60% aluminium case.

Speaking of TEX...

Everyone should know by now that this final, production PCB was designed by Wilba to my specifications. The case, also, was designed by Wilba along with the PCB, as the two go hand-in-hand. Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

I also want to acknowledge and thank both samwisekoi and Joey Quinn for their contributions to this project, in the form of previous PCB iterations, both through-hole and SMT based.

What I haven't formally announced yet is my manufacturing partner for this project. The production JD45 is being manufactured by none other than TEX in Taiwan! I am extremely proud to be partnered with TEX to bring this project to the community. Many thanks to Justin and everyone at TEX for helping make this dream project of mine a reality.

Give all the boys a hand!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 18 February 2016, 18:07:28
Give all the boys a hand!

If you all will allow me one more...


I want to give a huge THANK YOU to swill for building the ordering web page for me. His tireless efforts have produced a professional design, which is easy to navigate, and integrates orders, shipping, etc.

swill is a beast, and worked non-stop to make this happen in a very short timeframe. Anyone looking for a professional, courteous, and attentive designer should look no further than swill for all your web design needs.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: romevi on Thu, 18 February 2016, 18:21:56
IT'S ALMOST HERE!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: whmeltonjr on Thu, 18 February 2016, 18:26:51
Anybody want to give me $240 so I can get the HHKB layout?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: swill on Thu, 18 February 2016, 20:19:14
Give all the boys a hand!

If you all will allow me one more...


I want to give a huge THANK YOU to swill for building the ordering web page for me. His tireless efforts have produced a professional design, which is easy to navigate, and integrates orders, shipping, etc.

swill is a beast, and worked non-stop to make this happen in a very short timeframe. Anyone looking for a professional, courteous, and attentive designer should look no further than swill for all your web design needs.
Awww, thanks buddy. :) 

It was a pleasure. You have been a big influence on my DIY adventures and have been super supportive of my builder tool. This was the least I can do.

BTW,  since I have not seen a link to the gb thread yet, here it is: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=79797.msg2062635.msg#2062635
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dgdosen on Sat, 20 February 2016, 11:17:52
I really like this keyboard, but can't see myself buying a low profile board that's not also bt enabled.

So my questions are:

what bt module are you using?
how big a battery can you fit into this case?
how long will the battery last?



Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: sean on Sat, 20 February 2016, 13:06:29
I really like this keyboard, but can't see myself buying a low profile board that's not also bt enabled.

So my questions are:

what bt module are you using?
how big a battery can you fit into this case?
how long will the battery last?
I'm no expert here but I think the answer to everything is no.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sat, 20 February 2016, 13:32:15
I really like this keyboard, but can't see myself buying a low profile board that's not also bt enabled.

So my questions are:

what bt module are you using?
how big a battery can you fit into this case?
how long will the battery last?





You might PM member justinyhuang, as he is the one who got the BT module (BlueSmirf?) working with his JD45 prototype PCB.

I can't answer as to what battery will fit in the case, as I haven't attempted to add BT to the production sample case yet.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: dgdosen on Sun, 21 February 2016, 00:19:14

You might PM member justinyhuang, as he is the one who got the BT module (BlueSmirf?) working with his JD45 prototype PCB.

I can't answer as to what battery will fit in the case, as I haven't attempted to add BT to the production sample case yet.

Will do... I thought I was replying to his post... First post ever on Geek Hack...
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Sun, 21 February 2016, 00:24:55

You might PM member justinyhuang, as he is the one who got the BT module (BlueSmirf?) working with his JD45 prototype PCB.

I can't answer as to what battery will fit in the case, as I haven't attempted to add BT to the production sample case yet.

Will do... I thought I was replying to his post... First post ever on Geek Hack...
No problem at all. He might see the question in this thread. :)

And welcome to Geekhack!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Mon, 22 February 2016, 16:23:29

You might PM member justinyhuang, as he is the one who got the BT module (BlueSmirf?) working with his JD45 prototype PCB.

I can't answer as to what battery will fit in the case, as I haven't attempted to add BT to the production sample case yet.

Will do... I thought I was replying to his post... First post ever on Geek Hack...
No problem at all. He might see the question in this thread. :)

And welcome to Geekhack!

yes i've been watching this thread. my favorite keyboard so far, good job JD  ;D

i tried the BlueFruit ez-key module and it works well with JD45.
the size of the battery is only limited by the room of the case, before i can have the case in hand it would be hard for me to tell what battery can fit in.
it is a while ago, if i recall correctly, i used a 2500mh battery, roughly 8 hours active use a day and keep the keyboard on with bluetooth connection all the time, it last me about 2 days. i am working on a new solution with a new case and a new battery and an on/off switch, which should support over 10 days use without recharge.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: funderburker on Wed, 24 February 2016, 06:01:11
Can someone with a prototype say how comfortable is the default layout? I can't afford a JD45 but have a 40% keyboard already. Just wanted to know how is it with the numpad style number/symbol layers.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: cr0n1c on Fri, 04 March 2016, 06:37:33
OK, I'm still new to this. I want to use a 6.25u space bar. What are my options for spacing on the bottom row?

