【IC】Class 100---Fullsize board inspired by DEC LK201

[Totoro]

31th Oct update:
1. Final proto IRL pics updated
2. After community's discussion and redesigning, cancel the plateless build to ensure top mount performance.

Check more pics below.

27th Aug update:
New Design Front Badge (also replaceable with 2 switches)
New Design Back Weight inspired by VT220 pocket guide.
PCB Gasket Mount added (Plateless supported)
Check pics below.

Hi everyone! This is MM Studio, and we are here to bringing our new Class series design:

Class 100

Intro

Since the layout follows a full-size 100% form factor, its design inspiration naturally traces back to one of the pioneers of fullsize keyboards — DEC’s (Digital Equipment Corporation) LK201 , which accompanied various terminals succeeding the VT220.

The "LK201" actually existed in multiple versions. For enhanced aesthetics and distinctiveness, we decided to reference the PC version with its signature PC blocker and legend strip in our final design.

PC Blocker:
Beneath the magnetically-attached PC blocker lies a removable metal legend strip with back light and solenoid buzzer module. Also retains the classic three-key indicator cluster (Num Lock, Caps Lock, Scroll Lock).

Programmable RGB part is embedded beneath the legend strip.
When connected, it activates to simulate vintage keyboard POST lighting effects – naturally, this feature can be disabled via VIAL.
Early testing proto pics, not final version

Hot-Swappable MCU Module:
(Discussing to remove this and change to 'Class style' badge or switches according to community feedbacks and CN IC)
The removable MCU module integrates critical components like the PCB's primary MCU. This design allows users to preserve their key mappings when swapping between full plate or half plate build pcb configurations – eliminating the need for firmware reconfiguration.

Side Profile & Weight

Color options:

Mounting Style, PCB and Plates:

Isolated Top mount only. Full plate / Half plate available.

Plate options:
PP(Full plate only), Ano black Alu, Brass, Copper

PCB options:
Hotswap/Solder shares the same layout below.

Solenoid and Buzzer support.

[Totoro]

Specifications:

Keyboard Size and Front Height:(Pics below)
Weight: ~4kg built
Typing Angle: 7°   
Mounting method: Top Mount
PCB：Wired QMK-VIAL

Keyboard est Price:  ~370$

IC Form:
https://forms.gle/WAKvCV5JTq7Ea8xZA

Thanks for reading this IC and plz let us know if you have any suggestions!

Discord Community: https://discord.gg/3bPFmpqNJa

27th Aug pics update:

31th Oct pics update:

Render:

IRL pics:

[DirtyGingy]

I can't guarantee I'll get it, but I like the board.

[zegonix]

definitely too big for me, but interesting ideas. keeping things fresh 

[boku]

I'm a fan of fullsize boards and I really appreciate this one being another fun addition rather than just being a box on a wedge, however the CLASS branding is really ugly and will deter people like me who want something a little more low key for the workspace.

Redesigning the case to include the option of allowing you to remove the blocker badge and fill with switches for macros would be awesome and would sway my decision for sure.

The bottom weight almost feels liker an afterthought due to lack of creativity. Literally anything is better than the name of the board in big words on the bottom.

I also feel like the lack of hhkb top case to better represent the inspiration board is kind of sad.

[vhaarr]

...

I agree on all points, especially the hhkb top part.

Also I'd love alternatives to the PC blocker, for example a full cover brass piece - or other materials like walnut wood or copper, or even alu in different colors.

I realise this would hide all the LEDs completely, but that's what I want.

[Totoro]

...

I agree on all points, especially the hhkb top part.

Also I'd love alternatives to the PC blocker, for example a full cover brass piece - or other materials like walnut wood or copper, or even alu in different colors.

I realise this would hide all the LEDs completely, but that's what I want.

We decide to add brass blocker mate!

[Edric]

Agreed on the branding issues. The board is already kind of overloaded with the PC blocker, having a badge and CLASS on weight feels excessive.

Would definitely get one if no branding was an option.

[bloodparticle]

Maybe instead the badge, the brand could be beautifully in the Legend Strip, this is just an idea.

[Baron]

strong agree on the branding stuff, a solid color option for the transparent top piece would be nice too, maybe metal or something

[KeebDweeb_]

Leave the Class branding on the weight as it is, or at least give that as an option.  I love it.  I think it looks great compared to the smaller redesign.  The smaller weight looks plain and doesn't add to the look of the board like the big class weight does.

[Kool-Keys]

I prefer the smaller VT220 weight design.
I agree with others, that a solid colour/opaque cover as an option would be good.

Nothing else to add yet... I'll keep an eye on this one.

[Tune Lab]

Well done

[RKGS]

Looking good, and looks like the badge will be removable to put more switches above the numpad perhaps? Nice, if so.

[Totoro]

Looking good, and looks like the badge will be removable to put more switches above the numpad perhaps? Nice, if so.

Yes the badge could be replaced by 3 keys.