Hi. I’ve been using Dactyl Manuforms for quite a few years now. Settled down with a 5 column with an extremely sculpted SA keycaps and bobba u4t switches. I use only 2/3 thumb keys regularly but enjoy having more.
I’m interested to know if anyone thinks an alternative is worth trying ? Any input would be appreciated!
Yes I will share on this sub. Since you are interested though you are welcome take a look at my github early. Added a 3x5 version of the case there as well (not tested printing).
Hand-wiring shouldn't be much more difficult than my first build with per key pcbs. It is pretty thin though and assembly will be a bit tricky regardless of how it's wired. For printing I've only tried with MJF and SLS and I didn't really take into consideration any limitations of Resin or FDM printing. I don't think there is anything that would make printing any of the parts with those techniques (though maybe some parts are a little thin for FDM) so keep that in mind.
Wow, Thank you! For the 5 column fix especially. That's very generous of you.
I know next to nothing about 30 printing, I intend to order it from some service. Any settings I should ask for? Which would be altogether better, MJF or SLS?
You're welcome, like I said was easy enough to chop off a column.
I'm in more less the same boat as far as printing goes. Either MJF or SLS will be fine. This iteration as MJF previous was SLS. MJF is a little nicer imo. Smoother surface finish and it can be dyed black. SLS is a little cheaper though. I used jlcpcb and didn't ask them to do anything special.
I'll look at the design and maybe order it this evening.
I'll also see how easy it could be to connect a xiao ble controller instead.