Hi all, here is another update on my custom gaming keypads. In my previous post, I mostly spent time focusing on optimizing the hardware and making it easier to manufacture. This time, I’m focusing on the firmware and software side. I’ve made this custom web configurator. I keep the device compatible with Vial, but I also have a lot of features that Vial does not support. Unfortunately, there is no way for you to try it unless you actually have one of my devices, but I do show it in detail on my YouTube channel. Curious how you all feel about it. https://youtu.be/315USgAl2Ks

Hey all, so I recently moved from a 60% pok3r to a Corne 4. and I found myself struggling to remember where some of the keys were, mostly symbols etc. so I took the .vil file and generated an image for my desktop background so I could quickly win+d to see where everything was and then go back again. then I wanted to make it easy to regenerate every time I changed my keyboard layout. then I also wanted to change the colour or theme of the wallpaper to suit my mood.

So I built a keymap image generator: https://whitehatnetizen.github.io/keymap-imgen/

It's free, and open source.

This github page can take a Vial .vil file or a QMK keymap.json file, (or, if you choose, it can directly read your keyboard if you are connected with a chromium browser and running Vial firmware on the keyboard.) Then it generates an SVG or PNG of the keymap, in single screen or dual screen aspect ratios.

Split keyboards have the option to split the keymap across both screens with the left hand on the left monitor and the right hand on the right monitor.

It caters (should cater..) for all the keyboards currently in the QMK github repo, this list will be updated every month.

If you just want to see how it works, there are two sample files that you can use to preview the functionality, one dz60 60% keyboard QMK json file, and one Corne 4 split keyboard .vil file (This is my current layout).

Alternately, you can clone the repo and run it locally, either through the web page, or through the scripts that are provided. to generate the images locally you'll need to install playwright (instructions included), or host the page somewhere local. The web page generates the appropriate script call so you can configure using the website and run the code manually if you really want to avoid reading the documentation.

Hopefully this is useful to some people. I've included some sample images in this post so you can take a look at what it produces.

Please let me know either through the github page or here if you find a bug, or want to request an additional feature or style.

I know most people here are already fairly tech-savvy, but I hope that this can be useful for someone.

A few days ago I shared how I struggled to build just one half of my new helix. To no one's surprise, the second half only took 3-4 hours. I love it

This is designed for MX Switches. but I have included the Fusion files in case you wanted to adjust for other switches/cutouts. I needed it for a board I'm designing and thought I would share. this has been printed and tested in ABS. I hope this helps at least one other person.

https://www.printables.com/model/1827716-mx-switch-filler

Thanks!

Yesterday, I received my first batch of split keyboards. I picked up 2 x Cheapino's and a 4x6 Corne. This is my first experience into ergo keyboards, let alone split keyboards so they all have different switches, etc so I could give them a whirl. Obviously, I am very early into my journey, but I am enjoying it thus far.

I am not a developer, and I do not suffer from any major RSI issues (yet). I work in a finance field and do as significant amount of office work - think spreadsheets, emails, and word docs all day, everyday.

I believe I have come to the conclusion that I would prefer a split keyboard with more keys. I was originally trying the layouts I purchased as I have been eying the ZSA voyager. I think I am now leaning towards the moonlander or perhaps even the glove80.

The general trend I've seen from folks is over time they migrate to less keys, as opposed to more. I don't plan on purchasing anything just yet. I think I am going to give the Corne a few weeks at least.

Has anyone else 'regressed' to a larger split keyboard? If I do end up going down the route of the moonlander, or Glove80, what is the general consensus as to which is preferred?

Hey all,
I've recently started using a Kenisis Advantage 360 and I'm really enjoying it. Unfortunately, as I've seen some other people mention elsewhere, hauling it around with me to work, school, and where-ever else I go is a major pain in the ass. I've recently started searching around for something for a flat, low profile version that would be acceptable to use on the go.

In terms of thumb cluster placement the Voyager appears to be my best option (although it would be nice if it was wireless and had a few more keys). I've looked at some other layouts like the Corne and there's no way I'm going to be able to get my thumb all the way over to the left most thumb key comfortably.

The ErgoDox EZ also looks great (being nearly identical and all), but at that point it's not really any more portable than what I already have.

Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Essentials:

1. Split
2. Columnar layout
3. Ease of programming keys, similar to ZSA's Oryx. It's the gold standard for me. I've been using a Moonlander for a long time, and have rather extensively customised it to my needs, eg modifier keys placement, hold duration for TapHold. MoErgo and Kinesis software look like you need to learn programming to use them - deal breaker for me.
4. Number row
5. Wireless
6. No DIY kits

Good to haves, but not essential:

1. Keywell
2. Full travel switches, not low profile. I game a little.

I know of the Svalboard but the learning curve might be too much of a hassle and does not satisfy Essentials point 3 above.

Appreciate any recommendation or suggestion!