This guide section has been made by me Alectardy98, and is a reflection of my methodology and thoughts. I wanted to create a one-stop place to record what I have learned, in hopes of giving people another resource to make their keyboard projects. That being said, the community is large, and some may disagree with what is said here. Please understand that this is my perspective and is not meant to be a definitive source or universal gospel. I hope these help!
PCB Creation
Beepers
Rotary Encoders
OLED
Reverse Engineering
IBM Compastive PCBs
Information from minds greater than my own
Understanding QMK
Understanding QMK
How To Compile Source Code - QMK Website
How I Make a Keymap
Making a converter: Understanding Pinout4
Make Any Keyboard Bluetooth
How to Flash, Use Via/Vial
Information from minds greater than my own
Switch Restoration
Alps
Model F
Model M
Beamspring
Topre
Omron B3G-S
Hi-Tek 725
Vintage Modifications
Aviator/ USB C Hot plug Mod
Paint Tips and Tricks
Soldering: My Methodology
IBM F AT
IBM Model M: Bolt Mod
Case Chop Mod: Full Size To TKL
Omnikey Ultra
Televideo 725
Xerox Docutech
Common Questions
Can I Convert This Board?
You really can convert anything if it has a protocol to convert. The question is if you have the time and patients to start from scratch if the keyboard doesn't already have a converter. I am of the mind that it is a bit easier to make a new PCB than convert a wacky protocol. That being said, check my QMK fork, there is probably already a convert made for your board.
Can This Switch Be Saved?
I think pretty much any switch can be saved, but that being said, if you have 4/10 blue alps don't expect any amount of cleaning, lubing, or waxing will make it good as new. From my experience bringing something back up to 7/10 is pretty much always possible if you are willing to put the work in.
Can You Help Me?
You are always welcome to ask me for help. I will do my best to answer my email. I won't promise anything, but it never hearts to ask!
How Do I Buy A PCB From You?
I might have stuff around, so you can shoot me an email. Otherwise, keep an eye out for my Group Buys.
I Disagree With What You Said!
That is fine. You can think whatever you like. This website is meant to be a recourse, not the end-all. No hard feelings mate.
Are You Planning To Review This?
Maybe, if it's cool then I am sure that I would be interested. Don't hold your breath though, as I buy everything out of pocket, and am not made of money, lol.
More Information About Me!
My name is Alec, and I live in Maine in the United States. I have been interested in keyboards sence 2019, and trying to learn about them as much as I can. I love the restoration and modification side of the hobby. The collection side of things is more because I can not part with things that I like. I mostly like changing and making old boards new again. I think these old boards should be used, and when I find something with a lot of potential, I often try to make it better in any way I can. That is why you will notice that my collection is full of vintage keyboards that have been modified to reflect my layout preferences.