Data: I agree with you, a full matrix layout would be ideal. :thumb: Your layouts look great, except I'd move your shift row one key to the left to keep standard fingering. And eliminate the gap between the number row and the F row. I agree my layout is not ideal from a visual standpoint. I was trying to maximize production feasibility by minimizing the change points to a current model: same housing and components with a new PCB and a new backplate. Even if someone wanted a custom set of key caps, only the three yellow keys would be in addition to a standard 104-key set. And all three yellow key shapes are typical for their rows (1x1 in R4 and R3, 1x1.25 in R1). Your two layouts are one column narrower than the typical 104-key, and as you pointed out would require many custom keys.
Having used the Atomic layout for a couple of months, I can confidently say the only thing I miss is a nice fat left shift. I left-shift a lot, and that key is just too small on the Atomic/Planck. Plus if that row does move left one column to line up the alphas it would give you a 3u right shift -- that's just silly. So that's kind of why I put the 2, 2u shifts where they are... among other reasons.
Behold the glory of a true full size ortholinear keyboardShow Image(https://www.keychatter.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/03/keychatter_2015-03-27_11-47-07.jpg)
It would be interesting to see if you could either fit a semblance of a standard bottom row on, or mess with it to accommodate a keycap set plank kit. It would be a huge plus to easily put aftermarket cap sets on this.
tho I would MUCH prefer to involve the JackHumbert / Ortholinear Keyboard project.I agree, he's a great guy to work with so if he has the means to pull off something like this that shouldn't be a problem.
tho I would MUCH prefer to involve the JackHumbert / Ortholinear Keyboard project.