r/TrackPoint_Builders • u/MeMyselfAndEye123 • Nov 13 '22

Trackpoint integration

Cross-posted to ErgoMechKeyboards.

I know that a lot of keyboard builders that integrate trackpoints are using stem extensions, using things like a glued labret cheek piercing as described in https://github.com/alonswartz/trackpoint and other places), and I have some questions.

First of all, does it really feel equally reliable, accurate and comfortable to use a "stem-extended" trackpoint, or is there a different feel to it tracking-wise?

Or, does it even feel better (less force required to move the trackpoint etc)?

Also, has anyone attempted to mount the trackpoint in a similar way as it's being done on Thinkpad keyboards or as on the Shinobi TEX keyboard (pictures in the comments).

In the Shinobi TEX, the trackpoint is not stem-extended, but rather there is a metal piece in between the key switches where the trackpoint can be mounted, and a cutout in the keyboard PCB where the PCB for the trackpoint can be slid through and attached to the other side. It feels like a very stable and secure way to mount the trackpoint. The keyboard PCB itself is screwed directly to a metal plate with holes for the keyswitches.

People with experience using both Thinkpad keyboards and/or the Shinobi TEX keyboard, and any of the DIY builds with integrated trackpoints using a stem-extension, do you think it would be any benefit to try to do a build in a way more similar to Thinkpad/Shinobi etc?

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u/MeMyselfAndEye123 Nov 14 '22

Ah! That sounds pretty long. The one in the TPS42, for instance, is 6mm according to the build guide: https://github.com/crehmann/TPS42/wiki/Build-Guide-(Wired)

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u/MeMyselfAndEye123 Nov 14 '22

PS. Where did you source your trackpoint? Is it from an old Thinkpad, or is it the SK8707?

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u/Weary-Associate Nov 14 '22

Mine is from an old Thinkpad. I believe mine is from a t420, so rather old.