Computer science student Seth Woinowsky has built a “typing device” inspired by vintage terminals and powered by a LattePanda Delta 432 single-board computer — and boasting a built-in keyboard, video, and mouse (KVM) switch for use as a docking station for other devices: the DuoDeck Type.
“The DuoDeck is primarily a typing device with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity built right in,” Woinowsky explains of his build. “Sporting a LattePanda Delta 432 as a brain, it has on-board Arduino programmability and impressive speed to handle not only typing projects but also more aggressive and demanding processes like your favorite IDEs and Office applications.”
The somewhat bulky design of the DuoDeck Type is centered around a hefty mechanical keyboard, which sits in front of an angled ultra-wide display. While designed to be portable — the chunky rear of the all-in-one, which houses the electronics and a pair of switchable cooling fans, includes mounting points for a shoulder strap — the appearance evokes memories of all-in-one terminal systems like the Soroq IQ range, Lear Siegler ADM-3A, Sperry Uniscope 300, or even the remarkably similarly-shaped Sol Terminal Computer, though its own “ultra-wide” panel above the keyboard merely hosted the product logo rather than a functional display.
While also a fully-functional x86 personal computer running Windows, the DuoDeck Type hides a few bonus features not often seen on similar builds. A big feature is the prototyping area at the top of the chassis, which provides direct access to the Arduino-compatible microcontroller built into the LattePanda Delta 432. Another is a 12V accessory socket, designed for connection to a car battery, located at the rear of the chassis.
The design evokes vintage all-in-one terminals and desktop computers. (📷: Seth Woinowsky)
Perhaps the biggest surprise feature, though, is the integrated KVM. When in use, the KVM disconnects the LattePanda Delta 432 and instead allows an external system access to the DuoDeck Type’s hardware over USB Type-C — including its display, keyboard, a 3.5mm analog audio jack, and USB hub.
More details on the DuoDeck are available on Woinowsky’s project page.