The work on multiple projects simultaneously continues as the year wraps up.
Updates
New LM projects in general
One of the main holdups with the Demod LM and Quefrency LM projects was with the use of low-profile stabilizers. Originally, they were designed for use with Gateron Low-Profile stabilizers. However, once we got to testing with the prototype cases and PCBs, we realized that the travel on the Gateron stabilizers is reduced, and the stabilized keys do not go all the way down.
So, we had to switch to using Kailh Choc V2 stabilizers, and while the PCBs cutouts for the stabilizers could be kept as is, revised designs for the plates had to be done to allow the Choc V2 stabilizers to sit in there properly (they are plate-mounted stabilizers). Also, because of the positioning of the wire and the plate needing a cutout for that, a couple of mounting holes had to be relocated on the plate and on the PCB. This also required modification to the aluminum tray, silicone tray liners, and switch plate support foam.
This set the projects back several weeks while new prototype parts had to be made and tested out.
Demod LM
All of the case parts have arrived, last thing left to wait for are the PCBs. There's currently no carrying case on-hand for it right now, and we're currently looking for options for that.
Quefrency LM
All of the case parts have arrived. What's left are the PCBs, carrying cases, and LPF keysets. While we already have THT keysets available for the Quefrency LM, we really prefer the custom LPF ones we've ordered, and an initial batch of those keysets has been received.
Nyquist LM
Cases are on-hand as well, also waiting on PCBs. FR4 plates with 2u support (w/o stabilizers) will be sold separately.
Iris SE
We just got a new batch of Iris SE Aluminum cases in, and the new feature of these is that there's an inset to place a MagSafe stick in now (like with the Quefrency LM and Nyquist LM).
FoldKB Rev. 2.1
For the original run of FoldKB Rev. 2 PCBs, the Backslash key was accidentally made to be 1u, instead of 1.5u. This has been corrected with the Rev. 2.1 PCBs. While at it, underglow RGB LEDs were added onto each half per the request of the FoldKB's biggest fan.
Website Changes
In the background, we're also working on changing around some things with our website. The main goal is to make things easier to purchase, making sure you've got everything you need, instead of having to buy missing stuff later.
Assembled/Kit/Barebones
In the past, our products have centered around the PCBs as the focal point due to our roots in supporting a DIY-style of kits. However, with more and more non-keyboard enthusiasts getting into the mix of buying ergonomic keyboards, we're shifting towards making the cases (keyboard enclosures) the focal point, since what PCB is in there is not quite as important, as it's more of an implementation detail.
In short, you'll see "Pre-built" get replaced with "Assembled", and the other two options will be "Kit" and "Barebones." The premise behind Assembled and Kit is that when you open the box, you'll have everything you need, like switches, keycaps, case, and PCB. The Barebones option lets you bring in your own choice of switches and/or keycaps if you don't want to purchase our offerings. The end goal is to make things less confusing for those with little keyboard building experience.
Spare PCBs will remain available for purchase.
Shipping Rates
We're also tweaking some things with shipping rates and removing services that aren't used as often. There's also a shipping estimator tool on the cart, so you can see rates before going to the checkout screen.
Other Updates
Iris LM-KW
Still in the works, the PCB designer just has some life stuff going on, so be patient.
Sinc LM
Waiting to get started on it after all the work on the Demod/Nyquist/Quefrency LM releases is done.
Sinc Rev. 5 & Quefrency Rev. 7
Reconfiguration of the RGB LEDs to all be north-facing and aluminum cases will be made for both of them.
Member discussion