Author Topic: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (plan update 2018-03-18, more features added)  (Read 17528 times)

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Offline ojrask

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UPDATE 2018-03-18

Enhancements to the original design.

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93474.msg2579168#msg2579168



UPDATE 2018-03-10

I have to postpone possible GB for now but this will allow me to put some more time into refining the design and features of the plate. Please see my update:

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93474.msg2574540#msg2574540



UPDATE 2018-02-18

IC FORM: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSerifYSszJi8dr86CNnbysPNOfLk4oN4Ma5I3BmA_gx4-n_xg/viewform?usp=sf_link

Currently looking like a single plate would cost 55-65 USD, depending on shipping destination. The price includes the plate, packing materials, and shipping to me and to you.

See more info on update and pricing at the bottom of the post. Also picture of proto in there.



I'm working on a metal plate for my G81-3000 to allow using MX switches in a handwire setup. Not sure what material I want to use but I think aluminum or steel is the best option. Brass would be nice but I guess it will be pricier. I am trying to make the plate work with the stock case as much as possible (e.g. require as little cutting of plastic as possible). I think the plate would work inside a G80-3000 case as well with no changes.

Would folks be interested in buying these plates via a GB or similar?

The plate is currently designed for my personal layout preferences, but I guess a more flexible layout design is possible if enough people are interested. Current design has

- WKL-ish bottom row (1.5u; 1u; 1.5u; 7u; 1.5u; 1u; 1.5u)
- Split right shift (1.75u; 1u)
- Split backspace (1u; 1u)
- Otherwise regular 104-style ANSI layout.

The plate supports plate mounted or PCB mounted Cherry stabilizers. I might add Costar support if enough people want it. I would prefer not to though, makes the plate more complicated from the looks of it.

You can find my DIY thread here: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93278.0

I'm quite certain that using a plate and PCB together in an unmodded G80/G81-3000 case is not possible, so it would either have to be a plate or then a PCB. If someone knows how to create a plate that supports putting a PCB under it with minor case mods I would really appreciate it.

I received a local laser cutter's quote and it was around 40€ a piece for around 50 orders, so I will be looking for some other providers for alternative prices (a single plate from the vendor was around 160€). I'm trying to get some 3D printer or just regular paper printer prototypes done soon.



UPDATE 2018-02-18

I have received a wooden prototype plate and made adjustments according to what I found when trying to install it. Now the design is final for my tastes. I will not be implementing a more universal layout as plate-mounting makes handling switch installation painful regarding alignment and so on, and you would most probably have trouble when changing caps and whatnot.

So the layout this plate support will be the following:

189071-0

The changes the case requires when using this plate are minor but there is possibly quite many small changes in order:

1. You need to carve out space for a switch for both vertical 2u switches and stabilizers,
2. You need to make small carveouts for wiring when doing columns and final wiring from the matrix to a controller,
3. You need to make a way to have the controller stick somewhere, so it does not shake around and get broken.

Here is a picture of the wooden prototype which I received:

189073-1

PRICING

I have received preliminary pricing for a small batch of plates. I will be ordering around 5 minimum regardless if anyone wants to join a GB or not, but the more the merrier.

I have aluminum and stainless steel available, but you would need to do things like anodizing yourself after you receive the plate.

Aluminum would be around 25 USD per plate, while stainless steel would be around 20 USD per plate. For all MOQs the plate price would be the same (unless we get super high in order quantities I presume). Shipping varies a bit between MOQs so I will have to verify the shipping costs to me (and later on to you).

For 10 aluminum plates the shipping to me would be 40 USD, while for 10 stainless steel plates the shipping would be 70 USD.

I need to verify shipping costs from the local postal service so I can calculate a price per plate and shipping properly for a GB. Presumably the shipping from Finland to EU is around 20 USD while from Finland to USA is around 30 USD.

I also need to check what tax laws I need to consider when organizing a GB. I think as I am not making a profit the laws are not as strict.

All in all expect the following pricing:

In a 5 plate GB when ordering from inside EU,
For a single aluminum plate you'd be paying 25USD + 40/5USD + 20USD = 53USD total
For a single stainless steel plate you'd be paying 20USD + 70/5USD + 20USD = 54USD total

In a 10 plate GB when ordering from inside EU,
For a single aluminum plate you'd be paying 25USD + 40/10USD + 20USD = 49USD total
For a single stainless steel plate you'd be paying 20USD + 70/10USD + 20USD = 47USD total

(In each add 10 USD to accomodate approximate shipping to USA and Asia.)

Packaging materials do cost a bit so I guess we are looking at around $60 per plate at 5 MOQ. $55ish at 10 MOQ I think. If we happen to get a large quantity of buyers I need to verify pricing for that.

