Description
Whilst developing the ROTR we decided to create a barebones version using the same fantastic encoder. Thus the ROTR lite was born. It’s the ROTR, just turned down a bit. It uses the exact same encoder mechanism, with three magnets, two precision machined parts and one knob to give the same insane resolution and smoothness. It uses the exact same PCB with the same pads broken out for hacking, as well as the same hotswap sockets with the same ludicrously bright RGB leds. However the case is not the same.
We are using a stacked carbon fibre construction like one of our other products, the CRBN Featherlight. This means that it’s not compatible with the magnetic braking functionality afforded by the ROTR. That is the only shortcoming however. The carbon fiber looks stunning in its own right, and is incredibly tough.
The knob on the ROTR is swappable, its non-contact mechanism meaning you can just pull the magnetically attached knob off and snap on a new one. We custom machined a tapered precision interface, the design of which we will release to the community to allow for third party knobs. We will offer replacement knobs made out of aluminium, brass and copper so you can make your ROTR fit your chosen aesthetic
The ROTR is fully programmable, using QMK firmware you can set up a wonderful combination of layers and macros to your heart’s content. The profile is online on the QMK configurator so making tweaks trivial and allows for an endless amount of customisation, volume knob, scrolling through the timeline in editing software or a cad controller, the options are limitless. If you decide that even that is not enough we broke out 8 I/O pins, the programming header and the led data out pin, allowing for hacking and modification to truly make it your own, add extra buttons, a second encoder, RGB underglow. It’s all possible without tricky surface mount soldering.
Features
- Almost 0 friction, buttery smooth, 0.4 degree accurate rotary encoder
- Machined, anodized, replaceable knob
- RGB per key lighting
- Hotswap sockets
- Solid carbon fibre stacked construction
- USB C
- QMK compatible
- Hackable and modifiable
Key Dates:
Group Buy Start Date: 11th December 2020 12:00 AM GMT
Group Buy End Date: 11th January 2021 12:00 AM GMT / when spots are filled
Q1 2021 – Manufacturing
Q2 2021 – Assembly by Polarity Works
Q3 2021 – Shipping to customers
Key Dimensions (approx):
Weight – no knob – 70g, with ALU knob – 150g, with brass/copper knob – 330g
Dimensions – 40 H x 62 W x 85 D
Package Contents:
- Carbon fiber sandwich case
- Aluminium and stainless steel shaft mechanism
- PCB
- Knob (except ROTR LITE Kit w/o Knob)
- Rubber Feet
Disclaimer
The ROTR / ROTR LITE does not come with keycaps, key switches or usb cable.
Photos and renders may differ slightly from the real product.
Please be aware that Brass and Copper Knobs have a sandblasted texture finish, but are intentionally left uncoated, in order to allow the material to develop a patina over time.
You can preserve the condition of the brass / copper knob with varying degrees of patination by coating it with clear lacquer.
Please view the following link for some examples: https://tinyurl.com/y2ys9qnv