TKL-86 Keyboard

Right before junior year, I decided to build my own keyboard. I chose Kailh Box Browns for the main keys and Kailh Box Jades for some of the modifier keys. I chose a custom 86 key tenkeyless layout, since I never used number pad and wanted the extra desk space, but also wanted the insert, home, delete, etc. keys. I used KLE PCB Generator  to generate the switch layout, then embedded an ATMega32u4 IC directly onto the board.

I ordered it and spent about an hour drag soldering the ATMega32u4 on (since this was before I had a hot air station), and another hour soldering all 86 SMD diodes. This was my second time drag soldering, the first time being the F-18C UFC.

I designed up a 3D printed case, and went through several iterations trying to get the tolerance right. I ended up doing a lot of snipping with pliers to get the stabilizers to not get stuck, and the case is a little warped, but it works. I also added in tact switches for media control buttons in the top right. Finally, I generated a firmware in QMK and flashed it.

The finished product

I still daily drive this keyboard, and it continues to annoy my parents and anyone else who happens to be in the same room while I'm typing.

Last updated 5 Dec 2022

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