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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: keebibi on Mon, 18 July 2022, 09:17:59

Title: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 18 July 2022, 09:17:59
Minimi40
A lidded, wireless, injection molded 40% keyboard.
The Minimi40 is a portable keyboard with a lid that doubles as a wristrest.

(https://i.imgur.com/GckQ6EI.jpg)

Overhauled IC with major updates!



Old IC Contents:

More
Minimi40
A lidded polycarbonate 40% keyboard

(https://i.imgur.com/GckQ6EI.jpg)

IC FORM (https://forms.gle/VSgM3idM1xJWATcT9)
Discord Server (https://discord.gg/9fSCfX9dPY)



The Minimi40 is inspired by bento boxes, and is designed to be light and portable.
The lid doubles as a wrist rest.

(https://i.imgur.com/JZ737BR.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/iznuV6r.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/En5Cyek.jpg)



Specs

(https://i.imgur.com/BTw4PQE.png)

Supports wired & Bluetooth modes
Top mount with POM, PC, FR4, and alu plates
Two layouts: staggered and ortholinear
Hotswap and soldered PCB options
0 degree typing angle
Injection moulded
ABS/Polycarbonate blend material
QMK/VIA support



Colors

(https://i.imgur.com/42gs3mb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/XVQ2gDD.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/Ja4d759.jpg)

Black


(https://i.imgur.com/4CuDy8e.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/bqIDcwa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/kCPk1AX.jpg)

White


(https://i.imgur.com/iznuV6r.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/YFuKWn0.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/En5Cyek.jpg)

Jade Green


(https://i.imgur.com/xhHOHgr.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SlJKtN8.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/K1X7xR8.jpg)

Cobalt Blue


(https://i.imgur.com/0pporCK.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/OSbS2zz.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/1ZmOg7s.jpg)

Lavender


(https://i.imgur.com/dy5rdsh.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ef5jWCW.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/ley2lVi.jpg)

Pale Pink




PCB


(https://i.imgur.com/2JUD7Mz.jpg)

Staggered


(https://i.imgur.com/BJE9z1s.jpg)

Ortholinear

1.6mm thick PCBs with hotswap and solder options.
All will be compatible with the bluetooth module.



Bluetooth module

Developed by Wolf, the bluetooth module will be pre-certified and available for everyone to use.
It will enable QMK/VIA compatibility while in Bluetooth mode. Currently under development.




KeyBee Collab Edition

(https://i.imgur.com/sjTY2wa.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/E7XICSZ.jpg)

The exclusive KeyBee Collab edition features a brass top and polycarbonate lid and bottom.



Vendors

USA: KeyBee
Canada: Ashkeebs
South Korea: GEONWORKS
China: zFrontier
Southeast Asia: PantheonKeys
Oceania: ALL CAPS
Europe: KEYGEM
UK: proto[Typist]



Pricing & GB Info

Pricing TBA, aiming for under $149
GB Date TBA

Pricing goal includes:*
Keyboard (including lid)
One PCB
One plate
Optional foam kit
Screws
Cable
Travel pouch
Strap to secure the lid
Feet
Battery
Bluetooth module

*subject to minor changes



Prototypes

Currently finished multiple rounds of prototyping with 3D printed models.
Typing test available on my discord (https://discord.gg/9fSCfX9dPY).

Injection molded prototypes will be made & sent out to creators before GB sale.



Renders by Zetina and Beesley



IC FORM (https://forms.gle/VSgM3idM1xJWATcT9)
Discord Server (https://discord.gg/keebibi)



So, what changed?
TLDR; a lot.
Main vendor: KeyBee/Otakeebs → Cannonkeys
Mounting style: Top mount → Leaf-spring/tray/gasket hybrid
Case material: Polycarbonate → ABS
Design: Previous design → More rounded edges & bottom logo
Colors: Black, white, pale pink, jade, lavender, cobalt → Black, white, pink, sage, lavender (cobalt has been dropped)
Collab Edition: Canceled.
Layout: Layout changes for staggered ver.
Firmware: QMK → ZMK for wireless PCBs
PCB Options: Depending on vendor/region, PCBs will be available with built-in wireless functions or a plug-and-play module.
Sales Method: Pre-order then in-stock for Cannonkeys (still being confirmed with other vendors)
Pricing: Aiming for under $100!
Keycaps: Keycap bundles will be available as add-ons. They will be available in PBS profile.



Current Progress
When I first posted this IC over two years ago, the hobby was in a very different place. A lot of ideas I had for this board weren’t feasible until very recently. Progress was also slow as I struggled with health issues and other life circumstances. Now, I’m finally able to say we’re nearing a point where the board can be sold fairly soon. A lot of changes have also happened, but the spirit of the board remains the same. I wanted to sincerely thank anyone who has waited for this board, and to those who are seeing it for the first time, welcome!

