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
Got the full production sample in and put together with /dev/tty!
Got some pictures of the laser ablation on the bottom - a "RESET" label is hidden by the calipers:
Can I have someone oddly describe the drop to me? Sure! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W_Hr2P82_bk
What firmware will this have on it? QMK Firmware! more info at http://qmk.fm/ and documentation at https://docs.qmk.fm/
How long will the drop go on? Four weeks! Until 2017-09-25
What USB port does the PCB have? USB Mini
What case colors will be available? Orange, Navy, Silver, and Gunmetal (see the pictures on the drop page)
What are the changes to the PCB from ones on the store? The USB port tab has been re-enforced, the MX nib holes are slightly larger (nicer with Zealios), and the mounting holes (previously unused) have been increased to 2.85mm
How will things assemble? Plastic stand-offs are snapped-into the PCB, and then counter-sunk screws come in from the bottom to screw through the stand-offs. There will be a couple of extra ones to attach that won't screw through the bottom (for extra support)
What layouts are will work with this? MIT (1x 2u key in the center bottom row) and Grid (2x 1u keys in the center bottom row)!
What plates will be offered? MX, Matias, or none (this will be added mid-day after the drop starts) - all support MIT and Grid layouts
What about the FCC/CE stuff? This will be FCC Part 15 compliant (and the appropriate CE compliance), and testing has been accounted for in the timeline
Can I get the kit without switches? Yes, this will be fixed shortly! e: fixed!
What keycaps are included in the Canvas option? Everything in this image: http://i.imgur.com/3D7LAQP.jpg
What will the sleeve look like? Like this! Some sizing corrections are needed, but the look will stay the same:
EDIT: Now it is pinned to the top. Not sure if that just happened, or if it's been like that but didn't appear at the top for me an hour ago for some reason... Either way, thanks!
Is the picture of an old PCB and the new one has had the LEDs moved up? Or is the picture of the semi assembled preonic built with the buttons upside down and usb connector towards the user?
I ask because I'd personally prefer the LEDs on the upper side for compatibility with vortex shinethrough caps.
Thanks in advance for putting this debate to bed!
I am so torn between this and Planck. Love the Planck for its size and not sure if I really need another row, but I love the look of the Preonic and maybe I will need another row in the long run? Decisions, decisions...