Build Guide

System_65 Build Guide

System_65 Build Guide

The past few years have been a great journey, sharing the development of System_65 and finally releasing it for other enthusiasts to enjoy as well.

Below you will find the build guide for the System_65, beginning with the disassembly and followed by the full assembly guide. There has been a significant effort made to ensure that the build process is as straightforward as feasible, both in terms of the instructional visuals and the actual steps involved. So if you have any feedback on this page or any other concerns, please email support@mozaic.dev

Disassembly

This portion of the build guide covers the disassembly of the System_65. For the instructions on the assembly, scroll down a little further.

Step — 1

Accent Weight

Carefully flip the System_65 over, so the bottom is facing up. Then, gently remove the accent weight by tilting it as shown in the image. This will reveal two hidden case screws, M3x6mm.

Step — 2

Case Screws

Remove the case screws holding the bottom and top pieces together. M3x10mm screws are positioned in the back, while M3x6mm screws are near the front, hidden by the accent weight.

Both M3x10mm & M3x6mm screws use a Torx T10 driver.

Step — 3

Top Piece

While holding the bottom and top pieces together, carefully flip the board over and remove the top piece from the bottom.

Sub Assembly

Hotswap PCB Assembly

Let's start with the sub assembly of the System_65. These are the internal parts, such as: PCB, switch plate, stabilisers, switches, etc.

At no point in the build process should you find yourself over tightening any screws. This may lead to damage to either the screws or the threads to which they are inserted.

Note: switches, stabilisers, keycaps, and USB Type C cable are not included in the keyboard kit and are required for a functional keyboard build.

Step — 1

M2×3mm Screws

Insert the M2x3mm screws through the six holes from the bottom side of the PCB, labelled “HOTSWAP”. Then tighten them to the PCB Standoffs on the opposite side. It's easier to work on one standoff slot at a time.

M2x3mm screws use a Torx T6 driver.

Note: The FR-4 switch plate for System_65 doesn't require these screws and standoffs

Step — 2

Standoffs

Place the standoffs on the top side of the PCB and tighten the M2x3mm screws to the standoffs.

Step — 3

Stabilisers

The PCBs for the System_65 support multiple layouts. This image provides an overview for each stabiliser location and it's options. Layout indicators are also printed on the top side of the PCB.

Both screw-in and snap-in PCB mounted stabilisers are supported.

Step — 4

Switch Plate

Place the switch plate over the stabilisers, it only fits one way. There should be three screw slots at the back, and two near the spacebar.

Step — 5

Countersunk Screws

Screw in the M2x3mm countersunk screw to the standoffs.

M2x3mm CTSK screws use a Torx T6 driver.

Step — 6

Switches

Insert the switches into the switch plate, following the layout identifiers printed on the PCB, and align the pins to the holes.

To prevent damaging the switches, ensure that both pins are straightened prior to inserting. Work on a flat surface to prevent any damage to the hot swap sockets.

Step — 7

Test the PCB

Now is the perfect to test the PCB, to ensure every switch works. Plug in the JST cable to the daughterboard and the main PCB. The JST cable only fits one way.

Step — 8

Insert the Sub Assembly

Insert the sub assembly into the top piece, ensure that the three screw slots of the switch plate are at the back of the case (USB slot).

Step — 9

Switch Plate Screws

Tighten the M2x4mm screws of the switch plate to secure the sub assembly to the top piece.

M2x4mm screws use a torx T6 driver.

Step — 10

Daughterboard

Insert the daughterboard to the bottom piece, with the USB Type-C port facing the back and JST connector facing the front.

Step — 11

DB Screws

Tighten the M2x4mm screws to secure the daughterboard in place.

M2x4mm screws use a Torx T6 driver.

Step — 12

JST Cable

Connect the JST cable to the JST connector on the daughterboard. The cable fits only one way, excessive force is not required.

Step — 13.1

JST Cable Routing

These next two steps shows the recommended method for easier routing of the JST cable.

Place the top piece containing the sub assembly as shown in the image, and move it slightly to the right. Bringing the JST connector of the main PCB closer and making it easier to connect the JST cable.

Step — 13.2

JST Cable Routing

Then gently place the top piece over the bottom piece, while setting the JST cable in the channel of the bottom piece. This image shows how an x-ray view of how the cable should be routed.

Step — 14

Case Screws

Carefully flip the parts over while holding the top and bottom piece together, so the bottom piece is facing up. Then tighten the case screws holding the bottom and top pieces together.

M3x10mm screws are positioned in the back, while M3x6mm screws are near the front, hidden by the accent weight.

Both M3x10mm & M3x6mm screws use a Torx T10 driver..

Step — 15

Accent Weight

Gently attach the accent weight to the bottom piece, keeping in mind that the magnets are strong.

Step — 16

Badge

Attach the badge to the slot on the bottom piece. The badge only fits in one orientation, ensure that the sots on the badge align with the pins on the bottom piece.

Step — 17

SKUF

Attach the silicone feet to the slots on the bottom piece and accent weight.

Step — 18

Keycaps

Carefully flip the System_65 over one last time and place your keycaps of choice. If you need help figuring out which keycaps sizes to use for your preferred layout, visit the System_65 product page.

Congrats!

You've completed building your System_65!

Remember that the System_65 supports both QMK and VIA, so you can change your keymap layout anytime.