# Iris Rev. 3/4

## Build Compatibility
This build guide is exclusively for Rev.3 & 4 of the Iris, which features pre-soldered components. For Rev.2 PCBs, see [Iris Rev. 2 Build Guide](https://docs.keeb.io/docs/iris-rev2-build-guide/).

This guide can also be used for the Nyquist Rev. 3, as it has a very similar construction.

## Videos of Builds
+ [MechMerlin - Build Stream: Keebio Iris Rev 3 Build](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZkzzIPx35o)
+ [TaeKeyboards - Iris Split Ergonomic Mechanical Keyboard Build](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0P6oIOB-whM&t=219s)

## Parts List
Here's a list of parts needed for the build:
+ [Set of Iris Rev. 4 PCBs](https://keeb.io/products/iris-keyboard-split-ergonomic-keyboard)
+ [Iris Case/Plates](https://keeb.io/products/iris-keyboard-case-plates)
+ 1 [TRRS cable](https://keeb.io/products/trrs-cable)
+ 54-56 switches (MX-compatible and Alps switches are supported)
+ Optional parts (not shown)
+ [2u PCB mount MX stabilizers](https://keeb.io/products/cherry-mx-stabilizer) if using 2u keys
+ [Rotary Encoder](https://keeb.io/products/rotary-encoder-ec11) and [Knob](https://keeb.io/products/rotary-encoder-knob-ec11)
+ [Iris Middle Layer](https://keeb.io/products/iris-keyboard-case-plates)


## Build Steps Summary
1. Prepare components
2. Optional additions!
+ Solder rotary encoder (optional)
+ Solder in-switch LEDs (optional)
3. Add 2u stabilizers to PCB
4. Add switches
5. Optional additions! Part 2
+ Solder in-swtich LEDs
6. Assemble!
7. Re-Program Board Note
8. Rejoice!
9. Glossary

## Prepare Components
Have your soldering iron, solder and, if you feel accident prone with your solders (it's ok! Happens to the best of us!), a solder remover.

Some individuals may want to lubricate their switches. If you'd like to, go ahead and do that now before starting the process. For further details on that, go [here](https://www.maketecheasier.com/how-to-lubricate-keyboard-switches/).

TODO: make keebio version of the 'how to' on the aforementioned page.

Get a playlist of some jams you like and get started!

## Optional additions!
These items are optional additions, but if you *do* want them included in your board, the time to act is now.

### Add 2u stabilizers to PCB
Add the 2u stabilizer if desired. Do this before installing the switch plate and switches:

### Solder rotary encoder

If adding a rotary encoder, clip the two larger mounting pins on the encoder so it can fit onto the PCB:

Next, add a small piece of electrical tape to cover up the clipped off pins:

Install the encoder onto the PCB:

Solder the encoder onto the PCB:

## Add switches
:::note::: FOR KALIH BOX AND KAILH CHOC SWITCHES - INSTALL LEDS BEFORE THIS STEP
For Kailh Box and Kailh Choc switches, there is no cutout to insert in-switch LEDs through, so the LEDs must be added first. Skp to the LED installation step and then come back to this step of switch installation.

Add switches into the switch plate. It's a good idea to add switches to the corners first and then solder them before installing the rest of them:

Fit the switches and plate onto the PCB:

Solder the switches onto the PCB:

Add the rest of the switches:

Solder the rest of the switches onto the PCB:

## Optional additions! Part 2
### Solder in-switch LEDs
Polarity of the in-switch LEDs is important. Match up the longer leg of the LED to the + sign of the LED pins on the PCB:

Insert the LED through the switch and PCB:

Double check that the longer leg matches with the + sign:

Bend the LED legs out so it doesn't fall out while soldering the LED in:

Solder the LED legs and then clip the excess length on the legs:

## Assemble!
Insert a screw through the top of the switch plate and attach a standoff from the bottom side of the plate:

Repeat the process for the rest of the plate:

#### Assembly Option!
If you have an acrylic middle layer, insert it now around the standoffs:

Put the bottom plate on and add screws:

## Re-Program Board Note
Oh, looking to re-program your board? Never fear! Come look [here](https://docs.keeb.io/docs/flashing-firmware/).

## Rejoice!
You have a keyboard! Savor this moment of victorious keyboard construction.

Care for [another](https://keeb.io/collections/all) build adventure?

## Glossary

*LED* - Light-emitting diode. These are great if you want to jazz up your keyboard with [dancing](https://docs.keeb.io/docs/lighting-options) [lights](https://docs.keeb.io/docs/adding-rgb-underglow).

*PCB* - "Printed Circuit Board" is what that stands for. This holds all the info that makes a keyboard work.

*Rotary Encoder* - This is a part that takes information to the computer from being pivoted left and right. With an attached knob, you'll be able to input some sliding scale info.

*Stabilizers* - Stabs, for short, provide support to a larger keycap

*Stand-offs* - These pieces attach to screws and allow space to be created between the keyboard pieces

*TRRS cable* - This will let your split keyboard sides to talk with one another. The acronym stands for tip ring ring sleeve. Usually used for audio, but in the context, is needed to connect split keyboards.

*What do you mean, Re-Program?* - This note is talking about the information on your keyboard's PCB telling your computer what button you're pressing.

If you have questions about tools to accomplish this with, we have a [page](https://docs.keeb.io/docs/soldering-tools/) for you that you're welcome to visit!