Here’s the current progress:
• The mold has been tooled for the keyboard, and preliminary samples have been made.
• The manufacturer is working on the surface flaws.
• Color samples have been confirmed!
• Color samples for most of the add-on PBS keycaps have been confirmed. Kitting is still underway.
• Non-modular ZMK PCBs have been prototyped and are working. Same for wired QMK PCBs.
• The module versions are underway.
• Manufacturer prototypes of miscellaneous parts will soon be underway (plate, feet, etc)
• Renders of the final design will be uploaded soon.
• Pictures of prototypes and confirmed photo samples will also be uploaded soon.
• Electrocapacitive PCBs are being designed.



Case Renders:
Coming soon!



Planned Kit Contents:
Case
Choice of PCB
Plate (pre-orders will be able to choose, in-stock will come with a PC plate by default)
Silicon feet for lid
Bump-ons
Carbon fiber leaf spring
Adhesive gaskets
Carrying pouch
Elastic strap
Mini coiled cable
Screws/stand-offs
(add-on) Keycap set
(add-on) Foam kit
Subject to change.



New PCB Specs
(https://imgur.com/B2NspPA.png)
Staggered Layout (default keymap)

(https://imgur.com/ExsQNIp.jpg)
Ortholinear Layout (default keymap)

Each layout will be available in FOUR configurations:
ZMK, wireless, hotswap, non-modular version, 1.6mm
ZMK, wireless, hotswap, module version, 1.6mm
QMK, wired, solder, non-modular version 1.6mm
QMK, electrocapacitive, wired PCBs by Cipulot


QMK PCBs will be VIA compatible, and ZMK PCBs will be compatible with ZMK Studio. EC PCBs will use QMK.



Newest Prototype Pictures:

Photos are from the manufacturer.

(https://imgur.com/CohUzez.jpeg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7VFXiRC.jpeg)
(https://imgur.com/j1LNxDr.jpeg)

Older Prototype Pictures:

These were temporary colors. The transparent neon green case is injection molded and the opaque light green is 3D printed ABS.
The injection molded version photos are from the manufacturer. The 3D printed version photos are by Haldus.

(https://imgur.com/2ds8wKj.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/mZDyBTb.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/pep54ua.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/dZpRqsA.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/QpHy6mN.jpg)
(https://imgur.com/DGaiaeU.jpg)

Older Prototype Typing Test:
Courtesy of Haldus. Using HMX Hyacinth V2 and KAM Li’l Dragon.


Discord Server (https://discord.gg/9fSCfX9dPY)
Please join to get the latest updates!

Thank you to: Upas, Keyreative Zhao, Keyreative Ice, Geon, NARZ, Ebastler, Zetina, Haldus, Cipulot, and many more!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 18 July 2022, 09:21:21
Prototype Pictures

Please note that this prototype design has been revised; the prototype is 3D-printed ABS and not injected moulded polycarbonate. An updated prototype is on the way.

(https://i.imgur.com/EtZ7l1Q.jpg)

(https://i.imgur.com/XcTZ6z2.jpg)
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: plag on Mon, 18 July 2022, 10:34:22
This is adorable. I bet it sounds lovely as well. Glwic  :cool:
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: Homiezoned on Mon, 18 July 2022, 11:21:25
oooo it's cute
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: caroeggu on Mon, 18 July 2022, 12:16:31
this looks really cute!! GLWIC.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: jackrabbit on Mon, 18 July 2022, 15:28:50
How does the lid secure to the bottom case? Is it the elastic band mentioned in the parts list? Love the design btw, GLWIC
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 18 July 2022, 16:28:15
How does the lid secure to the bottom case? Is it the elastic band mentioned in the parts list? Love the design btw, GLWIC

Yep! The elastic band will secure it on. Thanks!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 18 July 2022, 16:28:34
This is adorable. I bet it sounds lovely as well. Glwic  :cool:

Thank youu!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 18 July 2022, 16:29:09
this looks really cute!! GLWIC.

Thank uu!!

oooo it's cute

Thankss!!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: shamb on Mon, 18 July 2022, 20:40:01
dibs
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: clickyblob on Tue, 19 July 2022, 00:38:07
Any idea what keycaps are on the jade green render? The colours are beautiful.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: keebibi on Tue, 19 July 2022, 14:51:08
Any what keycaps are on the jade green render? The colours are beautiful.

