Post by: Esheu2 on Tue, 23 July 2019, 08:18:57
I have decided to retire this project
More
Hey guys! I would like to present to all of you a project that I have been working on for the past couple of months.
Because this is the first board that I have brought to the public eye, I decided to name it after the first letter in the Greek alphabet.
(https://imgur.com/dLkc4tq.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/D10mnvD.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/lEL24fb.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/MmnzbqJ.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/QzMpCYh.jpg)
Wolf art on the weight because I like wolves.
Fun fact: The idea that the alpha in a wolf pack is the strongest and commands submission from its pack is a misconception. The wolves in charge of packs are usually just the oldest and most experienced of the pack.
Details
I chose to go with a relatively low typing angle at 6.5 degrees and front lip height of 17mm for my own comfort. I have found that my preferred range for typing angles is between 5 degrees and 7.5 degrees.
Any lower feels awkward. Any higher results in strain on my wrists. Similarly, a typing height of over 20mm results in my wrists losing contact with my desk, forcing me to keep my hands floating. I find this tiring so I made the typing height as low as possible.
I decided to use Poron for the gaskets for its damping qualities.
Supported Layouts
(https://i.imgur.com/falPGzC.png)
First and foremost, I designed the Alpha65 and its layout around what I find the most aesthetically pleasing and functionally suitable for my own use case. As such, it will feature a forced Tsangan bottom row. The board will support standard and stepped Caps Lock as well as standard and split backspace options.
The original design I had made almost two years ago called for a Winkeyless bottom row. But as time moved on, so had my tastes. I no longer like the aesthetics of WKL bottom row on 65% boards. As such, I got rid of that option to simplify logistics.
The reason that I will not be supporting more layouts is that I want to avoid having a swiss cheese PCB and plate. A (mostly) fixed layout will avoid crooked keys and provide a better typing experience. So please do not ask me for ISO, standard bottom row, or support for whatever else.
Plate
(https://i.imgur.com/gBcHR9i.png)
The plate will be the standard 1.5mm thickness. I have placed relief cuts around the larger keys for a more consistent typing feel.
There will be a few choices for plate material:
Instead, there will only be plates made from composite materials and plastic. These are materials that have more lively typing feels and are balanced by the damping characteristics of the Poron gaskets.
The FR4 plate option will be perforated to allow it to be easily half plated it if desired:
(https://imgur.com/yiJTWXF.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/NLsTmSw.jpg)
Colors
A preliminary list of colors:
PCB
(https://imgur.com/VU2InGJ.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/yMFPEdc.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/6jHLv9M.jpg)
This beauty was designed by Trifelife. It has the following features:
Click for pictures and videos of older revision:
(https://i.imgur.com/mryYYq1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GcAZQKW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DWy8r3F.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2WyOkZB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cPvFxqr.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/TGp7fHH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SM0wkkl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fQW4DaH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZJTEwaT.jpg)
More pictures in the build log: https://imgur.com/a/bXkVIVn (https://imgur.com/a/bXkVIVn)
Click below for old specs and information:
FAQ
Q: Any ISO avail?
A: No
Q: Can you switch the alpha symbol and the wolf art so that the wolf is on the badge and the alpha is on the weight?
A: This is not possible. The badge is too small for something as detailed as the wolf to be properly machined into it.
Q: Even blockers pls?
A: No
Because this is the first board that I have brought to the public eye, I decided to name it after the first letter in the Greek alphabet.
(https://imgur.com/dLkc4tq.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/D10mnvD.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/lEL24fb.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/MmnzbqJ.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/QzMpCYh.jpg)
Wolf art on the weight because I like wolves.
Fun fact: The idea that the alpha in a wolf pack is the strongest and commands submission from its pack is a misconception. The wolves in charge of packs are usually just the oldest and most experienced of the pack.
Details
- Isolated Gasket Mount
- Anodized 5052 Aluminum for the Top and Bottom Case
- Sandblasted Brass Weight and Badge
- 6.5 Degree Typing Angle
- 17mm Front Typing Height
- Centered USB-C daughterboard
- QMK/VIA compatible PCB
- Pricing: TBA
I chose to go with a relatively low typing angle at 6.5 degrees and front lip height of 17mm for my own comfort. I have found that my preferred range for typing angles is between 5 degrees and 7.5 degrees.
Any lower feels awkward. Any higher results in strain on my wrists. Similarly, a typing height of over 20mm results in my wrists losing contact with my desk, forcing me to keep my hands floating. I find this tiring so I made the typing height as low as possible.
I decided to use Poron for the gaskets for its damping qualities.
Supported Layouts
(https://i.imgur.com/falPGzC.png)
First and foremost, I designed the Alpha65 and its layout around what I find the most aesthetically pleasing and functionally suitable for my own use case. As such, it will feature a forced Tsangan bottom row. The board will support standard and stepped Caps Lock as well as standard and split backspace options.
The original design I had made almost two years ago called for a Winkeyless bottom row. But as time moved on, so had my tastes. I no longer like the aesthetics of WKL bottom row on 65% boards. As such, I got rid of that option to simplify logistics.
The reason that I will not be supporting more layouts is that I want to avoid having a swiss cheese PCB and plate. A (mostly) fixed layout will avoid crooked keys and provide a better typing experience. So please do not ask me for ISO, standard bottom row, or support for whatever else.
Plate
(https://i.imgur.com/gBcHR9i.png)
The plate will be the standard 1.5mm thickness. I have placed relief cuts around the larger keys for a more consistent typing feel.
There will be a few choices for plate material:
- Carbon Fiber
- FR4
- POM
Instead, there will only be plates made from composite materials and plastic. These are materials that have more lively typing feels and are balanced by the damping characteristics of the Poron gaskets.
The FR4 plate option will be perforated to allow it to be easily half plated it if desired:
(https://imgur.com/yiJTWXF.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/NLsTmSw.jpg)
Colors
A preliminary list of colors:
- Black
- Burgundy
- Navy
PCB
(https://imgur.com/VU2InGJ.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/yMFPEdc.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/6jHLv9M.jpg)
This beauty was designed by Trifelife. It has the following features:
- QMK and VIA Compatibility
- ESD Protection
- Universal Daughterboard
Click for pictures and videos of older revision:
More
(https://i.imgur.com/mryYYq1.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/GcAZQKW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/DWy8r3F.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/2WyOkZB.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/cPvFxqr.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/TGp7fHH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SM0wkkl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/fQW4DaH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZJTEwaT.jpg)
More pictures in the build log: https://imgur.com/a/bXkVIVn (https://imgur.com/a/bXkVIVn)
Click below for old specs and information:
More
Details
I chose to go with a relatively low typing angle at 6.5 degrees and front lip height of 16.5mm for my own comfort. I have found that my preferred range for typing angles is between 5 degrees and 7.5 degrees.
Any lower feels awkward. Any higher results in strain on my wrists. Similarly, a typing height of over 20mm results in my wrists losing contact with my desk, forcing me to keep my hands floating. I find this tiring so I made the typing height as low as possible.
I have not yet decided on the material that I will use for the gaskets, but I have narrowed down my choices to two options:
I am currently leaning towards Polyurethane. I have decided to use Poron for the gaskets for its superior dampening qualities compared to silicone.
Supported Layouts
(https://i.imgur.com/yPkLjto.png)
First and foremost, I designed the Alpha65 and its layout around what I find the most aesthetically pleasing and functionally suitable for my own use case. As such, it will feature a winkeyless bottom row.
The board will support standard and stepped Caps Lock as well as standard and split backspace options.
I am not yet entirely sure whether or not I will have a winkey version, but if I do, it will be a Tsangan-style bottom row. WinKey will be an option.
The reason that I will not be supporting more layouts is that I want to avoid having a swiss cheese PCB and plate. A (mostly) fixed layout should avoid crooked keys and provide a better typing experience.
Plate
(https://i.imgur.com/gBcHR9i.png)
The plate will be the standard 1.5mm thickness. I have placed relief cuts around the larger keys for a more consistent typing feel.
There will be a few choices for plate material:
Colors
A preliminary list of colors:
Prototype Pictures
(https://imgur.com/RRLrtOK.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/7N15RGf.jpg)
- Isolated Gasket Mount
- Anodized 6063 Aluminum for the Top and Bottom Case
- Sandblasted Brass Weight and Badge
- 6.5 Degree Typing Angle
- 16.5mm Front Typing Height
- Centered USB-C connector
- PCB Compatible With QMK
- Pricing: most likely mid-$300's (tentative estimate)
I chose to go with a relatively low typing angle at 6.5 degrees and front lip height of 16.5mm for my own comfort. I have found that my preferred range for typing angles is between 5 degrees and 7.5 degrees.
Any lower feels awkward. Any higher results in strain on my wrists. Similarly, a typing height of over 20mm results in my wrists losing contact with my desk, forcing me to keep my hands floating. I find this tiring so I made the typing height as low as possible.
I have not yet decided on the material that I will use for the gaskets, but I have narrowed down my choices to two options:
- Polyurethane (like Poron)
Silicone
Supported Layouts
(https://i.imgur.com/yPkLjto.png)
First and foremost, I designed the Alpha65 and its layout around what I find the most aesthetically pleasing and functionally suitable for my own use case. As such, it will feature a winkeyless bottom row.
The board will support standard and stepped Caps Lock as well as standard and split backspace options.
The reason that I will not be supporting more layouts is that I want to avoid having a swiss cheese PCB and plate. A (mostly) fixed layout should avoid crooked keys and provide a better typing experience.
Plate
(https://i.imgur.com/gBcHR9i.png)
The plate will be the standard 1.5mm thickness. I have placed relief cuts around the larger keys for a more consistent typing feel.
There will be a few choices for plate material:
- Aluminum
- Brass
- POM Plastic
Colors
A preliminary list of colors:
- Dark Gray
- Red
- Blue Gray
- Pink
Prototype Pictures
(https://imgur.com/RRLrtOK.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/7N15RGf.jpg)
FAQ
Q: Any ISO avail?
A: No
Q: Can you switch the alpha symbol and the wolf art so that the wolf is on the badge and the alpha is on the weight?
A: This is not possible. The badge is too small for something as detailed as the wolf to be properly machined into it.
Q: Even blockers pls?
A: No
More Information and Updates
The best place to contact me about information and updates regarding this board will be on Discord
Discord Server Invite: https://discord.gg/pYVsseU (https://discord.gg/pYVsseU)
Post by: zekkin on Tue, 23 July 2019, 08:27:08
One thing you might want to be careful of is that side profile/giant fillet -- it may be not practical to actually machine.
Post by: SolidCactus on Tue, 23 July 2019, 08:28:40
Post by: rrsurmeier on Tue, 23 July 2019, 08:29:35
Post by: Esheu2 on Tue, 23 July 2019, 08:36:21
Hey man, cool design.
One thing you might want to be careful of is that side profile/giant fillet -- it may be not practical to actually machine.
Thanks! The manufacturer that I've been talking to has said that it shouldn't be an issue. So, hopefully it's ok.
Post by: kidpid on Tue, 23 July 2019, 08:53:17
Post by: trg1234 on Tue, 23 July 2019, 09:02:55
Post by: KTM25 on Tue, 23 July 2019, 09:17:56
Post by: toastyAU on Tue, 23 July 2019, 09:40:52
Please run this gb not for a few months now
I need time to save upSent from my SM-G973F using Tapatalk
Post by: evorus5 on Tue, 23 July 2019, 09:47:16
Post by: tunadesu on Tue, 23 July 2019, 09:50:31
Post by: nguyenhimself on Tue, 23 July 2019, 10:01:28
Post by: Marutks on Tue, 23 July 2019, 10:03:53
Post by: skrunk on Tue, 23 July 2019, 10:18:01
Post by: Vov on Tue, 23 July 2019, 10:20:38
Post by: ramblinrose on Tue, 23 July 2019, 11:43:06
Post by: probablyautistic on Tue, 23 July 2019, 12:50:49
Post by: Marutks on Tue, 23 July 2019, 14:29:13
Complaints from ISO people coming in 3, 2, 1...
LOL I don't want ISO and I hate "universal" plates with huge cutouts to accomodate ISO enter.
Post by: Cresc3nt on Tue, 23 July 2019, 16:02:43
Post by: Esheu2 on Tue, 23 July 2019, 17:13:39
We need iso support.
Sorry boys, probably no ISO avail.
Nice nice nice, any chance on Polycarb?
I want to keep the number of options for this board low so that I don't have to deal with the logistical nightmare of a Group Buy with a bunch of options.
HOWEVER, I will be open sourcing the plate files. So you can get a PC plate made if you want.
Add in white please :D. That red looks amazing in the render though and I've never been interested in red boards.
I am by no means an expert, but I believe that white anodized aluminum is not actually possible to make. Sorry!
Interested in a WinKey version.
Seems like a bunch of people want winkey. I'll probably get around to making a winkey top later this week.
Post by: Vadurr on Tue, 23 July 2019, 20:15:32
Post by: supernova on Tue, 23 July 2019, 23:49:07
Post by: DT.Heart on Tue, 23 July 2019, 23:53:37
Post by: endler3117 on Wed, 24 July 2019, 00:18:40
Post by: papa on Wed, 24 July 2019, 00:59:26
Post by: coffeeshopcoder on Wed, 24 July 2019, 01:43:51
Two questions :
- are you planning on any leds on the side ( above the curve on the bottom piece ) like fusion 60? Would be dope,
- is this going to be a limited gb ?
Post by: JSaintS on Wed, 24 July 2019, 02:42:10
Edit: I like the board how it is, and I like the logo - my only change (except for the WK) would be to make the logo differently, as it is, I feel the inside of the alpha letter should be the same color as the board, if possible. If not, I'm happy with the way it looks :)
Post by: papa on Wed, 24 July 2019, 09:27:30
Fox lab leaf ？https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=99002.0 fox lab leaf 60
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=97011.0 fox lab leaf 80
Nice copy :thumb:
Post by: Vireca on Wed, 24 July 2019, 10:38:13
Post by: Rob27shred on Wed, 24 July 2019, 11:53:35
Post by: courtcodes on Wed, 24 July 2019, 15:14:29
Tooooo many awesome keebs being designed!
