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
That crazy aussie knows what he's talking about. For practice, idk, you could take apart something electronic that you dont care about. Then desolder one of the components off the PCB and then practice soldering it back in place. As far as spending the least amount of money practicing, that's all I know. I guess you don't own a soldering iron? Unless you want to invest in a piece of equipment that you think you won't use but once or twice, I'd just ask your buddies if they have the skills you seek or know anyone that does. Good luck.
Soldering is not hard if you have decent (or corrected) vision and a moderately steady hand. All it takes is the will to learn. Watch a few Youtube videos and you'll see how easy it is. There's a "technique" do doing it well and yes, good tools help. But you gotta start somewhere.
My vacuum is a Soldapullt SS350 that I've owned for around 20 years.
I don't own the one at Sparkfun, I just listed it because I mentioned Sparkfun earlier. With that in mind, the TOL-13203 does not look bad. It's got a metal body and plunger, for example. For a casual user, and for someone who is already buying other stuff from Sparkfun, I think it could be okay. YourFace might not be soldering enough for it to matter.