Keyboard Builders' Digest / Projects
Chameleon
Markus Knutsson announced his Chameleon, a versatile ortholinear keyboard with both Preonic and Planck layouts.
Published January 5, 2024
Chameleon is a grid type orthogonal keyboard by Markus Knutsson aka Tweetydabirdie. With two optional layouts in one single PCB (snap-off bottom row), the Chameleon allows both a 5x12 layout similar to the Preonic and a 4x12 layout similar to the little brother Planck on the same PCB.
The first batch (v1.00) unfortunately had defective RGB glow, but the new one (v1.01) is now fully tested with 8 bottom facing RGB:
Chameleon 46-60 Key Grid Ortho Keyboard now with 100% more RGB :D – Markus.
Specs
- 46-60 keys, ortho
- hotswap, MX
- configurable bottom row: full 1u, 1x or centered 2u key(s)
- on-board RP2040
- up to 4 optional encoders
- low-power sleep and dormant modes
- optional RGB underglow
Using 19.05 mm grid spacing (vs Preonic & Planck's 19 mm) this PCB fits several popular 'aftermarket' keyboard cases intended for JJ40/JJ50 and BM40 PCB's without modification. (3D printed case options exist as weel).
Fully QMK/Vial compatible. The RP2040 MCU and 4MB onboard memory allow just about whatever keymap/RGB effect you can imagine.
Fully hot-swap and with the option for PCB mounted stabilizers, Chameleon supports several optional bottom row layouts and up to 4 encoders.
Resources
- https://github.com/TweetyDaBird/Chameleon
- Chameleon (kit) product page (5% off with the KBDNEWS coupon code)
Published on Fri 5th Jan 2024. Featured in KBD #149 (source).
Related
Generative kAiBoard
Pamungkas Sumasta's kAiBoard is an internet-connected device powered by ChatGPT with built-in virtual assistant, redefining user interaction.
Ground Control 40
A low-profile ortho board with exposed pins for prototyping: Ground Control 40 by Nick Coughlin.
Lancer
Lancer – an open-source ortho keyboard with focus on size and portability. Designed by Subrezon.
Kebu
Cedutus created Kebu, a new Blackpill ortholinear PCB with multiple layout alternatives including 4 or 5 row options.