It would be killer feature since there are no commercially manufactured compact mechanical keyboards with trackpoint on it — right now you can go with Unicomp EnduraPro (but it’s still full sized), or (if you’re lucky enough) you search ebay and wait for one of the rarest IBM M13 spacesaver version (not likely). There are also some modern keyboards like Tex Yoda — but still it’s not serially produced, people are waiting it for a long time, right now there are around 4000 requests on the massdrop — and all because of trackpoint.
Wish there was a keyboard with a trackpoint! M13 keyboards are still quite popular for its trackpoint.
Here’s how I did mine with a TrackPoint IV: https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQTG_I7ytAc_0ZO-y_0jEvSG5N9DGseJyJghxBZlaFXUn52kul7frXHlfT61aRjzOGmUgnzwlSDdvzF/pub
Just to add one thing about the Unicomp pointing stick kit:
I’ve asked Unicomp before*, and they told me that it is not a strain-gauge-based TrackPoint like the ones on ThinkPads, but an actual mechanical joystick, and suggested me against purchasing their pointing-stick-equipped products.
So if I understand correctly, that pointing stick moves mechanically, and it feels very different from any TrackPoint and their clones (like the ones on Dell and HP business laptops).
*Full disclosure: the context was about purchasing a keyboard from them, before I joined here, and I was debating about the EnduraPro over the standard ones.
Here’s a link to the photos from silentbob’s Brand New Model F trackpoint mod.
Here is the first Model 13. I have a Yoda and have purchased several of the trackpoint/controllers used by them. I have used trackpoints from IBM laptops and space saver keyboards. I modified my Model F 77 with a Unicomp trackpoint and controller. I have some pics but can’t post here.
I’m also interested in a trackpoint mod. The height of the keyboard might necessitate a design like the Tex Yoda, which has a longer stem that comes up through the PCB.
Yoda screenshots
I’m not sure about the buttons. Does the capsense controller support mouse-button mapping? If not, did that QMK port ever pan out? Some people might be able to survive without extra buttons on the keyboard itself, and just have mouse clicks on a second layer. Maybe not ideal, but definitely easier.
I would love a trackpoint with the three mouse buttons
I am also interested in a model with trackpoint and three buttons if possible.
I would *love* a trackpoint. It is my ideal mouse input device.
I thought it would be too much to wish for, so I already placed my order. But, if it will be a possibility, I will happily throw more money at you.
@admin the Tex Yoda had a trackpoint on it, and I believe it used the FlexPoint SK8702 from Sprintek. I participated in a massdrop years ago where I got one at a lower price, but never put it to use. Sprintek says on their site that the SK8702 is discontinued, but I wonder if they are still selling the SK8703? Anyway, that is a possible source.
@MikeM Tex came out with the Yoda II. I just put together the DIY kit and I’m loving not having to move away from the keyboard to use the mouse. I would love to mod my (preordered) F62 to have one, but I fear that adding the mouse keys will be just too difficult.
Hi, everyone! My name’s Tommy, and I’ve been spending some of my spare time trying to figure out the best way to incorporate a TrackPoint into my forthcoming Model F62. The biggest challenge I’m anticipating is integrating the buttons into the metal casings.
If you’re interested in adding a TrackPoint to your own Model F, I’m happy to help coordinate our efforts. Drop me a line at modelf_trackpoint@outlook.com
I would LOVE a full size keyboard with a trackpoint on it!
Hi!
I’d love to see a 3 button trackpoint IV option for the F77 and I’m down with an order
Thanks!
Most of the trackpoint keyboard modifications i’ve seen were made with https://www.massdrop.com/buy/tex-trackpoint-module which wasn’t mass produced — but it seems like that module is just “SK8702 FlexPoint 3 Axis” which isn’t too hard to find on the market (especially in big quantities), but with longer appropriate stick, which need to be made.
Still, much more work requires to make this mod complete.
Yes, other people I’ve spoken with have plans to add a trackpoint to their F62/F77 keyboard. Everyone please post a reply here if you are interested in a trackpoint addition.
Where can you buy appropriate trackpoint parts in bulk today? Maybe someone could put together a guide to modding their F62/F77 for trackpoint?
I’m interested in a trackpoint. I’ve got half a mind to mod one into my Realforce somehow, as well as my future F77.
I got a Unicomp Endurapro at work and its trackpoint is disappointing. I still like it overall because I like having the mouse buttons, though. I don’t know how buttons would work on the F.
Since Tex seems to be, as far as I know, the only game in town that’s had success producing trackpoint mechanical keyboards , I asked justin-tex on reddit about the possibility of offering trackpoint “kits” – made for modders to add a trackpoint to other keyboards. He didn’t discount the idea, but I think interested parties would need to make a financial case for it.
His response: “We can try this , make TrackPoint to a module , and interface protocol use I2C , that might be can easy work in other keyboard project or any open-source keyboard !”
They’re currently in the process of developing a new keyboard (Tex Shinobi), so this idea might not be on the top of their list. Just wanted to throw this out as an option for interested parties.