This is a handwired keyboard that uses mechanical switches, heatset inserts, and then m3 bolts from below.
This is an evolution of the popular 4x12 ortholinear keyboards to have better ergonomics.
Instructions
- Measure switches and put that in ‘$s2’ in the keyplate2 module.
- Print 4 pieces:
- LH top & bottom
- RH top & bottom
- Install heatset inserts (M3, 4mm tall, 5mm OD)
- Install switches (optionally, add a bit of hot glue to make sure they stay put)
- Solder diodes from one switch to the next in rows (left to right)
- Solder rows together
- Make a wire bundle to go from RH to the LH, this will include the columns from the RH to the microcontroller and the rows will continue to the rows on the LH
- Solder to a microcontroller. There are many options, from a traditional arduino pro micro to any RP2040 chip (like raspberry pi pico)
- carefully note which pins you used and build a firmware file. I used KMK firmware this time, though you can also do QMK, ZMK, or various other options.
- Plug it in, flash your firmware, debug and fix anything that went wrong.
Parts list
- 48 keyswitches that you like (these were ‘Akko cream blue’ from amazon, which are fine but not my favorite. I'd probably go back to Kailh box navy next time for super clicky action)
- 1 microcontroller with at least 16 free pins (4 rows x 12 columns). (This is a RP2040)
- 48 diodes (I used 1N4148)
- 48 keycaps in your preferred profile and color (These are XDA polycarbonate dark and clear)
- 12 M3 heatset inserts (4mm tall, 5mm OD)
- 12 cap head bolts (M3 x 6mm)
- wire
- a USB cord that matches your microcontroller
- Cable sleeving (optional) if you want to be fancy