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
1. Is there a source for the other switches? I've found the pre-order for the Kailh speed keys, so I thought to get a set of golds, and maybe coppers. Anyone know where to get the other switches?
2. Is there a point? I've found a lot of places to buy new springs, so I guess one could theoretically have an extra set of switch housings and change springs out at leisure to test different things. Anyone else do that?
3. Since you can change the springs, apparently you can chance the stems, too, but I haven't been able to locate a source for different stems. Can you truly do that to any housing? Where do you source the stems?
4. Should I abandon this thread and post these up at input club and forfeit any hope of achieving anything noteworthy today?
Hope this helps!!
It's certainly not impossible and people do it all the time, but for me, I've decided it's just not worth it. I'd rather just build a new custom board and mess around with that. Pretty much every custom board comes with a plate that allows you to remove the tops and I've been using sip sockets so I can remove the LEDs without having to de-solder them.