I've been reading up on keyboards, keycaps, and controllers from different threads here, and I'm very interested in trying to build my own keyboard... I currently own the Razer Blackwidow Ultimate, but I would like a keyboard that is a bit quieter and smaller. My plan is to use the Cherry MX Brown, with blank, black keycaps, and employ the Teensy dev board.
I am programming at least 8 hours a day this summer (job), and I game in my free time...I am also a student in college (US).
I recently switched back to the QWERTY layout from DVORAK because I was tired of hunt+peck whenever I used someone else's keyboard. With this in mind, I made a schematic for a custom key layout, because my left thumb is absolutely useless on the keyboard as of now. My key layout is similar enough to standard so that someone else can use it, and so that my habits don't change so much that I can't deal with coding at a public school terminal:
I've completely done away with any keys that are 2" wide or more because they're just not necessary. Following this tenet, should I change the enter key size down further? It is currently at 1.75 instead of 2.25.
I will add the function keys to the top row if possible:
As well as letting num lock open a numpad like on the Noppoo Choc Mini:
What do I need to model and order as far as a PCB for this project?
How can I possibly rig lighting or get blank keycaps that will allow me to find my F/J keys at a glance in the dark?
Is the Cherry Brown the right switch for this? Feel free to recommend favorites.
Is the Teensy dev board better than, say, the Chameleon?
ABS or PBT keycap material?
Any suggestions regarding my key layout?
Any and all input from you guys is appreciated! Thanks for reading!
