[IC] GH-122.2017 PCBs and Kits

[samwisekoi]

This is a straight Interest Check for the GH-122.2017 PCB.  There will be two rounds of PCBs:

First Edition: MOQ=5, Max=10 for early adopters/testers.  Cost ~ $60 USD plus shipping.

PROD Edition: MOQ=20 with issues found in the First Edition corrected.  Later, and slightly cheaper.  Cost ~ $50 USD plus shipping.

Also, I have designed a basic acrylic/aluminum sandwich case that I can ship with the First Edition PCBs as a "builder's kit" for ~$100 USD additional.

* Main Thread for the GH-122.2017
* Thread for the First Edition Case Kit
* Archive Thread 1 for GH-122 from 2014-2015
* Archive Thread 2 for GH-122 from 2016

So please REPLY IN THIS THREAD if you are interested in any of the following:

1a. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB Only.
1b. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit.

2.  MOQ=20 Production GH-122.2017 PCB Only.

I will post the results below.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

p.s.  For those who are starting here:

Summary Feature Set for GH-122.2017

1. Mega size with a 7x24 maximum layout (up to 156 key positions!).
2. Full programability.
3. Alps compatibility for expanded ANSI only.
4. Flexible layout beyond just ANSI/ISO to include functional subsets like 5x24 \"Wide Body\", F-122 layout -- including the bent F-key rows, etc.
5. 100% through-hole constructions, so no advanced equipment or skills are needed to successfully build it.
6. Mounting holes for 5x24 build.
7. Added lower mounting holes to PC-122 upper bank.
8. Daughterboard mounts for the controller.
9. Added center-line support holes between Row B and C (matching GH60.)
10. Jumper blocks for upper bank and LEDs, located and labeled for use in the Unicomp case.
11. Alps compatibility for expanded ANSI only.
12. Modular/removable keypad.
13. Split spacebar support.
14. Partial backlighting circuits, especially transistor mounting locations.
15. Addressable RGB LED strip circuit, e.g. to attach WS2812B. (Firmware NOT included!)

[samwisekoi]

Results:

1a
ErgoMacros
TerryMathews
donutcat
xondat

1b
nathanrosspowell
hebbler
cynviloq
TerryMathews
laughatpain
Spaceman1200
AKmalamute

2
iamtootallforthis
dead_pixel_design
nathanrosspowell
laughatpain
Hak Foo
AKmalamute


The proto buy is a go. First five as kits, with extra PCBs after that. The case gets taller rear feet, and the WASD keycaps are available direct from WASD.  Stay tuned.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Auto-typed by my GH-122 keyboard.

[ErgoMacros]

I'd like:
    1b. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit.

Check (or Paypal) is standing by!

Edit-->: Expect to build "GH-122 Expanded ANSI Layout" or "GH-122 Max Keys Layout" (or some slight variation between)

[iamtootallforthis]

I would be interested in the production round full case depending on when it is run!

[dead_pixel_design]

Very interested in Production PCB and possibly kits for production if those will be on offer

[nathanrosspowell]

Interested. My only concern is the timing of the payment. Ideally,

      1b. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit.

But if that is going to be really soon, then I'd have to settle for the cheaper option later on:

      2.  MOQ=20 Production GH-122.2017 PCB Only.

[hebbler]

I'm in for:
1b. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit.
I will commit to building an Expanded ANSI layout with a full 3x5 in the arrow cluster.

I've held off building my 2016 GH122 due to lack of case/plate.  I've got all the parts and a keyset for it, but never found the time to research getting a case/plate made. 

[cynviloq]

I would purchase 1b. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit.

edit: Is the custom keycap set still an option?

[Puddsy]

So that's $60 for JUST the PCB and case, right?

I really want this, so register me interested.

[iamtootallforthis]

So that's $60 for JUST the PCB and case, right?

I really want this, so register me interested.

Not it's $100 for the Case and PCB

[cynviloq]

So that's $60 for JUST the PCB and case, right?

I really want this, so register me interested.

Not it's $100 for the Case and PCB

I'm pretty sure it's $160 for the Case and PCB since it says $100 additional (and it's sandwiched with aluminum layers).

[ErgoMacros]

So that's $60 for JUST the PCB and case, right?

I really want this, so register me interested.

Not it's $100 for the Case and PCB

Actually it's:
   $100 for case kit
    $60 for "First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB Only", or ~$50 for production PCB
 +$Shipping
----------
  $160 or $150 + shipping for PCB and Case kit.

