[GB] Phantom-based "Skeleton" Keyboard Kits - GB COMPLETE

[roostrc0gburn]

Hello everybody, welcome to my contribution to the community. This is my first time running a group buy, so please be patient with me. I still have much to learn, and I need all the help I can get.
Big thank you to bpiphany, LeandreN, 00zeRO, axtran, and jdcarpe for helping me along the way!

These kits are based on the Phantom PCB, as designed by bpiphany, provided by MechanicalKeyboards.com. More info on the Wiki: https://deskthority.net/wiki/Phantom



The Phantom supports 5 basic layouts:

ANSI 1.25 Winkey:


ANSI 1.5 Winkeyless:


ISO 1.25 Winkey:


ISO 1.5 Winkeyless:


7BIT:


Also, here is a render for the Backplate:


The keyboard is controlled by the ATMEGA32U4-based Teensy 2.0 board.



>>>   Prices do not include shipping   <<<

The Kit:

[1]        Phantom PCB
[1]        Teensy 2.0 Controller
[87]      Diodes   NOTE:   If you are purchasing the 7BIT kit, [101] Diodes will be included
[5]        LEDs
[1]        Set of Plates (top and bottom)
[12]      Stainless Steel Standoffs
[24]      Stainless Steel Screws

Kit Price: $110

>>>   ORDERS CLOSED   <<<

Notes on Plates:
When purchasing a kit, you will need to select one of the 5 layouts listed above. Plates are available in Stainless Steel or Aluminum.
Finishes available in DAS (dual-action sander) and Grain. I will post sample photos when i get them from the fab shop.


Items you will need that are not included:
Stablizers (unless you choose the 7BIT layout)
The plate and pcb support plate-mounted stabilizers only
I was unable to find a source for these, but it looks like LeandreN has some available in his group buy: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=79315.0
or Zeal has some on his website: https://zealpc.net/collections/accessories/products/pcb-plate-mount-cherry-stabilizers
also looks like WASD has the parts: http://www.wasdkeyboards.com/index.php/products/keyboard-parts.html
if you know of other sources, please post them!


You may also want feet for your build. The plates will have 3.5mm holes in the back plate, which should fit GONs feet, or the chinese knock-offs found on TAO BAO: http://world.taobao.com/item/43228379649.htm?spm=a312a.7700714.0.0.tOoqcY


Here is an example photo of what an assembled ANSI 1.50 Winkey kit looks like: (credit to jdcarpe)



Optional Add-ons:

Switches - prices are for a full set to complete the kit, no matter the layout
Kailh - Red, Black, Brown, Blue   $20
Greetech - Red, Black, Brown, Blue   $26
Gateron - Red, Black, White, Yellow, Brown, Blue   $26 $28
Cherry - Red, Black, Clear, White, Brown, Blue, Grey, Green  $39


MechanicalKeyboards.com has come through as a source for switches, and they are offering their switch top removal tools for $3 for anyone who purchases switches with their kit. (Not sold separately)



Individual Parts:
Plates (choose your layout, material, and finish)   $50
Hardware (standoffs and screws)   $25
Phantom PCB   $27.50
Teensy 2.0   $20
LEDs (packs of 100)  $1 $2
Diodes (packs of 100)  $1.50

Shipping:
Due to the physical dimensions of the kit, it seems that overseas shipping is just not feasible, even for proxy. Shipping to Canada may still be an option, but I need advice on how to proceed.
For now, USPS flat rate boxes will be the shipping method for everyone in the states. Sorry to everyone who is interested, but is international.
Again, this is my first real group buy... I just dont know enough to pull that off on my first try.


As this is my first group buy, I want it to go smoothly for everyone who supports it. I may need to close orders if this gets overwhelming, but I am shooting for around 50 kits total.
I will leave the group buy open for the month of March, or at least until we hit 50 orders.

