After repeated (friendly) requests from friends in the community, I’m working on an after-market housing for the Leopold FC660C keyboard, a sub-TKL board that enjoys the use of Topre switches (and thus a cult following). My primary design objective—i.e., fun—on this one has been to accentuate the compact nature of the board to make it feel formidable—aka heavy AF. More on that below.
The Heavy-6 has a native slope angle that matches that of the FC660C (without its flip-out feet deployed).
All units will come a PVD-coated steel back plate, which roughly doubles the weight of the housing.
An unusual contoured profile along the side, a riff on what I did with the popular Norbaforce design.
Custom-molded rubber feet that maximize surface area for a nice grip, again based on positive feedback I’ve gotten on the Norbaforce design.
The sub-PCB sits on standoffs screwed into the rear cover. This is Hasu-controller compatible.
At the suggestion of @olivia and others, I’ve decided to add a maker’s mark badge for the first time. This will be metal and enamel and centered on the rear of the case. I’m still working on the design and sourcing of this but will post renders/photos when I have a better sense of the approach. See below for a preliminary notion.
Things that, in my opinion, don’t really make sense, so no need to suggest them.
Centered USB port (internal cable won’t reach)
USB-C
Prototyping
After many weeks prototyping in SLA, I moved to metal
Note that, based on feedback at the late GeekHack, I’ve slimmed down the profile a bit so it’s not quite as tall. I should have full pics of all finishes in the next couple of weeks. In the meantime, here are a couple to give a sense.
I’ve always wanted an FC660C, but couldn’t justify it since I have a heavily modified HHKB already. But this would be a good reason to finally get one…
If it happens, I’d be in. I mean, I have one of the prototype Norbatouch cases, and am patiently awaiting a Norbaforce. Might as well collect the set!
I’m hoping that Black Anodized option will also be on the table… (I don’t think any of the current considerations work particularly well with the Beige/Gray caps version)
You already know I’m in for this @norbauer, look forward to seeing final prototypes. I’d love to see a color that would better go with the upcoming 9009 topre pbt dye sub set from kbdfans
Hot damn. I’ve been kicking myself for missing out on the the Norbaforce and have also been considering getting a FC660C after coming to Topre JESUS via my hhkb. I really hope this is a fall-ish GB so I can sell my other incoming GB keebs. Topre-bless.
