I created this tray to better simulate its use as if it were a laptop keyboard. The benefit of this is that it reduces accidental taps on the trackpad by adding layers left and right of the trackpad.
It’s also sized to match the exact same size as a 13” MacBook base, all at a much more affordable price.
It also includes a metal stabilizer bar to prevent the Nomad from slipping backward or sliding around.
Feel free to deviate from this pattern or use other materials (e.g. wood) if you want a more permanent feel. I prefer using cardboard and glue for simplicity and cost.
There are (optional) variants 2and steps as well to create.
The term “box board” just refers to any standard shipping packaging, e.g. Amazon boxes of 1/8” thickness. You can replace with material that matches the dimensions (e.g. two box boards glued together might be replaced with wood that’s 1/4” thick.)
For the purposes of this gist, I document two sizes: Standard and Compact. The Standard size (12” x 8.5”) is intended to match the size of a Mac laptop base. The Compact size (11.375” x 7.5”) is intended to match the Nomad keyboard dimensions exactly. I prefer the Standard size. Even though it is larger than the keyboard, the footprint is identical to me putting a MacBook Air on my lap, and gives me more space for resting my palms.
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Required: 2 box boards size 12”x8.5” (Compact: 11.375” x 7.5”)
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Required: Glue
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Optional but Highly Recommended: 1 hacksaw blade cut just slightly less than 5.125”
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Optional but Recommended: Masking or other tape
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Optional but Recommended: 1 box board size 12”x1” (Compact 11.375” x 1”)
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Optional: Up to 6 box boards 4” x 3.5” (Compact: 3.625” x 2.5”)
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Optional: Felt or other cover (2 pieces, each 4” x 3.5”, or 3.625” x 2.5” if compact)
- Glue the 2 box boards together to make a solid base
- Push the hacksaw blade into the glued board, exactly centered at the top and about 0.375” from the top edge. This blade will match the size location of where the cover connector goes, turning it into an anchor so the keyboard stays in place. If necessary, glue or tape the blade in place so it doesn't fall out.
- Glue the 1" strip on the bottom side of the top edge so that the hacksaw blade doesn't cut through the large boards.
- Flip out the trackpad and glue the side pieces for your palm rests. Personally I like to add at least 0.25” on each side of the the trackpad so it is level. I also added felt on top to make it a little more comfortable. But depending on your preference you might prefer to have it higher or lower, or not there at all.
Make sure the box boards don’t impede the placement of the trackpad; you may need to cut them a little shorter.
- Create a 3D-printed mold for the tray instead of cardboard
- Put a fabric cover or gel cushion where the wrists rest, instead of cardboard
- Adjust the dimensions so the tray base is smaller or larger depending on your needs