[IC] 45 Key Macropad (numpad, arrows, F keys)

[evangs]

Hi guys,

I've been working on a macropad that adds a dedicated numberpad, arrow keys, and F keys all on a single stand alone board.  The idea is that this could be used in conjunction with 60% and smaller boards to provide the missing keys.

I've already designed a pcb that support mx and alps switches as well as single color backlighting.

I am nearly finished drawing a cnc milled aluminum case for the macropad as well.

layout:


case render




So the big question is - would this be something that you are interested in?

[romevi]

Sure why not. I know some other company mass produced this layout, but a custom would be neat.

[evangs]

Sure why not. I know some other company mass produced this layout, but a custom would be neat.

do you have a link to that?

[ddot]

Sure why not. I know some other company mass produced this layout, but a custom would be neat.

do you have a link to that?

Something like the Scorpius 32 is approaching the same idea (Amazon link).

Also, how programmable is it?  I've really gotten to like the top row on my Leopold numberpad.  Those 4 blank keys under the F5/F6/F7/F8 are just calling out for Esc/Tab/=/Backspace.

[evangs]

Sure why not. I know some other company mass produced this layout, but a custom would be neat.

do you have a link to that?

Something like the Scorpius 32 is approaching the same idea (Amazon link).

Also, how programmable is it?  I've really gotten to like the top row on my Leopold numberpad.  Those 4 blank keys under the F5/F6/F7/F8 are just calling out for Esc/Tab/=/Backspace.

It's 100% programmable!

[Data]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0



But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

[romevi]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0

Show Image

But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

Ooh, that QazPad looks awesome. In fact, it looks ideal. Mark my interest for one; would definitely like to acquire it.

[romevi]

Sure why not. I know some other company mass produced this layout, but a custom would be neat.

do you have a link to that?

Something like the Scorpius 32 is approaching the same idea (Amazon link).

Also, how programmable is it?  I've really gotten to like the top row on my Leopold numberpad.  Those 4 blank keys under the F5/F6/F7/F8 are just calling out for Esc/Tab/=/Backspace.

That's it! The Scorpius.

[evangs]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0

Show Image

But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

Thanks for the feedback.  How do you feel about the following layout?

[ideus]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0

Show Image

But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

Thanks for the feedback.  How do you feel about the following layout?

Show Image

I like this better than the other, this has the proper size to dock next to a 60 with proper alignment.

[evangs]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0

Show Image

But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

Thanks for the feedback.  How do you feel about the following layout?

Show Image

I like this better than the other, this has the proper size to dock next to a 60 with proper alignment.

Thanks for the feedback.

[krajee]

The second layout appeals to me more than the first. I normally don't use the navigation cluster, so being able to program those into macros would be a plus for me.

[evangs]

The second layout appeals to me more than the first. I normally don't use the navigation cluster, so being able to program those into macros would be a plus for me.

Right on, thanks for feedback

[romevi]

Definitely better without the F layer.

[boo]

Considering that this is a macropad as well why not have the F keys to the right of the numpad? Just a thought.

[evangs]

Considering that this is a macropad as well why not have the F keys to the right of the numpad? Just a thought.

The problem with that is it starts to get very wide

[Data]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0

Show Image

But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

Thanks for the feedback.  How do you feel about the following layout?

Show Image

This has a better feel to it, but it might just be the familiarity that's appealing (that's not a bad thing).  I'm curious how it would look/function with the 5 keys above the arrows also populated -- maybe as macros? Just a thought.
 

[evangs]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0

Show Image

But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

Thanks for the feedback.  How do you feel about the following layout?

Show Image

This has a better feel to it, but it might just be the familiarity that's appealing (that's not a bad thing).  I'm curious how it would look/function with the 5 keys above the arrows also populated -- maybe as macros? Just a thought.

That's an interesting idea

[evangs]

I've been looking for something similar for a while.  Mainly looking at building/acquiring a QAZPad:  https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=43183.0

Show Image

But it hasn't been going well and there's only 1 other guy interested in reviving the project enough to maybe reach the group buy stage.  Honestly though, 45 keys is probably too much.  Your design looks really intense and perhaps a little lopsided -- I think because of the gap between the arrows and the numpad.  Still, I'm interested to see where this goes.

