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Saturn-60: High-Profile Steel Keyboard [GB ordering closed]

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Description

Hey GeekHack!
I am proud to present to you my retro-inspired steel mechanical keyboard with a handle.

It's called the Saturn-60.

The Group Buy is moving to production! Check the thread below for updates
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=109090.0

The base kit price is $200. GB will run for 30 days, unless 500 units are sold earlier. A kit comes with all parts you need to build a Saturn-60 except for switches, stabilizers, and keycaps.
If you are on a budget, feel free to just order plates + PCBs since those could be used outside of the case for a minimalist 60% build.
Color options are pictured below. Two-toned orders are ok, and you can upgrade the finish of your plate, handle and badges.

Plate options: Plain Aluminum, Black Anodized Alum, Yellow Zinc Plated Steel, Stainless Steel.
Handle Options: Plain Aluminum, Black Anodized Alum, Stainless Steel, Brass
Stainless or Brass Badges
*Default Kit comes with: brushed aluminum Purist plate + clear anodized alum handle + Stainless badges + Titan60.
Saturn-60 is a Bottom-Mounted Keyboard with gasket isolation, and has a floating foam frame that dampens the upper plate and chassis vibrations.

--Vendors--
North + South America:
Ace Keyboard Co.

Europe + ROW
CandyKeys

Oceania:
Daily Clack

Discord: https://discord.com/invite/355EFD3

Renders by Milan D. (DevilZmods)
Badge designs by u/JaffaScript

Typing Test:
https://clips.twitch.tv/HelplessMushyBananaVoHiYo

Here are some more pictures:

Render

Raw steel prototype (fit & finish will improve with the next round prototype build)

Painted steel prototype

Backside (some screws omitted)

Painted Ortholinear Prototype

Plate (a gasket isolates the plate from the case)

Image gallery: https://imgur.com/gallery/F6eQa4m

Q&A:

What are the physical specs?
• Footprint: 13.5 x 8 x 2.75 inches / 343 x 203 x 70 mm (with handle folded down)
• Weight: ~ 4.4 lb / 2 kg assembled with a stainless plate and aluminum handle
• Typing angle: 7°
• Front height: 0.8-1.0” / 20-25mm depending on use of feet

What colors will be offered?
- #4 Brushed Stainless Steel https://fractory.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Stainless-Steel-Brushed.jpg
- Beige Texture www.cardinalpaint.com/assets/colors/T241-BG137.jpg [RAL1013]
- Black Texture http://www.cardinalpaint.com/assets/colors/C241-BK01.jpg
- White Texture http://www.cardinalpaint.com/assets/colors/C031-WH120.jpg
- Mint Green https://images.nicindustries.com/prismatic/products/3377/green-bean-psb-2759-dt2018111222241454-thumbnail.jpg

Layouts?
The Saturn-60 should be able to support the most popular 60% layouts using different plates:
ANSI/ISO, 5x15 Ortholinear, 5x14 Boardwalk
Here are the Layouts:

PCB?
A custom PCB was designed that can fit any standard 60% case. Its name is Titan60. We are working on the QMK and VIA support now.
It has a Type C connector and supports the layouts shown above. Here are renderings and proto pics:

Who is the manufacturer?
A sheet metal fabrication shop in Southern California that does millions of parts per year. We have met with them and we have confidence in being able to produce this keyboard. Their stated lead time is around 6-8 weeks. Note: the pictured prototypes were not made by them, but a machinist friend. New protos have been received as of 9/2/2020 and look very close to ready for production.

How many units will be made?
The MOQ is 100 but the GB will be unlimited. This round will be limited to 500 units. Extras may or may not be available.

Cost?
Target cost is between $125-175 $200 for a base kit. Extra parts are available, extra kits may or may not be. Our philosophy was to make this simple, affordable and customizable (a Raspberry Pi 4 fits inside)

Can I make suggestions?
Yes of course, and we appreciate all criticism. PM me if you have a suggestion or want to collaborate!

Handles?
You will be able to choose from Clear or Black anodized aluminum, Stainless Steel, or Brass.
Otherwise, there will be an option without a handle and the holes to mount them with.

GB Plan:

Vendors:
AceKeyboard.co -- North + South America
CandyKeys.com -- Europe + Asia
DailyClack.com -- Australia + NZ
Date for GB is Friday 16.10.2020
I plan to send an email to those that have already "reserved" one using the IC form or the sign up list and allow them to checkout before the GB opens for FCFS.
Email will be sent to confirm the list within a week.

Thank you for reading! If you want to support this project you can copy this into your signature:

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