Wireless Choc Corne Keyboard Case
This case is modeled for the smaller choc-spaced PCB from typeractive. I prefer not having a screen because it prolongs battery life and added a decorative display cover.
Features
- sturdy design with thicker walls
- just thin enough for a standard USB-C connector to still fit through the wall
- very low profile
- tight tolerances for a clean looking and feeling build
- insets for the screws on the bottom let you use the case without rubber feet if desired
- optional covers in case you do not use a display
What You Need
Printed Parts
- Printed (or bought) plate for the left and right side. This is the one I use: plate model.
- Printed case for the left and right side.
- OPTIONAL: Printed covers for the microcontroller.
I printed everything in PLA with a 0.4mm nozzle at 0.2mm layer height. To get a print that is as flawless as possible, I reduced the maximum material flow to 8mm³/s. I also made the print solid to get a weightier feel and better sound. Print profiles are attached.
If you print the covers with your own profile, make sure to use ironing for a perfect surface finish.
Bought Parts
You obviously need a choc-spaced corne PCB, such as the one from typeractive. I assume you have the PCB, switches, keycaps, and microcontrollers. While you could print your own keycaps, I prefer buying them because they have a perfectly smooth surface finish.
You also need some screws:
- 10x M2x3 screws with countersunk head (for the bottom of the case)
- 10x M2x4 female/female standoffs (for connecting the case and the plate through the PCB)
- 10x M2x3 screws with flat head (for the plate)
- some rubber feet (e.g., 3M bumpons)
Note: If you do not have those exact screws, using slightly longer ones might still work.
If you want to use the optional covers instead of a display:
- 8x M2x3 screws with flat head or longer
- 4x M2x10 female/female standoff
Assembly
Just some rough pointers:
- Assemble/solder your PCB.
- When you insert switches, insert them into the plate first, then into the PCB. Do not add keycaps yet. This is probably a good time to check everything works.
- OPTIONAL: Screw in the standoffs for the covers and screw the covers on top.
- Screw the standoffs into the cases.
- Drop the assembled PCBs into the cases onto the standoffs. Make sure to lower the switches into their side cutout first to avoid them getting stuck.
- Use the remaining screws to screw the plate into the case standoffs.
- Glue some rubber feet to the bottom.