December 22, 2025 · 

Project Openpoint

Ortholinear + TrackPoint Input Module for Framework Laptop 16.

Project: link h1

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Project Overview link h2

This project aims to design and prototype a keyboard-sized input module for the Framework Laptop 16 that combines:

  • An ortholinear laptop keyboard layout
  • An integrated TrackPoint-style pointing stick
  • Dedicated mouse buttons
  • Full compatibility with Framework’s Input Module ecosystem

Rather than a standalone keyboard, this device is designed as a drop-in replacement input module, using Framework’s pogo-pin interface and USB HID architecture.

The long-term goal is to deliver a functional, ergonomic, and community-validated input module that aligns with Framework’s modular and repairable hardware philosophy.

Problem Statement link h2

Current laptop keyboards prioritize familiarity and mass-market ergonomics. Power users who prefer:

  • Ortholinear layouts
  • Keyboard-centric navigation
  • TrackPoint-style pointing devices

have no native option within the Framework ecosystem.

This project explores whether such an input method can be:

  • Mechanically viable within Framework’s constraints
  • Electrically compliant with the input module specification
  • Comfortable for sustained daily use
  • Manufacturable at small to medium scale

Design Constraints link h2

Platform Constraints link h3

  • Target platform: Framework Laptop 16
  • Module type: Keyboard-sized Input Module
  • Interface: USB 2.0 over pogo pins
  • Power: Limited by Framework input module power budget
  • Enumeration: Composite USB HID (keyboard + mouse)

Mechanical Constraints link h3

  • Fixed module outline and mounting points
  • Magnet-based retention system
  • Strict Z-height limits across the entire key field
  • TrackPoint cap height must not interfere with adjacent keys

Electrical Constraints link h3

  • RP2040-class microcontroller preferred for ecosystem compatibility
  • TrackPoint sensor operates via PS/2-style signaling
  • Board ID resistor required for module identification
  • ESD protection required on USB and exposed interfaces

Core Design Goals link h2

  1. Ortholinear Key Grid

    • Uniform column alignment
    • Laptop-grade scissor or equivalent low-profile mechanism
    • Layout optimized for typing efficiency over legacy conventions

  2. Integrated TrackPoint

    • Centered or near-centered placement
    • Low-profile cap (≈2–4 mm)
    • Tunable sensitivity and acceleration
    • Works without removing hands from home row

  3. Native Framework Integration

    • No external dongles or cables
    • Fully recognized by Framework firmware and OS as standard HID
    • Installable and removable like any other input module

  4. Open and Iterative Development

    • Public documentation of design decisions
    • Community feedback incorporated early
    • Firmware and hardware structured for maintainability

Development Phases link h2

Phase 0: Research and Specification Alignment link h3

Objectives

  • Fully understand Framework Input Module electrical and mechanical specs
  • Identify TrackPoint sensor options and availability
  • Validate firmware paths (QMK, PS/2 support, composite HID)

Deliverables

  • Annotated input module spec notes
  • TrackPoint electrical interface reference
  • Preliminary layout sketches
  • Risk register (height, sourcing, firmware complexity)

Phase 1: TrackPoint + Controller Proof of Concept link h3

Objectives

  • Prove TrackPoint functionality within Framework constraints
  • Validate PS/2 to MCU integration
  • Establish firmware baseline

Scope

  • Small prototype PCB (non-keyboard-sized)
  • RP2040 microcontroller
  • TrackPoint sensor and mouse buttons
  • USB enumeration as composite HID

Deliverables

  • Working TrackPoint inside Framework laptop
  • Firmware repository with basic configuration
  • Measured power consumption
  • Ergonomic notes on stick height and placement

Phase 2: Mechanical Keyboard Feasibility link h3

Objectives

  • Determine feasibility of ortholinear laptop key mechanisms
  • Establish row/column pitch
  • Validate typing feel and stability

Scope

  • Mechanical mockups using:
    • Salvaged laptop scissor mechanisms, or
    • Early Framework one-key modules if available
  • Plate and backer experiments
  • No electronics beyond basic matrix testing

Deliverables

  • Key layout decision
  • Plate stack design
  • Typing and noise evaluation
  • Confirmed Z-height margins

Phase 3: Integrated Keyboard + TrackPoint Prototype (v1) link h3

Objectives

  • Combine keyboard matrix and TrackPoint into a single input module
  • Validate full system behavior inside the laptop

Scope

  • Keyboard-sized PCB
  • Full ortholinear matrix
  • Integrated TrackPoint and mouse buttons
  • Magnet retention and steel backer
  • QMK-based firmware with VIA support

Deliverables

  • Fully functional prototype module
  • Layout files and firmware configuration
  • Assembly documentation
  • Known issues list

Phase 4: Refinement and User Testing link h3

Objectives

  • Improve ergonomics, firmware tuning, and reliability
  • Validate real-world usability

Scope

  • Iterative PCB revisions if needed
  • TrackPoint sensitivity tuning
  • Extended typing and navigation tests
  • Small number of external testers

Deliverables

  • Revision notes and changelog
  • User feedback summary
  • Finalized layout and firmware defaults

Phase 5: Production Readiness Assessment link h3

Objectives

  • Determine viability beyond prototyping

Scope

  • Manufacturing considerations
  • Assembly complexity analysis
  • Cost estimation at low volumes
  • Framework Marketplace alignment

Deliverables

  • Production feasibility report
  • Final BOM
  • Go / No-Go decision for small-batch production

Success Criteria link h2

The project is considered successful if:

  • The module installs cleanly into a Framework Laptop 16
  • The keyboard and TrackPoint function reliably as a single HID device
  • Typing and pointing can be performed without hand repositioning
  • No thermal, power, or interference issues are introduced
  • The design is documented well enough for others to reproduce or extend

Project Status link h2

Current Phase: Phase 0 – Research and Specification Alignment

Next Milestone: TrackPoint + RP2040 proof of concept operating inside Framework input deck

Participation and Contribution link h2

This project is exploratory and open to collaboration. Contributions may include:

  • Mechanical design feedback
  • Firmware improvements
  • Ergonomic testing
  • Documentation and validation

Updates will be shared as the project progresses.