Simple Questions, Simple Answers (FAQ in the OP)

[CPTBadAss]

What caps are these?

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Und

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Look like some from the Apple Extended Keyboards (would make sense since some of them use Alps).

Looks like a mix of SGI Granite and AEK caps. That's definitely a Duck Mini v2 with Alps switches.

Why does the semicolon take precedence over the colon, when the only time the semicolon ever gets used is when people meant to hit the colon key but missed the shift key. Same goes for the backslash. **** you backslash, question mark is far more loved and useful then you'll ever be. Stop being a glutton for top billing!
Also, why does no one ever notice when I use a minus instead of a hyphen? In fact, why don't they simply do away with the hyphen and just make it a minus key because the entire planet doesn't notice nor do they care.

The mysteries of your typing style and how people interpret them...)

[HoffmanMyster]

Why does the semicolon take precedence over the colon, when the only time the semicolon ever gets used is when people meant to hit the colon key but missed the shift key. Same goes for the backslash. **** you backslash, question mark is far more loved and useful then you'll ever be. Stop being a glutton for top billing!
Also, why does no one ever notice when I use a minus instead of a hyphen? In fact, why don't they simply do away with the hyphen and just make it a minus key because the entire planet doesn't notice nor do they care.

The semicolon key exists because it is a useful key; it's not my fault no one knows how to use it.

[Smasher816]

The semicolon has its uses in English grammar. However, if you ever program in C, Java, etc you will learn that you must place a semicolon at the end of (almost) every line. It is a useful key

[swill]

Why does the semicolon take precedence over the colon, when the only time the semicolon ever gets used is when people meant to hit the colon key but missed the shift key. Same goes for the backslash. **** you backslash, question mark is far more loved and useful then you'll ever be. Stop being a glutton for top billing!
Also, why does no one ever notice when I use a minus instead of a hyphen? In fact, why don't they simply do away with the hyphen and just make it a minus key because the entire planet doesn't notice nor do they care.

Developers use those keys a lot more often.

[whentheclouds]

when we use the name of a keyboard's brand, what are we referring to exactly? say, i open up a GON, take all the internals out and put it into a LZ or KMAC case. is it henceforth referred to as a GON keyboard still?

[CPTBadAss]

when we use the name of a keyboard's brand, what are we referring to exactly? say, i open up a GON, take all the internals out and put it into a LZ or KMAC case. is it henceforth referred to as a GON keyboard still?

If you swap then you've got a frankenboard. It's the keyboard as a whole in my eyes. Does the A87 or whatever pcb the GON boards use fit into an LZ or KMAC? I didn't think that could happen.

[whentheclouds]

probably not, i just used it as an example. the question occurred to me after i recalled a post where someone was selling their *keyboard name* inside a Filco housing. probably a Phantom, come to think of it, which makes perfect sense now

[Pacifist]

What's the accepted standard stab system for custom alps boards?

How common are alps with an extra slit on the inside like:


Also want to confirm that SP does not sell any sort of alps in their warehouse

[noisyturtle]

The semicolon has its uses in English grammar. However, if you ever program in C, Java, etc you will learn that you must place a semicolon at the end of (almost) every line. It is a useful key

The only reason semicolon took precedence for programming is because it's paying off shift to hold down colon.

[jdcarpe]

What's the accepted standard stab system for custom alps boards?

How common are alps with an extra slit on the inside like:

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Also want to confirm that SP does not sell any sort of alps in their warehouse

1. It varies widely. Most common are the type seen here: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=45483.msg1364703#msg1364703

2. Those don't seem to be very common.

3. SP definitely makes 1-unit Alps keycaps. They were willing to do a full set for me, until I mentioned the stabilizer holes for 2.00+ unit keycaps. Then things got all wonky. I don't know that they list any in their inventory, but it doesn't seem so. Matias is planning on making keycaps available to the community.

