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BDN9 Rev. 3

Parts List

Here's a list of parts needed for the build:

Build Steps

Here's a summary of the build steps:

  1. Prepare components
  2. Solder rotary encoders
  3. Add switches
  4. Assemble case

Prepare components

BDN9 Rev. 3 kit parts laid out

Parts from the kit.

Solder Rotary Encoders

Rotary encoders must be soldered on before switches are added

It is difficult to put in the rotary encoders into the PCB pads if the switch plate and switches are already on, so make sure you add the encoders first.

Three rotary encoders soldered to PCB

Insert the rotary encoders from the top-side of the PCB.

PCB top side showing encoder pins

Solder the rotary encoders in.

Add Switches

First, make sure the ESD pad is on the underside of the switch plate and that the plate is oriented with the pad towards the top of the board.

PCB and switch plate separated

Insert the switches into the switch plate at the corners.

Corner switches inserted in plate

Press down on the switches while supporting the hotswap socket with your thumb from below to prevent socket from separating from the PCB.

Hand pressing switch into hotswap socket

Side view of switch seated in socket

Insert the rest of the switches into the plate and PCB.

All switches inserted in plate

Assemble Case

If you soldered on encoders earlier, you'll need to place the included 3D-printed support piece over the hotswap sockets as shown below. This will allow you to press down on the encoders without causing the switches to dislodge from the PCB.

3D-printed support piece and bottom plate

Place the support piece over the hotswap sockets with the arrow facing upwards

Support piece placed over hotswap sockets

Screw in the standoffs to the bottom plate at all four corners.

Standoffs screwed into bottom plate corners

Line up the bottom plate with the rest of the board. The reset button on the PCB should be aligned with the reset hole on the bottom plate.

Bottom plate assembled with standoffs

Add screws though the switch plate and screw it in to the bottom part of the case.

BDN9 assembled without keycaps

Add keycaps to the switches.

BDN9 with keycaps and encoder knob

Plug it in and test. For the RGB underglow, the mode is controlled by the right-most key in the middle row in the default layout. If the RGB LEDs don't light up, check your wiring or make sure the pads have enough solder.

Completed BDN9 lit up with RGB