I notice your plate is strict with the entire layout Is there any plans to add additional layout options, or is this governed by your pcb design?
Love it, very interest! :p
Looks neat. Will be keeping an eye on this!
This looks awesome. Great detailed post that everyone should take a look at :)
How much harder would it be to have the numpad on the left side? Am I the only one that thinks the numpad should be on the left side so it doesn't move the mouse out farther?It can be done, but it also must be supported by the plate.
Even with the numpad on the 'standard' side, it still looks pretty neat tho
How much harder would it be to have the numpad on the left side? Am I the only one that thinks the numpad should be on the left side so it doesn't move the mouse out farther?It can be done, but it also must be supported by the plate.
Even with the numpad on the 'standard' side, it still looks pretty neat tho
Very cool I've seen similar ideas but this seems very well thought out. Is there any possibility of adding extra layout compatibility to the 60% area? Things such as split backspace, split right shift, iso compatibility, and alternative bottom row layouts?Possibility? Yes, there is. Are they going to be done? I don't know, I'm just designing the board. If doodersbrother says that it is ok, I'll add support for it.
How much harder would it be to have the numpad on the left side? Am I the only one that thinks the numpad should be on the left side so it doesn't move the mouse out farther?It can be done, but it also must be supported by the plate.
Even with the numpad on the 'standard' side, it still looks pretty neat tho
I understand, just wondering if anyone else agreed with me :)
I'm the PCB designer. It's about 90% complete, I'm working now on the USB hub circuit. In this weekend I'm planning to finish it and then make some modifications to the board. Received some really good ideas.
I'm following the plan given to me of a ANSI layout, but I can easily add ISO support, that's no problem. I also can modify the bottom row to add support to winkeyless layouts. However, all those changes have to be supported by the plate, which isn't my responsibility.
How much harder would it be to have the numpad on the left side? Am I the only one that thinks the numpad should be on the left side so it doesn't move the mouse out farther?It can be done, but it also must be supported by the plate.
Even with the numpad on the 'standard' side, it still looks pretty neat tho
How much harder would it be to have the numpad on the left side? Am I the only one that thinks the numpad should be on the left side so it doesn't move the mouse out farther?It can be done, but it also must be supported by the plate.
Even with the numpad on the 'standard' side, it still looks pretty neat tho
This is going to sound ridiculous and I'm sure there are a bunch of reasons why it couldn't be done ...
How about having the plate / pcb be 'flippable'. It could land in the case the same way - you just flip them over and then the numpad will be on the left.
This is going to sound ridiculous and I'm sure there are a bunch of reasons why it couldn't be done ...
How about having the plate / pcb be 'flippable'. It could land in the case the same way - you just flip them over and then the numpad will be on the left.
This is going to sound ridiculous and I'm sure there are a bunch of reasons why it couldn't be done ...
How about having the plate / pcb be 'flippable'. It could land in the case the same way - you just flip them over and then the numpad will be on the left.
The 60% section is not symmetrical, that would be the requirement if you wanted it to be flippable. If flipped the backspace would be on the left, then caps lock would be 2.25u, enter, now 1.75u, and so on if you get the picture. Now someone could design symmetric modifiers, but even still, the alphas dont flip either for their staggering. So unfortunately it would not be a simple thing.
The possible proper way to do it would be to have 2 PCBs, or a scored section on the main variant so you could break it into a 60% and a TK. Then you would need headers so you could connect the two back together after repositioning them on opposides of each other. And all the mounting holes would have to be available for both placement options, and you would still need 2 different plates unless you did a 2 part plate too. But the seam on a 2 part plate would be very visible in the blank space between the halves.
So, possible? Yes. Practical, not so much. It all depends on how much work they want to put into making that possible and if it will pay off with a respective increase in orders.
How much harder would it be to have the numpad on the left side? Am I the only one that thinks the numpad should be on the left side so it doesn't move the mouse out farther?
Even with the numpad on the 'standard' side, it still looks pretty neat tho
1. Do you know of a CNC place to mill these/cut them yetI can answer #5: yes, PCB mount is an option. I always design my boards with holes for PCB switches AND PCB Cherry stabilizers, it won't be different on this one.