[dead_pixel_design]

Actually it's:
   $100 for case kit
    $60 for "First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB Only", or ~$50 for production PCB
 +$Shipping
----------
  $160 or $150 + shipping for PCB and Case kit.

Kit is only for the first ed.

First ed PCB $60, to add kit is $100 = $160
Prod PCB $50; kit might not work with production PCB at all and as of right now is not going to be on offer when production PC is made available

[cynviloq]

So that's $60 for JUST the PCB and case, right?

I really want this, so register me interested.

Not it's $100 for the Case and PCB

Actually it's:
   $100 for case kit
    $60 for "First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB Only", or ~$50 for production PCB
 +$Shipping
----------
  $160 or $150 + shipping for PCB and Case kit.

Case is only for First Edition.

Also, I have designed a basic acrylic/aluminum sandwich case that I can ship with the First Edition PCBs as a "builder's kit" for ~$100 USD additional.

[samwisekoi]

Case is extra 'cuz no magic accounting here.  See the kit thread for details.  Also, the sandwich case will work -- or will be adapted to work -- with the PROD boards.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

[TerryMathews]

1a and 1b for me. Thanks!

[cynviloq]

Case is extra 'cuz no magic accounting here.  See the kit thread for details.  Also, the sandwich case will work -- or will be adapted to work -- with the PROD boards.

 - Ron | samwisekoi

Are the custom keycaps still on the table?

[donutcat]

Interested in the 1a "First Edition" of just the PCB. The full kit would be neat, but I can work with just a PCB since it's a little easier on my wallet. And I also have someone milling a case for me already, so.

[laughatpain]

Interested in 1b and 2 if I can get a case

[Hak Foo]

Will the sandwich case be usable with ALPS?  I tend to think they require a plate mount.  If so, I'm interested in 1b.  If not, then 2.

[samwisekoi]

Will the sandwich case be usable with ALPS?  I tend to think they require a plate mount.  If so, I'm interested in 1b.  If not, then 2.

Well, it certainly doesn't include an Alps plate.  Or any plate at all, for that matter.

However, Alps-compatibility is certainly something I want to test.  And really all the PCB has is pads for the switch contacts.  In particular, it doesn't have any provision for Alps-style stabilizers, so those at least, need a plate.

<goes and looks at the Matias website>

I think that to ensure the production PCBs work with Alps/Matias switches and stabilizers, someone will have to make a plate and test the first-round PCB.  Then, assuming modifications need to be made, I'll replace the tester's PCB with one of the production PCBs.  Then and only then can anyone be sure this PCB will work with Alps switches.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Auto-typed by my GH-122 keyboard.

p.s.  Since I was confused by the various ways this switch is described, I went and looked it up.  "Alps" is the proper name of the company and the switch.  "ALPS" (all caps) is the logo printed on the switch.  Based on that, I call them "Alps switches".  FYI, since switch-geeks are, well, geeky about switch nomenclature.

[Spaceman1200]

I'll join in for a 1b. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit.I'll test the alps pinouts if i have enough switches, Do you have a tentative date for the tester's round Ron?

[Hak Foo]

I'm in for a production PCB then.  I'll have to let someone else lead the way for the plate.

[TerryMathews]

So it looks like there's enough 1bs but we're a little light on 1a?

[xondat]

I'm interested in 1 early PCB so I can develop a case for it, and another final version to do my personal build with. I think that means 1a and 2 for me. I'd also really like presoldered parts but I understand that probably won't happen and through hole is close enough

[samwisekoi]

Ok, the score so far is:

1a: 4
1b: 6
2: 5

I'll put the names up in OP #2.

I've been doing this for a while, so I know that ten interested people can really mean five actual paying participants.  And since my goal is only to ensure I don't end up with a personal lifetime supply of giant PCBs, that is enough for the test buy.

So I will get some actual quotes for the case parts and then set up a lightning group buy for the proto kits.  Probably I will ask for five kit buyers and then let the rest of the first run go as bare PCBs.  I may set that up as soon as this weekend.

Also, a couple of notes re the case and keycaps:  I've been using this case and the WASD custom keycaps as my main home keyboard for about a week or so.  The first thing I find is that the case needs taller back feet, so I'll incorporate those into the cut-pattern for the existing parts.  Round stepped pyramids, probably.  The second thing is that the WASD keycaps are really attractive and have a good texture, but that MX Brown switches might not be the right match for them.  Well, not after spending the day banging away on an F-122, anyhow!  The switch/keycap combo is very light.  If you are a tappity-tappity touch-typist, they might be great for you.  I learned to type on computer terminals, so I need a heavier feel.  I shall experiment with other switches and springs.

