In this video, Clem creates a truly unique and open-source wireless keyboard from scratch. He emphasizes the importance of customization for true keyboard enthusiasts. Starting with the choice of mechanical switches, Clem opts for flat low profile KS27 Gateron Blue switches , showcasing his passion for the tactile feedback of mechanical keyboards.
Watch the Video:
Clem uses KiCad to design a custom PCB. Bluetooth connectivity is achieved by utilizing an ESP32-S3 as the main MCU. USB-C acts as the charging port and Serial output. 4 colorful LEDs provide feedback about the current state of the Keyboard and visually indicate if SHIFT-Alt/AltGr or SUPER/FN/GUI are pressed. The keyboard therefore has 4 freely programmable layers available for heavy customization.
To ensure modularity, Clem integrates a flexible interconnect system between two PCBs, one holding the keyboard switches and the other housing the LiPo charging circuit. Both PCBs are interconnected via a universal bus, broken out on a Molex Premo-Flex connector and connected with a simple flat flex ribbon cable. The Premo-Flex connectors break out all power traces and UART connections so the keyboard can easily be used in future projects. He even offers the option for hot-swappable switches, making it adaptable to various preferences.
The keycaps of this keyboard are unique, designed in FreeCAD to accommodate the low-profile switches. Clem prints them with raised letters and symbols on the inside for durability and visibility, even after extensive use.
Finally, Clem dives into the firmware, which he codes from scratch using the Arduino IDE, with the help of the ESP32-BLE keyboard library and the Adafruit keypad library. The code allows for easy customization of the keyboard layout, providing a personalized typing experience. He also adds LED indicators for modifier keys, enhancing the user experience.
One of the distinctive features of Clem's keyboard is its low-profile design, akin to laptop keys, resulting in a compact layout of around 60 keys. He also combines elements from both English and German keyboard layouts to suit his daily needs. The keyboard is powered by a LiPo battery with onboard charging circuit.
Despite facing challenges, like voltage drop issues with LEDs, Clem perseveres and successfully creates an open-source Bluetooth keyboard with a custom layout, 3D-printed keycaps, and unique lighting features.
Bonus Content:
Bill of Material:
| Product Name | Manufacturer | Quantity | Buy Kit |
|---|---|---|---|
| MULTICOMP PRO Zero Ohm Resistor, Jumper, 0603 [1608 Metric], Thick Film, 100 mW, 1 A, Surface Mount Device | Multicomp pro | 60 | Buy Now |
| BOURNS Small Signal Schottky Diode, Single, 40 V, 300 mA, 500 mV, 2 A, 125 °C | BOURNS | 60 | Buy Now |
| MOLEX USB Connector, USB Type C, USB 3.1, Receptacle, 24 Ways, Surface Mount, Right Angle | MOLEX | 1 | Buy Now |
| STMICROELECTRONICS ESD Protection Device, 17 V, SOT-23, 6 Pins, USBLC | STMICROELECTRONICS | 1 | Buy Now |
| MOLEX FFC / FPC Cable, Premo Flex Jumper, 10 Core, 1 mm, Same Sided Contacts, 6 ", 152 mm, White | MOLEX | 1 | Buy Now |
| MOLEX FFC / FPC Cable, Premo Flex Jumper, 10 Core, 1 mm, Same Sided Contacts, 2 ", 51 mm, White | MOLEX | 1 | Buy Now |
| MOLEX FFC / FPC Board Connector, 1 mm, 10 Contacts, Receptacle, Easy-On 52207, Surface Mount, Top | MOLEX | 1 | Buy Now |
| MOLEX FFC / FPC Board Connector, ZIF, 1 mm, 10 Contacts, Receptacle, Easy-On 52271, Surface Mount, Bottom | MOLEX | 1 | Buy Now |
| MIKROELEKTRONIKA Rechargeable Battery, 3.7 V, Lithium Polymer, 2 Ah, JST | MIKROELEKTRONIKA | 1 | Buy Now |
Additional Parts:
| ESP32-S3-Wroom1 |
| Keycaps 3d printed with MAYER MAKES ENGINEERING RESIN + Blue Dye |
| PCB provided by Aisler.net use code „thanks_mayermakes_23“ for a discount. |
| Switches used are Gateron Blue KS27, sockets are random parts i found by searching for the switches. |
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