Portable Dvorak + Mac w/out OS manipulation

[spectre6000]

I've been exclusively using a Dvorak layout on a Mac for several years now, and recently took a job that requires pair coding. I need to get a keyboard that I can port to other machines, and switching layouts at the OS level is not tenable. WASD's CODE/V2 were suggested, and I thought I had my solution. However, after looking more closely at the User's Guide, it seems that while it is capable of a Dvorak layout and Mac OS key layout, it looks like the two are mutually exclusive.

Soo.... What would be the suggested way to solve the problem of needing a keyboard for my own laptop likely outputting in Mac QWERTY so that the OS-level Dvorak layout still works as intended, and then outputs in Mac Dvorak on others' computers?

Ideally it would be a TKL format, with Cherry MX switches so I can easily get keycaps with the right layout.

[Macsmasher]

I don't know about Macs, but in the Win world, you can take a PKL (portable keyboard layout) with you on a flash drive. It doesn't require installation and runs memory res, so you don't need admin rights. I use Colemak myself, but Dvorak would be the same. Further, when I'm running Colemak, when I use VMware or Hyper-V, no issues for me. My layout is implemented on the remote systems.


You might look for a Mac Dvorak PKL that you could take with you to client systems. TKL layout makes no difference in this case. It's just a matter of the keyboard layout you're using.


If that doesn't work in the Crapintosh world, I don't know what to tell you. Maybe ask the almighty Apple if something like that has been sanctioned by Steve Jobs. Sorry if I come across negative. It's just I prefer to be able to make those choices without the required approval of the Almighty Apple. Hence, the name Macsmasher lol.


The other option would be to buy a keyboard with a dip switch for Dvorak. Since that's at the hardware level, the OS doesn't have to do anything.

[KaminKevCrew]

I'd even suggest getting a board that's fully programmable and just have a couple of layers for what you want to do.

[suicidal_orange]

Programmable is definitely the way to go here - not only can you carry your layout with you but also macros for common tasks.

Winkeyless make a TKL or there's usually a Phantom for sale in the classifieds, or you could buy a Filco and get one of bphiphany's controllers for it (no soldering required)

[spectre6000]

Indeed, programmable seems the best way to get everything I need. I'm really liking the Phantom PCB + Teensy USB micro controller combo. A WASD custom keycap set will get me the layout I need. Switches, diodes, etc. are easy. I'm stuck on a good steel plate and a case. Any suggestions on currently available options? I'm still figuring out the group buy thing, and it seems like every rabbit hole is a dead end...

[henz]

USB to USB adapter by hasu. Basically turn all Keyboards fully programmable. Check his thread. I'm on my phone send me a pm if you can't find it.

[spectre6000]

I found it last night. It's an option, but it's not the preferred option. I talked to my shop mate about it earlier, and he suggested something similar. He thinks he could throw it together for about $4 in parts. That may or may not include stuff he has lying around.

Meanwhile, I'm literally a plate and case away from pulling the trigger on a Phantom...

[KaminKevCrew]

I found it last night. It's an option, but it's not the preferred option. I talked to my shop mate about it earlier, and he suggested something similar. He thinks he could throw it together for about $4 in parts. That may or may not include stuff he has lying around.

Meanwhile, I'm literally a plate and case away from pulling the trigger on a Phantom...

Only trouble with the Phantom is that it has a pretty nonstandard F row spacing, so most TKL plates won't fit properly. It might be worth it to put a WTB classified up for a programmable TKL board.

[spectre6000]

I did not know that... Lame.

What would be suggested as a high quality TKL programmable keyboard then? MX-style keys are pretty much mandatory if I'm to have any hope of getting the right keycap layout.

I do have the ability to CNC mill acrylic, and/or I might talk myself into having some plates water jet cut somewhere locally... I think saw some CAD files posted somewhere as well...

[KaminKevCrew]

I did not know that... Lame.

What would be suggested as a high quality TKL programmable keyboard then? MX-style keys are pretty much mandatory if I'm to have any hope of getting the right keycap layout.

I do have the ability to CNC mill acrylic, and/or I might talk myself into having some plates water jet cut somewhere locally... I think saw some CAD files posted somewhere as well...

That would probably work. I also just had an idea. I think that the KUL ES-87 might work for what you need through DIP switches, although I am still an advocate for full programmability.

Acrylic does make for a very cool looking case. I'm not a huge fan of it because it can be a bit of a pain...

[spectre6000]

Acrylic does make for a very cool looking case. I'm not a huge fan of it because it can be a bit of a pain...

Pain how?

KUL ES-87 has dip switches, one of which allows for Mac OS keys, but no Dvorak layout capability...

[KaminKevCrew]

Acrylic does make for a very cool looking case. I'm not a huge fan of it because it can be a bit of a pain...

Pain how?

KUL ES-87 has dip switches, one of which allows for Mac OS keys, but no Dvorak layout capability...

I've never had the edges of laser cut acrylic line up properly -  ever.

Also, I don't like how delicate it can be. That being said, it is the cheapest, and probably quickest solution to making a case.

[spectre6000]

Here's what I think I'm looking for:

- Tenkeyless
- Fully programmable in some manner, either out of the box or with a Frosty Flake microcontroller replacement or something
- MX-style keys, preferably linear and plate mounted
- Backlighting/LEDs would rather be avoided if at all possible.
- Very simple aesthetics. I don't need someone's billboard or bling on my desk.

If I have to build it up with a Phantom PCB, Teensy, etc. that's fine (maybe even preferable) as long as I can find a plate and case somewhere in the now term (not willing to wait for a drop or whatever). Very open to suggestions.