[GB] JD45 KEYBOARD PRE-ORDERS [Closed]

[jdcarpe]

JD45 Mechanical Keyboard

Introducing the JD45 keyboard from Carpe Keyboards, a 40% form factor mini keyboard which combines an ultra compact size with standard key stagger and full programmability. Designed by J.D. Carpenter (aka jdcarpe), and manufactured by TEX Electronics Co. in Taiwan.










> > > ORDERING CLOSED < < <
Prices start at $179.99, plus shipping.


Orders will be taken until 23:59 UTC on 2016-03-19. Any unpaid orders at that time will be canceled.

 

Note: You have the choice of purchasing a fully assembled JD45 keyboard, which will include soldered switches with keycaps, or purchasing a DIY kit with the parts you will need to build the keyboard yourself. You also have your choice of case colors, switch types (assembled only), and switch plates (DIY only).

 

Anodized Aluminum Case Housing

The foundation of the JD45 keyboard is a case housing milled from a solid piece of aircraft-grade aluminum. Each case is milled using a CNC process for outstanding precision. Material is 6061 aluminum alloy, which gives the small keyboard a satisfying heft, and a solid, premium typing experience. Finally, the case is anodized in either silver or black color, for that ultimate finished look. Optionally, there is available a version of the case with blocked corners, which emulates the aesthetic of the wildly popular Happy Hacking Keyboard. Available in black or silver colors.


Case in silver color, shown with blocked corners (optional)

 

JD45 PCB

The PCB is the heart of any keyboard. Designed by Wilba, the JD45 PCB features white silkscreen printing on a red solder mask, and comes pre-programmed with a standard layout. It is, however, also fully programmable! With an ATmega32U4 controller on-board, it is compatible with hasu's TMK firmware, metalliqaz's Easy AVR, or other compatible AVR-based firmwares. The PCB is compatible with both MX and ALPS switches, and all components of the assembled keyboard are installed at the factory. DIY PCBs have component electronics pre-soldered, to include diodes and resistors, so the PCB is ready for installation of key switches and optional LEDs.


Front view


Back view



Switch Plates

Included with every assembled keyboard and DIY kit, the switch plate is essential for stable mounting of the MX or Alps switches. Assembled keyboards will include a color matched anodized aluminum switch plate with standard layout only, which support MX switches. DIY kits will include your choice of switch plate, whether fixed-layout Alps mount, or universal MX mount, in either standard or blocked corner (MX only) versions.


MX Universal layout switch plate


Alps switch plate



Switches & Keycaps

With the assembled keyboard, you have your choice of MX switches, as well the inclusion of keycaps. Available switch types include genuine Cherry MX blue, brown, black, or red switches. Cherry mechanical key switches are manufactured by ZF Electronics, and have a proven record of reliability, rated to 50 million key presses. Included keycaps are uniform OEM profile, ABS keycaps with printed legends.





Specs

CNC Milled Case Housing

• Anodized aluminum
• Available colors: Black or silver
• Standard rectangular, or with blocked corners

PCB

• Pre-soldered
• Pre-programmed
• Standard layout
• MX and Alps switch footprints
• LED-ready
• Programmable with TMK, Easy AVR, or other firmware

Switch Plate

• Anodized aluminum, color matched with case colors
• Available colors: Black or silver
• Standard rectangular, or with blocked corners
• MX standard layout (included with assembled keyboard)
• MX universal, which supports all switch layouts available on PCB, includes cutouts for easy switch opening, DIY option only
• Alps standard layout, DIY option only

Key switches

• Cherry MX Blue
• Cherry MX Brown
• Cherry MX Black
• Cherry MX Red

Keycaps

• Durable ABS plastic
• Uniform OEM profile
• Printed legends, with front printed function layer legends

Shipping

All Domestic and International orders will be shipped personally by J.D.

All pre-orders placed in this group buy will be manufactured to order. Estimated ship date is June 30, 2016.

[jdcarpe]

FAQ

Q: When does the buy close?

A: 23:59 UTC on 2016-03-19


Q: Can I buy a [plate/PCB/case] separately?

A: Unfortunately, I am unable to sell kit components, such as the case, plate, or PCB, separately. These are packaged as keyboards and kits by the manufacturer, and I will be shipping them all personally from my home, without repackaging the items. Logistically, it is unreasonable for me to offer individual components for sale, as I would never realistically be able to fulfill orders within a sensible time frame.