>>>   ORDERS CLOSED   <<<

Check your order status here:
https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1GauGX2kf2E8r_pYnFeKHxo32DskmqzpctVk3qJn9DE8/edit?usp=sharing
Let me know if you need to make any edits

Thanks everyone!

[roostrc0gburn]

Finally, the prototype build log

http://imgur.com/a/ZqJTQ

sorry it took me so long to get this up. i am still waiting for a 7u stab wire before i can actually use it, but it is built. i am impressed with the quality of the plates. the smaller LED holes worked out perfectly. i also plan on using a 90 degree usb adapter, so i can unplug the cord easily. this adds height to the board.

i want to get feedback on what height people prefer. imho, the height required to use the adapter is almost too much. probably fine if you are using a wrist rest, but i dont think the majority will like it. please check out the build log and let me know what you think

here is a comparison with a Das Pro 4:

More

with the longer standoffs, the height comes in just under an inch. i think i could have decreased this by 1/8" that would work perfectly with the grifiti wrist rest i use

More

[roostrc0gburn]

Reserved

[user 18]

Approval bump

[kinglukas38]

no Canada shipping :/

[roostrc0gburn]

no Canada shipping :/

not yet... I still need to identify proxies, or get some coaching on shipping international. I want to make these available to as many people as i can, i just dont have the experience

[kinglukas38]

no Canada shipping :/

not yet... I still need to identify proxies, or get some coaching on shipping international. I want to make these available to as many people as i can, i just dont have the experience

Hopeful it gets worked out before the buy end so I can get in on it, Good luck 

[balthaz4r]

This is awesome and I was just looking today for parts for a Phantom build! Any chance of offering an aluminum case addon? I know they can run $150, so hoping group buy could bring it down a few bucks. If not, whatever, not a dealbreaker. Just throwing it out there.

I'd definitely be in for one ANSI 1.25 kit and possibly some switches.

What is your timeline looking like? Excited!

[Ephemeral]

I'm 100% down for this and some switches. I've been itching for a first build.

[mrging]

so only conus shipping?

[roostrc0gburn]

added poll for LED colors. Top 3 (by percentage) will be available on the order form

[00zeRO]

In like Sam Flynn. +1

[WNovizar]

Do you accept US-based proxy

[goflo]

I would be in, but would need a shipping to germany. Hope we get some proxy options.
I WANT A PHANTOM 

[TalkingTree]

If anyone is proxying in western Europe, I'll be getting a PCB and two Teensies.

[need]

I would be in too, if they can be shipped to the UK

[LeandreN]

As I said, let me know if i can assist with anything. Proxy or similar. I might be interested later if ISO is available.

[asgeirtj]

Also what you need: case

[00zeRO]

Also what you need: case

These are skeletal frames. Top plate with standoffs and then a Blank bottom plate similar to the JD40 kits...it kind of eliminates the need for a 'case'

[braidn]

Will these plate support Gon style feet?

[Ephemeral]

Will these plate support Gon style feet?

The plates will have 3.5mm holes in the back plate, which should fit GONs feet, or the chinese knock-offs found on TAO BAO: http://world.taobao.com/item/43228379649.htm?spm=a312a.7700714.0.0.tOoqcY

[zzyjayfree]

Voted blue for LED, and by blue I mean Ice Blue

[00zeRO]

Voted Yellow. Hoping for true Yellow.

[64rky]

Voted.....

[64rky]

Which stabilizers would you need for this,  pcb or plate?

[00zeRO]

Which stabilizers would you need for this,  pcb or plate?

Plate

[roostrc0gburn]

Do you accept US-based proxy

do you mean a US address that will forward packages international? I am open to all options at this point, price permitting

As I said, let me know if i can assist with anything. Proxy or similar. I might be interested later if ISO is available.

Thanks, LeandreN! I will pm you later today

Which stabilizers would you need for this,  pcb or plate?