The keycaps are ones I'm planning on designing!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: codecoffeecode on Tue, 19 July 2022, 20:26:20
Hey, I saw this at the meetup in Seattle the other day! Looks like a neat little board. Any chance the board could support split space or more minivan-like bottom row layouts?
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard
Post by: keebibi on Tue, 19 July 2022, 20:28:25
Hey, I saw this at the meetup in Seattle the other day! Looks like a neat little board. Any chance the board could support split space or more minivan-like bottom row layouts?

Yep, we've gotten a lot of feedback about that and are working on it!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard (New Layout Coming Soon!)
Post by: keebibi on Wed, 20 July 2022, 15:15:49
Edited post to make note that we're working on another PCB!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard (Vendors Announced)
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 25 July 2022, 11:43:01
Edit: vendors announced!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Polycarbonate Keyboard (Vendors Announced)
Post by: nasp on Tue, 26 July 2022, 11:35:37
Make this compatible with the Neuron and there would be lots of options for folks that want a different PCB: Brick, Cervello, Cerebral, Crest40 and so forth.

Thanks for considering
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (Collab & Layout Update)
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 01 August 2022, 10:38:16
UPDATE (8/1/2022) - KeyBee collab renders added, Minimi40 renders added, solderable layout added.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (Collab & Layout Update)
Post by: cryoverkiltmilk on Mon, 01 August 2022, 11:43:21
I adore this case design, but I'm still inclined to stick with ortho only, or at least a PCB layout with all keys 1.75u or lower. I have a deep and unabiding enmity for stabs.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (Collab & Layout Update)
Post by: croatoanlp on Mon, 01 August 2022, 12:15:16
I would also like to see an ortho PCB
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (Collab & Layout Update)
Post by: keybo_hobo on Tue, 02 August 2022, 04:16:25
Yeah lidded wireless ortho sounds lika a dream board=)
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (Collab & Layout Update)
Post by: haplopoda on Tue, 02 August 2022, 04:19:25
Seconding (fourthing?) ortho as well!

Sent from my GM1900 using Tapatalk

Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (Collab & Layout Update)
Post by: deaad_pixel_design on Tue, 02 August 2022, 21:16:17
Super interested
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (Collab & Layout Update)
Post by: NamesReed on Fri, 05 August 2022, 13:05:42
Super neat concept, definitely interested.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 15 August 2022, 09:12:22
Update: Added renders
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: delacruxkeys on Sat, 27 August 2022, 04:16:58
SUPER interested! will definitely be getting one. maybe for R2 consider an ortho layout?  :cool:
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: nickthaskater on Sun, 02 October 2022, 03:36:17
Any ETA on the GB/delivery?
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: Nevrest on Sun, 02 October 2022, 06:59:42
Love this board, looks amazing.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: mul7i on Sun, 02 October 2022, 12:33:05
looks like something i would actually bring out and use  :cool: :cool: :cool:
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: keebnewb on Sun, 02 October 2022, 15:07:43
Love this idea as a travel board! It's probably too early but I was just curious if for the elastic closure and the pouch that comes with it, will the colors match the case colors?
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: Happylomo on Sat, 08 October 2022, 06:31:40
Love this! watching the thread
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: fauxLeather on Sun, 09 October 2022, 00:15:39
I like this, brings some great portability to 40%. I had a cheap lidded 60% case that I liked, but always wanted a more premium option. Very clean.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: eigenstasis on Mon, 17 October 2022, 12:02:16
keeping an eye on this one ^-^ agree with others about adding an ortho option, whether that be the brick pcb or something else. glwic
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Keyboard (New Renders)
Post by: crookey on Wed, 19 October 2022, 06:23:07
I want to eat dosirak.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Bluetooth Keyboard (Updated PCB/Vendors)
Post by: keebibi on Mon, 23 January 2023, 17:05:52
NEW UPDATES:
Added vendor list (including Ashkeebs as Canadian vendor)
Updated renders
Updated specs and info
Etc, etc
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Bluetooth Keyboard (Updated PCB/Vendors)
Post by: mr_foggy on Mon, 02 October 2023, 16:39:55
any news about this?
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Bluetooth Keyboard (Updated PCB/Vendors)
Post by: CONIN on Mon, 18 December 2023, 14:42:17
any news about this?
About to ask the same.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Bluetooth Keyboard (Updated PCB/Vendors)
Post by: Mecxs on Wed, 20 December 2023, 01:17:12
Keebibi has been streaming updates on twitch, but not recording VODs, so ... ???

The discord is somewhat active. They have been polling layout choices last month. Seems they are still intending to run the project.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: keebibi on Fri, 25 October 2024, 16:22:43
Revamped the IC + major updates!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: Zahul on Sat, 26 October 2024, 14:01:23
Glad to see that the project is still alive! Any chance on european vendors?
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: keebibi on Sat, 26 October 2024, 14:17:20
Glad to see that the project is still alive! Any chance on european vendors?

