Build Your Own Mechanical Keyboard
Whether you’re building your own mechanical keyboard for a special occasion, or just for fun, there are many components to choose from, including switches, cases, PCBs, and stabilizers. Some of these components may be cheap and some of them may be expensive. Before you start, make sure you know what you’re getting into. You don’t want to end up with something that doesn’t work! If you follow the instructions to a tee, you should have no trouble making your own keyboard.
The PCB is the lifeblood of a keyboard, as it is where the switches communicate with the computer. The most popular type of PCB is the standard PCB, which is flexible and allows for key placement. You should also look into a hot-swappable PCB, as they allow you to change switches without soldering.
You should also look into a keyboard stabilizer, which are used to help balance out long keys. These stabilizers can come in two forms, the aforementioned PCB-mounted or the plate-mounted. The plate-mounted variety has cutouts that correspond to the housing. It may also be made from aluminum, steel, or carbon fiber.
The keystroke-messaging plate is the brainchild of a keyboard manufacturer, and is usually made of metal. This is the smallest possible unit in a mechanical keyboard, but it is also the most expensive part of the project. You may have to pay between $10 and $50 for a plate, depending on its size.
How to Build Your Own Mechanical Keyboard
Stabilizers are the key to a reassuring feel on long keys. In addition, lubricating stabilizers can improve the quality of the audio output from your keyboard. This is especially important if you’re using an integrated plate, as the plate will be contacting your keys during use. Aside from being a practical necessity, lubricating stabilizers can also make your keyboard a bit more functional, which is the icing on the cake.
The best part of building your own mechanical keyboard is that you get to select the components that go into it. This may mean that you’ll need to buy a few components you may not have purchased in the first place, but it will also give you the chance to customize your keyboard to suit your preferences. A lot of the components you may need will be unique, and you can get creative with paint, graphics, and other embellishments. You may even be able to build a keyboard that’s similar to your favorite console’s.
It’s not the easiest thing to do, but it’s also not the most difficult. Once you’ve mastered the process, you’ll have an incredible, high-quality keyboard that will have a long shelf life. Be sure to take notes of your progress, and be sure to take pictures. This will allow you to share your new keyboard with your friends and family, and will help you remember your accomplishments for the rest of your life.
The key to building a good mechanical keyboard is to select the most important components and then make sure you build it correctly. The most important part is to be sure that you follow the manufacturer’s instructions. This includes installing the PCB and switches correctly.