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
ponoko.com or similar to cut the plates (simplest would be top/switch plate, standoffs & bottom plate), teensy or ProMmicro for controller, and whatever switches & caps you want.
http://www.keyboard-layout-editor.com/#/gists/2430845ab496005143aca86be86f16d4
- a good guide for creating the layout & converting it to files to cut the plates https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicalKeyboards/comments/4l0p41/guide_detailed_guide_to_making_a_custom_keyboard/
- a good guide about how to wire everything up https://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/brownfox-step-by-step-t6050.html
- a good guide about programming the keyboard https://deskthority.net/workshop-f7/how-to-build-your-very-own-keyboard-firmware-t7177.html
shy of building your own, the only board i can think of that's close is the IBM 122 model M or F (buckling spring). but the number pad is on the right instead of the left. the 122 was nicknamed the battleship because of it's size. Unicomp is still making the 122, new, with USB or PS2 connectors http://www.pckeyboard.com/page/category/PC122
I'd say for me to do it that would probably be double the man hours a good person could, so if its under $300 i think it could almost be a better idea to source out the job :)