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geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: Strelok on Wed, 06 March 2013, 14:09:15

Title: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Strelok on Wed, 06 March 2013, 14:09:15
agodinhost and I have been conceptualizing a wireless breakout board for the GH60 to make it compatible with Bluetooth and battery power here (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40514.0).
komar007 has revised the PCB to make the board able to accept expansion modules.

If there is significant interest, other modules can be prototyped and ran with the next batch of GH60 PCB.

Is there anyone that is interested in any type of expansion module? wireless, lcd screens, various lighting options, whatever you can think of...

Interest:

Wireless:

USB Hub:

EL Backlighting:

Integrated Trackball:
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: aggiejy on Wed, 06 March 2013, 17:28:08
I'm interested in the idea of adding bluetooth.  Personally I don't mind a cord, but I have a couple good friends that always ask me about wireless mechanical keyboards.  Filco came out with their full-size bluetooth board I suppose.  It does seem like something that will grow in popularity in general.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: TDub on Thu, 07 March 2013, 02:12:38
Definitely interested in Bluetooth :)
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: BossBorot on Thu, 07 March 2013, 02:19:22
+1 to wireless interest
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: gnubag on Thu, 07 March 2013, 02:30:37
yes, bluetooth would be boss.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: WhiteFireDragon on Thu, 07 March 2013, 02:53:04
I'd be interested in this, although I don't think it'll easily fit in any existing cases. I'm assuming this module has the circuitry for recharging the lithium polymer battery via USB, right?
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: dirge on Thu, 07 March 2013, 07:23:22
DIY Rollermouse built into the case :)
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Strelok on Thu, 07 March 2013, 09:14:50
I'd be interested in this, although I don't think it'll easily fit in any existing cases. I'm assuming this module has the circuitry for recharging the lithium polymer battery via USB, right?

Yes.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: 4LI4Z on Thu, 07 March 2013, 10:08:16
Totally interested in wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: tmk1207 on Thu, 07 March 2013, 10:37:17
+1 to wireless :p
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Batmann on Thu, 07 March 2013, 15:05:03
same here,
in for wireless
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Thu, 07 March 2013, 16:02:00
+1 bluetooth and usb lipo charger

+1 modular keyboard matrix :D

+1 EL backlight (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40872.msg814515#msg814515) with adjust!

el backlight with auto adjust?

el backlight toggled to on or off by timer and movement detection?

water proof? (or at least spit proof?)
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Thu, 07 March 2013, 16:11:24
I'd be interested in this, although I don't think it'll easily fit in any existing cases. I'm assuming this module has the circuitry for recharging the lithium polymer battery via USB, right?
Yup, usb lipo charger included.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: mashby on Thu, 07 March 2013, 16:51:09
+1 for wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: noxwood on Thu, 07 March 2013, 21:23:08
Bluetooth sounds good.

Maybe more lighting options? There was a picture of a keyboard that had backlighting that lit the desk around the keyboard, looked pretty cool.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: whiskytango on Thu, 07 March 2013, 21:41:45
Since I have decided I must join the GH60 club, I would be interested in a wireless option since I plan on getting a tablet when my laptop dies.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Fri, 08 March 2013, 16:23:45
What? no one asked for a few USB ports?  :'(
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: noxwood on Fri, 08 March 2013, 18:17:41
Good idea, a USB hub built in would be fantastic.

Also, a trackpoint.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: mashby on Sat, 09 March 2013, 07:57:38
and a Pony!  ;)

Seriously though, the USB hub is a great idea.
Title: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: phetto on Sat, 09 March 2013, 08:58:29
+1. For wireless. Perfect for htpc
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Leslieann on Sat, 09 March 2013, 18:02:14
Definitely interested in wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Strelok on Mon, 11 March 2013, 18:50:45
I added USB Hub to the list but I can't work out the logistics for that in my head.

Additional case mods would be necessary and I can't imagine how easy it would be to stack with wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Mon, 11 March 2013, 22:25:50
I added USB Hub to the list but I can't work out the logistics for that in my head.

