FULLY-CUSTOM MECHANICAL KEYBOARDS
PERSONAL PROJECT
MARCH 2021-CURRENT
Embedded Files
Summary + Context
Summary + Context
As a personal project, I developed a fully-custom keyboard from the ground up. My design is more ergonomic, simpler, and more practical than the standard keyboard layout. It's also so satisfying to type on!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Skills Used
Skills Used
Design Techniques: Computer Aided Design (CAD), Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Design
Manufacturing: 3D Printing, PCB Manufacturing, Soldering, Hand-Assembly
Software Applications: Fusion 360, EasyEDA, Plover,
Programming Languages & Tools: QMK Firmware
Version 1
Version 1
The first version. Features:
Split design allows for more ergonomic hand placement, further apart
Only three rows eliminates need to reach far for any key
Additional keys are stored in layers, where holding one key changes the function of every other key
Moved common keys, like enter, control, shift, and layer keys (keys normally pressed by the pinky finger) to the thumbs, which are much stronger
Manual wiring of the keys.
A sketch showing the basic concept behind keyboard wiring. The clever circuitry allows many switches to be detected with much fewer microcontroller inputs.
Version 2
Version 2
Similar to version 1, but even more compact. I found this was a little too compact for me, though, so I was sure to add more keys and re-introduce the key split in the next version.
Version 3
Version 3
Custom keyboard PCB schematic.
Component placement on the PCB.
Computer rendering of the PCB.
The microcontroller used in this project. I wrote and flashed custom QMK firmware to allow the keyboard to function.
The keyboard PCB in real life.
The same keyboard PCB, but with different keycaps and a linear switch type for smoother actuation.
Stenographer
Stenographer
To continue pushing the limits of typing speed and efficiency, I built a stenographer keyboard as well. Stenographers type phonetically, and in chords (with multiple keys pressed at the same time), presenting a fun challenge in design, firmware, and use.
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