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geekhack Projects => Making Stuff Together! => Topic started by: metalliqaz on Mon, 09 March 2015, 20:32:21

Title: Compact TKL (80%) - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 09 March 2015, 20:32:21
I want to try this layout!

standard (http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/22f04481f7d5a31bc2a33595db2abe07):
[attachimg=1]

I like my good old TKL layout and all the keys that come with it, but I also quite lick the compactness of the 75% layout.  This is a hybrid of the two that you might call 80%.  The Compact TKL has a full 87 keys but in the minimum amount of space.  It uses a standard keyset except for the one bonus key next to the arrows and the incorrect profile of Home/End.  Unlike a typical 75%, this has a more pleasing F-row stagger, which is nice.

The board comes with full backlighting and 8 (!) indicator LEDs to allow for lots of status info (see Easy AVR LED mapping).  It uses Costar stabilizers.

I'm good at the code and electronics, but I have no talent for case design.  I would like to fit this into something really nice.  I'm looking for a partner.  If you don't do 40/45/60% layouts and want a compact board with lots of keys that supports a standard key set, then sound off below.
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: nubbinator on Mon, 09 March 2015, 21:46:50
I'm no CAD master and I'm only using TinkerCAD, but I think it may be time for me to try something bigger...as long as it's a more simple design.  I'd definitely try and get someone more knowledgeable, but if you throw out some dimensions (PCB/Plate size, x/y centered offsets for screw mounts, etc), I'll definitely give it a go.  I'd want someone with a bit more know-how like Photekq to give it a quick once over, but it could be fun.
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: DrHubblePhD on Mon, 09 March 2015, 21:48:02
I may be able to help you out depending on how complicated a case you want  :thumb:
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: Wilba on Mon, 09 March 2015, 21:57:50
What kind of case are you after?

I just modelled a JD45 case which is essentially the same as the Tex 60% case. They're fairly easy to do, but the PCB needs to support it through optimized mount holes and USB connector location.
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: Melvang on Mon, 09 March 2015, 22:00:37
My vote would be to do plate mounted to the case and have the PCB float.  Much easier on the PCB and case design.  Plus allows for handwired builds.
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 09 March 2015, 22:55:40
Encouraging!  I can provide drawings, of course. The usb would indeed be top left.
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: DrHubblePhD on Mon, 09 March 2015, 23:09:02
Encouraging!  I can provide drawings, of course. The usb would indeed be top left.

yeah post some drawings, as I said I may be able to help. Im not so much limited by technical skill but rather how much time I can dedicate to it  :p
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: metalliqaz on Mon, 09 March 2015, 23:36:24
Haven't designed it yet, but the PCB dimensions are at least "final"

I definitely want an 80% form factor
Title: Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: DrHubblePhD on Mon, 09 March 2015, 23:52:07
Haven't designed it yet, but the PCB dimensions are at least "final"

I definitely want an 80% form factor
Well if you want to brain storm pm me and I'll give you my skype for some IM :thumb:
Title: Re: Compact TKL (80%) - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: metalliqaz on Sun, 22 March 2015, 11:46:34
Just to check in I'm still moving forward with this.  I'm excited about making something interesting.
I'm close to finishing a reference design.  I just have to get to work on a PCB so I can place the USB connector.

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: Compact TKL (80%) - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
Post by: regack on Sun, 22 March 2015, 19:21:27
Just to check in I'm still moving forward with this.  I'm excited about making something interesting.
I'm close to finishing a reference design.  I just have to get to work on a PCB so I can place the USB connector.

(Attachment Link)

ooh, that's neat.  Almost seems like there would be enough room in there for more Interesting Things :D