The one level of competition on the unique Commodore 64 is unquestionably the keyboard — you both find it irresistible or hate it. I’m okay with it for brief durations, but when I had been to kind in one thing extra prolonged its clunky keys and lack of wrist relaxation are positively downsides. This doesn’t clear up the wrist relaxation problem, however the MechBoard64 Mechanical Keyboard positively addresses the mushy key really feel!
This model is a DIY equipment, with a couple of surface-mount components pre-soldered for you. For those who’ve ever assembled a customized mechanical keyboard earlier than you understand the method — it comes right down to numerous 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 standard due to the size of time you’re prone to be soldering. For those who’re utilizing leaded solder, ensure to clean your arms very effectively 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 need to be prepared to check.
A word in regards to the keyswitches: as a result of they’re just about commonplace footprints, you possibly can, in concept, exchange them together with your most well-liked model of keyswitch. Simply ensure the footprint is suitable 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 challenge placing keyboards again into C64s as a substitute of eradicating them! There’s a pre-assembled model accessible additionally in case you’re less than soldering that many switches.