Q: Are keycaps included with the DIY kit? Are there different color options for the keycaps?

A: Also, the decision was made early on not to offer keycaps with the DIY kits, as it would raise the cost of the kit beyond what I personally would want to pay. I assume that with a DIY kit, people will want to bring their own switches and keycaps. Only black keycaps with white legends are available, and only with the assembled keyboard package.


Q: Is the plate necessary?

A: For MX switches, no, the plate is completely optional when using PCB-mount switches. If you were to purchase an assembled kit, and later remove the plate in order to change the layout, that is perfectly fine. Alps switches, of course, require a plate.


Q: Can I mix Alps and MX switches with the DIY kit?

A: Yes! In fact, the MX universal layout plate will accept Alps switches, due to the design of the switch holes. It's a hidden feature.


Q: Does this keyboard have LED backlighting? RGB? Underglow?

A: The PCB does support LED backlighting, but LEDs are not included in any version, assembled or DIY. In fact, resistors are pre-soldered to the PCB for all versions. RGB LEDs are not supported, nor does the PCB have support for LED underglow. LEDs for backlighting are addressed as a group, not individually.


Q: In addition to purchasing one or more JD45 keyboards, how can I help support this group buy here on Geekhack?

A: Just add this code to your signature in your forum profile:

Code: [Select]

[url=http://jd45.carpekeyboards.com][img align=right]http://i.imgur.com/5rsDc6U.png[/img][/url]





JD45 KEYBOARD DEFAULT LAYOUT







JD45 KEY SIZE REFERENCE







ALL KEYBOARD LAYOUT OPTIONS


(all the options below the main section are bottom row options)


Red = not compatible with Alps switch
Amber = suboptimal Alps support (pad isn't pretty but it will work)

[swill]

And the gates are open... 

If you have any problems with the webstore, please contact JD and myself to get them resolved.

[SpAmRaY]

Good luck jd!

[CPTBadAss]

Offers Alps plate, doesn't offer Alps-mount switches. 4/10

 JKSMILE. CONGRATS ON YOUR PROJECT JD AND I HOPE YOUR BUY GOES WELL <3

[romevi]

Beautiful.

Now to decide on full case with Alps or blocked case with MX.

Also, is this an ongoing product or is there an end date for the GB?

[CPTBadAss]

Beautiful.

Now to decide on full case with Alps or blocked case with MX.

Obviously you should get one of each

[heedpantsnow]

Awesome JD; I know everyone is going to love these!  Good luck buddy.

[tuco]

I'm in, thanks!

[iamtootallforthis]

I need to make sure I have the funds but I will be joining this for a silver blocked case DIY.

[WNovizar]

Is the layout customizable for assembled keyboard?

[Joey Quinn]

Joined, this means I'll have 3 JD45s once I assemble my other 2.  )

[jdcarpe]

Is the layout customizable for assembled keyboard?

No, sorry. The assembled keyboards will have the default layout, with keycaps for that layout included.

[whmeltonjr]

How long will this buy run? I just spent way too much in the last two days and don't want to die right now.

[iamtootallforthis]

How long will this buy run? I just spent way too much in the last two days and don't want to die right now.

+1

[WNovizar]

Is the layout customizable for assembled keyboard?

No, sorry. The assembled keyboards will have the default layout, with keycaps for that layout included.

Hahaha. just another excuse for me to learn some soldering technique.

When is the payment deadline?

[swimmingbird]

congrats on getting this up and running

looks fantastic and its amazing you were able to partner up with a major producer to get this happening

[gbrldz]

Any photos of the blocked layout with switches/keys? 

[romevi]

Any photos of the blocked layout with switches/keys? 

[jdcarpe]

I will take orders for a full 30 days, and any unpaid orders at the end will be canceled. I will add this info to the OP.

[William_S_Jones]

I will take orders for a full 30 days, and any unpaid orders at the end will be canceled. I will add this info to the OP.

Thanks, JD & getting ready to place my order now.....

Alright, my order's been placed! I went with the silver rectangular case and the assembled option with cherry MX blue switches! I'm definitely looking forward to this keyboard. BTW, if I'm to change my mind & want the blocked corners case instead, can I do that? Again, thanks, JD & looking forward to receiving my JD45!
Next up, a 60%, debating on a Pok3r or a fully programmable KC. After that just switches &/or LEDs.