2. What material will the case be made of
3. What material will the plate be made of
4. How will the plate be attached to the case
5. Do you need a plate or is PCB mount also an option
1. Do you know of a CNC place to mill these/cut them yet
2. What material will the case be made of
3. What material will the plate be made of
4. How will the plate be attached to the case
5. Do you need a plate or is PCB mount also an option
, then sandblasted
UPDATE:But it won't be available at the same time as the version with numpad at the right. Be patient, please.
Version with numberpad on left hand side will also be available with all the same features
Custom printed keycaps are no longer looking like an option as they are just so expensive and most of you will put your own caps on them anyways.
UPDATE:But it won't be available at the same time as the version with numpad at the right. Be patient, please.
Version with numberpad on left hand side will also be available with all the same features
Custom printed keycaps are no longer looking like an option as they are just so expensive and most of you will put your own caps on them anyways.
This looks very promising. It still needs a few more things before it really catches my interest. Looks like it is being refined into a great project though.
It's been said before so I'm sure you are aware but better layout compatibility such as split backspace, split right shift, and various bottom row layouts. As well as various layouts of the numpad.This looks very promising. It still needs a few more things before it really catches my interest. Looks like it is being refined into a great project though.
What do you think needs to be different?
It's been said before so I'm sure you are aware but better layout compatibility such as split backspace, split right shift, and various bottom row layouts. As well as various layouts of the numpad.This looks very promising. It still needs a few more things before it really catches my interest. Looks like it is being refined into a great project though.
What do you think needs to be different?
What price are you hoping to hit for an unassembled kit?
Imo you should allow more layouts.
Strict minimum nowadays is :
- ISO enter,
- split backspace
- split Rshift (1.75u+1u)
- ISO L****
- 1.5|1|1.5|7|1.5|1|1.5 bottom row.
Just my 2 cents.
"Ask and thou shalt receive."
We heard you suggestions!Tomorrow I will not work on my daily job (Corpus Christi holiday), so I will have time to finish this already delayed first version of the board. Then I will start to chase for errors and make some optimizations.
- There will be a left-side numpad version of the board, I only need to finish the right-side version before starting working on it
- ISO support, split backspace and right shift (HHKB-style) are already on the board, just needed to squeeze it a little bit :))
- When I arrive home today I will start to add more bottom row options
"Ask and thou shalt receive."
We heard you suggestions!Tomorrow I will not work on my daily job (Corpus Christi holiday), so I will have time to finish this already delayed first version of the board. Then I will start to chase for errors and make some optimizations.
- There will be a left-side numpad version of the board, I only need to finish the right-side version before starting working on it
- ISO support, split backspace and right shift (HHKB-style) are already on the board, just needed to squeeze it a little bit :))
- When I arrive home today I will start to add more bottom row options
It is a possibility. Problem is: I can't find a connector with a profile low enough for it. I know they exist, but I can't find them on Mouser, Digikey or Newark. Any suggestions on these are welcome, as they would simplify the design."Ask and thou shalt receive."
We heard you suggestions!Tomorrow I will not work on my daily job (Corpus Christi holiday), so I will have time to finish this already delayed first version of the board. Then I will start to chase for errors and make some optimizations.
- There will be a left-side numpad version of the board, I only need to finish the right-side version before starting working on it
- ISO support, split backspace and right shift (HHKB-style) are already on the board, just needed to squeeze it a little bit :))
- When I arrive home today I will start to add more bottom row options
Just a thought:
If you just made 2 PCBs (one numpad and one 60%) and gave the PCBs a connector of some sort you could make it so you only have to make one possibly?
As an extension... if you made 2x plates (one for numpad and one for 60%) and designed the case right might it not be possible to fit all the needs in one design? Personally I would love this option because I would put the numpad on the left and if I couldn't get used to it I would move it back the the right side.
It is a possibility. Problem is: I can't find a connector with a profile low enough for it. I know they exist, but I can't find them on Mouser, Digikey or Newark. Any suggestions on these are welcome, as they would simplify the design."Ask and thou shalt receive."
We heard you suggestions!Tomorrow I will not work on my daily job (Corpus Christi holiday), so I will have time to finish this already delayed first version of the board. Then I will start to chase for errors and make some optimizations.
- There will be a left-side numpad version of the board, I only need to finish the right-side version before starting working on it
- ISO support, split backspace and right shift (HHKB-style) are already on the board, just needed to squeeze it a little bit :))
- When I arrive home today I will start to add more bottom row options
Just a thought:
If you just made 2 PCBs (one numpad and one 60%) and gave the PCBs a connector of some sort you could make it so you only have to make one possibly?