There will be an EU vendor and UK vendor!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: Zahul on Sat, 26 October 2024, 15:13:15
Glad to see that the project is still alive! Any chance on european vendors?

There will be an EU vendor and UK vendor!

Very exciting will be picking one up, sad to see the blue color got axed though :(
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: mul7i on Sat, 26 October 2024, 15:35:46
MINIMI IS REAL
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: CONIN on Sun, 27 October 2024, 04:49:32
Revamped the IC + major updates!
Nice to see this is still alive, looking forward to it!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: kbd0 on Tue, 29 October 2024, 22:17:17
Big fan of the lid and love that it doesn't look or make it awkward. GLWIC
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: @bare on Sun, 03 November 2024, 15:11:27
Looking forward to this one.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: marto on Tue, 05 November 2024, 02:28:31
I also look forward to this one - just to confirm, we would be able to order a full kit ortholinear one, correct? I didn't understand whether you fully changed the layout, or are now offering 2 layouts.

In any case this portable keyboard should be great for travelling!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: Minisofu on Tue, 05 November 2024, 06:36:06
This looks so cute, very interested. Im considering it HARD. Good luck with the IC !
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (REVAMPED IC)
Post by: keebibi on Tue, 05 November 2024, 14:01:50
I also look forward to this one - just to confirm, we would be able to order a full kit ortholinear one, correct? I didn't understand whether you fully changed the layout, or are now offering 2 layouts.

In any case this portable keyboard should be great for travelling!

Both layouts will be available!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW EC PCBs)
Post by: keebibi on Fri, 22 November 2024, 23:52:58
Update!

(https://i.imgur.com/88z3GSk.png)

Cipulot is making elecrocapacitive (EC) PCBs for the Minimi40. These will use QMK/VIA and will be available for both staggered and ortholinear layouts. Cipulot's server can be found here. (https://discord.gg/TWx7jKsUZh)

In other news, I'm waiting for the latest injection molded samples to arrive. The mold is undergoing some minor changes to ensure the best quality possible.

Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW EC PCBs)
Post by: CONIN on Sat, 23 November 2024, 22:42:38
Cipulot is making elecrocapacitive (EC) PCBs for the Minimi40. These will use QMK/VIA and will be available for both staggered and ortholinear layouts. Cipulot's server can be found here. (https://discord.gg/TWx7jKsUZh)
In other news, I'm waiting for the latest injection molded samples to arrive. The mold is undergoing some minor changes to ensure the best quality possible.
Wonderful, nice to hear!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: keebibi on Tue, 26 November 2024, 15:59:01
UPDATE: Color samples for white, sage, pink, and lavender have arrived!

Comparison photo


(https://i.imgur.com/Df8lUsA.jpeg)

Sage, pink, and lavender will be added as individual images below, which more accurately reflect the IRL color.


Sage:

(https://i.imgur.com/GpcxZ1y.jpeg)

The second sage color is the confirmed color.


Pink:

(https://i.imgur.com/zLfBsvS.jpeg)


Lavender:

(https://i.imgur.com/0bGZabI.jpeg)


These were taken on my windowsill, and it’s overcast but natural lighting.

I edited the pictures to more accurately reflect what I see IRL, but aren’t perfect representations.


The color sample for black is the latest prototype. Pictures/sound tests of the injection moulded prototype are coming soon!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: DeMechanica on Thu, 28 November 2024, 03:22:49
Wow this is an awesome project, so excited about all of the changes, the mounting, ortho, and the EC PCB too. So excited!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: CONIN on Thu, 28 November 2024, 11:28:40
Lavender:
Lavender is my favourite colour so far.
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: Rassles on Tue, 10 December 2024, 15:30:52
really love this 40 layout, maybe i gotta try it!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: smshark on Tue, 20 May 2025, 15:33:18
Any chance that the ortho pcb (both ec and mx) would use 2x2u spacebar? at this point it's a pretty popular layout to be missing. I understand EC having to make some compromises but MX should be able to accommodate
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: TheManicGeek on Tue, 20 May 2025, 21:11:26
UGH, just saw that this is a thing... WHAT A KYOOT KEYBOARD OMFGaelbrfvhkagervliuagerfv;kajbwevc <---- cute aggression

Anyway, point is, now that I've seen the green injection-molded case, I wouldn't HATE seeing a frosted PC case for this project at some point... I really hope this does well!
Title: Re: [IC] Minimi40 - Lidded 40% Wireless Keyboard (NEW Color Samples!)
Post by: Bagri on Sat, 31 May 2025, 13:07:55
That's a cute one ! GLWIC !
I might actually manage to daily this one with the amount of keys to make layers :)