<\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\nA custom keyboard consists of six major components: keycaps, keyswitches, stabilizers, a PCB, a switch plate, and a case. We’ll get to the first four in due order, but the latter two serve as the foundation for your unique keyboard design.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The switch plate is, as the name implies, the center plate on which the keyboard switches are attached. The plate will have either a single set key layout or some variation, allowing you to select the arrangement that best matches your needs. For example, on the keyboard I’m currently using, the plate allows a number of alternative layouts, including the standard US ANSI and UK ISO layouts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The plate is frequently a separate physical piece from the case that attaches to it, although it is also incorporated with the keyboard’s upper casing as a single piece. Although an integrated plate may be easier to work with, a separate plate is usually more flexible. Most custom keyboards are sold as a kit that includes a casing, switch plate, and PCB.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\nIn terms of the general design of the keyboard, there are some common sizes, such as 60, 65, 75, and 80 percent (commonly called TKL) and full-sized (also called 1800), all of which basically correspond to the size of the board in relation to a full-sized, 105-key unit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, there are no definite requirements, so make sure you have exactly what you need. Similarly, there are some major layout standards, such as US ANSI or UK ISO, but designers can and do differ from them, and there are other particular variations, such as ortho-linear layouts in which all of the switches are in line with one another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your keyboard layout choice is determined by how you plan to use it and how you want to optimize your workspace. I prefer smaller 60 and 65 percent boards since they provide more space for a trackpad or mouse, and I rarely use a numpad or the F-row.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, after using a variety of 60 percent boards, which just include the fundamental alphanumeric keys and modifiers, my choice has switched to 65 percent boards. An arrow cluster is extremely useful, and the few extra keys (Del, PgUp, PgDn, Home, End) are useful both independently and for mapping other functions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n <\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Along with the layout, the material from which the case and plate are constructed is a significant consideration. Plates made of strong metals, such as brass, will feel solid and sound different than aluminum. Plates are increasingly made of nonmetallic materials, particularly carbon fiber and some thermoplastics. Entire keyboard cases can be manufactured from semi-transparent or dyed polycarbonates.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
High-end keyboards often include internal weights to give them some bulk and keep them from wandering about on your desk when you type, which influences how the board sounds. While you rarely check at the bottom of a keyboard, designers frequently utilize weights to provide covert external decorations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The most popular layout for a custom keyboard, known as top mount, has the switch plate attached to the top case, and the bottom section of the case connects to that assembly, but there are several variations. Isolation mounts are currently the most difficult in the hobby.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They surround the plate with layers of isolating material, practically suspending it inside the case, so that when you type, the noise is reduced and the feel is softened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n