Post by: Esheu2 on Thu, 25 July 2019, 15:29:32
Very nice & right up my alley! The main layout is exactly how I am gonna be setting up my E6.5, WKL with split BS & stepped caps. The design with those fillets on the sides is very striking & attractive to me so I hope that can be done as rendered. The only change I'd make is to have the howling wolf symbol on the top of the case & the Greek alpha letter on the brass weight. Awesome work here sir!
OOOOOF. Any chance for a sick wolf logo option on the top where the 'a' is? O.O
This won't be happening. The badge is too small for something as detailed as the wolf art to be machined. I already had to make some changes to make it feasibly machinable on the weight.
In other news, I've made the winkey top in fusion360. I'll try to make some renders and post them later.
Post by: Ljit0 on Thu, 25 July 2019, 19:54:28
Post by: Slimjim095 on Thu, 25 July 2019, 20:53:43
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Post by: ÐREAÐ on Fri, 26 July 2019, 03:37:23
Post by: Esheu2 on Sat, 27 July 2019, 15:07:39
Post by: bobgr8 on Mon, 29 July 2019, 17:08:50
Post by: Ljit0 on Thu, 08 August 2019, 23:41:16
If you can price this below $300, it would be an insta buy, else I'm going for Polaris @265 shippedIf he goes with a good factory it would be literally impossible to make it below 300, even the designer of Polaris doesn't have faith that all the boards will come out well.
Post by: Asai on Fri, 09 August 2019, 02:55:52
[...] even the designer of Polaris doesn't have faith that all the boards will come out well.Really? Can't seem to find that part of him saying that (or am I just not attentive in the forums?) :))
Post by: SoraNoTenshi on Fri, 09 August 2019, 03:26:14
Post by: Esheu2 on Fri, 09 August 2019, 05:16:46
If you can price this below $300, it would be an insta buy, else I'm going for Polaris @265 shipped
Polaris is able to hit that price point because it leverages the high quantity price breaks that KBDFans is able to hit.
This board would likely be a limited quantity run to make it easier on myself. As such, it would be unlikely that the price would be below $300.
I am VERY TENTATIVELY estimating a price in the mid-300's.
Post by: SoraNoTenshi on Fri, 09 August 2019, 07:20:46
If you can price this below $300, it would be an insta buy, else I'm going for Polaris @265 shipped
Polaris is able to hit that price point because it leverages the high quantity price breaks that KBDFans is able to hit.
This board would likely be a limited quantity run to make it easier on myself. As such, it would be unlikely that the price would be below $300.
I am VERY TENTATIVELY estimating a price in the mid-300's.
Will there be any Proxies? Do you know something about that already ?
because shipping to eu + eu taxes would estimate the total price (if 350$) to about ~440$ which is not favourable... i guess.
Post by: Esheu2 on Mon, 12 August 2019, 06:18:39
If you can price this below $300, it would be an insta buy, else I'm going for Polaris @265 shipped
Polaris is able to hit that price point because it leverages the high quantity price breaks that KBDFans is able to hit.
This board would likely be a limited quantity run to make it easier on myself. As such, it would be unlikely that the price would be below $300.
I am VERY TENTATIVELY estimating a price in the mid-300's.
Will there be any Proxies? Do you know something about that already ?
because shipping to eu + eu taxes would estimate the total price (if 350$) to about ~440$ which is not favourable... i guess.
More likely than not, I will be fulfilling this by myself (assuming this goes to GB phase). Though, the GB would still be quite a ways off, so anything can happen.
Post by: SoraNoTenshi on Mon, 12 August 2019, 07:15:16
I am none the less interested in this keyboard, it looks very appealing!
Post by: Jetstream on Mon, 12 August 2019, 18:10:37
Post by: Esheu2 on Wed, 14 August 2019, 05:04:04
Post by: Zeldris23 on Thu, 15 August 2019, 21:27:46
Post by: ilemondrop on Thu, 15 August 2019, 21:38:47
Post by: Esheu2 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 05:41:23
(https://imgur.com/RRLrtOK.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/7N15RGf.jpg)
The pink is a tad darker than I had anticipated and the red has more of an orange hue than I wanted. Though this may also be affected by a combination of lighting and camera quality. I might ask him to anodize small blocks of alu for color matching and testing from now on.
Still, the machining and finishing looks good. I'll reserve ultimate judgement for when I have the boards in my hands.
Note: That blue board is not an Alpha65 prototype. It seems to be the dude's own board. Thus, it is also not indicative of what the blue gray might look like.
Post by: lush_bunny on Thu, 22 August 2019, 05:48:31
My manu sent me some proto pics!Show Image(https://imgur.com/RRLrtOK.jpg)Show Image(https://imgur.com/7N15RGf.jpg)
The pink is a tad darker than I had anticipated and the red has more of an orange hue than I wanted. Though this may also be affected by a combination of lighting and camera quality. I might ask him to anodize small blocks of alu for color matching and testing from now on.