Additional case mods would be necessary and I can't imagine how easy it would be to stack with wireless.
Worst case scenario: we could get one 4 ports USB Hub and wire it internally.
Best case scenario: we could design our own ...
I'm not sure yet.
Right now it's just a wish ...
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: kriminal on Tue, 12 March 2013, 14:22:01
wireless\bluetooth
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: i3oilermaker on Tue, 12 March 2013, 14:42:02
Yea ring me up
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: vardhana on Thu, 14 March 2013, 09:15:53
I'm interested in wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: dirge on Thu, 14 March 2013, 15:24:33
Why am I the only person to say roller mouse? :(
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Strelok on Thu, 14 March 2013, 15:40:29
Why am I the only person to say roller mouse? :(

Yes.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Glissant on Thu, 14 March 2013, 15:56:54
Interested in the wireless module :).
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: esoomenona on Thu, 14 March 2013, 16:06:03
I'm interested in any expansion that can be made.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Strelok on Thu, 14 March 2013, 16:52:41
I don't know a hell of a lot about PCB but it seems that if order at least 25 it will be less than $10 per PCB. Bluetooth modules are a different story.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Matt3o on Thu, 14 March 2013, 17:05:00
+1 wireless
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Thu, 14 March 2013, 19:50:39
I don't know a hell of a lot about PCB but it seems that if order at least 25 it will be less than $10 per PCB. Bluetooth modules are a different story.
I used BatchPCB a few times and it was okay for small quantities ...
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: tjcaustin on Thu, 14 March 2013, 19:55:37
AMG WHY AM I NOT ON THE WIRELESS LIST, I NEEEED ONE OF THESE FOR MY LIVING ROOM PC.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: hashbaz on Thu, 14 March 2013, 22:31:20
Interested in wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Sai on Thu, 14 March 2013, 22:34:42
yep. put me down for 1 wireless.  :))
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: FabsSpeed on Sat, 16 March 2013, 14:41:30
In for mwireless!
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Winther on Tue, 19 March 2013, 14:09:46
wireless could be cool.
im interested.. :)
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Turkishrambo on Tue, 19 March 2013, 14:23:40
wireless for me! :D
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: TheQsanity on Tue, 19 March 2013, 14:43:33
Not sure if any bit of it would be compatible with a prototype but all the ideas lool nice
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Tue, 19 March 2013, 16:01:29
Not sure if any bit of it would be compatible with a prototype but all the ideas lool nice
compatible with a prototype? what do you mean?
I'm working on one prototype - just give me some time bro, I'm slow ...
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: tricheboars on Tue, 19 March 2013, 16:15:21
i would love a wireless one!
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Winther on Tue, 19 March 2013, 18:13:37
just curious here, would this be ready around the same time as the board, if you are able to tell that yet?
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Tue, 19 March 2013, 20:20:21
just curious here, would this be ready around the same time as the board, if you are able to tell that yet?
I think it will take one month, 2 tops.
The idea is to make one proof of concept first, then I'll post the basic wiring into my blog or here. Doing so we will enable more people to help in the firmware code.

The thing is that I do have a few bluetooth modules at home (picture 1) but they are not ready to be used without another module (one level converter).
So, to keep the wiring simple as possible, I did ordered a few bluetooth "shields" (picture 3, I don't like this word but it's how the arduino guys are calling it's modules).

(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/94589680/20130319-bluetoothModule.JPG)
Picture 1, the bluetooth CSR module

(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/94589680/20130319-bluetoothHeader.JPG)
Picture 2, the bluetooth "level converter" module

(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/94589680/20130319-bluetoothShield.jpg)
Picture 3 = picture 1 + picture 2

I did almost finished the usb lipo charger wiring (here (http://drianoxaman.blogspot.com.br/2013/03/arduino-usb-lipo-charger-5v-booster.html)).
Take a look there and feel free to write comments (and please, anyone, pardon my english - any review on it will be welcome).
Title: Re: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: TheQsanity on Wed, 20 March 2013, 02:09:12
Not sure if any bit of it would be compatible with a prototype but all the ideas lool nice
compatible with a prototype? what do you mean?
I'm working on one prototype - just give me some time bro, I'm slow ...
No, no problem at all. I heard new pbc and thought the prototype wouldnt be compatible. I would be interested if the difficulty level isnt too high.

