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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: driftingbunnies on Tue, 11 August 2020, 21:06:17

Title: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: driftingbunnies on Tue, 11 August 2020, 21:06:17
UPDATE 2: Thanks for all the interest! I've decided to just go ahead and order one last prototype to see if people would be still interested. I'll be sure to post pictures and do a build once I've verified that everything works. Currently based on the interest, I'm comfortable with a 40-50 spot GB. For those numbers, pricing will be ~$350-400 to make sense. Initially I'm thinking of using CF or PC for the plate material. I've added a new IC form to get your feedback on materials and colors. Please fill one out if you are still interested! Thanks again!  :thumb:

Options IC Form (https://forms.gle/WCvuSe7hGNr8Dffz7)

Hey everyone! I thought I would share a small side project with you all to see if there was any interest in this layout. I currently have a working prototype but there will be changes to the case so this is mostly feedback on the layout. Currently the prototype is a sandwich mount but we'll be change it to be a top mount. The case is also just aluminum with no weight to it in order to keep costs down. I wanted this to be a very fun and easy board to get into if trying something smaller than 60% was intimidating.

Idea:

The idea came up when I wanted to try a small board but didn't want to spend extra on a 40s kit. I also don't know whether or not I would be able to get used to not having a num-row or the punctuation to the right of the 'P' key that many 40% boards get rid of.

Layout:

More
The layout is meant to be very simple but is meant to use only base kit keys. As long as the kit includes a second 2.25u shift, split spacebars shouldn't be needed. This is also the first PCB that I designed myself (with some help along the way) so I kept the layouts as simple as possible. Considering there aren't many keys missing, I didn't think there would be any need for additional bottom rows. The bottom row has a 1.5/1/1.25/2.25/2.75/1.25/1/1.5 layout in order to make it semi-symmetrical and so that we keep the stagger with the row above it. Any adjustment will cause a cross between the bottom row and second to bottom row which I like to avoid. Some newer boards tend to only care about symmetry on the bottom but I want to make sure that no key is directly underneath the one above it.

Edit: I've added some more compatibility based on the feedback received on the IC form and from the thread. Let me know if you have any other changes you think would make sense. Thanks everyone!

(https://imgur.com/auVvJSW.png)


Specs:

Prototype:
More
(https://imgur.com/bJkbSyX.jpg)

(https://imgur.com/LWAVEPI.jpg)


Render:

(https://imgur.com/Xalyfwi.jpg)

(https://imgur.com/fcziIMl.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/Wqd1vuc.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/YOEm2Z2.jpg)


FAQ:


Special thanks:
More
  • Fropsie for the case design
  • Gondo & Starr for helping me with the PCB
  • ai03 discord for also answering some of my PCB questions
  • MoD discord for helping me with the name and layout feedback

Please let me know if you have any feedback or if you're interested in this layout/board!
IC Form (https://forms.gle/WCvuSe7hGNr8Dffz7)
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: ycanales on Tue, 11 August 2020, 21:10:32
Beautiful!

edit: I only wish the Fn and Spacebar could be swapped in position.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: foysauce_ on Tue, 11 August 2020, 21:13:44
Finally a sensible and clean looking <60% layout :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: Nvr_Smile on Tue, 11 August 2020, 21:17:09
Looks super cute. Will definitely be trying to grab one when GB rolls around.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: Tree_ on Tue, 11 August 2020, 21:35:00
This is it. This is the sub-60% layout we need.

Estimate on price?
Title: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: cijanzen on Tue, 11 August 2020, 21:59:11
This is a very *reasonable* layout. All makes sense, has full punctuation, and doesn’t require special keys. Nice!

At this size I think I’d like to see 6.25u spacebar support but that’s a small desire.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: 8six753o9 on Tue, 11 August 2020, 22:17:03
Yes please  :thumb:
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: L-Ron on Tue, 11 August 2020, 22:25:19
Really dig this one, retains all the functionality of a much larger board. Definitely interested.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: werc on Wed, 12 August 2020, 10:07:10
This looks awesome. I think the layout is great. Definitely very interested.
Any possibility for hotswap, VIA or a polycarb case?
Also, any very loose guess on gb timing and price?
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: dantambok on Wed, 12 August 2020, 10:35:40
yooo this is so cute
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: ddrfraser1 on Wed, 12 August 2020, 11:27:31
Sweet. Looks good.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: VXQN on Wed, 12 August 2020, 12:07:57
This looks great! One request though, please allow 1.25u - 1u key combination for the left shift area. I understand not offering the ISO enter, but adding the ISO left shift is such a small change that I hope you can see the benefit to adding it.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: driftingbunnies on Wed, 12 August 2020, 14:13:03
Added some answers to some questions posted here and on the IC form.

Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: yoniwolf1202 on Wed, 12 August 2020, 18:32:41
I'm excited for this! Hype!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: monkeywright on Wed, 12 August 2020, 19:38:53
I like it. A Minivan is my current travel board, but this is a great setup!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: jimboytacos on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:13:36
Beautiful. Have more pictures of the case? Back, side, bottom?
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: rpiguy9907 on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:17:04
16U wide? That’s wider than a DDmilli which is the closest I can think of to this.

It’s really a 65% without the num row.

It’s growing on me, but seems really impractical.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: driftingbunnies on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:52:46
Quote from: rpiguy9907 on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:17:04
16U wide? That’s wider than a DDmilli which is the closest I can think of to this.

It’s really a 65% without the num row.

It’s growing on me, but seems really impractical.

That's exactly the point. It's a 65% with the numrow chopped off but with split space since that seems pretty essential when you're going to need to use layers frequently. If I start cutting the width of the board, then you'll need more than a gmk base kit to outfit it.

Quote from: jimboytacos on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:13:36
Beautiful. Have more pictures of the case? Back, side, bottom?

If there's enough interest, I'll order a prototype of the new design and will post it here. It's not quite finalized yet.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: Top Right Logo on Wed, 12 August 2020, 23:21:48
Quote from: driftingbunnies on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:52:46

If there's enough interest, I'll order a prototype of the new design and will post it here. It's not quite finalized yet.

Can't wait to see how it comes out! (if it does)
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: driftingbunnies on Thu, 13 August 2020, 10:32:48
Added some more compatibility.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: Oddstag on Thu, 13 August 2020, 10:37:54
Love the additional compatibility. ISO would be my personal ask as I think it looks great on this size of board.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: rpiguy9907 on Thu, 13 August 2020, 15:24:45
I don't like split right shift I would prefer to use a 2.75u shift, but I am probably in the minority. I dislike arrows keys on smaller form factors.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: William_S_Jones on Thu, 13 August 2020, 15:52:41
Quote from: VXQN on Wed, 12 August 2020, 12:07:57
This looks great! One request though, please allow 1.25u - 1u key combination for the left shift area. I understand not offering the ISO enter, but adding the ISO left shift is such a small change that I hope you can see the benefit to adding it.
Definitely interested & I too hope Iso enter is possible w/ this board. Hope the case is offered in acrylic, polycarbon, & aluminum options too!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: gsp_89 on Thu, 13 August 2020, 19:56:08
May I know what is the typing angle and front height? I really like the idea of not sacrificing special character to the right of "p", "l" and "m" as well as the arrow key.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: CustomerSupport on Fri, 14 August 2020, 01:22:12
Quote from: driftingbunnies on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:52:46
Quote from: rpiguy9907 on Wed, 12 August 2020, 22:17:04
16U wide? That’s wider than a DDmilli which is the closest I can think of to this.

It’s really a 65% without the num row.

It’s growing on me, but seems really impractical.

That's exactly the point. It's a 65% with the numrow chopped off but with split space since that seems pretty essential when you're going to need to use layers frequently. If I start cutting the width of the board, then you'll need more than a gmk base kit to outfit it.

I like this. Percentage doesn't always indicate a change in width.

I'm definitely interested in the angle and price; like how you've configured the layout(s) to use standard GMK keys.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: uxxsam on Fri, 14 August 2020, 03:01:31
Looks great, I’m in
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: thornkin on Fri, 14 August 2020, 03:22:15
I like the concept of a 50% board. I can't get used to 40s and the missing keys.  Definitely interested in this.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: huey on Sat, 15 August 2020, 07:34:24
This is pretty cool. Any info on the case angle?
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: Mcnos on Sat, 15 August 2020, 21:47:04
I like
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard
Post by: rikercd on Wed, 19 August 2020, 15:50:05
It's basically just a usable 40. I love it.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: driftingbunnies on Wed, 19 August 2020, 19:24:47
Thanks for all the interest so far! Based on where we're at, I might not move forward with this design. I've added renders though of what would be the final case but if I don't get enough interest through the form, I'll just keep what I have and shelve this project.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: werc on Wed, 19 August 2020, 19:42:50
Quote from: driftingbunnies on Wed, 19 August 2020, 19:24:47
Thanks for all the interest so far! Based on where we're at, I might not move forward with this design. I've added renders though of what would be the final case but if I don't get enough interest through the form, I'll just keep what I have and shelve this project.