As an extension... if you made 2x plates (one for numpad and one for 60%) and designed the case right might it not be possible to fit all the needs in one design? Personally I would love this option because I would put the numpad on the left and if I couldn't get used to it I would move it back the the right side.
EDIT: By "low enough", I mean a connector with less than 5mm of height when soldered on the board.
Another possibility would just be just soldering wire no? I know it wouldn't be as finished looking but the thickness would be right.I know. I want to give a professional look to the board, but if it isn't possible (or possible but too expensive), I'll probably do that.
I don't know a *ton* about this stuff... but would something like this work? http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/TE-Connectivity-AMP/84533-6/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMs7i6cT6ogu4yu2u1yJsBr1EpyOvc4Q97A%3d (http://www.mouser.com/ProductDetail/TE-Connectivity-AMP/84533-6/?qs=sGAEpiMZZMs7i6cT6ogu4yu2u1yJsBr1EpyOvc4Q97A%3d)I'll take a look for alternatives, as I need 9 wires for the keypad (4 columns, 5 rows).
I believe a 6 wire ribbon cable slides into that. Not sure if you'd need more.
There will be a left-side numpad version of the board, I only need to finish the right-side version before starting working on it
There will be a left-side numpad version of the board, I only need to finish the right-side version before starting working on it
This is my dream board, thank you.
I'm going to need to start saving funds pronto. Are you guys working against any deadline?
Does anyone knows if Soarer's firmware supports backlighting? If not, then I'll have to start the PCB design from scratch, given some design limitations of tmk_keyboard. :(
hasu already linked that to me. My problem isn't with backlighting per se. It's about the maximum number of columns/rows the firmware support. The way tmk is structured it allows a 16x16 maximum matrix. This keyboard have 19 columns. That's why I'm asking about Soarer's firmware, because AFAIK it is agnostic to column/row number (as long as you have a keyboard with a maximum of 256 keys).Does anyone knows if Soarer's firmware supports backlighting? If not, then I'll have to start the PCB design from scratch, given some design limitations of tmk_keyboard. :(
Hey Vinny.
Not good at this stuff, but does this: https://github.com/tmk/tmk_keyboard/issues/111 help you?
Nevermind, already found a solution for that. Just need to rearrange some columns and rows, but it'll work.
Any suggestions as to the name?
I was thinking. If the pcb will be in two parts to support left and right arrangement. Will the plate also be in two parts and will the mounting holes in the case support this? Also need to consider the usb port placement. Would be freaking awesome if you could pull it off.After some discussions and design checks, we decided to abandon the idea of separated boards and a single case for both versions: the gains are simply negligible to be worthy.
Just wanted to let you guys know the plate for the prototype is on the way! My plates are on the bottom right.
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)
Plates are made of steel and then sandblasted. Should be very solid :thumb:
If you guys could fill out this (https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1MFXEvbBaPe6e-WEeSAgYa00hMYOLsoje871355CnlzE/formResponse) poll it would be very appreciated. Thanks!Eyy, I've got your plates :)
Another update. We decided to omit the second USB port on the hub as we wouldn't have been able to get the ports to be flush with the case. So instead we used the space between the numberpad and alphanumeric part of the keyboard and only use one single USB port.
PCB completed!!The PCB core is ready, now I just have to finish the details, namely silkcreen legends.
(Attachment Link)
PCB completed!!Looks good! Are you the designer behind the Planck PCB?
(Attachment Link)
No, Jack made the design himself.PCB completed!!Looks good! Are you the designer behind the Planck PCB?
(Attachment Link)
No, Jack made the design himself.PCB completed!!Looks good! Are you the designer behind the Planck PCB?
(Attachment Link)
Sorry, didn't know that.No, Jack made the design himself.PCB completed!!Looks good! Are you the designer behind the Planck PCB?
(Attachment Link)
No, that was actually me. :D https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=70092
But the black PCB was definitely Jack's idea. I prefer red. Red goes faster. ;D
Plates came!
Plates came!Great, so we have pcb+plate? Any info for the case?
Plates came!
Woohoo! It's awesome to see this project come together.
Plates came!Great, so we have pcb+plate? Any info for the case?
But are those the final plates? That would make me a sad panda as they are very restricted. But then again I don't see any mounting holes either so are they just a prototype?
