Hi. I’ve been using Dactyl Manuforms for quite a few years now. Settled down with a 5 column with an extremely sculpted SA keycaps and bobba u4t switches. I use only 2/3 thumb keys regularly but enjoy having more.
I’m interested to know if anyone thinks an alternative is worth trying ? Any input would be appreciated!
My heavily modified version of the Explorer RxCT. This current iteration is almost complete, some additional custom keys for the thumb cluster on the way right now and not 100% sold on the current key I’ve got on here. Thumb cluster angle is adjustable and keys can be swapped for either choc or mx.
Also another iteration on the base plate with modified 1/4" mounting point for better balance is in the works.
Can’t see the photo yet, happened earlier with the first comment and then got fixed.
It’s beautiful! That is what ill build! Is it a lot to get other than 3D print?
what did you modify??? Please share :-)
Edit: OK, your thumb cluster is a must. Is it low profile switches or just really cool keycaps?
Would editing it to be a 5 column board be a lot of work?
Edit 2: Would you be willing to share your modifications?
I’ll be posting with more details on the board once I’ve consider it finished but happy to share here as well.
As far as modifications I made:
- adjusted stagger of each column
- adjusted splay on the pinky columns
- used flexible pcbs (from the BigSkree)
- made the switch plate one piece per side (orig was individual columns)
- added side walls to the switch plate
- added additional support to the thumb cluster so it has less wobble
- one piece, 6 key thumb cluster
- support for both choc and mx switches on thumb cluster
- added ARRI locating holes to the 1/4" mounting point
Lot of my modifications make the board less configurable but provide an easier and sturdier build. Making this a 5 column build would not be difficult. The original is 5 columns by default and 6 with an extension plate. Modified version is all one piece but modifying the CAD to chop off a column would be no problem.
Currently the thumb cluster has a mix of DES profile caps on MX switches and CS profile caps on choc switches.
Aside from the 3D printed parts build just uses some heat press inserts and screws.
I’ll be happy to share the modified files once I’ve got everything finalized and organized, hopefully that will be later this week.
I’d love to try it out! Looking forward to it.
Do you intend sharing it in this sub?
Now to look for a good and not too expensive place to print it :-)
Edit: Forgot to ask - is it too thin to handwire? Was hoping to keep it cheap.