I hope the interest level picks up. I think this project is awesome and I'd love to see it become a reality. Fingers crossed here.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: dRnRcRr on Wed, 19 August 2020, 21:07:18
Nice Db
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: CustomerSupport on Wed, 19 August 2020, 23:40:43
werc – I would suggest putting the IC form link nice and big and front & center.

As it is I had to hunt to find it squeezed in at the bottom.

Really hope this keeps moving.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: gminso on Wed, 19 August 2020, 23:55:26
nowadays every boards I see are at least 400 and above so I am not sure it is possible but if it can be sub 300, I could get one as a toy keyboard.  :)
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: 10peaches on Thu, 20 August 2020, 06:40:56
I like this too... I need my punctuations!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: Andrago on Thu, 20 August 2020, 11:32:43
Love the layout !!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (Last chance for IC)
Post by: Brez1623 on Thu, 20 August 2020, 13:13:00
I really dig this as a board for work travel!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: driftingbunnies on Fri, 21 August 2020, 08:55:49
Thanks everyone for the support! I went ahead and ordered a prototype for the new case and will post pictures once I receive it. I also got some quotes and it looks to be higher than what I was hoping for but if people are still interested, I'm still good to run a small GB for it. Please fill out the IC options form when you get a chance if you're interested :). Thanks!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: Aevyn on Fri, 21 August 2020, 11:13:03
Definitely in if it comes in polycarb.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: paperassgasket on Fri, 21 August 2020, 16:07:04
While I appreciate the color descriptions in the IC, do you think it would be possible to include color samples to give a ballpark of what you intend?
For example is "Dark Blue" a Navy or a Midnight blue or is it straight #0000FF
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: dibstern on Fri, 21 August 2020, 17:53:57
Looks awesome! If I didn’t use backticks like 30 times a day I’d be keen.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: driftingbunnies on Fri, 21 August 2020, 23:07:22
Quote from: paperassgasket on Fri, 21 August 2020, 16:07:04
While I appreciate the color descriptions in the IC, do you think it would be possible to include color samples to give a ballpark of what you intend?
For example is "Dark Blue" a Navy or a Midnight blue or is it straight #0000FF

Based on initial feedback on price, this project doesn't seem quite possible but I agree it would be better if I had some colors for you to look at. The options are there so I can get a general idea of what type of colors people are looking for when it comes to this board. If the predominant colors are dark blue, black, and gray, I can get the idea that most people want this to be a neutral/dark colored board. If everyone chose silver, pink, and red, then I know that there's room for some brighter and crazier colors.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: CustomerSupport on Sat, 22 August 2020, 16:04:44
Yeah while I'm interested, $350-400 is pretty steep for the amount of board available, especially one with no weight. I personally think this is too much for me, in the context that I recently pre-ordered a KBD67 for ~$300 shipped.

I understand and value the design and non-standard parts that likely contribute to the increased cost. I really do like the project and hope it can be realized one day :)
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: driftingbunnies on Sat, 22 August 2020, 16:31:16
Quote from: CustomerSupport on Sat, 22 August 2020, 16:04:44
Yeah while I'm interested, $350-400 is pretty steep for the amount of board available, especially one with no weight. I personally think this is too much for me, in the context that I recently pre-ordered a KBD67 for ~$300 shipped.

I understand and value the design and non-standard parts that likely contribute to the increased cost. I really do like the project and hope it can be realized one day :)

Yep, that makes a lot of sense. I will say though if you think about it, 1 row of keyboard isn't that much. If you compare this board to a 40s board, it is probably closer to a 60% than a 40%. Something comparable might be TMOv2? The difference between this and a TMOv2 ($420) would be the fact that I'm not ordering 200 of them. And if you are to compare just based on a value perspective, anything KBDfans will always beat something custom from someone like me. There's no way I can compete with the quantity that KBDfans produces. I have no doubt that for quality, I can match or exceed them but I'm not looking to compete in that space. Anyways, I'm very happy with this side project but I understand that people aren't willing to spend as much as I did in order to make this a reality.

