42 Keyboard

A mechanical keyboard with 42 keys.

Features

• 40% – Each key is at most one unit of distance from where the finger that should press it rests. In other words there's no awkward reaching for keys that are placed far from the home row.
• Staggered columns - Because a comfortable keyboard should follow the shape of your hands.
• Low profile - The PCB supports Choc (PG1350) switch mounts as well as Cherry MX/Alps.

Pics

• Finished keyboard
  
  
• PCB
  

Project Structure

• Build – Build log, bill of materials, tips on where to source parts, assembling tips, learning resources I used while designing this keyboard.

• Case – Fusion 360 project and STL files for 3D printing the enclosure.

• Firmware – QMK configuration. There is a Makefile to build and load the firmware.

• PCB – Kicad project and Gerber files for manufacturing the circuit board.

Why?

In January 2018 I wanted a keyboard with a specific set of features. The simplest options to get that keyboard were to wait for a group-buy or build my own. Waiting time and costs for both options seemed similar, so I went with the option where I would learn the most.

Needs and knowledge changed over time, so I made different iterations to add new features and account for the lessons learned from previous builds.

Feedback

If you have some feedback or questions, feel free to create an issue. Your input is more than welcome!

Previous Versions

• version 3.1 – custom PCB, QMK firmware, USB C, Elite-C v4
  
• version 3 – custom PCB, QMK firmware, Bluetooth, micro USB, Adafruit Feather 32u4 Bluefruit LE
  
• version 2 – handwired, QMK firmware, Bluetooth, micro USB, Adafruit Feather 32u4 Bluefruit LE
  
• version 1: custom PCB, Split, TMK firmware, USB C, Teensy 2.0