• previous: making a TOTEM

I built my own keyboard

I wanted to learn how to make a printed circuit board (PCB) for a keyboard, and after switching to Helix, I found myself wanting just a few more keys. I used KiCad and referenced PCBs from open source boards (mostly the TOTEM) to see how they were laid out.

I learned that the ZSA Voyager uses a stainless steel bottom plate with locating holes for its magnetic accessories and copied that concept. I planned on making a 3D-printed case for it, but at this point I might not bother because I already have the desire to make another slightly different board.

I added one roller encoder to each half of the board, but something about the way I connected them to pins on the controllers when I designed the PCB means they both trigger whatever I map to either of them. Once again, same as the Kyria, I don’t use the encoders as much as I thought I would. 😖