The one level of competition on the unique Commodore 64 is certainly the keyboard — you both adore it or hate it. I’m okay with it for brief intervals, but when I have been to kind in one thing extra prolonged its clunky keys and lack of wrist relaxation are positively downsides. This doesn’t resolve the wrist relaxation situation, however the MechBoard64 Mechanical Keyboard positively addresses the mushy key really feel!
This model is a DIY equipment, with just a few surface-mount components pre-soldered for you. Should you’ve ever assembled a customized mechanical keyboard earlier than you already know the method — it comes all the way down to a number of repetitive soldering. Because the product web page notes, it’s essential to take your time and ensure to solder in a well-ventilated space. That is extra essential than regular due to the size of time you’re more likely to be soldering. Should you’re utilizing leaded solder, be sure to scrub your arms very nicely after such a protracted soldering session!
When you’re completed soldering the Gateron keyswitches, it’s time to place the anodized body on, after which use the included 3D-printed key adapters to connect the unique Commodore keycaps. After that is full, use the included ribbon cable to connect the keyboard to the unique keyboard header, and you have to be prepared to check.
A notice in regards to the keyswitches: as a result of they’re just about customary footprints, you might, in idea, exchange them together with your most popular model of keyswitch. Simply be sure the footprint is appropriate with Gateron switches and it ought to be a snap to customise. The very affected person might even solder in particular person socket pins to make the keys hot-swappable, although it’s price checking if it will trigger points with the clearance contained in the C64.
In any case, we’re glad to see a venture placing keyboards again into C64s as an alternative of eradicating them! There’s a pre-assembled model accessible additionally in case you’re less than soldering that many switches.