No mounting holes for the plate? :/
Plates came!Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/NxXuHeI.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/zvsjEbi.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/lSMbELq.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/22Y0rbS.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/R8zOnBX.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/yVDxm2f.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/qZIiXCb.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/GslhvDh.jpg)
I guess people will happy to see the plate support such layout, correct me if I'm wrong.At least the PCB got you covered:Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/wuRLYnJ.gif)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/WD67cCW.png)
Instead of splitting up the 2u "0" key into two 1u keys for arrow keys, we decided to move the arrow keys up one row to make sure it retains a standard bottom row for keyset compatibility.
Numpad on left = bought. Good luck with this.Then start saving your money for the TK78-L. ;)
Any updata?PCB is going to the 5th revision, as we discover errors, make corrections, add/remove features and make modifications due to other facts not electronics-related, like mounting slots positions.
Thanks for the hard work! Take your time. Looking froward to see the finished keyboard.Any updata?PCB is going to the 5th revision, as we discover errors, make corrections, add/remove features and make modifications due to other facts not electronics-related, like mounting slots positions.
This week is being quite difficult for me: I design only on my spare time, and my daily job is quite busy at the beginning of each month. Add to that a recent case of sleep dysfunction. Work is going slower than I'd like. :(
Looking good! But won't return require PCB mounted stabs?Yes, that's right. Universal plates have this side effect, but it is the price you pay when trying to reach a broader audience.
Another quick update. Plate was finalized.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/D6cZnaN.png)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/ZdwJcxA.png)
The parts for the prototype are slowly coming together. We should have an update with details on the final version of the plate and case in the coming days. The Group Buy for the board looks like it will be on the beginning of August.
The parts for the prototype are slowly coming together. We should have an update with details on the final version of the plate and case in the coming days. The Group Buy for the board looks like it will be on the beginning of August.
The parts for the prototype are slowly coming together. We should have an update with details on the final version of the plate and case in the coming days. The Group Buy for the board looks like it will be on the beginning of August.
That is excellent news.
How much power can you draw from the USB hub? I've heard that's an issue with the HHKB for example.Can't draw much here either. If the datasheets of the components are right, we are talking about 200mA maximum per port.
The parts for the prototype are slowly coming together. We should have an update with details on the final version of the plate and case in the coming days. The Group Buy for the board looks like it will be on the beginning of August.
Cool! Have you ever consider doing a version with an acrylic mid piece? Perhaps it would ask for a lot of changes on the case but I'm curious.
Would it have the same layout?The parts for the prototype are slowly coming together. We should have an update with details on the final version of the plate and case in the coming days. The Group Buy for the board looks like it will be on the beginning of August.
Cool! Have you ever consider doing a version with an acrylic mid piece? Perhaps it would ask for a lot of changes on the case but I'm curious.
No, but the next board I am planning will have a small acrylic window of sorts on the back with an RGB LED.
Would it have the same layout?The parts for the prototype are slowly coming together. We should have an update with details on the final version of the plate and case in the coming days. The Group Buy for the board looks like it will be on the beginning of August.
Cool! Have you ever consider doing a version with an acrylic mid piece? Perhaps it would ask for a lot of changes on the case but I'm curious.
No, but the next board I am planning will have a small acrylic window of sorts on the back with an RGB LED.
Fair enough.Would it have the same layout?The parts for the prototype are slowly coming together. We should have an update with details on the final version of the plate and case in the coming days. The Group Buy for the board looks like it will be on the beginning of August.
Cool! Have you ever consider doing a version with an acrylic mid piece? Perhaps it would ask for a lot of changes on the case but I'm curious.
No, but the next board I am planning will have a small acrylic window of sorts on the back with an RGB LED.
No. It's still in the concept stage so we don't know if it's even going to be produced.
Another quick update!
I found places for sandblasting, laser cutting, anodizing, and milling that all offer very reasonable prices in the US. Which means that the entire board (except for PCB) will be made in the US for those people who care about this kind of stuff.
Components for Prototype PCB arrived!Looking forward to see how everything goes together.Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/t9y7v36.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/FCDKVWy.jpg)
For the prototypes we will have gunmetal gray and turquoise, don't know about production run.
For the prototypes we will have gunmetal gray and turquoise, don't know about production run.
Two of my favorite colors :eek:
If either of those make it in to the production run I'm going to have a hard time choosing.
