The Lotus 58 - Glow is meant as a DIY & beginner-friendly build, that most can successfully build yourself. The TRRS-link version is especially beginner-friendly with exclusively though-hole components, while the USB type C link version is a bit more challenging with some surface-mount components, but still very much DIY friendly and easy to build if you have some prior experience soldering.
Sold as a single PCB, you will need two PCBs and accessories to make a complete keyboard.
These options require additional parts
Dimensions per hand (LxBxH): 145x115 mm Case height 11-13mm, Height with keycaps/encoder ~35mm
These add-on kits contain all the basic components needed to make a complete and working keyboard for your PCB version.
Part | TRRS link | USB type C link |
---|---|---|
Hot-Swap Sockets | 29 pcs Kailh (Cherry MX) | 29 pcs Kailh (Cherry MX) |
Diodes | 30 pcs 1N4148 (DO-35) | 30 pcs 1N4148W (SOD-123F) |
Link Connector | 1 pcs TRRS female connector | 1 pcs USB type C connector |
ESD Protection | (Optional) 1 pcs SRV05-4 | 1 pcs SRV05-4, 2 pcs Ferrite Beads |
Reset Switch | 1 pcs | 1 pcs |
Feature | TRRS link | USB type C link |
---|---|---|
Hot-plug link | NOT SUPPORTED! | Full support |
Support Wireless Builds | Battery Connection/Power Switch | NOT SUPPORTED! |
DIY beginner friendly | SMD optional (ESD) | Limited SMD required (USB/ESD) |
Select active RGB (Glow / Per-Key) | External switch | External switch |
Reset switch | Supported | Supported |
Universal Case-plates | Supported | Supported |
3D-printed case | Dedicated version | Dedicated version |
Current version (Change Log) | v1.29 | v1.41 |
The classic, more beginner-friendly variant can be built entirely out of easy-to-solder through-hole (TH) type components. These are larger and more robust, making them easy for a novice builder with limited experience in soldering. Even the RGB LEDs are selected to be as easy as possible for a beginner to solder without harming them.
This variant features support for an optional ESD protection circuit (a tiny SMD component) that should protect the controller from damage should you accidentally unplug or plug in the TRRS cable while the keyboard is powered. This does NOT mean that it in any way supports intentional and/or repeated hot-plugging of the TRRS cable! Doing so will ultimately result in damage.
The more modern USB type C link offers care-free hot-plugging, you can simply unplug or plug the two hands together without risking any damage with the keyboard fully powered by the computer USB cable. The small downside is that the components needed are of SMD type, meaning it is slightly less beginner-friendly to solder.
The USB type C port is designed into the keyboard to be as fool-proof as possible, and if you by accident plug it into a host port (computer or USB hub), it simply means nothing happens! No device is detected, and no power is applied. ⁴ To link the two hands you need a standard USB type C to type C cable.
You can buy most parts for a full-functioning keyboard in this listing or as additional components in this store. You will however need to add switches, key-caps, and colored/sleeved cables of your choice from other sources, as it would be impossible for me to stock a reasonable selection of what the market can offer.
The FR4 fiberglass plates used are quite stiff and give a good intermediate feel for keyboards, making it the ideal low-cost material for a case. The 'case plates' are available in black or white, with multiple options based on your choice of layout.
If you however need more detailed instructions, please refer to the GitHub link to the Documentation below.
If ever the instructions in the build guide and the instructions on the silkscreen are different, the version on your actual PCB is what is in fact relevant for your version!
This one is fairly obvious. You get a PCB and parts, and you solder all the parts yourself. If you choose the through-hole component kit, and the TRRS link, this is extremely easy and well suited to a beginner, and even if you have never soldered before, using a decent soldering iron and practicing a fair bit of patience, you should be able to build this.The SMD & USB type C version is a little bit more challenging, but still DIY friendly.
If you do want to build the keyboard yourself, but are either a novice at soldering, or unsure and want a little help. This comes with the more challenging parts like the USB port, ESD protection circuit, and ferrites already soldered and tested. This way you can build the more basic parts yourself, and know that the USB type C link will in fact work from the start. (For the TRRS version, the ESD circuit is soldered in place, and included in the price.)
This option allows you to have a fully built, ready-to-use keyboard, where you simply need to flash/configure the firmware and assemble the case/keys/caps you have chosen to start using it. The option DOES NOT INCLUDE the components needed like the controller, OLED, encoder, and RGB depending on your choice, in the given price. This is ONLY the cost of the build/work/time needed. To have a complete keyboard, you need to also ADD the components needed to the order.
¹ Please note that Lotus 58 supports only Cherry MX type switches (3 & 5 pin), NOT Kaihl Choc, as they require a different PCB and plate design.
² The ESD protection is optional/extra on the TRRS version, but necessary and included on the USB type C version.
³ Having both Per-key and Glow active at the same time can easily overpower the controller/USB port's ability to deliver power. Without the switch, a soldered jumper selects the type of RGB used.
⁴ Connecting powered hubs with questionable standards adherence, keyboards, and possibly multiple computers together in entirely non-standard ways can still potentially cause power loops, and damage to components, user beware!
Normal handling time is 3 - 5 working days, not including build items (Those usually take 1 - 2 weeks).
Shipping is done with insured/signed for parcels, where no such service is available the parcel is sent as insured parcel, but may not be fully traceable the entire transit. If no insured or traceable service is available, parcels will be sent as uninsured/untraceable at the buyers responsibility. All of which is clearly stated on checkout.
All packets are represented to courier services and customs at their true sale value, and all responsibility for import fees, taxes and tariffs lie with the buyer.
The SE/EU "Act on Distance Contracts and Off-Premises Contracts (SFS 2005:59)" allows returns of the items in undamaged (unsoldered!) condition within 14 days of receiving it. Return shipping on returned items are the responsibility of the buyer.