Regardless, the WASD keycaps are still an open option at $65 directly from them.

TL;DR The proto buy is a go. First five as kits, with extra PCBs after that. The case gets taller rear feet, and the WASD keycaps are available direct from WASD.  Stay tuned.

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Auto-typed by my GH-122 keyboard.

[dead_pixel_design]

In for a 2 definitely

[ErgoMacros]

Hi,
Moving along toward the start of the build. Some additional info for my fellow builders...

1. Looks like the Teensy++ USB Board, Version 2.0, with Header Pins ($27) https://www.pjrc.com/store/teensypp_pins.html is out of stock, and has been for a couple weeks. Alternates include:

• Mouser (where you may be getting your diodes anyway) $27.50 http://www.mouser.com/Search/ProductDetail.aspx?R=731virtualkey54950000virtualkey485-731 or even
  
• Amazon, with headers ($33) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SHGPN3S/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_8_w or
• Amazon, without the soldered headers, a bit cheaper. ($25) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00NC4302Q/ref=s9_acsd_hps_bw_c_x_5_w

2. I emailed WASD-Paige with a proposed layout, with 12 keys along the bottom row. Here: http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/76eb7eb2b967a2e5566ec1befbd4f967
I was told "The only issues I see in your keyboard layout editor mockup are the 1.5u keys on the bottom row. The only 1.5u key we carry is R3 profile."
So, I've adjusted.

Starting to feel more real! Looking forward to it.

[AKmalamute]

Interested. Actually I'm able to go with the intro-kit, so I'm willing to fill any 1a fallouts. Otherwise, a kit in 'round' 2 when that happens, what roughly tax time?

Obviously I should have been coming back here more often but I sorta had a bunch of family stuff going on the past couple weeks.

[PatchyFog]

Hello Everybody.

Just joined Geek Hack specifically to raise my hand for this. A nice person on Massdrop pointed me here after I posted something snarky about one of their offerings not having the function keys on the left LIKE GOD INTENDED. I've been searching for something like this to augment my many 1980s Northgate Omnikeys and derivatives for years (I've got a big box of white alps switches from various Northgate "donor boards" and use them to keep these old beasts running when the switches in the home row invariably fail -- about 1 ever 4 months these days -- but they've been banged on for 9 hours most days for 25 years, so...) Would be nice to play around with the old layout but with old Alps or new MX blues or whites. And some old, donor double-shot keycaps.  Anyway, if you get a kit together in a few months or just a PCB and parts list, I'm in.  I'm really interested in that 122 wide winkeyless version, which looks sweet and that I may be able to pop in some old case. Nice to be aboard here.

[ErgoMacros]

<snip>
Regardless, the WASD keycaps are still an open option at $65 directly from them.
<snip>
 - Ron | samwisekoi
Auto-typed by my GH-122 keyboard.

Do you have a sample layout for WASD we can use, or start with and edit?
Thanks!

[Maddrake]

Interested in 1a but if their gone 2. Im glad that i saw this IC. Totally missed the newer thread for this though. Gonna be a nice piece to my collection. 

[donutcat]

So, just wondering if there's been any more updates on this? Not trying to rush you, just being a little antsy about it is all.

[ErgoMacros]

Hi, Hoping Ron is doing well. (We're missing you!)

Anyway, here's my updated layout from the prior post. This time the bottom row has all 1u and 1.25u (no 1.5u) keys for WASD key availability.
   http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d6803ac591939429ba2e2a24e33b13f5

Anyone know if I can move the space bar 1 key to the right? So I end up with 4 x 1.25, Space, 3 x 1.25?
I'd like to move my Fn key from the right side to the left.

Looks like I'd loose the left stabilizer position for the space bar if I tried.
Thanks.

[cynviloq]

Hi, Hoping Ron is doing well. (We're missing you!)

Anyway, here's my updated layout from the prior post. This time the bottom row has all 1u and 1.25u (no 1.5u) keys for WASD key availability.
   http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/d6803ac591939429ba2e2a24e33b13f5

Anyone know if I can move the space bar 1 key to the right? So I end up with 4 x 1.25, Space, 3 x 1.25?
I'd like to move my Fn key from the right side to the left.

