Pentaform’s AbacusBasic stuffs a computer within a compact keyboard, while Rkade decided to build the world’s largest keyboard. This massive accessory isn’t as complex as you may think since it basically consists of lever-arm switches, PVC pipe, 3D-printed brackets, bungee cords, and massive key caps.
After pressing a key, the PVC tube moves inside of another one, similar to a piston, until it makes contact with the lever-arm switch. A total of 70 massive keys were built, with each key cap being made from pieces of cardboard glued together. Rkade realized that a wood frame didn’t quite work out that well, so MDF sheets had to be used instead to avoid warping. All of the switches are connected to an YMDK keyboard PCB, which boast individual microcontrollers that communicate to the computer via a USB connection.
