Author Topic: Compact TKL (80%) - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?  (Read 2704 times)

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Offline metalliqaz

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I want to try this layout!

standard:
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I like my good old TKL layout and all the keys that come with it, but I also quite lick the compactness of the 75% layout.  This is a hybrid of the two that you might call 80%.  The Compact TKL has a full 87 keys but in the minimum amount of space.  It uses a standard keyset except for the one bonus key next to the arrows and the incorrect profile of Home/End.  Unlike a typical 75%, this has a more pleasing F-row stagger, which is nice.

The board comes with full backlighting and 8 (!) indicator LEDs to allow for lots of status info (see Easy AVR LED mapping).  It uses Costar stabilizers.

I'm good at the code and electronics, but I have no talent for case design.  I would like to fit this into something really nice.  I'm looking for a partner.  If you don't do 40/45/60% layouts and want a compact board with lots of keys that supports a standard key set, then sound off below.
« Last Edit: Tue, 24 March 2015, 10:31:14 by metalliqaz »

Offline nubbinator

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #1 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 21:46:50 »
I'm no CAD master and I'm only using TinkerCAD, but I think it may be time for me to try something bigger...as long as it's a more simple design.  I'd definitely try and get someone more knowledgeable, but if you throw out some dimensions (PCB/Plate size, x/y centered offsets for screw mounts, etc), I'll definitely give it a go.  I'd want someone with a bit more know-how like Photekq to give it a quick once over, but it could be fun.

Offline DrHubblePhD

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #2 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 21:48:02 »
I may be able to help you out depending on how complicated a case you want  :thumb:

Offline Wilba

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #3 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 21:57:50 »
What kind of case are you after?

I just modelled a JD45 case which is essentially the same as the Tex 60% case. They're fairly easy to do, but the PCB needs to support it through optimized mount holes and USB connector location.

Offline Melvang

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #4 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 22:00:37 »
My vote would be to do plate mounted to the case and have the PCB float.  Much easier on the PCB and case design.  Plus allows for handwired builds.
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Offline metalliqaz

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #5 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 22:55:40 »
Encouraging!  I can provide drawings, of course. The usb would indeed be top left.

Offline DrHubblePhD

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #6 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 23:09:02 »
Encouraging!  I can provide drawings, of course. The usb would indeed be top left.

yeah post some drawings, as I said I may be able to help. Im not so much limited by technical skill but rather how much time I can dedicate to it  :p

Offline metalliqaz

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #7 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 23:36:24 »
Haven't designed it yet, but the PCB dimensions are at least "final"

I definitely want an 80% form factor

Offline DrHubblePhD

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Re: Compact TKL - If I build this PCB would anyone design a case for me?
« Reply #8 on: Mon, 09 March 2015, 23:52:07 »
Haven't designed it yet, but the PCB dimensions are at least "final"

I definitely want an 80% form factor
Well if you want to brain storm pm me and I'll give you my skype for some IM :thumb:

Offline metalliqaz

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Just to check in I'm still moving forward with this.  I'm excited about making something interesting.
I'm close to finishing a reference design.  I just have to get to work on a PCB so I can place the USB connector.

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« Last Edit: Tue, 24 March 2015, 10:30:48 by metalliqaz »

Offline regack

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Just to check in I'm still moving forward with this.  I'm excited about making something interesting.
I'm close to finishing a reference design.  I just have to get to work on a PCB so I can place the USB connector.

(Attachment Link)

ooh, that's neat.  Almost seems like there would be enough room in there for more Interesting Things :D