Thanks for the feedback.  How do you feel about the following layout?

Show Image

This has a better feel to it, but it might just be the familiarity that's appealing (that's not a bad thing).  I'm curious how it would look/function with the 5 keys above the arrows also populated -- maybe as macros? Just a thought.

That's an interesting idea

I kind of like it more without those extra keys because then it only uses standard keycaps that usually come with aftermarket sets

[Data]

True, but if you have one of those sets, good chance you have F1-F5 -- all caps that you're not using if you have a 60% board.  The row profile would be a little weird.  I dunno, think about it.  Maybe it could be an optional 2nd layout for people who might just be looking for a macro pad.  There's always blanks... 

[evangs]

True, but if you have one of those sets, good chance you have F1-F5 -- all caps that you're not using if you have a 60% board.  The row profile would be a little weird.  I dunno, think about it.  Maybe it could be an optional 2nd layout for people who might just be looking for a macro pad.  There's always blanks... 

True.  I'll play around with it

[evangs]

While trimming the pcb down to the smaller size without the f keys, I got an idea to allow for 1u keys in all of the numpad positions, so no 2u keys if you don't want.  I'll post some layouts and stuff tomorrow as well as plate renders


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[Ephemeral]

I got an idea to allow for 1u keys in all of the numpad positions, so no 2u keys if you don't want.

You've read my mind. Fully interested in this.

[ideus]

While trimming the pcb down to the smaller size without the f keys, I got an idea to allow for 1u keys in all of the numpad positions, so no 2u keys if you don't want.  I'll post some layouts and stuff tomorrow as well as plate renders

Just keep in mind that the compatibility of the number pad with num-pad-keys out of  full size key sets may appeal a lot of people that can put their keys to use, if they are sixty users. If the design takes non standard keys, that may discourage some people that can get alternate number pads commercially available that already offer that option.

[JaccoW]

It's certainly interesting. I'll keep an eye on this.

[evangs]

While trimming the pcb down to the smaller size without the f keys, I got an idea to allow for 1u keys in all of the numpad positions, so no 2u keys if you don't want.  I'll post some layouts and stuff tomorrow as well as plate renders

Just keep in mind that the compatibility of the number pad with num-pad-keys out of  full size key sets may appeal a lot of people that can put their keys to use, if they are sixty users. If the design takes non standard keys, that may discourage some people that can get alternate number pads commercially available that already offer that option.

You can still use the 2 unit keys.  You can do several layouts now!  I'll post more info in a bit as I just woke up and need to get ready for my day job XD

[evangs]

I got an idea to allow for 1u keys in all of the numpad positions, so no 2u keys if you don't want.

You've read my mind. Fully interested in this.

Awesome!!!

[evangs]

All of the following layouts are supported in the PCB. For the all single unit setup, it can be done with pcb mount mx and no plate.  all stabilized layouts require a plate, and of course all alps layouts require a plate. 

ALL LAYOUTS CAN BE ACHIEVED WITH ALPS OR MX SWITCHES!!!










I prefer the standard, all singles, and split plus split enter layouts.

Which layouts do you like the best?

[JaccoW]

I would probably prefer the standard layout but I know some people like the extra keys.

Will you be including RGB support? 4-pin low profile leds?

[evangs]

I would probably prefer the standard layout but I know some people like the extra keys.

Will you be including RGB support? 4-pin low profile leds?

No rgb support yet I'm still building my skill set, but it is something I'm workings towards.

[qazeqaz]

Following.

[chuckdee]

Is it possible to do a layout where the keypad is on the other side?

[evangs]

Is it possible to do a layout where the keypad is on the other side?

Like a reversible pcb?  It's possible but would require its own case top and some rework to the pcb.  Not sure it's worth it for this iteration, but it's definitely something I'll keep in mind

[Phenix]

That looks great. Any price info so far?

typos due to my touch screen are possible

[evangs]

That looks great. Any price info so far?

typos due to my touch screen are possible

Thanks!

