Completed build
The original design document
Exploded diagram showing how the laser cut layers all fit together
Early render before I got the case cut
Render showing the 2 plate layers, 1.5mm PETG is very flexible so 2 layers were used the lower layer has larger switch cutouts so it provides support for the upper layer, but the switches can still snap into the top layer
Comparison between finished product and a render
Without keycaps after first assembly
Completed build
Underside showing frosted acrylic base
At the MKUK meetup
Prism - A ZX inspired low cost acrylic keyboard
Prism is a low cost QMK compatible 60% + nav cluster (or TKL minus F-row) keyboard.
It was designed mostly to use up a load of things I had left over from keyboard repairs/salvage/impulse buys (e.g. an unbuilt TGW71 PCB by u/ca178858, Cherry clear switches from a broken vintage board, plate mount stabilisers from a salvaged Wyse PCE, 56g novelkey springs)
I like the style of 80's electronics so I borrowed some of the design language of the ZX Spectrum family of computers (particularly the the ones that came after the 48k).
Overall, I am really pleased with the finished product, the case is surprisingly rigid and sturdy feeling and sounds very deep and satisfying to type on. The entire process helped me to learn things like SMD soldering for the PCB and CAD using Fusion 360.
The files to build it are available on GitHub .
Color(s): Black
RGB Lighting? Yes
Keyboard Type: Custom
Contests
This build participated in 1 contest.
| Rank | Contest | Date |
|---|---|---|
| #54 | The Great $4,000 keebs.gg Contest | ended |
Hardware
Switches
Switch Films
Keycaps
Stabilizers
Lube
Approved by: