AXON
(https://i.imgur.com/VRVv9i9.jpg)
Pictures:
https://imgur.com/a/w1VYpt1 (https://imgur.com/a/w1VYpt1)
Please note that these pictures represent version 1.0 which I built for my personal use. A group buy would be conducted with a version 1.1, which has a number of small improvements (see Details section).
IC Form:
https://forms.gle/Cvzs5t53VCi45C3H7 (https://forms.gle/Cvzs5t53VCi45C3H7)
Description:
Axon is a 40% keyboard built using only through-hole components, similar to and inspired by many other keyboards including Plaid, Gingham, Romeo, Discipline, etc.
Axon is very compact at only 12u wide, is QMK compatible, and has a USB-C connector.
This is a continuation from my post on r/MechanicalKeyboards:
https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/n0fhxn/axon_my_diy_40_throughhole_keyboard/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=web2x&context=3
where many commentors expressed their interest in a group buy.
I am willing to run a group buy if there is indeed sufficient interest, so please fill out the IC form if you are interested!
Axon is open hardware; you can find the designs on my github: https://github.com/thatfellarobin/axon.
Of course, this means that you can produce Axon for yourself without going through a GB process for a kit, but the GB would save you the effort of sourcing parts and will lower the cost if all you want is a single unit.
Details:
- An illustrated build guide will be created.
- The kits will ship from Ontario, Canada.
Changes for Axon v1.1 (GB version):
Note: this change list is not finalized
- Fixed issue where the stabilizer blocked a mounting hole.
- Spacebar widths can be swapped (i.e. 2.25u-2.75u or 2.75u-2.25u).
- Update screw placements to ensure acrylic cover symmetry along both x and y axis.
- Optimize decoupling capacitor placement.
- Polyfuse now has room to lay horizontally if desired.
- Minor adjustments to back side silkscreen.
- Numerous minor layout and routing changes.
To be included in the kit:
- Top and bottom PCB
- Acrylic component cover
- Standoffs and fasteners
- All necessary electrical components
- ATmega328p with bootloader installed
Not included:
- Soldering tools (soldering iron, solder, flux, etc.)
- Other tools (screwdriver, side cutters, etc.)
- USB-C cable
- Keyswitches
- Keycaps
Regarding group buys and trust:
I will be fully transparent: I have never run a group buy before, and have never sold product online. However, I believe that this group buy can be successful for the following reasons:
- The available quantity will be limited to ensure that I do not end up with an unmanageable number of orders.
- This kit does not involve substantial manufacturing risk. The parts are not difficult to procure, and I will source the PCBs and other components from reputable sources.
- The online store will be run as a Shopify store or similarly reputable online commerce platform in order to make sure that payments and your data are secure.