I've finished the firmware some days ago, but can only be sure that it works when the prototype is assembled and the firmware flashed.
Just wanted to mention my interest in this board. It sounds like an ideal work board for me. Only thing that would make it better would be if a "delete" key was accessible without hitting an Fn key as well. I'd love to have a smaller keyboard with a number pad though.We will be using TMK as the firmware and releasing the source code for this keyboard, so you are free to add a Delete key for yourself. :)
Definitely interested if we can get a left number pad versionIt's coming later
The PCB design for the left side numpad version is finished, by the way. ;)Definitely interested if we can get a left number pad versionIt's coming later
The PCB design for the left side numpad version is finished, by the way. ;)Definitely interested if we can get a left number pad versionIt's coming later
Just wanted to mention my interest in this board. It sounds like an ideal work board for me. Only thing that would make it better would be if a "delete" key was accessible without hitting an Fn key as well. I'd love to have a smaller keyboard with a number pad though.We will be using TMK as the firmware and releasing the source code for this keyboard, so you are free to add a Delete key for yourself. :)
I'm not super great with this sort of stuff, but sounds great! This could be my ideal work keyboard! I'm excited.You and about 95% of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. We are looking for an easy way to allow people to reprogram their keyboards, as editing source code isn't exactly an option for the majority. So far I have found an online source generator for other keyboards, would need someone to make a version for the TK78.
Thanks! :D
I'm not super great with this sort of stuff, but sounds great! This could be my ideal work keyboard! I'm excited.You and about 95% of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. We are looking for an easy way to allow people to reprogram their keyboards, as editing source code isn't exactly an option for the majority. So far I have found an online source generator for other keyboards, would need someone to make a version for the TK78.
Thanks! :D
PCB's and plates arrived!
https://imgur.com/a/6MxRD
I linked to imgur because that many embedded images would lag the page.
It sounds like the left number pad PCB has been created. Should we anticipate the left number pad version available in the first buy or at a later date?I really don't know. At the moment we are debugging the prototype, both hardware and firmware. I already have a list of changes that must be done.
It sounds like the left number pad PCB has been created. Should we anticipate the left number pad version available in the first buy or at a later date?I really don't know. At the moment we are debugging the prototype, both hardware and firmware. I already have a list of changes that must be done.
Also, what happened here? :/Remember: this is a prototype. We are debugging the board, this kind of patch is common at this phase.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/SmJh3g8.jpg)
Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/Dv5Nh81.jpg)
Also, another exciting update. Since anodizing is so cheap from the manufacturer, the case and plate will have numerous colors available. You can also mix and choose. For example, a black case with a red plate, etc.
Also, another exciting update. Since anodizing is so cheap from the manufacturer, the case and plate will have numerous colors available. You can also mix and choose. For example, a black case with a red plate, etc.
numpad on the left....
Oh wow I really want this. If you can keep it in the ~$250 range, I'm totally in.
Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/Dv5Nh81.jpg)
Also, another exciting update. Since anodizing is so cheap from the manufacturer, the case and plate will have numerous colors available. You can also mix and choose. For example, a black case with a red plate, etc.
REally cool news! Are we still close to the price tag given in the OP or higher/lower?
Oh wow I really want this. If you can keep it in the ~$250 range, I'm totally in.Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/Dv5Nh81.jpg)
Also, another exciting update. Since anodizing is so cheap from the manufacturer, the case and plate will have numerous colors available. You can also mix and choose. For example, a black case with a red plate, etc.
REally cool news! Are we still close to the price tag given in the OP or higher/lower?
Slightly higher (~$25) because the machine shop raised their prices to ridiculous levels. I did find another machine shop, but it is still $30 more expensive than I planned.
Just filled out the form on page 2.
Will keep an close an on this and hopefully score a board with the numpad on the left :thumb:
Are the plates and cases being made and Anodized by 2 different shops?
Color matching will be rough, if so.
Just filled out the form on page 2.
Will keep an close an on this and hopefully score a board with the numpad on the left :thumb:
Perhaps I'm blind but I can seem to find the link you are referring to ... ::)
I suggested the name Platinum, because that is what 78 is on the periodic table.That's the best name idea I've heard!
Filled out your form and submitted the name "78 dockdock"
I suggested the name Platinum, because that is what 78 is on the periodic table.
I knew, was just joking around.Filled out your form and submitted the name "78 dockdock"I suggested the name Platinum, because that is what 78 is on the periodic table.