I do not wish to get profit from a GB but only to offset costs and getting people stuff they might want.

The GB would be only for the raw metal plate, no kits or switches or screws or anything.
« Last Edit: Sun, 18 March 2018, 08:14:06 by ojrask »
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #1 on: Fri, 12 January 2018, 15:18:15 »
Made a paper prototype today to verify my measurements and design. Apart from a few minor details the plate should work now if produced properly. Will continue looking for a shop that can make a cheapish prototype.

Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #2 on: Sun, 14 January 2018, 07:23:58 »
I have been receiving some local offers on plate laser cutting for the current prototype:

1 plate: 90-200 euros for stainless steel, over that for aluminum.
20ish plates: 40-80 euros for stainless steel. Aluminum around the same.

Still waiting for more accurate offers from a few places.

A wooden prototype I could make happen at around 30-40 euros per plate, which is a hit I can easily take.

I also found a local laser cutting lab which allows cutting for just material costs but that one is limited to plastics only. Acrylic or ABS a bad choice? Also, this would mean more manual work for me.

Shipping from Finland with good packaging can cost 40 euros per shipment. Going to do checking on shipping services that make it easier to ship smaller packages.
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline TanHin

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #3 on: Sun, 14 January 2018, 07:28:56 »
I metal plate for G80-3000  ;D

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #4 on: Sun, 14 January 2018, 07:59:33 »
I metal plate for G80-3000  ;D

Right now the design would mean taking out the MX PCB in one, yes. I have a G81-3000 which is the main goal for this plate. :)
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #5 on: Mon, 15 January 2018, 05:05:07 »
I've received some more refined offers for cutting steel and aluminum plates with the current work in progress version. Steel seems to be cheaper so I need to clarify what type of steel the cutters are offering.

- 1 plate goes over 100 euros no matter what, because setup costs for machinery
- 10 plates go for around 40 euros
- 30 plates go between 20-30 euros

These might get a tad higher as the offers included machine time and material costs, not packaging and so on. These are also VAT 0 prices.

Still waiting for offers from a few shops.

I will be ordering a wooden proto plate this week and see if the plate design is OK to go. I still need to work out some details on the plate. It sits well and would right now require just cutting off the stock PCB/controller standoff legs in the case. I want to make holes for them in the plate to make the LED support area sturdier.
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline apejonk

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #6 on: Tue, 16 January 2018, 18:09:06 »
The G8x is such a beauty and a classic. Especially to me since it was my first mechanical keyboard. So it's very nice to see some love for it! Really hope this project makes it.
This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come. For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, stepped control users, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good, Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God; Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away. (2 Timothy 1:5)

Offline alienman82

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #7 on: Wed, 17 January 2018, 00:28:20 »
removed.
« Last Edit: Thu, 01 March 2018, 00:20:53 by alienman82 »

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #8 on: Wed, 17 January 2018, 07:14:54 »
I have been receiving some local offers on plate laser cutting for the current prototype:

1 plate: 90-200 euros for stainless steel, over that for aluminum.
20ish plates: 40-80 euros for stainless steel. Aluminum around the same.

Still waiting for more accurate offers from a few places.

A wooden prototype I could make happen at around 30-40 euros per plate, which is a hit I can easily take.

I also found a local laser cutting lab which allows cutting for just material costs but that one is limited to plastics only. Acrylic or ABS a bad choice? Also, this would mean more manual work for me.

Shipping from Finland with good packaging can cost 40 euros per shipment. Going to do checking on shipping services that make it easier to ship smaller packages.

you need to look elsewhere those prices are too high from my experience.

Yeah I've been trying to look for some alternatives still. The best offer I got was 20-30 per plate at 30 MOQ with a local lasercutter. I received a DM about a Chinese shop which I'm currently trying to check out.
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate
« Reply #9 on: Sat, 17 February 2018, 17:25:38 »
GOOD NEWS EVERYONE! I have finalized the design of the plate and it should be A-OK for a GB if anyone is interested. Please see the thread starting post for a bigger update and an IC Google form.

All in all a single plate would cost around 55-65 USD for you, depending on MOQ and where you live (shipping costs).
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline schmoktopus

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #10 on: Sun, 18 February 2018, 14:00:32 »
Have you thought of adding a pcb to that? From what i have heard the pcb in the g80 keyboards is very low quality. I just want to make sure that this project ends up clean for me without any unexpected frustration.

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #11 on: Sun, 18 February 2018, 15:06:01 »
Have you thought of adding a pcb to that? From what i have heard the pcb in the g80 keyboards is very low quality. I just want to make sure that this project ends up clean for me without any unexpected frustration.

