Happy Saturnday GeekHack! I have a few updates to share with you:
Next week:- Another round of protos are coming. These are production-intent. If the form and function both look good, I'll set a GB date in September with vendors.
- I expect to receive the remaining quotes needed to be able to set the Retail Prices.
- The custom PCB protos will be done and shipped to me for arrival the week after (estimate). More info below
About the Titan60 PCB:Layouts supported using 2 different plates: "Purist" and "Utilitarian".
Q. Why make this custom PCB if it is just a normal 60% layout?
A. First, because I linked up with an excellent PCB designer and we can provide it in the GB for cheaper than an off-the shelf one. Second, I want to support RGB side-glow for the vents on the sides of the case. Third, because it looks cool.
Q. Can I still use my own 60% PCB?
A. Yes. DZ60, AN-C, Zeal-60 and many other "Pok3r" PCBs should work. But the USB interlink cable included will only be Type C.
Q. What about ortho users?
A. I still plan to offer Boardwalk PCBs (and plates) during the GB.
Custom Foam and GasketsThe thicker one installs above the plate, the thinner one goes below.
Updates from behind the scenes:After I received the last round of protos, I was unhappy with the quality of the stainless laserwork and with my design for the front latch mechanism.
I spent the past weeks redesigning it to be more easily manufactured, and more user friendly. The issue was that the hinge would cause significant scraping during assembly/disassembly. So I changed the front to have a flange with clinch nuts. This means the Top Case assembles directly from above, and should no longer significantly rub.
Pics to illustrate the new front edge design:
(Bottom Gasket not shown)
Huge props to u/JaffaScript for designing both Saturn badges, PCB graphics, and currently working on the company logo.
Huge props to u/wild_sitcom_episode/ for the PCB design.