This listing is for a single (1 pcs) Lotus 58 Glow PCB v1.25

Please note that this makes a single hand/side of the keyboard, a complete keyboard requires 2 sets of PCB's and (additional) components.

This is a prototype version of the PCB, and fully functional (same firmware), but not sold and stocked as is. The version of PCB was abandoned as I made other improvements/choices making it not relevant.

Please refer to the GitHub link for BOM and build instructions. Note! As this is a prototype, instructions may be unclear/differ! Only recommended for people that can extrapolate from incomplete data! Build support and the option to ask questions on Discord is always available!

Build your own ergonomic keyboard!

Lotus 58 Glow is a fully programmable 58-key split, ortho-columnar keyboard with a 4x6 main matrix and 4+1 thumb-keys per hand, supporting up to two OLED screens and two rotary encoders.

• Layout very similar to the original Lily58 family which this is derived from
• QMK and VIAL compatible, fully programmable keyboard
• Kaihl Hot-swap sockets for Cherry MX compatible switches (3&5-pin)
• All components through-hole and easily soldered for beginners (optional SMD addons)
• Reversible PCB design, the PCB for both hands are identical
• Each hand can be used separate as a gamepad keyboard/device
• Hands are connected using serial link (TRRS cable)
• Each hand uses an Pro Micro Arduino clone as the controller (Pro Micro or pin equivalent)
• Designed with a sandwich-style plate/case as part of the design

Optional Features

These options requires additional components not included in this listing and sold separately.

• Optional OLED Screen (max one per hand)
• Optional Rotary Encoder (max one per hand)
• Optional RGB Glow (Suitable as background lighting, and can be used as a layer indicator or similar)
• Optional Per-Key addressable RGB (Matrix programmable, multiple effects supported in QMK & Vial)

Please note that for power requirements, it is NOT recommended to build Lotus with both glow and per-key RGB at the same time. Read here for more information!

What do you need to buy?

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.

For a bare minimum functional keyboard (two hands) you will need:

• This PCB (x2) with the component kit of your choice
• Controller (x2) Pro Micro or a more powerful equivalent (Frood, KB2040, etc.)
• Case Kit (x2) with hardware or a 3D printed case or similar
• Controller Sockets (x2) Optional, but highly recommended!

Required Accessories

• Key Switches, Cherry MX compatible (29 pcs / PCB, 58 pcs total)
• Key Caps, Cherry MX compatible (Set)
• Cable linking the two hands (TRRS or USB type C)
• USB cable to your computer (Connector types depend on the controller and computer port)

The Sandwich Case

Lotus 58 Glow is designed as a complete keyboard with a sandwich style case protecting the PCB, made of the same FR4 fibreglass material as the PCB. The plates or the 'case' is available in black or white, with multiple options based on your choice of layout.

The FR4 fibreglass plates used for PCB's are quite stiff and give a good intermediate feel for keyboards, making it the ideal low cost material for a case.

Please Note! You do infact need a case of some kind, as being hot-swap compatible the front plate helps hold the switches in place, and without the plate, they will very easily come undone. You can however 3D print your own case, or have plates made in whatever material you desire. All the information required for this can be found on the GitHub page.

Build Guide & Firmware

Build Guide

The PCB has most of the needed build instructions printed on the silkscreen, and you can likely build the entire keyboard from these! If you however need more detailed instructions, please refer to the GitHub link to 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 are in fact relevant for your version!

Firmware

QMK

Using basic QMK for your keyboard is the most versatile and powerful option, but requires a bit more effort and/or knowledge to make more advanced options work. Lotus 58 is part of QMK's main fork and the firmware can be built from there, following QMK's guides. The most recent iteration of this firmware is available for use a template/starting point here.

VIAL

VIAL, a fork of QMK allowing interactive key-remapping without flashing a new firmware is the more beginner friendly option and a great starting point. A pre-configured ready to flash version is available here. The GitHub repository for the firmware, is available here, and can be customized to your own preference.

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.