geekhack
geekhack Projects => Making Stuff Together! => Topic started by: megan0529 on Thu, 12 November 2020, 08:56:25
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What is the typical cost people pay to have their first keyboard prototype CNC machined and does anyone know any good/affordable companies for me to get a quote from?
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Well it really depends on your design and where you get it from. Expect around $500 or so but it might get more expensive or maybe cheaper but it depends on the design primarily. I would say look into dadesin CNC and get a quote from them. Do you have a design yet? Maybe post some renderings or PM me and I can see what it may cost.
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$500 is very much on the low end even for a simple design and that doesn't even include anodizing or a pcb, expect another couple hundred for those if you want them.
If you're in a hurry or you need a 5 axis mill or multiple operations that number can easily double. Your best deal is going to be a local guy working out of his garage (check Craigslist and Facebook).
Get a 3d printer and start there, if it saves you one mistake it will have paid for itself.
Meanwhile you can shop around looking for quotes while you learn what does and does not work.
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$500 is very much on the low end even for a simple design and that doesn't even include anodizing or a pcb, expect another couple hundred for those if you want them.
If you're in a hurry or you need a 5 axis mill or multiple operations that number can easily double. Your best deal is going to be a local guy working out of his garage (check Craigslist and Facebook).
Get a 3d printer and start there, if it saves you one mistake it will have paid for itself.
Meanwhile you can shop around looking for quotes while you learn what does and does not work.
You're totally right about using a 3D printer for prototyping. Even better if you can use one without buying it. 3D printing isn't sexy, but physical prototypes will make confirming dimensions and fitment much easier.
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3d printing and learn some modeling software like Fusion 360. Then model everything in your prototype. If you don't model everything, something will be slightly off, and you'll have to print again. I made a few prototypes of the keyboard I'm typing on right now. Case was modeled in fusion and 3d printed on my printer. I had someone design the pcb, and then sent the files to PCBway for manufacturing. the plate is laser cut stainless steel from laserboost.
If you make just one prototype, the cost per unit is super high. I got 5 pcb's made for about $300 amd 5 plates were about the same I think. That doesn't include the cost of filament for printing, but that stuff is pretty cheap.
https://imgur.com/a/bD5F0hH (https://imgur.com/a/bD5F0hH)
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That seems really expensive for pcbs, I just ordered 5 pcbs and 5 usbc daughterboards with SMT assembly for both for a 65% board for $100 from JLCPCB
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That seems really expensive for pcbs, I just ordered 5 pcbs and 5 usbc daughterboards with SMT assembly for both for a 65% board for $100 from JLCPCB
Just a few mm one way or another can significantly increase costs on things.
That applies not just to pcbs but cases as well.
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Some very good points above, I just thought I'll add my 2¢ as well:
If you just want to get a ballpark number, use services like Protolabs or 3D Hubs. You upload your model and they'll give you an instant quote along with some very basic manufacturability feedback.
Finding a local shop is still a far superior option if you can do it. Why? It all pretty much boils down to communication: together you'll be able to better optimize the design for production and ensure the finished part is up to spec. The goal of the analysis tools of the services I mentioned is to tell you if a part is manufacturable or not. They won't help you with optimizing the cost. But you're free to upload as many models as you like.
Also, manufacturing locally might save you on duties and taxes and the associated headaches.