Link Split Ergo by CannonKeys - Group Buy

Link Split Ergo

A Column-staggered split keyboard based on the Sofle58 v2

The Link split ergo is an upcoming keyboard project from us at CannonKeys that aims to fill a gap in the ergo market. We've designed our own wired PCB that uses an RP2040 with USB-C interconnectivity, a wireless ZMK PCB that allows for completely cableless user experience, and high profile CNC aluminum case that maintains compatibility with several OEM tenting solutions. There will also be tenting solutions designed by our team for link specifically that will be open sourced after the group buy.

The Path to Wireless

Due to popular demand, Link will have a wireless option! The path to get to wireless support with minimal compromise was tricky, but we were able to make it happen. The BT version of Link will run on ZMK Studio, and have optional screens that are built with wireless in mind. Continue reading to learn more about the wireless version of Link, and to take a look at the prototyping process.

Maintaining the Vision

The dual screens lie at the core of the Link, but it makes things tricky (and more expensive). We didn't want to lose this functionality completely, so we are going to be including an acrylic screen cover that screws into where the screen would be shown, and offer Nice!views as addons. This allows us to keep the price lower, and still offer expansion for those who want the no-compromise version.

The Nice!view uses e-ink to achieve efficient power usage, enabling us to have optional screens on the wireless version. To learn more about Nice!view, click here.

Truly Wireless

Thanks to the efficiency of ZMK, we are able to use a small battery that still offers plenty of days per charge. Premium split keyboard feel and performance, finally available with open source BT capabilities.

Tenting Solutions

We've designed and tested tenting bases for the Link that will be open sourced for the group buy for you to tinker with. Additionally, there are ¼-20 UNC threaded holes in the bottom of the case so any already existing tripod/tenting solutions that use the formfactor can be installed on Link.

Mounting Style

Link uses a unique combination of gasket and tray mounting in order to achieve a softer typing feel without the need for a top case.
Gaskets are mounted inside the tray case, which align with various points on the PCB.
The plate assembly is then screwed down into the case, which allows the PCB to be comfortably suspended on the gaskets to effectively dampen the vibration from typing regardless of typing force.

Link Specific Keycaps

biip cooked up an amazing set for the Link GB.

The set is called "PBS Modern Abacus" - or PBS MoAb for short. The name kinda works in 2 ways - it was designed mostly based off of retro calculator vibes, but also has colors reminiscent of the southwest outdoors (like Moab, UT) - so it's really neat!

The Link Kit will be sold for only £32.5 during GB and can be found here.

Contant Creatores

xinxinwong
alexotos
Georen
TheManicGeek
Preston's Thoughts
HubertTheMad
Content Creator Photos

Post-GB Plans

Link will be coming to group buy on May 16th, and close on June 15th.

If this GB has sufficient interest and manages to sell 300 units CannonKeys will open source the wired PCBs so the ergo community can continue to use and build on the platform for themselves.