How about the trackpoint(pointing stick)? Idea was proposed for the hypermicro.
I would be very interested in that
And maybe some mouse clickers by the spacebar...

You have my full support! Get me in them all.
Title: Re: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Wed, 20 March 2013, 08:59:01
... I would be interested if the difficulty level isnt too high.
The idea is to keep the whole thing as simple as possible.

You have my full support! Get me in them all.
There is not much to do until I got those parts.
Komar is testing his firmware and gui, he needs help ...
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Muffet on Thu, 21 March 2013, 09:29:26
I am also interested in the wireless
Title: Re: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Strelok on Sun, 24 March 2013, 17:49:47
How about the trackpoint(pointing stick)? Idea was proposed for the hypermicro.
I would be very interested in that
And maybe some mouse clickers by the spacebar...

I'd love a trackpoint myself, but that would require a lot more infrastructure to be created. I think we're all waiting for the MiniGuru to return.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Glissant on Sun, 24 March 2013, 18:33:54
Interested in the wireless module :).
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: elton5354 on Sun, 24 March 2013, 18:45:14
I am also interested in the wireless
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: inteli722 on Sun, 24 March 2013, 19:23:27
Wireless is the main reason for a 60% board for me...so

I would love a wireless option!
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: ItsBc on Tue, 26 March 2013, 05:52:20
I'm in on wireless!
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Tue, 26 March 2013, 08:16:17
I'm still waiting for a few parts at here.
As soon as it arrives I'll be back to work in the prototype ...
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: mkawa on Tue, 26 March 2013, 08:34:54
the good vertical strain gauge trackpoints come from alps, the 4mm tall version is no longer in production, and MOQ is huge
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: battletux on Tue, 16 April 2013, 08:45:49
Wireless and back lighting would be awesome. Consider me interested in both.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Kmynis on Tue, 16 April 2013, 09:05:00
+1 for wireless and backlight. Some RGB LED stuff would be very cool and I'm pumped to go to insane levels.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Glod on Tue, 16 April 2013, 20:16:14
what is this integrated trackball you speak of,

im down for 1 or 2 wireless kits if they ever come to exist and inexpensive

shame the ergodox can't be made wireless that i know of.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Tarzan on Tue, 16 April 2013, 20:55:13
+1 for backlighting and wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Matt3o on Wed, 17 April 2013, 05:08:23
just wanted to stress the obvious... wireless AND backlight don't go well together. It's either/or.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Tarzan on Wed, 17 April 2013, 08:00:31
just wanted to stress the obvious... wireless AND backlight don't go well together. It's either/or.

Well in that case...  I'd be in for a back-lit GH60.

 ;D
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Neal on Wed, 17 April 2013, 13:53:17
Interested in wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: reality404 on Fri, 19 April 2013, 00:28:26
Interested in a backlight and wireless on a different GH60.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: heedpantsnow on Sun, 21 April 2013, 21:30:23
Interested in:

ALL OF THEM!
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: realex on Tue, 23 April 2013, 15:11:43
interested in wireless mod to be able to finally detonate an explosive charge inside my logitech htpc keyboard.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Jocelyn on Tue, 23 April 2013, 15:15:33
Very interested in wireless :)
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Tranquilite on Wed, 24 April 2013, 15:41:44
I'm interested in wireless as well.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: bear95 on Wed, 24 April 2013, 20:57:43
Interested in all. Especially wireless. One of main reasons why I'm getting gh60.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: naokira on Thu, 02 May 2013, 14:30:17
I just think of this while on my way home, how about a built in sd card reader ? :D