[whentheclouds]

are there any guides to buying LEDs? i'm looking for something like this:



and don't have the slightest clue where to start, as well as other 'specs' i need to take to take into account

[rowdy]

The semicolon has its uses in English grammar. However, if you ever program in C, Java, etc you will learn that you must place a semicolon at the end of (almost) every line. It is a useful key

The only reason semicolon took precedence for programming is because it's paying off shift to hold down colon.

I started thinking about this.

In Delphi you put ; at the end of most lines, and use : frequently in variable assignment - slight balance in favour of ;

In C you put ; at the end of most lines, and don't make as much use of : - another language in favour of ;

In Python you rarely use; at all, but use : a lot - definitely in favour of :

In BASIC (yes, I know) used to use : to separate multiple statements on one line, didn't use ; much - an (old) language in favour of :

In technical writing, I'd probably use : slightly more than ; - slightly in favour of :

So for me it probably about balances out.

[swill]

The semicolon has its uses in English grammar. However, if you ever program in C, Java, etc you will learn that you must place a semicolon at the end of (almost) every line. It is a useful key

The only reason semicolon took precedence for programming is because it's paying off shift to hold down colon.

Haha. I see what you did there. If you are enlighten enough to use python, then colon is king.

[divito]

Colon requires an extra key press. Always in favor of ; and languages that use it.

[dorkvader]

are there any guides to buying LEDs? i'm looking for something like this:

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and don't have the slightest clue where to start, as well as other 'specs' i need to take to take into account

most people buy theirs from chinese eBay sellers.

as to what specs to take into account, that can be an extremely complicated answer, with power requirements, brightness levels, forward voltage drop etc etc.

In practise, most any LED you put in a keyboard that has resistors already soldered will work. The worst-case scenario is usually that it wont be very bright.

Teal LEDs like that are usually either white LEDs that are tinted or a semiconductor that actually emits teal. Both should be in the higher range of voltage drops and won't flow as much current as (say) a red LED. But it's brighter at less current, so it evens out relatively well.

It's beyond the scope of this thread, but if you give us some specifics on what kind of LED you're after and what sort of KB you're putting it into, we can help you out more specifically, but usually it'll just work.

[b7ad]

Any tips on removing the ribbon cable on an HHKB? Have searched but can't find any so I must be the only one dumb enough having troubles doing it!

[digi]

Can vintage blues from a dolch be mounted on a plate?

[Smasher816]

Any tips on removing the ribbon cable on an HHKB? Have searched but can't find any so I must be the only one dumb enough having troubles doing it!

I wouldn't pull on the wires - it might hurt/break them. I haven't had mine connected to the original controller so I can't remember exactly what I did. But I would grab the little nubs on both sides and wiggle as you pull backwards. Maybe try pushing on the left side, then right, and alternate. I believe the connector will be looser after you have removed it before.

[b7ad]

Any tips on removing the ribbon cable on an HHKB? Have searched but can't find any so I must be the only one dumb enough having troubles doing it!

I wouldn't pull on the wires - it might hurt/break them. I haven't had mine connected to the original controller so I can't remember exactly what I did. But I would grab the little nubs on both sides and wiggle as you pull backwards. Maybe try pushing on the left side, then right, and alternate. I believe the connector will be looser after you have removed it before.

Thanks a lot for the tips. I have been trying to do it as you said, but didn't want to be unnecessarily forceful and find out there was some special trick to it! Guess I need to be a little more forceful than I have been though  )

[rowdy]

Any tips on removing the ribbon cable on an HHKB? Have searched but can't find any so I must be the only one dumb enough having troubles doing it!

This page has a few comments - you've probably tried that though.

[BlueBär]

Can vintage blues from a dolch be mounted on a plate?

Every Cherry MX switch can be plate mounted. You might have to clip the PCB legs if your PCB hasn't got the holes for them.

[digi]

Can vintage blues from a dolch be mounted on a plate?

Every Cherry MX switch can be plate mounted. You might have to clip the PCB legs if your PCB hasn't got the holes for them.

Nice, thank you.

