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geekhack Projects => Making Stuff Together! => Topic started by: boldie on Thu, 03 August 2023, 04:51:47

Title: SKCM Alps compatible with Mathias stuff?
Post by: boldie on Thu, 03 August 2023, 04:51:47

Hi fellows! I'm planning a custom keyboard for SKCM blue Alps switches. Since these switches are rather ancient I need to know ...
   - are Matias keycaps compatible?
   - are Matias stabilizers compatible?
Or do I better get hold of original Alps caps and stabs?

Title: Re: SKCM Alps compatible with Mathias stuff?
Post by: Findecanor on Thu, 03 August 2023, 07:32:17

There are in general two types of stabilisers used with Alps SKCM:
- Alps-style, with small clips in the plate and square inserts into the keycaps
- Costar-style, with larger clips in the plate and cross-mount inserts into the keycaps

Both fit all Alps SKCL/SKCM switches, but you'd need to pair the right clip with the plate and the right insert with the keycaps.
A keyboard will have either Alps or Costar-style stabilisers, ... or in some rare cases: different ones for different keys. The stabiliser bar length is also not completely standardised, so you'll need to fit the length as well.

It looks like Matias' stabiliser kit has both Alps and Costar-style plate clips, but Alps-style inserts, so I'd guess both types of plate-clips will work.

BTW. Welcome to Geekhack!