Still, the machining and finishing looks good. I'll reserve ultimate judgement for when I have the boards in my hands.
Note: That blue board is not a prototype. It seems to be the dude's own board. Thus, it is also not indicative of what the blue gray might look like.
Love seeing progress on this. I’m eyeing the dark red board, so I hope the manu gets the colors you envisioned next time.
Post by: flying1911 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 06:00:04
Post by: Esheu2 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 06:35:54
Any chance the alpha logo will be rethought? It doesn't have to be anything complex like a wolf, I'd just love something a bit more refined and aesthetically pleasing. Everything else is great.
If you all throw some ideas my way and I see enough support for a logo change, it might happen. Heavy emphasis on might though.
Post by: SUB01 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 07:27:31
Post by: Esheu2 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 10:29:19
I think the alpha looks pretty... alpha. lol. However, I think you might want to consider centering the alpha logo in the top right "square." That off center-ness is kinda bugging me a little bit. Its not like the kyuu logo where its big enough for it to still kinda fill the space.
As it is now, the logo is centered on the blocker where a keycap would normally be. I have tried "centering" it more to the entirety of the square that includes the bezels before, however it looked off since it encroached on the bezels and broke the continuity of having even bezels all around. Perhaps I'll try making the logo larger to take up more room.
Post by: hessianlobo on Thu, 22 August 2019, 11:02:43
Post by: lush_bunny on Thu, 22 August 2019, 11:13:23
I think the alpha looks pretty... alpha. lol. However, I think you might want to consider centering the alpha logo in the top right "square." That off center-ness is kinda bugging me a little bit. Its not like the kyuu logo where its big enough for it to still kinda fill the space.
As it is now, the logo is centered on the blocker where a keycap would normally be. I have tried "centering" it more to the entirety of the square that includes the bezels before, however it looked off since it encroached on the bezels and broke the continuity of having even bezels all around. Perhaps I'll try making the logo larger to take up more room.
I may be in the minority here, but I for one really like the pisces i mean alpha logo as it is.
Post by: Esheu2 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 12:55:26
Have you decided the pricing ? ;D
Oops. I'll add that to the main post. I'm estimating in the mid-$300's.
Post by: trg1234 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 14:25:59
Post by: hessianlobo on Thu, 22 August 2019, 19:36:14
Ok. Happy to hear itHave you decided the pricing ? ;D
Oops. I'll add that to the main post. I'm estimating in the mid-$300's.
Post by: lush_bunny on Thu, 22 August 2019, 20:25:58
Post by: Esheu2 on Thu, 22 August 2019, 23:09:43
On the pink proto pic i noticed that the alpha symbol is silver? Is that just the lighting or is that a new option?
I think that was just an alu place holder while he was waiting on the brass. If you guys are interested in other colors for the alpha logo, let me know (these color options would be in anodized aluminum though).
I prefer having my winkey, but if you’re set on winkeyless, will you consider making the blockers evenly sized? I’m guessing the Right Alt has to be smaller. But if that doesn’t work, then I’m praying for Tsangan to pull through.
WinKey is a yes. Even blockers is a no. I will update the main post to reflect this.
Post by: lush_bunny on Thu, 22 August 2019, 23:34:35
On the pink proto pic i noticed that the alpha symbol is silver? Is that just the lighting or is that a new option?
I think that was just an alu place holder while he was waiting on the brass. If you guys are interested in other colors for the alpha logo, let me know.I prefer having my winkey, but if you’re set on winkeyless, will you consider making the blockers evenly sized? I’m guessing the Right Alt has to be smaller. But if that doesn’t work, then I’m praying for Tsangan to pull through.
WinKey is a yes. Even blockers is a no. I will update the main post to reflect this.
Thanks boss. Will you be doing a build video?
Post by: Esheu2 on Fri, 23 August 2019, 01:41:19
On the pink proto pic i noticed that the alpha symbol is silver? Is that just the lighting or is that a new option?
I think that was just an alu place holder while he was waiting on the brass. If you guys are interested in other colors for the alpha logo, let me know.I prefer having my winkey, but if you’re set on winkeyless, will you consider making the blockers evenly sized? I’m guessing the Right Alt has to be smaller. But if that doesn’t work, then I’m praying for Tsangan to pull through.
WinKey is a yes. Even blockers is a no. I will update the main post to reflect this.
Thanks boss. Will you be doing a build video?
No build video. I'll document the build with pictures and provide a typing video when it's all done though.
Post by: coffeeshopcoder on Sun, 25 August 2019, 01:30:53
Any plans to offer a black ano version ?
Or a powder coat/electrophoresis white with matte black PVD weights ?