Guys, the keyboards' names are already chosen: TK78-R & TK78-L, the last letter indicating at which side the numpad will be located.
Just filled out the form on page 2.
Will keep an close an on this and hopefully score a board with the numpad on the left :thumb:
Perhaps I'm blind but I can seem to find the link you are referring to ... ::)
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=72329.msg1774722#msg1774722 (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=72329.msg1774722#msg1774722)
Just what I was looking for :D I didn't miss the buy for this, did I?
Any updates?Still debugging the keyboard. I don't know why, but I can't upload an updated firmware using Flip on the board. On the weekend I'll have time to use an ICSP programmer to reload the DFU bootloader and upload the new firmware.
Case arrived. It was damaged while shipping. There are still a few problems that are being fixed.Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/XhFR98W.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/0sIU0wi.jpg)Show Image(https://i.imgur.com/WsqcpZN.jpg)
Just curious, but do we have an estimated order date for these? I saw the Reddit post. It looks gorgeous! Just need to figure what I'm doing financially. :-\I'm making a new revision of the PCB, correcting the errors found on the prototype. The case will also have to be slightly changed. So, the best estimate I can give you is: it will be done when it is done.
But I can't think of a better keyboard for my office.
Just curious, but do we have an estimated order date for these? I saw the Reddit post. It looks gorgeous! Just need to figure what I'm doing financially. :-\I'm making a new revision of the PCB, correcting the errors found on the prototype. The case will also have to be slightly changed. So, the best estimate I can give you is: it will be done when it is done.
But I can't think of a better keyboard for my office.
I've taken over the PCB since Vinny has been too busy to work on it. Prototypes are in doodersbrother's hands and he'll be building them soon. Once those are built and tested we can make sure the TMK fork I've put together for this will work:Good to see that the project is up and running again. But I have a question: are the LED rows directly connected to the PCA9634PW pins? Because it can't handle a current higher than 25mA/pin according to the datasheet. You can make the PCA9634PW drive a transistor or MOSFET and then connect it to the LED's, as suggested on the datasheet itself.
https://github.com/skullydazed/tmk_keyboard/tree/master/keyboard/tk78-r
I've changed the backlighting from a single MOSFET that turned all LED's on at once to the NXP PCA9634PW (http://www.nxp.com/documents/data_sheet/PCA9634.pdf), which lets us use full brightness by cycling through each row. As a bonus we'll have 3 pins on this chip left open, so hardware hackers and people who want to add more lighting will have a way to do so. I've exposed these pins, plus VCC and GND, on the board:Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/wvPp8ZS.png)
Watch this space, more exciting news to come.
I've taken over the PCB since Vinny has been too busy to work on it. Prototypes are in doodersbrother's hands and he'll be building them soon. Once those are built and tested we can make sure the TMK fork I've put together for this will work:Good to see that the project is up and running again. But I have a question: are the LED rows directly connected to the PCA9634PW pins? Because it can't handle a current higher than 25mA/pin according to the datasheet. You can make the PCA9634PW drive a transistor or MOSFET and then connect it to the LED's, as suggested on the datasheet itself.
https://github.com/skullydazed/tmk_keyboard/tree/master/keyboard/tk78-r
I've changed the backlighting from a single MOSFET that turned all LED's on at once to the NXP PCA9634PW (http://www.nxp.com/documents/data_sheet/PCA9634.pdf), which lets us use full brightness by cycling through each row. As a bonus we'll have 3 pins on this chip left open, so hardware hackers and people who want to add more lighting will have a way to do so. I've exposed these pins, plus VCC and GND, on the board:Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/wvPp8ZS.png)
Watch this space, more exciting news to come.
And I'm guessing that you are working on the code for I2C communication for the LED's to work. Can't wait about that. :)
[/quote
No, each row is connected through a MOSFET. You can see the one for row 5 to the left there.
And yes, putting together code for the I2C is on my todo list. The prototypes should be built soon so I better get working on it. :)
No, each row is connected through a MOSFET. You can see the one for row 5 to the left there.
And yes, putting together code for the I2C is on my todo list. The prototypes should be built soon so I better get working on it. :)
Hi! I am wondering if the TK78-L will still be happening. I'd really love a keyboard with a left-side numpad, especially a programmable+mechanical one.
