Remember to turn off your computer before 2038 19/01 03:14:08
Process of how to create a custom designed hardwired keyboard
TODO ROUGH PRICE
Start out by getting a rough plan of what you want to make, so you can order parts, as takes a while, if you wish to do it cheaply.
First of all you need to decide how big your keyboard needs to be, do you wish to make an 100%, macropad, ultra-compact, split, do you want dedicated buttons for all 24 function keys? none of the above?
You can play around with keyboard-layout-editor.com to find a layout you like, see different layout under "Preset"
Massive repo of inspiration: keebfolio.netlify.app
Generally there 3 types, originally made by cherry, I'd recommend none of them - Clicky - Typically blue (obnoxious) - Linear - Typically red (Did I press that button?) - Tactile - Typically brown (Mushy)
But do limit your scope enough, so you don't lose interest before completing the core project. Be ready to test ideas feasibility and scrap them if infeasible.
So what parts do you need? You need to decide which method you wish to use, to wire up your switches - Matrix with diodes (recommended method) - Requires 1 diodes per switch, diodes are cheap - Cable routing is more manageable - Straight (1 wire per switch to microcontroller) - Requires enough pins
An I/O expander can be used to add additional pins to a microcontroller, it's also useful for split keyboards, as it can require only 4 pins (I²C + power and ground) from the microcontroller
Staggered? Ortholinear? Something else entirely?
keyboard-layout-editor.com - My layout
The best way to eliminate unknowns and avoid wasting work, is by wiring up a small part, and testing this
Inspire, show opportunities grep QMK repo