wilba.tech WT60-C Kate 60% PCB
WT60-C KATE PCB by wilba.tech is compatible with most 60% cases that support a USB-C connector on the PCB. It has tray case mount holes for cases such as Mekanisk Fjell, Mekanisk Klippe, KBDfans Tofu, and other similar cases based around the legacy Poker2 form factor. It can also fit in cases where the PCB is mounted via the switches to the plate, and the plate is attached to the case, and also cases made from laser cut acrylic.
WT60-C KATE PCB has pre-assembled, RGB LED mounted below the PCB which shine upward through the switches, and do not require switches with special cutouts in the bottom housing. They work best with clear housing switches such as Everglide, Kailh and Gateron Inks, but can also work with semi-translucent/milky housings and even NovelKeys Cream switches. There are also RGB LEDs under the spacebar stabilizers, to add extra lighting if using transparent stabilizers.
WT60-C KATE PCB supports the most popular layout options of custom keyboard enthusiasts. The bottom row is fixed, with 7U spacebar, 1.5U modifiers, thus supporting cases with HHKB and Winkeyless blockers. The right shift is always split (like HHKB), providing a very ergonomic Fn key. The only layout options are full/split backspace and full/stepped Caps Lock.
WT60-C KATE PCB is compatible with the Unified Daughterboard standard, via the JST connector footprint on the PCB (requires soldering JST connector, sold separately), and thus may be compatible with cases that use the Unified Daughterboard and PCBs with the JST connector in the same position (wilba.tech Thermal, Keycult No.1/60, Mekanisk Klippe S).
Specs:
- Standard 1.6mm thickness black core FR4 substrate
- Cherry MX specification footprints
- USB-C and PCB mount holes in legacy Poker2 locations
- Per-switch RGB LED lighting
- QMK and VIA support
- Reset button
- Optional JST connector footprint for Unified Daughterboard (requires modification)
Q: How do I change layouts?
A: The PCB has VIA compatible firmware already installed. Install VIA application from here: https://caniusevia.com/
Q: Will this PCB fit in Thermal?
A: Yes, with some modifications (solder JST connector). Thermal case has clearance for the USB-C so it does not need desoldering. It is fully compatible with the Thermal plate.
Q: Will this PCB fit in Polaris?
A: No, Polaris requires a 1.2mm thick PCB and this PCB is 1.6mm. Maybe it will if you mod the case, I don’t know.
Q: Will this PCB fit in Mekanisk Fjell, Klippe, Klippe S or Type X?
A: Yes
Q: Will this PCB fit in Mekanisk Tind or Keycult No.1/60?
A: Yes, with some modifications (desolder USB-C, solder JST connector).
Q: Will this PCB fit in Singa Unikorn?
A: Conditionally yes. If building without the rubber band, then it should work like any other tray case. If building with the rubber band, notches need to be cut from the PCB edge like the original PCB, and the notches below Left Ctrl and Right Ctrl may cut through tracks to the LEDs, which you could fix with bodge wires. Alternatively, you could cut notches a bit offset (which won’t cut tracks), grind off the case “nubs” and add new case “nubs”.
Q: Will this PCB fit in KBDfans 60% cases like Tofu that would also fit a DZ60?
A: Most likely yes.
Q: Will this PCB fit in some random 60% tray case from Taobao?
A: Most likely. Probably at worst, some modification to the USB cutout would be required.
Q: Can I add foam under the PCB?
A: Yes, although you should cut out 10mm x 10mm holes where the RGB LED driver ICs are located to let them dissipate heat (they are the black square things in the middle of the PCB)
Q: Can I add foam between the PCB and plate?
A: Yes.
Q: Does it have underglow?
A: No.
Q: Can I add my own RGB strips for underglow?
A: No.
Q: Why am I forced to use 7U bottom row, split right shift and ANSI?
A: This PCB does not compromise on build experience or appearance to support more layout options.
Q: What part number is the JST connector and where can I get it?
A: SM04B-SRSS-TB(LF)(SN)