Post by: toastyAU on Sun, 25 August 2019, 05:33:59
My manu sent me some proto pics!Show Image(https://imgur.com/RRLrtOK.jpg)Show Image(https://imgur.com/7N15RGf.jpg)
The pink is a tad darker than I had anticipated and the red has more of an orange hue than I wanted. Though this may also be affected by a combination of lighting and camera quality. I might ask him to anodize small blocks of alu for color matching and testing from now on.
Still, the machining and finishing looks good. I'll reserve ultimate judgement for when I have the boards in my hands.
Note: That blue board is not an Alpha65 prototype. It seems to be the dude's own board. Thus, it is also not indicative of what the blue gray might look like.
man, that looks wild in person. do you have any rough idea of when you might be looking at a gb?
Post by: Esheu2 on Sun, 25 August 2019, 07:10:57
My manu sent me some proto pics!Show Image(https://imgur.com/RRLrtOK.jpg)Show Image(https://imgur.com/7N15RGf.jpg)
The pink is a tad darker than I had anticipated and the red has more of an orange hue than I wanted. Though this may also be affected by a combination of lighting and camera quality. I might ask him to anodize small blocks of alu for color matching and testing from now on.
Still, the machining and finishing looks good. I'll reserve ultimate judgement for when I have the boards in my hands.
Note: That blue board is not an Alpha65 prototype. It seems to be the dude's own board. Thus, it is also not indicative of what the blue gray might look like.
man, that looks wild in person. do you have any rough idea of when you might be looking at a gb?
My manufacturer is busy at the moment, so I will have to work around their schedule. I would probably guess late Q4? I'll provide updates on that.
I think I might pass up on the Polaris for this.
Any plans to offer a black ano version ?
Or a powder coat/electrophoresis white with matte black PVD weights ?
Well, I would probably only offer either black or dark gray. I'm personally more in favor of dark gray because... I have too many black boards right now hahaha. If there's some kind of overwhelming interest in black, then I'll relent.
As for other case/weight finishing options, for this run, I would like to steer clear from them. From what I have seen in other GB's, e-coating tends to have consistency and quality issues. I want to keep headaches for my first project to a minimum. As for powder coating, it is more expensive and I am trying to maintain a sub-$400 price point.
The brass pieces will either be
- sandblasted + clear coated
- raw sandblasted (some people like patina)
Again, I just want to keep things relatively simple and limit any potential points at which issues might arise.
Post by: FredBananaz on Mon, 26 August 2019, 07:27:29
Post by: TheMnBN on Mon, 26 August 2019, 09:13:43
Not sure if this has been asked but how limited will this buy be?
Post by: Esheu2 on Mon, 26 August 2019, 13:17:09
Top right blocker, WKL blocker and low front profile really make this board a must-buy for me. Hope the prototyping phase went smoothly! :thumb:
Not sure if this has been asked but how limited will this buy be?
Not 100% yet, but I am imagining 40 + an extras sale at the end of everything.
Post by: lush_bunny on Mon, 26 August 2019, 16:31:59
Not 100% yet, but I am imagining 40 + an extras sale at the end of everything.
I want to be 1/40. Fingers crossed.
Post by: trg1234 on Mon, 26 August 2019, 18:21:24
Also would it be possible to take a clearer pic of the prototypes side I kind of want to see it clearly.
Post by: toastyAU on Mon, 26 August 2019, 19:23:22
My manufacturer is busy at the moment, so I will have to work around their schedule. I would probably guess late Q4? I'll provide updates on that.
Ah, sick. That gives me more time to save up haha, I've got a lot coming up, and I'm really hoping to squeeze this in towards the end of the year!
Not 100% yet, but I am imagining 40 + an extras sale at the end of everything.
Do you have any inkling of whether you want this to be fcfs, or if you want it to be a raffle? Oh, and on your debate with a logo change, I personally think it's pretty much perfect as is. It's grown on me a ton since the IC was first posted
Post by: Esheu2 on Tue, 27 August 2019, 02:50:31
My manufacturer is busy at the moment, so I will have to work around their schedule. I would probably guess late Q4? I'll provide updates on that.
Ah, sick. That gives me more time to save up haha, I've got a lot coming up, and I'm really hoping to squeeze this in towards the end of the year!
Not 100% yet, but I am imagining 40 + an extras sale at the end of everything.
Do you have any inkling of whether you want this to be fcfs, or if you want it to be a raffle? Oh, and on your debate with a logo change, I personally think it's pretty much perfect as is. It's grown on me a ton since the IC was first posted
Probably fcfs.
Is there a possible discord server or something of the like if so pls pm me the invite.
Also would it be possible to take a clearer pic of the prototypes side I kind of want to see it clearly.
Ah, well I currently have a server with just me where I post reminders for myself haha. I'll think about making it public.
The prototypes are already in transit to me so I can't ask him for more pictures. I'll definitely take more pictures when I get them in my hands.