kinda cool if you're dependent on sd cards.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Thu, 02 May 2013, 15:29:38
I just think of this while on my way home, how about a built in sd card reader ? :D

kinda cool if you're dependent on sd cards.
The firmware code required to read FAT is kinda huge - not sure if fit in one teensy (atmega32u4) ...
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: reddeth on Thu, 02 May 2013, 17:04:06
I'd be on board for a wireless addon. Just to be sure, I'm assuming this means I have a GH60 board and I can add a board onto it that makes it wireless? Hell yeah!
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: n0rvig on Thu, 02 May 2013, 19:38:42
If interest checks are like voting then put me down for Wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Fri, 03 May 2013, 07:40:19
I'd be on board for a wireless addon. Just to be sure, I'm assuming this means I have a GH60 board and I can add a board onto it that makes it wireless? Hell yeah!
Yes, you can, hasu's firmware already does have support for iWRAP so if you do get one compatible module like the Bluegiga I think you are good to go.
I'm working on it with the RN-42 HID module and with the CSR module too but it will take a while (I'm slow).
Take a look into the GH60 Wireless link into my signature.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: bbl on Thu, 16 May 2013, 10:54:24
Wireless. Most definitely. 
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Trueno86 on Tue, 04 June 2013, 14:44:05
Wireless for sure!
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: nil on Sun, 16 June 2013, 04:43:12
Wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: mtl on Mon, 17 June 2013, 22:22:50
++wireless
++trackpoint IV & 3 buttons
++hub / sdcard reader

Also, how about a speaker for key click sound effects? This could provide auditory feedback for non-clicky switches.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: thoere on Tue, 18 June 2013, 20:01:01
Interested in USB hub and trackball
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: komar007 on Thu, 20 June 2013, 02:55:30
Before this gets too far, I have to disappoint you and say that not all of these are technically possible.
The expansion connector contains power and 4 I/O lines from the microcontroller, so USB hub is not possible, since this will require the USB lines to go to the expansion board first and then to the controller.
Trackball/trackpoint/wireless are however theoretically possible.
One potential problem with the expansion modules is the space limitations in the case. It looks like there's really little space there. I've no idea how to fit anything there...
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Batmann on Thu, 20 June 2013, 07:41:09
How about IMSTO new "diamond" case?
they look deeper than what is usually done, it seems there could be some room left under the PCB around the area where the usb controller sits,
what do you think?
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Thu, 20 June 2013, 09:00:20
Before this gets too far, I have to disappoint you and say that not all of these are technically possible.
The expansion connector contains power and 4 I/O lines from the microcontroller, so USB hub is not possible, since this will require the USB lines to go to the expansion board first and then to the controller.
Trackball/trackpoint/wireless are however theoretically possible.
One potential problem with the expansion modules is the space limitations in the case. It looks like there's really little space there. I've no idea how to fit anything there...
Yup, not all of these items in this IC are possible without a second uC or with more room at the GH60 case.
I think that with time we will see what we can do or not.
For this IC I think it's valid to write down whatever you like to have - it's an IC anyway, not an GB (IMHO).

Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: Poom on Thu, 27 June 2013, 13:03:43
Bluetooth please
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: ferociousfingerings on Fri, 12 July 2013, 01:50:38
Let's slap some NAND and a quad-core cpu on it!

But srsly, i was thinking "let's make it modular." That way, you could plug-in an F-row and/or a TK/home/arrow-cluster-pad, and upon doing so, it "automagically" changes to a profile that includes the connected component.

As for "usb hub impossible," what would be required to make it possible? I don't quite understand the brief explanation given about why it's impossible (4 I/O lines from microcontroller, usb lines to expansion board first...).

If a USB "hub" is impossible, what about a single "pass-through port?" I realize that would require a different connector and a fancy twin-cable... but is it even possible?

And, if wireless is to be developed, would there be USB-charging? Would there be LED indicators of charging/battery/connectivity status?
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: agodinhost on Fri, 12 July 2013, 09:43:13
Let's slap some NAND and a quad-core cpu on it!
Gosh, I would love but whom would pay for it?

