Kartoffelstolz
Quick Update 2026/03/09:
Just learned the (very) basics of FreeCAD and KiCAD. Taking inspiration from the ThinkPad 600X as I model the chassis. Solutions to restoring old features, including hardware wireless switch and removable battery, appear feasible. Research into the necessary circuitry and connectors is ongoing. Will elaborate later.
2026/01/31: I have finally acquired a Framework 13 mainboard. Been bogged down with work and life, but just as motivated as when I started.
Q: Will you lose interest in the project and fizzle out?
A: No. I have an aging X230 to replace and I will never compromise on the TrackPoint, classic keyboard, or easily upgradable parts. These goals can only be achieved with the completion of this project.
Q: When?
A: The closer my X230 comes to obsolescence, the more pressured I will be to work on this.
I. Keyboard
Re-implement the 7-Row ThinkPad Keyboard using Kailh Choc mechanical switches
- This is the main attraction, likely the bulkiest component, and can be tested independently of the rest
- Volume, power, and mouse buttons will be tactile keyswitches
- Custom one-off mechanical keyboards, including ones with a TrackPoint, are a proven concept. The PCB will be designed in KiCad.
- Unlike official 7-row keyboards that are no longer produced, this will be easily reproducible
TrackPoint
- Some enthusiasts have been able to group order the TrackPoint part separately. For now, I will harvest the TrackPoint from an existing ThinkPad keyboard.
- The 2-piece TrackPoint module from the ThinkPad T440~T480, P52s, or X240~X270 will be used as it should be easier to fit between the G, H, and B keys
Interface
- As the EC is open-source and already there, ideally use that. However, TrackPoint integration may or may not necessitate a RP2040 controller
- Interface over the connector otherwise used for the official Framework keyboard. There are enough rows and columns, but USB is also available if a separate controller is necessary.
II. 3D Modelling of Chassis and Fitment Testing
- Design and 3D print basic chassis prototypes to test fit, demonstrate function, and locate load-bearing points
- Chassis will be modelled in FreeCAD
- Interchangeable mainboards from Framework mean that there is no need to redesign and remake everything every two years!
- As with older ThinkPads, the palmrest area will be raised to be flush with keycaps while the lid "cups" over this raised area
III. Additional components
Worklight
- Re-implementation of the ThinkLight
- In fact, two of them because that would look cool
- Avoids the hassle of wiring up a keyboard backlight
Speaker kill switch
- Forgot to mute? Avoid embarrassment instantly and confidently without fumbling around for the keyboard shortcut!
- This will be worked in as an optional cutout
Chassis optimized for aluminium
- The final design will be optimized for CNC milling of aluminum
- Since I plan to use the finished product as my daily driver, the added structural and thermal stability will be important
Swappable / Extended Batteries
- The EC communications to the battery are open-source, so a third-party battery is possible
- A design for user-replaceable 18650 cells may be mutually exclusive with one that works with first-party batteries.
Hardware Wireless toggle
- Will require a riser board with pads for the toggle.
Unresolved Matters
No Trackpad
- The proposed keyboard layout will not leave sufficient space for the official Framework trackpad without extending the laptop's footprint considerably.
Ethernet jack
Tinfoil_Haberdashery
Glinek
c.Invent
Kn/vD
Now that Framework 13 pro and the Framework external keyboard is out, maybe we can use the electronics from the Framework external keyboard with a Thinkpad laptop keyboard to create an opensource external Thinkpad keyboard.