Looks like I'd loose the left stabilizer position for the space bar if I tried.
Thanks.

This looks good! I agree that you would likely lose the left stab for space.

I worked off your version, still need to fill in some keys, though I do wish it was possible to add a row above numpad and simulate the 21-key number pads.

http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/6de838f71dbd288656e7ab82791ed10b

[ErgoMacros]

... I do wish it was possible to add a row above numpad and simulate the 21-key number pads.
     http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/6de838f71dbd288656e7ab82791ed10b

But above the num-pad is where the processor is living -- PCB space is taken. 150 key keyboard not enough for you? ;-)

By the way, there's an option in KLE for "ghosting" keys, if you want the removed keys to be a bit less conspicuous. Your choice.

[Hak Foo]

Is the spacing in your mockup accurate?  I was trying to feed this into Swill's plate builder to experiment with the possibilities, since I want to do a Matias build that needs a plate.  I'll probably use the same layout as my 2016 GH-122.

[ErgoMacros]

In case this question was directed at me, I tried, but you should NOT trust my KLE layout.

I believe you *can* trust Ron's work. AFAIK This is his latest posting with dimensions on it: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=86751.msg2366060#msg2366060

The spacing from 10 Macro keys on the left to main keys, main keys to navigation, and navigation to num pad are all 1/3 of an inch. (so, NOT an even fraction of a key width.) These measurements taken from IBM 122 keyboards.

[samwisekoi]

Sorry for the silence.  I am currently moving my household and family, and will be back to GeekHack as soon as I can.

My current plan re the GH-122.2017 is to place an order for qty=10 PCBs, and then decide how to distribute them (with or without case) once I verify functionality.

This is probably my only message for a few more weeks.

Best to all,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Auto-typed by my GH-122 keyboard.

[Data]

Good luck with your move, Ron. 

[daaawooo]

hello Ron,

final pcb ships to Germany ? Prototype test kits only to US ?
My favorite would be a final pcb + case kit, but that is not an option for now.
Any chance you make a "2b final pcb + case kit" available ?

Otherwise I'm interested in option "1b".

How much is shipping to Germany ?

regards,
dw

[ErgoMacros]

Hi daaawooo,

A while back Ron said:

Case is extra 'cuz no magic accounting here.  See the kit thread for details.  Also, the sandwich case will work -- or will be adapted to work -- with the PROD boards.

So 2b will be an option.
(I have no idea about shipping to Germany.)
Best.

[ErgoMacros]

Hi Ron,

I just noticed I'm listed as interested in "1a", when I actually would like "1b. First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit."
Thanks.

[SL89]

Long time no see, am i too late to get in on the ground floor for this one? I've been dying for a 122 for ages.

Put me down for

1b. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB + Sandwich Case Kit.

if possible!

[ErgoMacros]

Hi SL98,
Near as I can tell the 1st run has not been manufactured yet. Ron's moving houses so he's been off-line for a while.
So, my guess it it's not too late.
Cheers.

[SL89]

Hi SL98,
Near as I can tell the 1st run has not been manufactured yet. Ron's moving houses so he's been off-line for a while.
So, my guess it it's not too late.
Cheers.

Excellent, i hope his move goes well, but im kinda glad for the delay!

I've been waiting for this project to come about for years it feels. I'm so pumped to get back onto GH and see it.

[samwisekoi]

Hi there. Photoelectric asked me to look at a technical glitch on GH, so I am stopping by for a moment.  Still packing a house full of teenagers with about a week until the first wave of the move.  I will probably be back on-line in July.

Nothing has been ordered, cancelled, changed, or made final, so all remains well.  I used my proto sandwich GH-122 for almost all of this time, and it held up just fine.

More when I return,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Auto-typed by my GH-122 keyboard.

[iamtootallforthis]

Hi there. Photoelectric asked me to look at a technical glitch on GH, so I am stopping by for a moment.  Still packing a house full of teenagers with about a week until the first wave of the move.  I will probably be back on-line in July.

Nothing has been ordered, cancelled, changed, or made final, so all remains well.  I used my proto sandwich GH-122 for almost all of this time, and it held up just fine.

More when I return,

 - Ron | samwisekoi
Auto-typed by my GH-122 keyboard.

Hope the move goes well man!

[beard]

Hi, I am interested in 1a. MOQ=5 of 10 First Edition GH-122.2017 PCB Only. if I'm not too late

[dead_pixel_design]

In for part 2, but would it be possible to also get one of the test-kit acrylic top plates?