[b7ad]

Any tips on removing the ribbon cable on an HHKB? Have searched but can't find any so I must be the only one dumb enough having troubles doing it!

This page has a few comments - you've probably tried that though.

Thanks a lot, I hadn't seen that.

[whentheclouds]

dorkvader: thank you, but i'm actually just looking to acquire more knowledge about the construction of a keyboard, whilst figuring out the ideal board for myself at the same time. i don't specifically know what i want yet so you can't help me even if you want to

edit: if it's not against the rules, can you link me to some of those ebay sellers?

[combataran]

Do I need a proxy to order directly from kbdmod.com?

[CPTBadAss]

Do I need a proxy to order directly from kbdmod.com?

Yes

[CommonCurt]

Do I need a proxy to order directly from kbdmod.com?

Yes

I have been wondering this also.  Is there any particular proxy that you could recommend?

[CPTBadAss]

Is there any particular proxy that you could recommend?

Unfortunately i don't know of any Korean proxys. I was trying to buy from that site myself at one point and couldn't find someone to help me out.

[Pacifist]

Can somebody weight this case? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=271529923411#shpCntId

[b7ad]

When lubing an HHKB, is it necessary to pop out all the sliders so that you can lube the rails right the way down or is it OK to lube them with the sliders still in? Don't want to remove them all if it's not worth it!

[Puddsy]

When lubing an HHKB, is it necessary to pop out all the sliders so that you can lube the rails right the way down or is it OK to lube them with the sliders still in? Don't want to remove them all if it's not worth it!

I'd do it sliders out.

Can somebody weight this case? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=271529923411#shpCntId

IIRC it's about .67lbs

[Frenir]

Does anyone know where I can get a cherry sticker?

[minho]

Would say it's easier to swap switches or swap LEDs on a plate mounted keyboard? (example: If I wanted a Shine 3 with red switches and white LED, but could only find a red switch other colored LED, or white LED with other switch, which would be easier to convert into a Shine 3 with red switches and white LEDs, disregarding cost of switches/LED?)

Would the size of the resistor pose a problem in swapping LEDs?

[Puddsy]

They both suck

I'd say LEDs, since you have to take out the LED anyway to change the switch

[minho]

They both suck

If you use a soldapullt, yes

I guess it's easier to just get a keyboard that you like or build one rather than modify a stock one eh?

[Puddsy]

yep

although building it different, since it's only one way

[CPTBadAss]

Does anyone know where I can get a cherry sticker?

From the classifieds or free thread. They're were sold by Shadovved who is busy now.

1) Would say it's easier to swap switches or swap LEDs on a plate mounted keyboard?

2) Would the size of the resistor pose a problem in swapping LEDs?

1) I would say if you're using a soldapult, switches are easier to swap. But you would have to desolder both switches and leds to do either swap anyways.

2) I've never had an issue swapping leds. Ive never calculated anything. Just swapped them out. YMMV of course.

Can somebody weight this case? http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=271529923411#shpCntId

It's definitely under a pound but I never took an actual measurement.

[whentheclouds]

what is the proper name for this type of caps lock? i've seen them referred to as center-stem, off-stem and stepped, which is the most correct?



also, are there anyone here who swapped the positions of their CTRL and caps lock? i'm curious if it was hard to accomplish and whether the new placement is better than the standard

[riotonthebay]

what is the proper name for this type of caps lock? i've seen them referred to as center-stem, off-stem and stepped, which is the most correct?

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also, are there anyone here who swapped the positions of their CTRL and caps lock? i'm curious if it was hard to accomplish and whether the new placement is better than the standard

My understanding:

There are really two things that vary: center-stem or offset, and full-touch or stepped. Most stepped caps locks have an offset stem, but some of them are center-stemmed (usually from GB sets for people with e.g. a Filco but who prefer the look of a stepped caps lock). So what you posted is definitely stepped, and is likely offset.

