This blog post details the creation of "Bayleaf," a custom-built, low-profile, wireless split keyboard. The author prioritized a slim design, opting for Choc low-profile switches and a custom PCB to minimize thickness. They used Kailh Choc Red switches and keycaps from MBK. The keyboard halves communicate wirelessly using the nice!nano microcontroller and connect to a computer via Bluetooth. The build process involved designing the PCB, 3D printing a case, and flashing the firmware. The result is a compact and portable split keyboard tailored to the author's preferences for ergonomics and aesthetics.
This comprehensive blog post chronicles the author's meticulous journey in designing and constructing a bespoke, low-profile, wireless split keyboard, christened "Bayleaf." Driven by a desire for a keyboard that seamlessly integrates minimalist aesthetics with ergonomic principles and advanced functionality, the author embarks on a multi-stage project encompassing hardware selection, printed circuit board (PCB) design, firmware development, and final assembly.
The narrative commences with a detailed exploration of the project's motivation, emphasizing the importance of a comfortable and efficient typing experience. The author outlines their specific requirements, which include a low-profile form factor, a wireless connection, and a split design to promote natural hand positioning. These requirements serve as the guiding principles throughout the project's evolution.
The subsequent sections delve into the technical intricacies of the build process. The selection of key components, such as the microcontroller, Bluetooth module, and low-profile key switches, is meticulously documented, with the author justifying each choice based on factors like power consumption, compatibility, and tactile feedback. The blog post then transitions to the complex realm of PCB design, showcasing the author's iterative approach to optimizing the layout for both functionality and aesthetics. Detailed diagrams and schematics provide a visual representation of the intricate circuitry and component placement.
A significant portion of the post is dedicated to the development of the keyboard's firmware, which governs its functionality. The author discusses the challenges encountered in programming the microcontroller to handle keypress detection, Bluetooth communication, and battery management. Code snippets and explanations provide insights into the underlying logic and algorithms implemented. This section underscores the importance of firmware in tailoring the keyboard's behavior to the user's specific preferences.
The final stages of the project involve the physical assembly of the keyboard. The author meticulously documents the process of soldering components onto the PCB, connecting the key switches, and enclosing the electronics within a custom-designed case. Photographs accompany each step, providing a visual guide to the assembly process.
The culmination of this extensive undertaking is a fully functional, wireless split keyboard that meets the author's initial requirements. The blog post concludes with a reflection on the project's successes and challenges, highlighting the satisfaction derived from creating a personalized input device tailored to individual needs and preferences. The author emphasizes the open-source nature of the project, making the design files and firmware freely available for others to replicate and modify. This sharing of knowledge and resources encourages further innovation within the keyboard enthusiast community.
Summary of Comments ( 46 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43255529
Hacker News users generally expressed interest in the Bayleaf keyboard, praising its low profile and split design. Several commenters compared it favorably to other low-profile keyboards like the Keychron K1 and K3, highlighting the Bayleaf's even thinner form factor. Some questioned the key travel and overall feel, expressing a desire for more details on those aspects. Others discussed the challenges of designing and manufacturing such a slim keyboard, particularly regarding keycap compatibility and battery life. A few users also showed interest in alternative layouts and the possibility of open-sourcing the design. Several comments focused on the keyboard's aesthetics, with some finding it appealing while others considered it too plain.
The Hacker News post "Bayleaf · Building a low-profile wireless split keyboard" has generated a moderate number of comments, mostly focusing on the keyboard's design choices, potential improvements, and comparisons to other keyboards.
Several commenters express enthusiasm for low-profile mechanical keyboards, appreciating the Bayleaf's approach. One commenter highlights the importance of key travel in a comfortable typing experience, suggesting that low-profile keyboards often sacrifice this crucial aspect. They mention their preference for a particular low-profile keyboard with slightly more key travel than the Bayleaf appears to offer.
A thread discusses the use of Choc switches, which the Bayleaf employs. One commenter questions the longevity of these switches, expressing skepticism about their durability compared to traditional Cherry MX switches. Another commenter counters this, sharing their positive experience with Choc switches in a different keyboard, claiming they've held up well over extended use. This discussion highlights the ongoing debate around the reliability and feel of different switch types in the mechanical keyboard community.
Another commenter focuses on the aesthetics of the Bayleaf, appreciating its minimalist design and the choice of materials. They compare it favorably to other split keyboards on the market, praising the clean lines and understated look.
The wireless functionality of the Bayleaf is also a topic of conversation. One commenter raises concerns about potential latency, a common issue with wireless keyboards. They inquire about the specific technology used and the developer's experience with lag. While the developer doesn't directly address the latency question in the comments, they do engage in conversation about other design choices, explaining the reasoning behind certain decisions.
A few comments touch on the split keyboard layout and its ergonomic benefits. One user asks about the adjustability of the two halves, inquiring about the options for spacing and angling. This reflects the importance of customization for users seeking an ergonomic typing experience.
While there's no overwhelming consensus on the Bayleaf, the comments demonstrate a general interest in the project. The most compelling discussions revolve around the practicality and longevity of Choc switches, the importance of key travel in low-profile keyboards, and the balance between aesthetics and functionality in keyboard design. The comments offer a valuable glimpse into the considerations and priorities of mechanical keyboard enthusiasts.