[gbrldz]

Damnit... I can't decide if I want blocked or squared!!

[jdcarpe]

Damnit... I can't decide if I want blocked or squared!!

Well, it's about half the cost of a typical custom, so you could always get both, right?

[romevi]

Beautiful.

Now to decide on full case with Alps or blocked case with MX.

Obviously you should get one of each

Really, wanted to get the blocked case, but the only linears I like are MX Black, and I have a board of those. I think I'll just go with the standard case so I can get Alps linears.

[gbrldz]

Damnit... I can't decide if I want blocked or squared!!

Well, it's about half the cost of a typical custom, so you could always get both, right?

I wish! Already paid for my order btw heh.

Anyways, I'm a noob. This will be my first custom keyboard. I know in the description it says Cherry MX, but are Zealios compatible as well? Again, please excuse me. I don't know much about switches besides MX and Topre lol.

[iamtootallforthis]

Beautiful.

Now to decide on full case with Alps or blocked case with MX.

Obviously you should get one of each

Really, wanted to get the blocked case, but the only linears I like are MX Black, and I have a board of those. I think I'll just go with the standard case so I can get Alps linears.

But what about Linear Zealios.

[William_S_Jones]

Damnit... I can't decide if I want blocked or squared!!

Well, it's about half the cost of a typical custom, so you could always get both, right?

I wish! Already paid for my order btw heh.

Anyways, I'm a noob. This will be my first custom keyboard. I know in the description it says Cherry MX, but are Zealios compatible as well? Again, please excuse me. I don't know much about switches besides MX and Topre lol.

Yes, Zealios switches are compatible with Cherry MXs. No problem, everyone has been a noob at 1 time or another.

[raymogi]

I know I don't need another board, but it's so damn cute... :S

[iamtootallforthis]

I know I don't need another board, but it's so damn cute... :S

Best travel board!

[raymogi]

I know I don't need another board, but it's so damn cute... :S

Best travel board!

I thought that title goes to the HHKB?

[romevi]

Beautiful.

Now to decide on full case with Alps or blocked case with MX.

Obviously you should get one of each

Really, wanted to get the blocked case, but the only linears I like are MX Black, and I have a board of those. I think I'll just go with the standard case so I can get Alps linears.

But what about Linear Zealios.

I dunno. Maybe. Maybe 67g Zealio Clears or Gateron Blacks/Yellows.
Which are heavier?

[iamtootallforthis]

I know I don't need another board, but it's so damn cute... :S

Best travel board!

I thought that title goes to the HHKB?

But this board is smaller.

Beautiful.

Now to decide on full case with Alps or blocked case with MX.

Obviously you should get one of each

Really, wanted to get the blocked case, but the only linears I like are MX Black, and I have a board of those. I think I'll just go with the standard case so I can get Alps linears.

But what about Linear Zealios.

I dunno. Maybe. Maybe 67g Zealio Clears or Gateron Blacks/Yellows.
Which are heavier?

I don't know Gateron switch weights. 

[romevi]

Beautiful.

Now to decide on full case with Alps or blocked case with MX.

Obviously you should get one of each

Really, wanted to get the blocked case, but the only linears I like are MX Black, and I have a board of those. I think I'll just go with the standard case so I can get Alps linears.

But what about Linear Zealios.

I dunno. Maybe. Maybe 67g Zealio Clears or Gateron Blacks/Yellows.
Which are heavier?

I don't know Gateron switch weights. 

Me neither.

[gbrldz]

edit: Original question was answered on a different thread lol

New question: How do I go about getting LEDs for this? Is there a specific dimension?

[romevi]

Which Zealios feels more like MX Clears? 67g or 78g?

MX Clears have a much higher bottom-out than those two, so 78g would be closest, but still a bit softer.

[jdcarpe]

edit: Original question was answered on a different thread lol

New question: How do I go about getting LEDs for this? Is there a specific dimension?

You can use any 3mm LED, but I usually prefer the 2x3x4 rectangular water clear LEDs

[gbrldz]

Awesome. Thank you, everyone for helping me and helping others. Much appreciated!!

[iamtootallforthis]

edit: Original question was answered on a different thread lol

New question: How do I go about getting LEDs for this? Is there a specific dimension?

You can use any 3mm LED, but I usually prefer the 2x3x4 rectangular water clear LEDs

Don't these come into contact with GMK caps when using Zealios?