Hi! I am wondering if the TK78-L will still be happening. I'd really love a keyboard with a left-side numpad, especially a programmable+mechanical one.
The Monarch exclusively uses ALPS switches, the TK78-L will be a Cherry MX board.Hi! I am wondering if the TK78-L will still be happening. I'd really love a keyboard with a left-side numpad, especially a programmable+mechanical one.
You may want to have a look at The Monarch (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=75786.0).
The Monarch exclusively uses ALPS switches, the TK78-L will be a Cherry MX board.
You may want to have a look at The Monarch (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=75786.0).
True. But if VikG wants a left-hand-num and is curious about the world of Alps, there's something out there right now. Just a suggestion. :))
This is something I have been waiting for.
Ive been using my 60% for a while, and I would love to have a number pad, and arrow keys, but without it being much bigger.
I know everyone uses their boards differently. I'd like to just put this layout out there. fundamental changes are outlined in the bluish and yellowish colours.
http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/layouts/a3f5970aa0dd38aa8c346017564554bf
That is the layout I am looking for as well.
(Attachment Link)
More+1 Very Interesting! :thumb:
Not sure if its already to late, but I would be totally in love if arrow key layouts would be supported in Lightsaver like fashion.
okwchin originally posted this layout, leaving out the gap completely which I really like:Show Image(https://geekhack.org/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=72329.0;attach=102063;image)
Another option could be to just support a full 1u Numpad (and maybe split Backspace) to allow for more options including arrow keys.
This would be a much smaller change only affecting pcb and plate, but still allowing for arrow key layouts! :D
Like this for example: (quick sketchy mockup)Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/lNwoiUb.jpg)
This would be the perfect work keyboard. Bring this back to life
It's been a little while since there's been any update here? Care to let us know where this project currently is? I'd love to get my hands on a new projects board soon and I'm hoping that this'll be it.
It's been a little while since there's been any update here? Care to let us know where this project currently is? I'd love to get my hands on a new projects board soon and I'm hoping that this'll be it.
I just received the latest batch of prototypes from the assembly house. I had to correct a couple small problems that may have been the assembler not looking closely enough or may have been silkscreens that were too confusing (I will be making them more clear for the next revision in either case) but otherwise these boards are looking pretty good. I've got 5 in hand and will be sending 3 of them to doodersbrothers for testing and validation.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/zJJ1R6U.jpg)
It's been a little while since there's been any update here? Care to let us know where this project currently is? I'd love to get my hands on a new projects board soon and I'm hoping that this'll be it.
I just received the latest batch of prototypes from the assembly house. I had to correct a couple small problems that may have been the assembler not looking closely enough or may have been silkscreens that were too confusing (I will be making them more clear for the next revision in either case) but otherwise these boards are looking pretty good. I've got 5 in hand and will be sending 3 of them to doodersbrothers for testing and validation.Show Image(http://i.imgur.com/zJJ1R6U.jpg)
At this point I believe that we are only waiting on the final case prototype to show up :thumb: Group buy should hopefully launch pretty quick after everything is completely finalized.
Update time! The case prototype has come in, everything fits and the board is ready to go. Here is a link to pictures of the prototype https://imgur.com/a/wHExd. The group buy should be launching soon :D
Awww, no MX clear switch options? Anyway to opt out of any switches then? I was really thinking about going with Zealios and making it my dream board.
Still, plan on picking it up. My start date at my work is June 27th for orientation, 28th for the office. Hope to have it all by then!
Also, can we see colors? I like the sounds of cyan, but just want to make sure we're on the same wavelength as to how it looks.
Awww, no MX clear switch options? Anyway to opt out of any switches then? I was really thinking about going with Zealios and making it my dream board.
Still, plan on picking it up. My start date at my work is June 27th for orientation, 28th for the office. Hope to have it all by then!
Also, can we see colors? I like the sounds of cyan, but just want to make sure we're on the same wavelength as to how it looks.
The post on reddit mentioned that they'll add an option to opt out of switches and keycaps. https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/4fhl16/gb_tk78_mechanical_keyboard_kit_now_available/d28u3hs (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/4fhl16/gb_tk78_mechanical_keyboard_kit_now_available/d28u3hs)
Awww, no MX clear switch options? Anyway to opt out of any switches then? I was really thinking about going with Zealios and making it my dream board.
Still, plan on picking it up. My start date at my work is June 27th for orientation, 28th for the office. Hope to have it all by then!