To answer your second question, yes, people swap ctrl and caps. No, it's not hard to accomplish (using software). And yes, many believe the new placement is better.

[whentheclouds]

very succinct distinction, thank you. about my second question, do 1.25 Caps Lock even exist? or do people improvise with blank caps and such?

[BlueBär]

1. what is the proper name for this type of caps lock? i've seen them referred to as center-stem, off-stem and stepped, which is the most correct?

Show Image

2. also, are there anyone here who swapped the positions of their CTRL and caps lock? i'm curious if it was hard to accomplish and whether the new placement is better than the standard

1. If the key has a step like in the picture you posted, it's called stepped, if not, fulltouch. Center-stem/off-center-stem refers to the position of the stem of the keycap, which is relevant when you want to put it on your board.
Since stock caps usually use a fulltouch caps lock key, the switch is in the center of the cap and you will need a fulltouch caps lock key or a center stemmed stepped caps lock key.
If you have a set that comes with an off-center stepped caps lock key, which has the stem in the center of the high part of the cap, it won't fit on most modern stock keyboards.

Here's some pictures that should make things more clear: Off center stepped caps lock, center stemmed fulltouch caps lock

2. Some sets have them, I think some Realforce boards include replacements with their boards, too. I think many people don't mind if the legends are wrong.

[riotonthebay]

very succinct distinction, thank you. about my second question, do 1.25 Caps Lock even exist? or do people improvise with blank caps and such?

Most often people just ignore the legends and remember the difference. Group buys occasionally include an add-on pack that replaces ctrl and caps.

[whentheclouds]

thanks to both of you! even if they exist, center-stemmed, stepped key and off-center stemmed, full touch key just seem so unnatural to me. must be quite the hassle to produce. about the ctrl/capslock swap, i'm surprised having the incorrect legends on keys doesn't drive people insane. not too far-fetched a notion, considering we're having this discussion on a forum for keyboard enthusiasts/perfectionists can't tolerate it myself, but maybe it's just my OCD talking

[riotonthebay]

thanks to both of you! even if they exist, center-stemmed, stepped key and off-center stemmed, full touch key just seem so unnatural to me. must be quite the hassle to produce. about the ctrl/capslock swap, i'm surprised having the incorrect legends on keys doesn't drive people insane. not too far-fetched a notion, considering we're having this discussion on a forum for keyboard enthusiasts/perfectionists can't tolerate it myself, but maybe it's just my OCD talking

I touch-type. If anything, it's funny to watch people flounder when they use my keyboard.

[whentheclouds]

doesn't take a touch typist to memorize the location of capslock/ctrl, heh. and you're too kind, i'd never let filthy peasants get their grubby hands on my aluminum housing and GMK caps

[frosty]

having troubles with a solder sucker on sucking solder off leds. any tips?

my solder joint is whitish instead of silverish after the solder dries. will the switch work?

[BlueBär]

1. having troubles with a solder sucker on sucking solder off leds. any tips?

2. my solder joint is whitish instead of silverish after the solder dries. will the switch work?

1. Add more solder if there is only a tiny rest of solder.

2. What solder are you using?
The white colour might come from moving parts while the solder cools down or it might be a cold joint, meaning that the soldering iron was too cold during soldering. Both can be fixed by simply reheating the joint with the iron (if you don't do that, the joint might work for now but can fail later).

[swill]

having troubles with a solder sucker on sucking solder off leds. any tips?

my solder joint is whitish instead of silverish after the solder dries. will the switch work?

Add more solder and try to suck it again.

[Vitaly]

I want to buy blank PBT keycaps for my keyboard. Is any difference in quality between keycool and ducky? I found that keycool cost cheaper with shipping to my country.

[BlueBär]

I want to buy blank PBT keycaps for my keyboard. Is any difference in quality between keycool and ducky? I found that keycool cost cheaper with shipping to my country.

What exact sets are you thinking about buying? Afaik Ducky has thick and thin PBT and I'm not sure about Keycool right now. Usually thick PBT is considered better.