Post by: Esheu2 on Tue, 27 August 2019, 18:36:04
Post by: clegmir on Tue, 03 September 2019, 15:47:42
Looks great!
Post by: ITzNybble on Tue, 03 September 2019, 15:55:54
Post by: Esheu2 on Tue, 03 September 2019, 16:41:03
Will the PCB support hot-swap, or would we have to add holtites/Kailh sockets?
Looks great!
PCB will not support hot-swap. Holtites should work fine
Post by: clegmir on Tue, 03 September 2019, 19:19:44
Will the PCB support hot-swap, or would we have to add holtites/Kailh sockets?
Looks great!
PCB will not support hot-swap. Holtites should work fine
Awesome, thank you!
Post by: SUB01 on Wed, 04 September 2019, 07:23:24
Post by: toastyAU on Thu, 05 September 2019, 19:16:26
I've created a Discord server for those who would like to follow this more closely: https://discord.gg/qrd9Hrh (https://discord.gg/qrd9Hrh)
heyy :) good to see! will continue to follow this with a super keen eye
Post by: Esheu2 on Fri, 27 September 2019, 12:36:08
(https://i.imgur.com/fQW4DaH.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ZJTEwaT.jpg)
More pictures in the build log: https://imgur.com/a/bXkVIVn (https://imgur.com/a/bXkVIVn)
Except for a small blemish on the underside of the bottom case, I am impressed by the anodization quality. The color matching between the top and bottom pieces is on point too.
The machining tolerances feel pretty tight. Everything fits together super snugly.
I won't say too much about typing feel yet since I haven't had a chance to use it for an extended period of time, but it's feeling really good.
Now for the issues I mentioned:
- The red anodization isn't quite what I wanted. I was aiming more for a deep burgundy and this is closer to a scarlet.
- The brass alpha badge seems to have a small blot on it.
- The plate+pcb combo is kinda of hard to fit into the case at the moment. It still fits, but there are some clearance issues with the gaskets in place. The gaskets kind of need to be compressed to fit the combo in properly.
Post by: kidpid on Fri, 27 September 2019, 12:53:50
Post by: Esheu2 on Fri, 27 September 2019, 13:09:38
The prototype is looking good! How much empty space is there around the USB port? In the renders it looks like there's some extra space.
(https://i.imgur.com/TcxkyDD.jpg)
Post by: kidpid on Fri, 27 September 2019, 17:41:04
Post by: gnhuy91 on Sun, 20 October 2019, 06:17:29
Post by: Esheu2 on Sun, 20 October 2019, 12:51:10
any Alps pcb version?
(https://i.imgur.com/OHxbFJz.jpg)
The pcb will have the mx+alps footprint. So all that would be needed is an alps plate. I don't plan on running an alps plate in GB, but plate files will be public, so you can make one for yourself if you'd like.
Post by: gnhuy91 on Sun, 20 October 2019, 12:52:25
any Alps pcb version?Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/OHxbFJz.jpg)
The pcb will have the mx+alps footprint. So all that would be needed is an alps plate. I don't plan on running an alps plate in GB, but plate files will be public, so you can make one for yourself if you'd like.
thats great!
Post by: rpiguy9907 on Sun, 20 October 2019, 23:25:29
The badge would have to be removable.
Post by: .rgaindwal on Mon, 21 October 2019, 05:50:43
Any chance the alpha logo will be rethought? It doesn't have to be anything complex like a wolf, I'd just love something a bit more refined and aesthetically pleasing. Everything else is great.
If you all throw some ideas my way and I see enough support for a logo change, it might happen. Heavy emphasis on might though.
I love the design and I'll be looking forward to the GB. The logo off-ed me a little bit too. Maybe, I can help you with designing a logo for the board. My best bet to look into something is below.
Check this out?
https://www.uplabs.com/posts/minimal-wolf
I know it's copyrighted. But anything like this would be minimal enough to match with the theme of the board. Also, please try making the badge center of the whole edge, like IRON65. It'll take away that sense of "empty" space
Post by: trg1234 on Mon, 21 October 2019, 08:28:17
Any chance the alpha logo will be rethought? It doesn't have to be anything complex like a wolf, I'd just love something a bit more refined and aesthetically pleasing. Everything else is great.
If you all throw some ideas my way and I see enough support for a logo change, it might happen. Heavy emphasis on might though.
I love the design and I'll be looking forward to the GB. The logo off-ed me a little bit too. Maybe, I can help you with designing a logo for the board. My best bet to look into something is below.
Check this out?
https://www.uplabs.com/posts/minimal-wolf
I know it's copyrighted. But anything like this would be minimal enough to match with the theme of the board. Also, please try making the badge center of the whole edge, like IRON65. It'll take away that sense of "empty" space
I have to disagree with everything stated. First I doubt op wants to rip designs off of the internet especially when they have their own. Second the irons design is different in size and ratio wise. Aesthetically I prefer this current one more.