Also, can we see colors? I like the sounds of cyan, but just want to make sure we're on the same wavelength as to how it looks.
The post on reddit mentioned that they'll add an option to opt out of switches and keycaps. https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/4fhl16/gb_tk78_mechanical_keyboard_kit_now_available/d28u3hs (https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/4fhl16/gb_tk78_mechanical_keyboard_kit_now_available/d28u3hs)
So if for whatever reason this drop doesn't reach MOQ on MD, will it be run independently? I'm going to be joining the drop in a day or two, but I'll be pretty bummed if it doesn't reach MOQ and isn't run independently
The barebone kit option(no keycaps, switches, or leds) is up now. You only save $30 from choosing it though.
Ya, as long as they have your switch type it would be much more expensive to opt into the barebone kit just to avoid the keycaps.The barebone kit option(no keycaps, switches, or leds) is up now. You only save $30 from choosing it though.
Honestly I'm kinda disappointed with the barebones option. The only thing I don't want is the keycaps. But it doesn't makes sense to source my own switches just to pass on the keycaps.
Ya, as long as they have your switch type it would be much more expensive to opt into the barebone kit just to avoid the keycaps.The barebone kit option(no keycaps, switches, or leds) is up now. You only save $30 from choosing it though.
Honestly I'm kinda disappointed with the barebones option. The only thing I don't want is the keycaps. But it doesn't makes sense to source my own switches just to pass on the keycaps.
So, for the case and PCB, it's still $218.24 after tax. Yeezus. This is why I just wanted the PCB. Though, looking at how little the switches, caps, and LEDs reduced it I wonder if the PCB alone would come into range of what I can afford. This is a bummer, but I still really love this project, this board form factor, and I want to support the makers. I'll be fighting back and forth for the duration of this drop on whether to put down 220 clams for a PCB...
So, for the case and PCB, it's still $218.24 after tax. Yeezus. This is why I just wanted the PCB. Though, looking at how little the switches, caps, and LEDs reduced it I wonder if the PCB alone would come into range of what I can afford. This is a bummer, but I still really love this project, this board form factor, and I want to support the makers. I'll be fighting back and forth for the duration of this drop on whether to put down 220 clams for a PCB...
220 is a pretty hefty price tag, especially since MD also charges $16 for taxes. I think it may be better to just wait for Duck's trinity gb whenever that's going to happen. Very similar layout, and you get a much heftier build for around the same price.
Do we know what's going to happen when the MD doesn't go through? I really want this board!
Do we know what's going to happen when the MD doesn't go through? I really want this board!
I have no idea. I'm hoping it will go through, but it's looking pretty bleak right about now. I was really hyped for this when it finally dropped, but when I found out it was on massdrop I was less than happy (since they charge ridiculous markups and gb fees, and most of Massdrop's buyers probably aren't the kind to pay for expensive customs).
I would think after all the work that was put into this it would be run no matter what, but that's just my guess.
Keeping in mind that this is a very expensive keyboard I just rather would not go with massdrop, too. I really question the choice fo massdrop here. When "Domestic and international orders will be shipped by the vendor" I'd rather have direct contact to the seller if he is going to be the one doing the final shipping anyways.
I'm still probably not going to join, even tough this is my dream layout, simply because customs and shipping would kill it for me. I'd maybe be willing to pay $240 for it, but having over $30 shipping added we are at around $275, seeing that I like the dark grey keycaps even $300 (I could go without the switches though, I would slap in Zealios anyways, but that's not an option). And on top of the around $300 we have customs (yes, for prices this high they even add shipping to the final price), so with customs I could be lucky and "only" have to pay 19% extra ($357 total), or they decide to add another 5% on top of that ($372 or $375 total, depending on the way they calculate that). This is quite a lot for a student that only had 10 days to decide on wether or not it is worth it.
It's looking bleak on MD guys. I'm still hoping I can pick this up via another avenue.
Well, the MD buy is inactive. Isn't that sooner than the deadline, or am I not remembering clearly? Perhaps the numbers were small enough that they just canceled it early...? It's so sad. :(
Show Image(http://i.giphy.com/xT0BKw1YQLqsRgVBMQ.gif)
That's more like it!
I went with silver, I think it's the easiest to match with everything. I was tempted to go Cyan though because I love turquoise/cyan and it'd go great with my 1976. Oh well :p