JD45 Keyboard by Carpe Keyboards

[appleonama]

"Alright, Mr. Demille. I'm ready for my close-up."

Show Image

large font on the keycap makes me feel uncomfortable  :confused:

[Wilba]

i think this board needs a 2 piece case like the one i'm working on

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
(I have the mad skillz but no CNC )

[mrbishop]

i think this board needs a 2 piece case like the one i'm working on

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
(I have the mad skillz but no CNC )

I'm game.

[jdcarpe]

...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.

[iamtootallforthis]

...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!

[mrbishop]

Really cool stuff

[dougp]

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.

[Wilba]

Wilba has been my (mostly silent) partner in making the JD45 what it is today, and for that I owe him huge thanks.

[joey]

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)

)

[chromatically]

...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!

[osi]

This is exciting. Hopefully I will be able to join in!

[nickheller]

Can't wait for this!!!

[jdcarpe]

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.

[LeandreN]

This is great news JD!

[romevi]

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.

[nickheller]

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  )

[HoffmanMyster]

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

HYPE TRAIN

[jdcarpe]

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

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.

[joey]

Congrats jdcarpe! Very cool to pair up with TEX!

[iamtootallforthis]

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

HYPE TRAIN

Now I need to get that higher case!

[justinyhuang]

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.

[jdcarpe]

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.

[SpAmRaY]

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.

[byker]

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!

[MOZ]

...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:

[Vimto]

where do we order??

[jdcarpe]

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.

[shem]

I wonder what the glorious retro grey keycaps were in the original Twitter sneak peek and if it's possible to get them somewhere.

[toidbb]

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.

[jdcarpe]

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.

[toidbb]

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.

[shem]

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.

[jdcarpe]

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.

[vivalarevolución]

...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!

[jdcarpe]

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.

[romevi]

IT'S ALMOST HERE!

[whmeltonjr]

Anybody want to give me $240 so I can get the HHKB layout?

[swill]

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

[dgdosen]

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?

[sean]

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.

[jdcarpe]

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.

[dgdosen]

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...

[jdcarpe]

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!

[justinyhuang]

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 

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.

[funderburker]

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.

[cr0n1c]

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.

[jdcarpe]

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

[cr0n1c]

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.

[00zeRO]

+1

I want one!

[jdcarpe]

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