Isla - Updated 22/06/2021

Isla

Discord for updates: https://discord.gg/eGnjxGx



The design:


As the Isla is my first foray into keyboard design, I’ve tried to keep things externally as simple and classy as possible. The design is heavily inspired by the OTD Koala as some of you may notice, featuring its signature side profile and uniform bezels. As for the name, there’s not really a story; it’s named after someone I knew when I was younger.

Status:

Final prototyping round on hand. Awaiting a few components for testing before proceeding to group buy phase, tentatively late July.

Images:












* weight will be blank for production units

more pics to be added closer to GB

Changelog between final prototype and production:

- slightly larger JST channel
- slightly larger tolerances with plate and PCB against case
- tighter bump-on cutouts
- minor internal tweaks

Details:

Vendor: prototypist.net
Mounting: o-ring tray
Typing angle: 4.5 degrees

Front height: ~18mm
Colours: wine red, black, silver
Plate options: copper, aluminium, CF
Layout compatibility: https://imgur.com/8VuqNPV
Sale format: FCFS
Units: probably around 200, open to increasing should they sell out fast
Price: TBD, based on factory quote closer to GB
GB date: late July

The kit:

- aluminium 6063 case
- plate(s)
- copper weight
- h60 PCB by hineybush (QMK/VIA support)
- USB-C daughterboard
- JST cable
- various screws (torx)
- 50A nitrile rubber o-ring
- custom bump-ons

Questions:

Q: Poly?
A: No

Q: ISO?
A: No Yes

Q: WKL? HHKB?

A: No, the design isn't able to accommodate these

Q: Will this be compatible with other PCBs?

A: The design is based around the h60, and the design requires some of the cuts seen on there

Special thank-yous to:

Jae: for agreeing to help me with this project back in May and bearing with my endless questions
Elaine: for the design advice