Ilex is a 44 key split ergo with exposed components, optional dual rotary encoders, OLEDS, and reversible TRRS jacks. The current version of the PCB supports LED underglow, Kailh Hotswap sockets on the North face, and Through-Hole Soldering on the South Face.
The layout is a 5x3 staggered column, a three key thumb cluster, a deconstructed pinkie column with an angled mod, and two optional 128x32 OLED displays. Rotary encoders are also optional on the key south of the OLED. 44 Keys total, 42 with both encoders.
There are two options for placement of the TRRS jacks: The first option is on the top edge facing north, the other is on the inside edge just south of the encoder. This provides more customization options for cable placement. Currently, there is only MX switch support, however Choc may be available in future if there is enough demand.
Firmware is now working in QMK.
Renders: Renders were created by the talented /u/SuperAlex051 PCB designed by MechWild's SillyWorld
When will the GB happen? Soon! Target is late May / Early June for GB. Specific date will be announced closer to the time both here and in the Discord server.
What is the estimated price? TBD
Will tenting be supported? Certain plate options will support tenting: Brushed Aluminium Black FR4
Several kits will be available during the GB. Individual options are below:
PCB Black, white or purple
Sandwich Case Black FR4, Clear Acrylic, Frosted Acrylic, Aluminum Plates (Brushed Finish)
Acrylic Guard Smoked or Clear
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Updates
Thumb Cluster redesign is now complete to support 1.5u on space / backspace.
Purple PCB's of V1 have arrived. Black / White PCB's of V2 have been ordered, I will update here with pics once the new versions arrive. Pics are now below
Carry Cases are currently being manufactured to sample - will update with pics once complete. Pics below
Firmware is now working on the prototype models. (April 30th)
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Prototype Images
Left Side: Black FR4, Black PCB, Silver rotary knob, Clear Acrylic Right Side: White FR4, White PCB, Black knob, Smoked Acrylic
Carry / Storage Case:
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Layout Image
The layout is still being tweaked as using it over time shows various inefficiencies and improvements to its mapping for common uses.
I've included a pic below of its current keymap, just be aware that this a WIP and is likely to change.
The layout is heavily influenced by the Jian layout, which is an extremely efficient mapping based around using both Latin and Cyrillic alphabets with a limited number of keys.
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