From what I've searched and learned you would need to kinda redo the insides the of the case fit both a PCB and a plate in a "normal" setup (at least for the G81 model I have), so I will leave a PCB out from this IC/GB. TalkingTree has a GH80-3000 PCB project so maybe see how that works with this? This plate is mainly targeted at folks who want to do a handwire (like me). I have not owned a G80-3000 so would not know about the PCB it has.

This plate does support PCB mounted stabilizers if you'd manage to get it working. I am happy to consider making small adjustments to the plate if they help with a joined PCB installation. :)
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline TalkingTree

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #12 on: Sun, 18 February 2018, 16:00:07 »
From what I've searched and learned you would need to kinda redo the insides the of the case fit both a PCB and a plate in a "normal" setup
With the current design, you actually need to clip off all clamping bits of the top half to fit a plate, regardless of the PCB, because the plate has to stay on a higher level (5mm if I recall) than the PCB.

The image should explain better.
My opensource projects: GH80-3000, TOAD, XMMX. Classified: stuff

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #13 on: Sun, 18 February 2018, 16:14:45 »
From what I've searched and learned you would need to kinda redo the insides the of the case fit both a PCB and a plate in a "normal" setup
With the current design, you actually need to clip off all clamping bits of the top half to fit a plate, regardless of the PCB, because the plate has to stay on a higher level (5mm if I recall) than the PCB.

The image should explain better.
Show Image


Yeah. Right now the keycaps will sit a bit lower "than usual" without a case mod as you stated. I kinda like it but those who want to raise the plate with washers or similar need to do modding.

That or then I would have to find a way to make an offset plate that fits an unmodded case. :D
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline TalkingTree

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #14 on: Mon, 19 February 2018, 05:28:52 »
I would have to find a way to make an offset plate that fits an unmodded case.
You simply can't because the G80/G81 cases are made to accomodate PCBs alone, yet, you can cut slots in your plate to minimize the case modding.
My opensource projects: GH80-3000, TOAD, XMMX. Classified: stuff

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #15 on: Mon, 19 February 2018, 05:59:17 »
I would have to find a way to make an offset plate that fits an unmodded case.
You simply can't because the G80/G81 cases are made to accomodate PCBs alone, yet, you can cut slots in your plate to minimize the case modding.

Yeah, I have seen some designs that help with it as you mentioned. I will have to see if I could do something similar in the short order. More holes means less rigidity though, and I would prefer having a rigid board as the stock case on the 3000 is quite flimsy. :)
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #16 on: Fri, 23 February 2018, 05:49:54 »
IC form has received a whopping single response! :)

I guess I will start a GB with a guarantee of 5 stainless steel plates next month. Maybe do R2 later with a more universal plate design (or maybe a few different ones?) that could work with PCBs and higher installation heights. I will verify the pricing for plates, shipping, and packaging before GB starts. If there are not enough buyers for the 5 plates I will sell a few afterwards via classifieds or something.

I would like to keep the pricing at the current level and adding more cutouts to the design would increase costs from what I gather, also stainless steel is sturdier so I think it would work better for a full-size keyboard project (especially with the flimsy stock case of the G80/81-3000).

Please do make suggestions if those would make it easier for you to join the GB. If some suggestions are too broad or difficult to implement soonish then I will consider those for a R2. :)
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline TalkingTree

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #17 on: Fri, 23 February 2018, 07:03:57 »
Universal layout is surely the way to go. Also, removable numpad bit could work since many seem to be after TKLs.
My opensource projects: GH80-3000, TOAD, XMMX. Classified: stuff

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #18 on: Fri, 23 February 2018, 08:05:13 »
Universal layout is surely the way to go. Also, removable numpad bit could work since many seem to be after TKLs.

Having a super universal layout is difficult for setups with no PCBs as the switches either wobble or you need to do some gluing to keep them in place properly. The bottom row, for instance, is difficult to make universal for handwires as you might have really large switch holes that allow the switches to slide around. :)

Maybe for R2 and I will get a PCB myself also! :)

Good idea on the numpad thing, need to see how that would work.
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline Puddsy

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #19 on: Fri, 23 February 2018, 13:21:14 »
Universal layout is surely the way to go. Also, removable numpad bit could work since many seem to be after TKLs.

disagree, 3000 layout plate is needed for people who want to do custom layout 3000s with a plate

just allow it to be cut off easily and i think it's a good compromise
QFR | MJ2 TKL | "Bulgogiboard" (Keycon 104) | ctrl.alt x GON 60% | TGR Alice | Mira SE #29 | Mira SE #34 | Revo One | z | Keycult No. 1 | AIS65 | First CW87 prototype | Mech27v1 | Camp C225 | Duck Orion V1 | LZ CLS sxh | Geon Frog TKL | Hiney TKL One | Geon Glare TKL