But srsly, i was thinking "let's make it modular." That way, you could plug-in an F-row and/or a TK/home/arrow-cluster-pad, and upon doing so, it "automagically" changes to a profile that includes the connected component.
Modular is my motto however the price is a huge influence! Don't forget that the most important thing is to get the project working!

As for "usb hub impossible," what would be required to make it possible? I don't quite understand the brief explanation given about why it's impossible (4 I/O lines from microcontroller, usb lines to expansion board first...).

If a USB "hub" is impossible, what about a single "pass-through port?" I realize that would require a different connector and a fancy twin-cable... but is it even possible?
I wouldn't say impossible, I would say harder (out of my league right now - USB is actually an tough subject ).
Do you have any schematic for this "simple pass-through port" idea? I would love to hear it ...

And, if wireless is to be developed, would there be USB-charging? Would there be LED indicators of charging/battery/connectivity status?
Yes, USB charging is there. Take a look at the GH60 BT project link at my signature below.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: bupsthename on Sat, 13 July 2013, 14:36:12
Interested in a wireless module (assuming I can pick up one of the unclaimed kits, of course :) )
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: ferociousfingerings on Sun, 14 July 2013, 12:09:29
Let's slap some NAND and a quad-core cpu on it!
Gosh, I would love but whom would pay for it?

But srsly, i was thinking "let's make it modular." That way, you could plug-in an F-row and/or a TK/home/arrow-cluster-pad, and upon doing so, it "automagically" changes to a profile that includes the connected component.
Modular is my motto however the price is a huge influence! Don't forget that the most important thing is to get the project working!

As for "usb hub impossible," what would be required to make it possible? I don't quite understand the brief explanation given about why it's impossible (4 I/O lines from microcontroller, usb lines to expansion board first...).

If a USB "hub" is impossible, what about a single "pass-through port?" I realize that would require a different connector and a fancy twin-cable... but is it even possible?
I wouldn't say impossible, I would say harder (out of my league right now - USB is actually an tough subject ).
Do you have any schematic for this "simple pass-through port" idea? I would love to hear it ...

And, if wireless is to be developed, would there be USB-charging? Would there be LED indicators of charging/battery/connectivity status?
Yes, USB charging is there. Take a look at the GH60 BT project link at my signature below.

I actually said "single" usb passthrough. "Simple" implies that i know some sort of magic that would make such a thing not-difficult, which, unfortunately, i cannot truthfully profess to possess. It was just an idea: a place to plug a usb device, to use instead of a back-of-pc port, which would essentially be just a usb extension from the pc to the kb, with the port on the kb. The idea is simple, but i'm guessing implementation would be beyond the scope of my very absent capabilities. lol.

I also had another idea: a built-in KVM switch? (the right one would have high cost, but wouldn't it be awesome to have a wireless, programmable, 60% board, and just press a key-chord to swap between machines?)

And in the spirit of my previous comment about NAND: "Let's slap a raspberry pi on it! And an LCD!" (i bet you could totally make a tiny "laptop" this way, but... the term "sub-optimal" comes to mind)

That idea lead me to discovering the existence of other such similar devices, like the beaglebone and cubieboard.


So, wireless, kvm switch, modular "addon/extension" connector, perhaps... but I think the important thing to remember here is that "it's just a keyboard." Maybe there should be some other companion device conceived for it, in order to add special or techie, useful functionality, in a small and power-efficient format... but not actually be connected to or integrated with the actual keyboard.

Idk, was just thinking, figured i'd share.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: jspark on Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:29:02
interested in wireless.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 25 July 2013, 15:32:24
interested in wireless.

^^ x1000

This would be awesome.
Title: Re: [IC] GH60 Expansions
Post by: debt4lyfe on Thu, 22 August 2013, 16:39:52
new here so forgive me if it's a faux pas to bump a thread this old, but a bluetooth extension for gh60 would be super rad

now only if i could get my hands on an actual gh60, lol