What is SpaceFN and why you should give it a try
The SpaceFN concept - setting up your space key as a layer switch when held - is probably one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby. Let me explain how it works. My SpaceFN article on kbd.news made some rounds recently - quite surprisingly given the age of this concept. This piece you're reading is a condensed version of the full post. If you're left with unanswered questions, you'll most likely find the info you're looking for in the original write-up. On my imaginary top list of the most useful keyboard features, tweaks and hacks, SpaceFN would deserve a podium finish for sure. But what makes it so special? In short: SpaceFN is easy to implement, easy to learn, costs nothing, can be used with any keyboard, and can improve your productivity instantly. I will list its benefits below, but can state right at this point that the SpaceFN concept, setting up your space key as a layer switch when held, is clearly one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby....
Apr 30, 2024
It's been three months since the start of Massdrop Community Keycap Set Design Contest, what an incredible journey. Once again, thanks to everyone in the community who voted for me. And to all the contestants who participated as well, you guys all made some amazing designs!
As some of you might already know, I initially created 2077 as a theme in a third-party iOS keyboard call Themeboard. https://mir-s3-cdn-cf.behance.net/project_modules/disp/9c7ae725303683.56343b9a39cd9.gif
https://www.behance.net/gallery/25303683/2077-(Themeboard-App) When I saw the Massdrop Keycap Set Design contest, almost immediately, I thought of recreating 2077 for the physical keyboard.
The entire idea of the keyboard was inspired by science fiction-themed user interfaces from films like Iron Man, Prometheus, and Guardians of the Galaxy. As a user interface designer, I challenged myself in creating the icons that are abstract but yet still being able to relate. While some I felt it is better to remain as text, giving it a balance to the entire keyboard.
The reason behind the changes from GMK to DSA was due to higher production cost. To bring the cost down to a more affordable price for everyone, we went ahead with DSA. Partially we heard that there were a few of you requested for DSA!
Lastly, big thanks to the Massdrop team who helped me out every step of the way in developing this Keycap set.
Do feel free to ask me any question, I will be sure to answer any of them with the knowledge I have so far.
I hope you enjoy this set as much as I do. :)
With those keys you'll be able to perfectly cover a Planck or Preonic keyboard from OLKB.com
Here is an example of 40's kit (from XDA Godspeed):
For the XDA Godspeed group buy: www.massdrop.com/buy/massdrop-x-mito-xda-godspeed-custom-keycap-set
And here is the Preonic group buy (the larger ortholinear from OLKB): www.massdrop.com/buy/preonic-mechanical-keyboard
@atari.zero.tv @Padna @zzzaacchh @SERO and anyone else, any comments?