So, I'd like to try and build my own keyboard. I built this a few weeks ago, but it doesn't quite count ... this was basically an exercise in learning hasu's TMK firmware
I'm thinking about a 60%, so something like a Poker II. I'm planning on it being plate mounted and hand wired. I've already participated in the PBT Granite group buy. Perhaps I'm putting the cart before the horse there.
I apologize in advance for any noobish questions and ramblings below.
Parts list:
Controller: Teensy 2.0
Keycaps: PBT Granite (common + text rgb + text modifiers + text modifiers pro + blue enter)
Switches: Cherry MX Blue (need to acquire)
Stabilizers: I guess I will need plate mounted stabilizers for L/R shift, backspace, enter, and spacebar. (need to acquire)
Plate: 60% Poker II style (need to acquire)
Case: Not sure yet. (need to acquire)
Diodes: (need to acquire)
Questions:
1) If this is going to be plate mounted and hand-wired, what material should I use? Stainless steel? Aluminum? I'm looking for it to be sturdy enough so that swapping caps won't be a problem.
2) What should the switch holes on the plate look like: squares or should they have tabs? Comparing the first and second plates here: http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40567.msg805532#msg8055323) I have a friend who has a friend with a water jet and can cut aluminum, but not SS. If I don't go that route is there a vendor I can just buy a Poker style plate from?4) Where to acquire switches and stabilizers/springs/inserts from? MK seems the cheapest for switches in bulk and WASD seems the cheapest for the stabilizers but they are out of stock. Any other good sources? Better to just buy a cheap board and cannibalize it for parts?
5) Should I actually buy a case or use the samwisekoi-style where the back and front of the plate are bent to form the "base". If I do that, how would I properly mount the teensy?I think that's it for now.
Not knowing what to do about the plate is what's holding me up right now. Any advice for a first time builder? I'm sure I've overlooked a lot of things.
-abjr