The 3w6 is a low profile, split ortholinear keyboard with 36 keys.
I needed a keyboard for work and wasn't really satisfied with the available alternatives (namely Corne, Kyria and Ferris), mostly because they were rather large and didn't had the spacing I would like.
It's designed to be a no frills, cheap and small keyboard to be taken everywhere.
So no hotswap, no multiple switchtypes, no encoders, no LEDs.
BUT with onboard controllers (so no extra ProMicros, Elite-C), production files including SMT assembly files, and sturdy through hole mounted USB-C connectors.
changes:
- new middle plate (1.6mm, better 2.0mm) instead of diodes. Uses Aluminium PCBs as a cheaper alternative to lasered aluminium.
- pimoroni trackball support (can only be used combined with the new middle plate when used with the plate)
- plate is now 1.2mm thick, to fit the chocs better. Needs middle plate, since the cutouts of the USB-Connectors were left out. There is enough space for them under the plate, when the middle plate is in place.
- added mounting holes to support tenting puck from splitkb.com. Due to insufficient space not all 4 holes are supported, but 3 screws should be enough to hold everything comfortably in position. Can only be used plateless!
- package for the MCU was changed from QFN32 to TQFP32, since the previous one wasn't available. Can now be soldered/replaced by hand if need.
- IO-expander was changed from TCA9555RTWR to TCA9555PWR (alternativly PCA9555PW), since the previous one wasn't available. Package changed from WQFN24 to TSSOP24. Can now be soldered/replaced by hand if need.
- Board can now be soldered by hand if needed (challenging though, 0402 components).
You may also compare the layout with other layouts of other layouts at https://jhelvy.shinyapps.io/splitkbcompare/ .
Or you can print this file to test if you like the layout. Or mount it to some cardboard and test it with your favourite switches.
you may find instructions here:
- rev1 (deprecated): build instructions rev1
- rev2 (current) : build instructions rev2
This keyboard uses QMK firmware. You may find the files needed to build a firmware for this board in my fork. I am in the progress of getting the board merged into the official QMK repository.