I do have an order for another prototype at the moment but I haven't decided if I'll do another round of PCBs to make sure the new layout works. Hopefully if I can show people some pictures of the prototypes, the price would make more sense but at this point in time, it seems like my goal of releasing a low cost quality product is impossible.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: CustomerSupport on Sat, 22 August 2020, 16:50:50
Agreed, my valuation of the board by size/features is not exactly fair.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: Oddstag on Sat, 22 August 2020, 17:40:55
The TMOv2 is a good example to look at. Another may be the Clarabelle(https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=106900.0 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=106900.0)) which seems to have moved about 150 units. From what I understand the first 100 sold in NA sold quite quickly, but the last 50 sold in Europe not so much, possibly because people balked at the necessary markup required for VAT. That was priced at $380 USD, and although it had the additional functionality of a numpad, both it and the arrows are southpaw which I think can be fairly considered a niche interest. Plus it lacks some of the punctuation and navigation keys on offer here which I think positions this as a more "mainstream" 55% board in comparison to Clarabelle's "Southpaw Mini-1400" style. The Clarabelle is also weightless.

For what it's worth I would not balk at $350 for this board, and in fact happily paid the £360 for the Clarabelle. I have no idea how many others feel the same as me (literally DOZENS of us) but I personally have a lot of interest in 55%-like boards. That being said, I would of course be happier if it cost less, and perhaps a run closer to the Clarabelle's 150 units would make that possible but I would totally understand a designer wanting to limit a run to what they feel comfortable fulfilling.

The only thing that stops it from being a shoe-in for me is lack of ISO support as that's sort of a deal breaker for me under most circumstances. In any case I will be watching with interest. GLWIC.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: EMC Labs on Sun, 30 August 2020, 08:00:23
Any updates on the materials?
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: oouf on Wed, 09 September 2020, 19:49:02
Definitely keeping an eye on this. Can't wait to see that new proto.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: alecks29 on Thu, 10 September 2020, 09:09:18
This is what I've always wanted. a 40, but with the extra 2 columns next to P/L!! I'm in
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: i luv chuletas on Tue, 15 September 2020, 19:45:03
Very interesting, def will be keeping an eye out for this!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: givemeyourshoes on Thu, 17 September 2020, 12:22:41
This seems pretty much perfect.  No num row fits more compact desk / work spaces, fits a GMK Base kit, keeps much needed punctuation easily accessible, allows for either option of the space and FN keys on the bottom row (great for those of us that use the left space bar) and it just looks really really good.  I love the initial case renders, and the only feedback I would have is that it would be rad to have the option for a Polycarb version with a brass plate.  I hope this board makes it to GB, as I would for sure buy!  Thanks for putting out a solid contribution to the sub <60% community.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: Oddstag on Thu, 17 September 2020, 16:26:31
The more time goes by the more firm I get that I'm snagging one of these if the group buy goes through. Hope it does!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: gilbert on Wed, 23 September 2020, 08:05:03
the sides are super cute
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: Neozetare on Mon, 19 October 2020, 18:03:38
Wow, just discover this, searching for a 65% without the number rows, and it's seems near perfection! Just need an ISO enter aha
Not sure that I will have the money, sadley, but if I do, you can count me in! (Which means you probably shouldn't, broke student here aha)
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: thornkin on Thu, 22 October 2020, 02:37:37
Like you I want a smaller board but can't handle the 40% compromise. This looks promising.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: eltrotro on Mon, 14 December 2020, 10:58:10
This form factor is great. However, at the estimated price there will be a lot of competition for other boards coming out.

That being said, I would personally try to to support smaller-scale makers.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: noorejji on Mon, 14 December 2020, 13:36:50
Nice layout, midnight green would be sick. Watching with interest.
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: Ko6a on Mon, 18 January 2021, 13:34:00
the project died?
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: schrobie on Tue, 19 January 2021, 20:00:40
I really like this layout. Looks great!
Title: Re: [IC] DropTop55 (DT55) - 55% keyboard - Added renders (New IC Form for options!)
Post by: yukiburzm on Sun, 28 March 2021, 21:03:26
Quote from: Ko6a on Mon, 18 January 2021, 13:34:00
the project died?

It's still listed on Mechgroupbuys under IC, where a lot of other projects in IC aren't, so mayyyybe thats a good sign? I missed every good 45-55% keyboard.
KBDfans just did the D45 but it was only up for like a week, and they didn't even have a prototype ready, so I wasn't down for that one, and I missed Clarabelle and candybar, so this would be perfect. However, at 330+ it will likely be too steep for many people to buy in, even if it does comeback. With such a low number stated to be available if it does launch (50?) I don't think it would be hard to reach, though.

Well, heres hoping.