I think it is: 1.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 6.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 1.50

But I'm not sure. I appreciate any help.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 04 March 2016, 07:11:54
OK, I'm still new to this. I want to use a 6.25u space bar. What are my options for spacing on the bottom row?

I think it is: 1.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 6.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 1.50

But I'm not sure. I appreciate any help.
Very close, actually! There are a few ways you can move around the different sizes on the bottom row, but I do it like this:

1.25-1.00-1.00-6.25-1.25-1.00-1.25
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: cr0n1c on Fri, 04 March 2016, 13:48:18
OK, I'm still new to this. I want to use a 6.25u space bar. What are my options for spacing on the bottom row?

I think it is: 1.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 6.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 1.50

But I'm not sure. I appreciate any help.
Very close, actually! There are a few ways you can move around the different sizes on the bottom row, but I do it like this:

1.25-1.00-1.00-6.25-1.25-1.00-1.25

Thanks for the replay, that helps clear things up. Any chance I could do:

1.25-1.00-1.00-6.25-1.00-1.25-1.25?

I like having the 1u flank the spacebar symmetrically.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: 00zeRO on Fri, 04 March 2016, 14:03:44
+1

I want one!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 04 March 2016, 14:10:29
OK, I'm still new to this. I want to use a 6.25u space bar. What are my options for spacing on the bottom row?

I think it is: 1.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 6.25 - 1.00 - 1.00 - 1.50

But I'm not sure. I appreciate any help.
Very close, actually! There are a few ways you can move around the different sizes on the bottom row, but I do it like this:

1.25-1.00-1.00-6.25-1.25-1.00-1.25

Thanks for the replay, that helps clear things up. Any chance I could do:

1.25-1.00-1.00-6.25-1.00-1.25-1.25?

I like having the 1u flank the spacebar symmetrically.
Yes, however, I think I misspoke earlier. Your layout with the 1.50u on the right should work, too..

See this post for all bottom row layout options: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=62641.msg1468124.msg#1468124
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Fri, 04 March 2016, 14:12:54
+1

I want one!
Pre-order here: http://jd45.carpekeyboards.com
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: samwisekoi on Fri, 04 March 2016, 17:08:44
"I hear the train a comin'
It's rolling round the bend"

Show Image
(http://i.imgur.com/3A6511K.jpg)



HYPE TRAIN

Goddammit, JD!  That looks awesome!  And while I certainly don't NEED another JD45, I have to say it is the most usable sub-60 layout available.

Good job.

Dammit.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: axtran on Fri, 04 March 2016, 21:10:42
Read through the pre-orders... does the DIY ALPS kit come with keycaps and/or stabilizers, perchance?
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: justinyhuang on Thu, 10 March 2016, 08:46:26
For those who have interests on a Bluetooth JD45, there is a working one here :D
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/49tnkv/a_bluetooth_jd45/ (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/49tnkv/a_bluetooth_jd45/)
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: mrbishop on Thu, 10 March 2016, 08:54:00
For those who have interests on a Bluetooth JD45, there is a working one here :D
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/49tnkv/a_bluetooth_jd45/ (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/49tnkv/a_bluetooth_jd45/)

i'm going to need a hole lot of tutorial for this!

really sweet stuff man!
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: sean on Thu, 10 March 2016, 13:38:20
Read through the pre-orders... does the DIY ALPS kit come with keycaps and/or stabilizers, perchance?
I'd also appreciate an answer to this.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: jdcarpe on Thu, 10 March 2016, 14:54:28
Read through the pre-orders... does the DIY ALPS kit come with keycaps and/or stabilizers, perchance?
I'd also appreciate an answer to this.
Sorry, my focus has been on the group buy thread and not this older thread. I'll try to get the info merged there, although I believe the answer is already  found in the FAQ in the second post of the GB thread.

All DIY kits in the pre-order group buy include a CNC milled alu case, a PCB, and a color-matched alu switch plate. No switches or keycaps are included, since it is assumed that people who assemble their own keyboard will want to bring their own switches and keycaps.

As stabilizers are completely optional with the JD45, none are included in any package.
Title: Re: JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards
Post by: sean on Thu, 10 March 2016, 16:54:07
Read through the pre-orders... does the DIY ALPS kit come with keycaps and/or stabilizers, perchance?
I'd also appreciate an answer to this.
Sorry, my focus has been on the group buy thread and not this older thread. I'll try to get the info merged there, although I believe the answer is already  found in the FAQ in the second post of the GB thread.

All DIY kits in the pre-order group buy include a CNC milled alu case, a PCB, and a color-matched alu switch plate. No switches or keycaps are included, since it is assumed that people who assemble their own keyboard will want to bring their own switches and keycaps.

As stabilizers are completely optional with the JD45, none are included in any package.

Ah thanks, I should have looked for a GB thread. My bad!