Plate

this is correct - the pcb does not support pcb-mounted stabilizers. OP updated

[64rky]

Do you accept US-based proxy

do you mean a US address that will forward packages international? I am open to all options at this point, price permitting

As I said, let me know if i can assist with anything. Proxy or similar. I might be interested later if ISO is available.

Thanks, LeandreN! I will pm you later today

Which stabilizers would you need for this,  pcb or plate?

Plate

this is correct - the pcb does not support pcb-mounted stabilizers. OP updated

Great thanks,  what are the plate color options?

Ps. I am pretty interested 

[roostrc0gburn]

plates are available in Stainless Steel or Aluminum. Finishes for either available in DAS (dual-action sander) or grain. I will post sample pictures when i receive them from the fab shop

[balthaz4r]

These are skeletal frames. Top plate with standoffs and then a Blank bottom plate similar to the JD40 kits...it kind of eliminates the need for a 'case'

I've never felt comfortable with the sandwich-style keyboards. They are just begging to get dust and spilled coffee right in there and on your PCB  If I'm going through that much trouble to make a custom, I want to protect my investment!

For this buy, I'd love to just get the top plate, then I'd buy one of these:
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=281
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=212

[00zeRO]

These are skeletal frames. Top plate with standoffs and then a Blank bottom plate similar to the JD40 kits...it kind of eliminates the need for a 'case'

I've never felt comfortable with the sandwich-style keyboards. They are just begging to get dust and spilled coffee right in there and on your PCB  If I'm going through that much trouble to make a custom, I want to protect my investment!

For this buy, I'd love to just get the top plate, then I'd buy one of these:
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=281
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=212

Not sure the top plate would fit either of those cases as it is designed to be a skeleton with places for the standoffs...

[K.Mak]

1.5 ANSI Winkey pretty please? I want the big control and alt modifiers, but I'd also like the small windows/FN keys. It would just be a couple additional switch cutouts on the ANSI WKL plate right?

[braidn]

Would the Winkeyless ISO still use a 6.25 spacebar? Wondering where plate style 7 u spacebar wire is sourced from?

[Phenix]

is 7BIT layout available in ISO?

or is it this dual-style(weather ISO or ANSI)?

[kinglukas38]

Looks like I found a US proxy, so I can get this either way. Can't wait for the order form to drop

[balthaz4r]

These are skeletal frames. Top plate with standoffs and then a Blank bottom plate similar to the JD40 kits...it kind of eliminates the need for a 'case'

I've never felt comfortable with the sandwich-style keyboards. They are just begging to get dust and spilled coffee right in there and on your PCB  If I'm going through that much trouble to make a custom, I want to protect my investment!

For this buy, I'd love to just get the top plate, then I'd buy one of these:
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=281
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=212

Not sure the top plate would fit either of those cases as it is designed to be a skeleton with places for the standoffs...

That is a great point that I didn't consider. Thanks for pointing that out. I will have to take a careful look at the measurements and hole placement... Might gotta mod it to make it fit.

UPDATE:
Judging by the pics in the OP, it looks like there is quite a large bezel on the plate when compared to mechanicalkeyboard.com's plate: https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=1443

So it seems that this plate won't fit INSIDE the cases I listed. I'm still curious as to whether or not they can fit flush on top of the bottom half of the case, but I will wait on OP for the precise measurements. I am definitely looking for a full aluminum case, so if it is not compatible then that would be a dealbreaker for me.

[00zeRO]

These are skeletal frames. Top plate with standoffs and then a Blank bottom plate similar to the JD40 kits...it kind of eliminates the need for a 'case'

I've never felt comfortable with the sandwich-style keyboards. They are just begging to get dust and spilled coffee right in there and on your PCB  If I'm going through that much trouble to make a custom, I want to protect my investment!

For this buy, I'd love to just get the top plate, then I'd buy one of these:
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=281
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=212

Not sure the top plate would fit either of those cases as it is designed to be a skeleton with places for the standoffs...