Not yet, working on finishing annotating the models so I can get quotes from the shops

[chuckdee]

Is it possible to do a layout where the keypad is on the other side?

Like a reversible pcb?  It's possible but would require its own case top and some rework to the pcb.  Not sure it's worth it for this iteration, but it's definitely something I'll keep in mind

I just know a lot of people prefer the numpad on the left, so that would be more of a support if it were completely on the left.

[Phenix]

The renders in the middle don't have the the F-keys on top / the extra 2 buttons near the 6-pack.
Which one is the actual?
Maybe fill in all key positions and add support for 2u keys on the left(so one could choose wether"Normal design" or an inverted one for use on the left site (swapping arrows/numpad)?

[evangs]

The renders in the middle don't have the the F-keys on top / the extra 2 buttons near the 6-pack.
Which one is the actual?
Maybe fill in all key positions and add support for 2u keys on the left(so one could choose wether"Normal design" or an inverted one for use on the left site (swapping arrows/numpad)?

Interesting idea,  I need room for the controller on the pcb and all the components. And then an additional case top would be needed.  It might be easier to just design a left sided one.  The most recent renders are accurate

[Phenix]

place for the controller - maybe Model M style? (so just make the casing deeper, so controller behind F-row)

This would make the whole construction really flexible..

[evangs]

place for the controller - maybe Model M style? (so just make the casing deeper, so controller behind F-row)

This would make the whole construction really flexible..

There is no f row on the current revision

[Phenix]

Too bad it was cut off
Personally would prefer one

[evangs]

Too bad it was cut off
Personally would prefer one

Haha XD so hard to please everyone.  I did keep the files saved off so I can revisit the expanded design in the future

[Phenix]

you should rename the thread title

[ideus]

This is so nice that it moves me to reconsider the use of a numpad that I have not used in the last four years, keep up the good job.

[evangs]

This is so nice that it moves me to reconsider the use of a numpad that I have not used in the last four years, keep up the good job.

Thanks you so much your encouraging words keep me going

[alienman82]

removed.

[evangs]

Not for me, but have you considered mirroring the layout, so the arrows are on the left side?  This would be better for some who still want the mouse space possibly.

Yes, might do a flipped version in the future

[quake4mhg]

following

[evangs]

Got a couple teaser photos for ya'll





I got my test plates and wanted to show what the keypad will more or less look like.  Also wanted to show off my custom plates.  I want to be able to offer all the layout options without making anyone pick a specific plate.  I got the idea to do mini plates for the parts that change.  So a single plate would include the large shared portion and then a mini plate for each differing layout. 

PCBs have been ordered so I will have a better idea of how the plate/mini plate combo works once those arrive, but I am liking what I am seeing so far

What do you think of the split plate design?

[Data]

Interesting idea.

[ideus]

Interesting idea.

+1 Yeah, it is really cool.

[evangs]

Interesting idea.

+1 Yeah, it is really cool.

Thanks!  I'll be working on getting quotes for the case, so hopefully get an idea of pricing soon

[jebbra]

How about swapping the arrow cluster with the numpad? So the arrow is on the right side. This will help for using the pad on the left side of the keyboard. And I believe most 60% user will prefer left oriented pad.

[evangs]

How about swapping the arrow cluster with the numpad? So the arrow is on the right side. This will help for using the pad on the left side of the keyboard. And I believe most 60% user will prefer left oriented pad.

Something I've been thinking about.  I have a couple ideas for how to accomplish. Thanks for the feedback!

[Dernubenfrieken]

How about swapping the arrow cluster with the numpad? So the arrow is on the right side. This will help for using the pad on the left side of the keyboard. And I believe most 60% user will prefer left oriented pad.

Something I've been thinking about.  I have a couple ideas for how to accomplish. Thanks for the feedback!

I am also in favor of this, as it would essentially be the perfect numpad for work for me. Being able to use one hand to navigate and enter spreadsheets and another to use the mouse would be fantastic.

[evangs]

How about swapping the arrow cluster with the numpad? So the arrow is on the right side. This will help for using the pad on the left side of the keyboard. And I believe most 60% user will prefer left oriented pad.

