Author Topic: Questions from a noob about building a 60%  (Read 1471 times)

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Offline solemnP

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  • Posts: 6
Questions from a noob about building a 60%
« on: Sun, 14 February 2016, 17:48:48 »
So I want to build a 60% but I'm having trouble finding enough information on everything. What I know is that I want the finished product to be similar to the pok3r. Standard layout, metal case with thin edge, and no leds. The switches will be gateron clears (35g linear). Here's what I don't know:

1. The pcb I've been looking at is this one: https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1352
Is this a good pcb for what I want? I was also looking at the NerD 60 v2.0 http://www.gonskeyboardworks.com/pcbs-and-controllers/113-nerd-60-ver20-pcb.html but by the description it seemed like overkill as I don't want any leds. Maybe I'm wrong though, hopefully someone can clarify.

2.  Should I be getting a universal 60% plate if I want it to look good? Here's the one I'm looking at: http://www.gonskeyboardworks.com/housings-and-related-parts/17-universal-frameplate-for-60.html
I'll be ordering my gaterons from massdrop in a day or two before it ends. Do I need to order the plate-mounted switches or the pcb-mounted switches if I'm going to be using this plate?

3. What else do I need to buy? I know I need a pcb, switches, stabilizers, and a case. I think I need a universal plate. I've seen people mention "diodes"? Do I need diodes and if so what kind? Is there anything else I'm missing?

Here's everything I was planning on getting so far
http://www.gonskeyboardworks.com/stabilizers/18-pcb-mount-stabilizers-tkl.html
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1002
https://www.massdrop.com/buy/gateron-switches
http://www.gonskeyboardworks.com/housings-and-related-parts/17-universal-frameplate-for-60.html
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1352

I greatly appreciate any feedback, THANK YOU!

Edit: Ok I think I figured this one out, If using a plate I should just get plate mount switches. Go figure!
Edit: Ok so I think the NerD 60 would be better for me because of the easier UI
« Last Edit: Sun, 14 February 2016, 20:19:44 by solemnP »

Offline W_hinklebottom

  • Posts: 70
  • Location: Michigan
Re: Questions from a noob about building a 60%
« Reply #1 on: Sun, 14 February 2016, 17:59:41 »
I made my first custom 60% not that long ago with the FaceW pcb and a plate I got from a Leandren GB. I like the pcb and it is straightforward and has the default program for what you want. The GON interface is easier to use if you want to customize the layout. (You can customize the FaceW but the GON UI is easier to navigate)

I would look into some group buys if your time table is flexible because you can usually get a better deal for parts
here is one and he runs great groupbuys https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=79244.0;topicseen


Offline W_hinklebottom

  • Posts: 70
  • Location: Michigan
Re: Questions from a noob about building a 60%
« Reply #2 on: Sun, 14 February 2016, 18:02:14 »
Also the PCB's that you had linked stated they came "Factory pre-soldered with parts" which are the diodes and the resistors so you wouldn't need any of those. If you by a pcb usually it comes pre-soldered but some are naked and you need to solder on the controller and the diodes etc.

Offline solemnP

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  • Posts: 6
Re: Questions from a noob about building a 60%
« Reply #3 on: Sun, 14 February 2016, 18:02:54 »
I made my first custom 60% not that long ago with the FaceW pcb and a plate I got from a Leandren GB. I like the pcb and it is straightforward and has the default program for what you want. The GON interface is easier to use if you want to customize the layout. (You can customize the FaceW but the GON UI is easier to navigate)

I would look into some group buys if your time table is flexible because you can usually get a better deal for parts
here is one and he runs great groupbuys https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=79244.0;topicseen

will look into that, thank you

Offline axtran

  • Posts: 456
  • Location: Washington, DC, USA
Re: Questions from a noob about building a 60%
« Reply #4 on: Thu, 18 February 2016, 07:46:15 »
For both PCBs, actually get PCB mount switches. Both PCB mount and Plate mount switches can clip to plates--the real difference is that PCB mount switches have two additional plastic supports at the bottom, which allow you to have better support from the PCB itself.

The GON PCB has much better soldering sockets (holes) in thickness and quality than the FaceW, but if you don't plan to desolder, it's not an issue. Both boards are great quality--GON's software is definitely easier to use (drag-and-drop key configuration!).

GON's PCB also has awesome support for SMD LEDs, but you've stated that isn't in your interest.

I'd just warn about how much it will cost for you to get the PCB from GON--you only have one option for diode soldering (needs to be done for the switches) and that comes with resistors as well, driving the cost up to $70. Shipping from KR to the US (I'm assuming you're in the US) is going to run your ~$25 depending on what you're buying from GON. (Prices at the current pricing). The FaceW from mechanicalkeyboards.com will have free shipping and is also ready to go at its listed price.
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