That is a great point that I didn't consider. Thanks for pointing that out. I will have to take a careful look at the measurements and hole placement... Might gotta mod it to make it fit

7bit would be totally worth modding it...hehe

[Permeability]

Will these fit into those Filco alu cases mk.com will be offering?

[jdcarpe]

Will these fit into those Filco alu cases mk.com will be offering?

No, they won't fit inside any case. The plates are intended to be the case. If you want a plate which will fit inside the cases that MechanicalKeyboards.com is selling, they sell a plate on their site which will fit.

[Vittra]

If you manage to get ITL/Canada shipping, I'll be in. Otherwise I have to watch this from the sidelines.

[Phenix]

please make German shipping possible! 

[asura]

A little constructive criticism?  I'd unhide the note on plates... in-fact, in your shoes I wouldn't have anything behind a "more" tab, just continue to use excellent formatting as you have throughout the rest of the OP.

And your 7bit layout is missing a key, from between Esc & F1 - any particular reason?  If you do shipping to the UK (no pressure) I could always just cut it out myself.

[axtran]

I'd love an option for an acrylic insert

[balthaz4r]

To OP: can you please answer and add to the FAQ? Thanks!

Will the plate fit flush against the bottom half of either of these cases:
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=212
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=280

The listed dimensions are:
14.20" x 5.75" x 1.14"

[braidn]

Just trying to get a feeling on the Stab situation here. Are Costar stabs a possibility? And would the winkeyless versions require a 6.25u costar stab (easily sourced in the mention threads) or would you need a true 7u costar stab (never seen)? Thanks all. Super on board with this, just got to clear some things up / sell a few boards.

[roostrc0gburn]

A little constructive criticism?  I'd unhide the note on plates... in-fact, in your shoes I wouldn't have anything behind a "more" tab, just continue to use excellent formatting as you have throughout the rest of the OP.

And your 7bit layout is missing a key, from between Esc & F1 - any particular reason?  If you do shipping to the UK (no pressure) I could always just cut it out myself.

i think you're right - people seem to be missing a lot of the information... I removed the hidden text from OP.

Regarding the 7BIT layout, the switch hole can be added, yes. I dont know much about the layout - have not done a deep dive into the history. i basically just used the profisist's layout found in the wiki. i did find this old thread, though: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=23839.0
i would love to get more feedback from 7BIT users if we need to develop this layout a little further

To OP: can you please answer and add to the FAQ? Thanks!

Will the plate fit flush against the bottom half of either of these cases:
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=212
https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=280

The listed dimensions are:
14.20" x 5.75" x 1.14"

i dont know if the plate will fit those cases, but it is not intended to, and i doubt the bolt pattern would align.
the dimensions of the plates are 14.444x5.638 inches

Just trying to get a feeling on the Stab situation here. Are Costar stabs a possibility? And would the winkeyless versions require a 6.25u costar stab (easily sourced in the mention threads) or would you need a true 7u costar stab (never seen)? Thanks all. Super on board with this, just got to clear some things up / sell a few boards.

currently, stabilizers are not available in this group buy. I would love to be able to include them, but i dont have a source yet...
both Winkeyless layouts require a 7u spacebar, but I dont know where to find 7u wire right now.

[asura]

The Deskthority wiki's probably the best place to get the drawings from* - I know that the Prof made his own version and it's perfectly possible that other bits may have been modified over time...

*bottom of the page under "External links"

[Phenix]

https://deskthority.net/wiki/Phantom

is the prof. plate also available?
And whats about a 7BIT layout in ISO?
(or can I just "maximize the holes in that area?)

[ika]

am I missing something... where does the PCB support LEDs?

[axtran]

am I missing something... where does the PCB support LEDs?

There's no switch LED support, only Lock LEDs--Scroll Lock and Caps Lock, both in-switch positions as well as in the "Filco" positions, which is right below PrtSc/SLck/PseBrk and above Ins/Del/Home/End/PgUp/PgDn (that's where the pinholes are).