Something I've been thinking about.  I have a couple ideas for how to accomplish. Thanks for the feedback!

I am also in favor of this, as it would essentially be the perfect numpad for work for me. Being able to use one hand to navigate and enter spreadsheets and another to use the mouse would be fantastic.

Right on. This feedback helps!

[evangs]

my prototype pcbs shipped out today and I should have them next week!




If you look closely you'll see that the extra io pins have been broken out to be used for whatever ones heart desires

There will be a flipped version (numpad on the left) when I am ready to go with this.

[Phenix]

is it possible for the GB to add all possible switch positions?  (would make it even more useful)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

[evangs]

is it possible for the GB to add all possible switch positions?  (would make it even more useful)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

What do you mean?

[Phenix]

I meant the key spots between  arrows and 6-pack.

I dont know if this adds costs, but if one decides to use it without plate he could archive more keys (like on an F107)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

[evangs]

I meant the key spots between  arrows and 6-pack.

I dont know if this adds costs, but if one decides to use it without plate he could archive more keys (like on an F107)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

to support that, I would need a separate case top or change to a floating key style case...  I don't think I want to do that for revision 1 unless that is something the majority of interested folks would want.

[Phenix]

I just meant to add them to the pcb.

this way one can use the plate and have your layout or build it without plate and have the 5 extra keys

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

[evangs]

I just meant to add them to the pcb.

this way one can use the plate and have your layout or build it without plate and have the 5 extra keys

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

Interesting,  I'll take a look at adding them

[Phenix]

Thanks!
Another question: is it possible to flip the plate?

Can the top side of the  pcb be right hand design and the under side left hand design?
(I don't know if this is possible, I don't have experience with that)

(so that final result would be to have left hand or right hand choice, depending how you flip pcb/parts)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

[evangs]

Thanks!
Another question: is it possible to flip the plate?

Can the top side of the  pcb be right hand design and the under side left hand design?
(I don't know if this is possible, I don't have experience with that)

(so that final result would be to have left hand or right hand choice, depending how you flip pcb/parts)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

That is possible and I thought about doing that, but you would still need separate plates unless you went with all singles.  The two unit keys change position when you flip and would then be located towards the middle rather than on the outer edge.  I'll probably end up just making two PCBs, one for right hand placement and one for left hand placement

[Phenix]

Sure, 2u keys change.
BUT:
Is this really thst worse? I would really like to try out this (because normal external numpad on left is not that nice for mem

How much costs an double sided pcb more than just the right hand version?

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

[evangs]

Sure, 2u keys change.
BUT:
Is this really thst worse? I would really like to try out this (because normal external numpad on left is not that nice for mem

How much costs an double sided pcb more than just the right hand version?

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

Cost shouldn't really change much at all, I just need to flip the switch hole orientation for mx mounts and make sure none of the components block the switches coming in from the other side.  It really just depends on what layout is important to everyone. Would a flipped numpad for the left side orientation make sense to everyone? Or would people prefer the traditional numpad orientation?

[Phenix]

If its a slight increase of costs I think I it's good to add (I can't use my thumb for enter at all)
How do you want to do the plate?
One big plate without the extra keys
or
maybe one numpad +the extra keys plate

or
numpad plate and
 'extension' plates for the arrow part?( only makes sense if its way cheaper+demand)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

[evangs]

If its a slight increase of costs I think I it's good to add (I can't use my thumb for enter at all)
How do you want to do the plate?
One big plate without the extra keys
or
maybe one numpad +the extra keys plate

or
numpad plate and
 'extension' plates for the arrow part?( only makes sense if its way cheaper+demand)

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]

I think I need to put a poll together and gather some hard numbers

[Phenix]

I just took a look at your renders - please add all 8 positions to the pcb (I missed the 3 keys in the gap between arrows and numpad

Btw: Are the renders nearly the end-result? (I am asking cause of the F-keys (I really want those, because place in the depth is not a problem+they can help)

If this is not decided yet - can you please do a second poll for that?

[size=85]typos due to my touch screen are possible[/size]