Post by: .rgaindwal on Mon, 21 October 2019, 10:17:46
Any chance the alpha logo will be rethought? It doesn't have to be anything complex like a wolf, I'd just love something a bit more refined and aesthetically pleasing. Everything else is great.
If you all throw some ideas my way and I see enough support for a logo change, it might happen. Heavy emphasis on might though.
I love the design and I'll be looking forward to the GB. The logo off-ed me a little bit too. Maybe, I can help you with designing a logo for the board. My best bet to look into something is below.
Check this out?
https://www.uplabs.com/posts/minimal-wolf
I know it's copyrighted. But anything like this would be minimal enough to match with the theme of the board. Also, please try making the badge center of the whole edge, like IRON65. It'll take away that sense of "empty" space
I have to disagree with everything stated. First I doubt op wants to rip designs off of the internet especially when they have their own. Second the irons design is different in size and ratio wise. Aesthetically I prefer this current one more.
Originality in something basic? You can not be original in drawing a rectangle. It'll always be a rectangle.
About logo... Google Howling wolf logo.
Post by: Esheu2 on Mon, 21 October 2019, 19:31:05
please try making the badge center of the whole edge, like IRON65. It'll take away that sense of "empty" space
Hey there. The designers of the Iron165 went in a very different aesthetic direction from what I aimed for. In my opinion, the badge placement would translate poorly to the Alpha65. I've stated my reasons in a previous post:
I think the alpha looks pretty... alpha. lol. However, I think you might want to consider centering the alpha logo in the top right "square." That off center-ness is kinda bugging me a little bit. Its not like the kyuu logo where its big enough for it to still kinda fill the space.
As it is now, the logo is centered on the blocker where a keycap would normally be. I have tried "centering" it more to the entirety of the square that includes the bezels before, however it looked off since it encroached on the bezels and broke the continuity of having even bezels all around. Perhaps I'll try making the logo larger to take up more room.
Furthermore, there are currently some internal design restrictions that would make that impossible.
Would you consider adding an option for no anodization? This board would look killer cerakoted.
The badge would have to be removable.
The badge is removable.
As for the request to order it unfinished, that shouldn't be an issue to fulfill. Though, I probably won't be offering that as a stock option.
Post by: Esheu2 on Sat, 09 November 2019, 02:01:33
(https://i.imgur.com/toAUcgl.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/PJ0y26M.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mZIY1gV.jpg)
Post by: Jsdfbn on Sun, 10 November 2019, 16:23:36
Post by: Esheu2 on Mon, 11 November 2019, 04:06:34
Post by: Jsdfbn on Tue, 03 December 2019, 18:14:04
Post by: Esheu2 on Wed, 04 December 2019, 20:35:30
Any update?
The communication and speed of work I received from my last manufacturer left a lot to be desired. I am currently waiting on prototypes of another design from a new manufacturer. If those turn out well, then I will be ordering Alpha65 prototypes from them as well. That unfortunately means delays for everything.
Post by: Esheu2 on Mon, 18 January 2021, 14:42:06
First and foremost, I would like to apologize for placing this project on the sideline for over a year. I wanted to concentrate on fulfilling my other project: the Fallacy. With that being mostly finished (a few units are waiting on remaking), I want to return my attention to my first design.
There have been quite a few changes:
- The "alpha" badge in the front has been enlarged to make it fill up more space and have better "balance" in the blockered corner
- The PCB has been redesigned by Trifelife
- The board now utilizes the Universal Daughterboard centered on the bottom of the keyboard
- The front typing height has increased by 0.5mm, from 16.5mm to 17mm
- Winkey is now the sole option. WKL on 65% has fallen out of favor for me and has been scrapped to simplify logistics
- Color option changes (tentative)
- Plate option changes:
- removed metal plate options
- added Carbon Fiber and FR4 plate options
The new prototype has been built and I am very satisfied with how the board turned out.
(https://imgur.com/D10mnvD.jpg)
Album of everything: https://imgur.com/a/r9Tkakb (https://imgur.com/a/r9Tkakb)
Post by: Kinesiologist on Mon, 18 January 2021, 18:16:55
Post by: soloplayer on Mon, 18 January 2021, 21:58:11
btw could you describe the typing feel for me? rigid, or soft?
and why do you choose aluminum 5052 instead of 6063 or 6061?
many thanks
Post by: Esheu2 on Tue, 19 January 2021, 15:44:18
very nice !! i'm interested
btw could you describe the typing feel for me? rigid, or soft?
and why do you choose aluminum 5052 instead of 6063 or 6061?
many thanks
The current build I have is using Alpacas on an FR4 half plate. Overall typing feel is very soft without being bouncy.
5052 just because it was recommended to me for use in the Fallacy and I'm just continuing to use it. Both 6063 and 5052 are easier to do colored anodized finishes than 6061.