[romevi]

This may have been addressed, but does the package automatically come with the caps? If so, I'm assuming they're MX only?
And will the cases be angled somehow, whether by the case itself or with feet?

Thanks, jd!

[jdcarpe]

edit: Original question was answered on a different thread lol

New question: How do I go about getting LEDs for this? Is there a specific dimension?

You can use any 3mm LED, but I usually prefer the 2x3x4 rectangular water clear LEDs

Don't these come into contact with GMK caps when using Zealios?

I've never had that problem, but maybe I'm just lucky. I know some people have experienced it.

This may have been addressed, but does the package automatically come with the caps? If so, I'm assuming they're MX only?
And will the cases be angled somehow, whether by the case itself or with feet?

Thanks, jd!

The assembled package does indeed come with keycaps included. And yes, they are only MX-mount.

The case doesn't come with large feet for angling the board, but I plan to use some stick on type feet to raise the back at an angle.

[romevi]

This may have been addressed, but does the package automatically come with the caps? If so, I'm assuming they're MX only?
And will the cases be angled somehow, whether by the case itself or with feet?

Thanks, jd!

The assembled package does indeed come with keycaps included. And yes, they are only MX-mount.

The case doesn't come with large feet for angling the board, but I plan to use some stick on type feet to raise the back at an angle.

Okay, thanks. So the case is flat?

[nathanrosspowell]

Obviously it's not offered in the GB, but, what is stopping a blocked alps build on a technical level? If someone was crazy and modified the alps plate, it would work, right? 

[jdcarpe]

This may have been addressed, but does the package automatically come with the caps? If so, I'm assuming they're MX only?
And will the cases be angled somehow, whether by the case itself or with feet?

Thanks, jd!

The assembled package does indeed come with keycaps included. And yes, they are only MX-mount.

The case doesn't come with large feet for angling the board, but I plan to use some stick on type feet to raise the back at an angle.

Okay, thanks. So the case is flat?

Yes, it has small rubber feet included, but the design is basically the same as the TEX 60% case.

Obviously it's not offered in the GB, but, what is stopping a blocked alps build on a technical level? If someone was crazy and modified the alps plate, it would work, right? 

Yes, of course it is possible, but I had to limit the number of plate designs being sent to manufacture.

[nathanrosspowell]

Obviously it's not offered in the GB, but, what is stopping a blocked alps build on a technical level? If someone was crazy and modified the alps plate, it would work, right? 

Yes, of course it is possible, but I had to limit the number of plate designs being sent to manufacture.

Understood!

Now time to dream about that build for a few nights to convince myself I needs it 

[pobby]

Does the DIY option include keycaps?

[jdcarpe]

Does the DIY option include keycaps?

No, it is supposed to be a 'barebones' type kit. I assume people will want to bring their own switches and keycaps.

I am thinking about offering a keycap group buy after the keyboard group buy ends.

[chromatically]

this will be my first 40%
went with a black rectangle MX DIY, going to throw 78g zealios on it i think

Does the DIY option include keycaps?

No, it is supposed to be a 'barebones' type kit. I assume people will want to bring their own switches and keycaps.

I am thinking about offering a keycap group buy after the keyboard group buy ends.

+1 for wanting those caps

[cheddarbek]

This may have been addressed, but does the package automatically come with the caps? If so, I'm assuming they're MX only?
And will the cases be angled somehow, whether by the case itself or with feet?

Thanks, jd!

The assembled package does indeed come with keycaps included. And yes, they are only MX-mount.

The case doesn't come with large feet for angling the board, but I plan to use some stick on type feet to raise the back at an angle.

Okay, thanks. So the case is flat?

Yes, it has small rubber feet included, but the design is basically the same as the TEX 60% case.

Obviously it's not offered in the GB, but, what is stopping a blocked alps build on a technical level? If someone was crazy and modified the alps plate, it would work, right? 

Yes, of course it is possible, but I had to limit the number of plate designs being sent to manufacture.

So, what are the differences between the blocked and nonblocked plates? I'm curious what I'm in for if I get adventurous with modifications.

[RinSama269]

What will the standard layout be like if I order with the block corner version?
Will the control be gone? Or will the window button be gone like in the HHKB?

Really like the looks of this keyboard...

[romevi]

What will the standard layout be like if I order with the block corner version?
Will the control be gone? Or will the window button be gone like in the HHKB?

Really like the looks of this keyboard...

You can program it, so really any buttons.