Hardware for BMEK - Bemeier Ergonomic Keyboard

First Alu Prototype

BMEK is an ergonomic keyboard in the spirit of Lyn's EM7 and TGR Alice. Notable differences are the HHKB-like layout and the and the more symmetric looks due to the space bars and left key cluster arrangement.

Layout

The main key layout (besides the extra 4 key-cluster on the left) is almost exactly the Layout of the HHKB. The only changes are in the bottom row:

  • The 1.5u modifiers are replaced by 1.25u modifiers
  • The single spacebar is replaced by two smaller ones

Layout with PCB V2 + V2.1

These versions of the PCB only support the fixed layout as described above. Note that you'll need 2x2.75 spacebars. Most GMK (spacebar) kits only come with one, but you can always use a 2.75u or 2.25 shift key or spacebar and live with a little gap :)

Layout with PCB V3

V3 of the PCB supports a 2u backspace option, as well as 2.25u/2.75u layout options for the spacebars (the new version of the case comes with a "blocker" to fill in the gap that is created when using the 2.25u spacebar) and an option to use full or split rshift.

Firmware

Setup QMK and run make bemeier/bmek:default

Alternatively you can download and flash the precompiled firmware from the Releases section. Firmware Source: TODO: Release, Dev

PCB

V3 (latest version)

V3 Image

Version 3 of the PCB comes in either hotswap or solder version. It includes the extra cutouts for the plate screws from v2.1. It further comes with these changes compared to v2.x:

  • Layout option backspace: 2u Backspace and 2x 1u hhkb-like
  • Layout options bottom row: Each of the 2.75u spacebarss can be replaced with a 2.25u spacebar for better keyset compatibility.
  • ESD protection circuity
  • Switched to the popular, cheaper and easier to hand-solder HRO-TYPE-C-31-M-12 USB-C receptacle
  • Made completely from scratch in KiCad (project will be released as soon as design is verified)

All Gerber & BOM files needed for ordering at JLCPCB are under pcb. It can be ordered with pick-and-place assembly. Only top-mounted LEDs (optional), hot-swap sockets (optional) and USB-C connector need to be ordered separately and soldered by hand.

Old PCB versions (V2 & V2.1)

With these versions, both hot-swap sockets and permanent soldering are supported. Connector is USB-C, and is confirmed to also work with USB-C to USB-C cables.

PCBv2 top PCBv2 bottom

Differences between PCB v2 and v2.1

PCB v2.1 adds some changes to fit the new plate-based design. Namely cutouts to access the scews that mount the plate to the top-case. Note that these are not strictly required to build the new case, but it is a bit more convenient (in case you want to swap out your plate+switch+pcb assembly without desoldering everything).

Cases

Top-mounted plate Case (Latest Version)

A top-mounted version of the original case is being designed under cases/top_mount. This is the case I would recommend building - especially if you want to 3D print parts, I'd suggest to print top and bottom case, but get the plate cut/machined from metal (as this is the part where the tolerances are most important.

Top Mounted 1 Top Mounted 2 Top Mounted 3

Integrated Case (Old Verison)

3D models for a 2-piece high profile case with integrated plate mounts (intended for CNC-machining from polycarbonate or aluminium) are under cases/old_integrated_plate_case.

BMEK Case Assembled

Lasercut Case

Lasercut Case material Acrylic. made by tahutech

Lasercutcase Lasercutcase

Disclaimer & Contributing

Obviously you will be building the PCB or case at your own risk, but feel free to reach out if you need help or want to contribute. Check out the geekhack thread, Discord Server, or use the issue system on this repository.

License

Creative Commons License
BMEK Mechanical Keyboard by Jan Kolkmeier is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.