"Everything is worse, but in a barely perceptible and indefinable way" -dollartacos, after I came back from a break | "Is Linkshine our Nixon?" -NAV | "Puddsy is the Puddsy of keebs" -ns90

Offline TalkingTree

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #20 on: Fri, 23 February 2018, 14:01:59 »
just allow it to be cut off easily and i think it's a good compromise
That's what I meant by removable.
My opensource projects: GH80-3000, TOAD, XMMX. Classified: stuff

Offline Puddsy

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #21 on: Fri, 23 February 2018, 14:45:22 »
just allow it to be cut off easily and i think it's a good compromise
That's what I meant by removable.

whoops, glossed over that, my bad
QFR | MJ2 TKL | "Bulgogiboard" (Keycon 104) | ctrl.alt x GON 60% | TGR Alice | Mira SE #29 | Mira SE #34 | Revo One | z | Keycult No. 1 | AIS65 | First CW87 prototype | Mech27v1 | Camp C225 | Duck Orion V1 | LZ CLS sxh | Geon Frog TKL | Hiney TKL One | Geon Glare TKL



"Everything is worse, but in a barely perceptible and indefinable way" -dollartacos, after I came back from a break | "Is Linkshine our Nixon?" -NAV | "Puddsy is the Puddsy of keebs" -ns90

Offline bowlofmayo

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #22 on: Tue, 27 February 2018, 13:39:31 »
dang, if this could somehow be ISO compatible I'd probably buy multiple. Crossing my fingers for R2  :)

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #23 on: Tue, 27 February 2018, 14:00:10 »
dang, if this could somehow be ISO compatible I'd probably buy multiple. Crossing my fingers for R2  :)

Yeah, sorry about that. Will try to see if platemount setups allow both ISO and ANSI somehow, otherwise may have to provide two plate designs. Hopefully a R2 will be of use to you. :)
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline ojrask

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Re: [IC] G80/81-3000 MX metal plate (proto and pricing update 2018-02-18)
« Reply #24 on: Sat, 10 March 2018, 09:23:51 »
Hello folks!

Good and bad news:

BAD: I'm too busy to organize a GB for this right now so I will have to postpone it for a while (1-2 months?).

GOOD: This postponing allows me to integrate wanted features to the plate that would otherwise be implemented in an R2! This means the plate should work better with a PCB and would have less case-modding in order to fit with a PCB. I will have to reference some PCB implementation a bit and see how to fit it together. Who knows, maybe the GB will contain both a plate and a PCB!

Even if you intend not to use a PCB the changes allow you to install the plate higher than with the current setup, meaning the keycaps will be able to sit on the "normal" plate height in the case.

Additionally, I will have the time to attempt and make the layout more universal on the plate. ISO and ANSI on the same one may be difficult as I intend to keep the plate hand wirable. Will have to see how it works out. I will probably do some layout mockups and see what layouts interest folks the most. Maybe I will do a PCB-only plate which allows all kinds of layouts and a hand wire-only plate for my personal preferences.

I have decided to go stainless steel for the first GB. Fewer options mean fewer things to mess up while organizing. Maybe other materials later on.

A detachable numpad was requested and I will see how this would work best without making the plate floppy or breaking prone.

What I would like to see: the innards of an older G81/80-3000 without a PCB/plate installed. This would be the older models with a WKL layout and WKL blockers. I currently only have the 2000s G81-3000 case at hand for measurements and I would like to make sure the plate works with the older models as well.

Thanks. Please let me know if you have ideas to make the plate more desireable.
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate

Offline ojrask

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  • Posts: 354
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Progress!

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=93278.msg2579167#msg2579167

I've incorporated some of the wishes and wants and ideas to the design now:

1. Better installation with less case modding in order
2. Can be installed higher, meaning it should support PCBs as well
3. General tweaks

To be done:

Separate plates for an opinionated plate mount design (current design) and a more universal PCB mount design. The PCB mount version would support popular bottom rows (no split spaces), ISO and ANSI, and HHKBish layouts.
Current:
    Ducky DK9008P [MX Blues] | WASD V2 TKL [MX Blues] | r63 (Satan 60% DIY) [Gateron Browns] | BananaSplit 60% [Gateron Greens] | UK78 [67g Zealios] | Infinity ErgoDox [MX Clears] | Pearl 40% [78g Zealios] | G81-3000
Coming up:
    DZ60/SKB60-WKL [100g MX Silent Blacks] | G81-3000 [Box Navies] Handwire
IC/GB:
    GMK Strogg | G81/80-3000 MX metal plate