Handwired Skeletyl My First Build A Comprehensive Guide To Custom Keyboards

Embarking on the journey of building your own keyboard, especially a handwired one like the Skeletyl, is an incredibly rewarding experience. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of handwiring your first Skeletyl keyboard, from understanding the components and planning your layout to the actual wiring and programming. Whether you're a seasoned keyboard enthusiast or a complete beginner, this guide aims to provide you with the knowledge and confidence to create a keyboard that is uniquely yours.

Why Build a Handwired Keyboard?

Before we dive into the specifics of the Skeletyl build, let's explore why anyone would choose to handwire a keyboard in the first place. In the realm of custom mechanical keyboards, handwiring represents the pinnacle of personalization and control. Unlike pre-built keyboards or even those assembled from kits with printed circuit boards (PCBs), handwired keyboards offer unparalleled flexibility in terms of layout, component selection, and overall design. This method, while more challenging, allows enthusiasts to truly tailor their typing experience to their individual preferences.

One of the primary advantages of handwiring is the ability to create unique layouts that are not commonly available in commercial keyboards. If you have specific ergonomic needs, desire a particular key arrangement, or simply want a keyboard that stands out from the crowd, handwiring provides the means to achieve this. The Skeletyl, with its split ergonomic design, is a prime example of a keyboard that benefits from handwiring due to its unconventional layout.

Furthermore, handwiring gives you complete freedom in selecting the components you use. From the switches and keycaps to the microcontroller and diodes, every element of your keyboard can be chosen to match your exact specifications. This level of customization extends to the wiring itself, where you can opt for different gauges, colors, and routing methods to create a keyboard that is as aesthetically pleasing on the inside as it is on the outside.

Handwiring also offers a deeper understanding of how keyboards function. By connecting each component manually, you gain insight into the electrical circuits and logic that make a keyboard work. This knowledge can be invaluable for troubleshooting issues, making modifications, and even designing your own keyboard layouts from scratch in the future. The process of handwiring is a hands-on learning experience that can elevate your keyboard enthusiasm to a new level.

Understanding the Skeletyl

The Skeletyl is an open-source, split ergonomic keyboard designed by bastardkb. It's known for its unique aesthetic and comfortable layout, making it a popular choice for those looking to build a custom ergonomic keyboard. The split design allows for a more natural hand and wrist position, reducing strain during long typing sessions. This is achieved by separating the keyboard into two halves, which can be positioned independently to suit the user's individual preferences.

The Skeletyl's ergonomic benefits are further enhanced by its column-staggered key layout. Unlike traditional keyboards, which have keys arranged in a grid, the Skeletyl's keys are staggered in columns, aligning more closely with the natural curvature of the fingers. This reduces the amount of lateral movement required to reach different keys, further minimizing strain and improving typing comfort.

The Skeletyl is typically built using a handwiring method, which means that each switch and diode is manually connected to the microcontroller. This method, while more time-consuming than using a PCB, offers several advantages. First, it allows for greater flexibility in terms of layout and component selection. You can customize the key arrangement to your exact preferences and choose from a wide range of switches, keycaps, and microcontrollers.

Second, handwiring provides a deeper understanding of how keyboards function. By connecting each component yourself, you gain a better understanding of the electrical circuits and logic that make a keyboard work. This knowledge can be invaluable for troubleshooting issues and making modifications in the future.

Finally, handwiring is a rewarding experience in itself. It's a hands-on project that allows you to create something unique and personal. The satisfaction of typing on a keyboard that you built yourself is hard to match.

Components You'll Need

Before you start building your Skeletyl, you'll need to gather all the necessary components. This section provides a detailed list of the items you'll need, along with considerations for choosing the right parts for your build. Selecting the right components is crucial for ensuring the functionality, durability, and overall typing experience of your keyboard.

• Key Switches: The switches are the heart of your mechanical keyboard, determining the feel and sound of each keystroke. There's a vast array of switches available, each with its unique characteristics. Cherry MX switches are a popular choice, known for their reliability and variety of options, including linear (smooth), tactile (with a bump), and clicky (with a click and bump) types. Gateron switches are another excellent option, often considered a more affordable alternative to Cherry MX, with similar characteristics and a wide selection. ZealPC switches are high-end options known for their smoothness and unique tactile profiles. When choosing switches, consider your typing style and preferences. If you prefer a smooth, fast typing experience, linear switches might be ideal. If you like feedback with each keystroke, tactile or clicky switches could be a better fit.
• Keycaps: Keycaps are the plastic caps that sit on top of the switches, and they play a significant role in the keyboard's aesthetics and feel. They come in various materials, profiles, and legends. ABS plastic keycaps are common and offer vibrant colors, but they can develop a shine over time. PBT plastic keycaps are more durable and resistant to shine, making them a popular choice for long-term use. Keycap profiles refer to the shape and height of the keycaps. Common profiles include Cherry, OEM, DSA, and SA, each offering a different typing experience. Legends are the markings on the keycaps, indicating the function of each key. They can be printed, laser-etched, or double-shot, with double-shot legends being the most durable.
• Microcontroller: The microcontroller is the brains of your keyboard, responsible for interpreting keystrokes and sending signals to your computer. Pro Micro is a popular choice for handwired keyboards due to its small size and compatibility with QMK Firmware, a powerful open-source keyboard firmware. Teensy 2.0 is another excellent option, offering more processing power and memory than the Pro Micro. When selecting a microcontroller, consider its size, processing power, and compatibility with your desired firmware.
• Diodes: Diodes are essential components that prevent electrical backflow in the keyboard matrix. They allow the microcontroller to identify which key is pressed when multiple keys are pressed simultaneously. 1N4148 diodes are commonly used in keyboard builds due to their small size and reliability. You'll need one diode for each key on your keyboard.
• Wiring: You'll need wire to connect all the components together. 22-24 AWG solid-core wire is a good choice for handwiring keyboards. Solid-core wire is easier to work with than stranded wire, as it holds its shape better. You'll also need wire strippers and a soldering iron to prepare and connect the wires.
• Soldering Iron and Solder: Soldering is the process of joining electrical components together using solder, a metal alloy that melts at a low temperature. A soldering iron is used to heat the solder and the components, creating a strong electrical connection. A temperature-controlled soldering iron is recommended for keyboard builds, as it allows you to adjust the temperature to prevent damage to the components. 60/40 solder (60% tin, 40% lead) is a common choice for electronics projects, as it has a low melting point and flows well. Lead-free solder is also available, but it can be more challenging to work with.
• Pro Micro USB Cable: to flash the firmware
• Case/Plate Material: The case and plate provide structural support for the keyboard and influence its aesthetics. You can 3D print a case or create one from materials like acrylic, wood, or metal. The plate is the layer that the switches mount onto, and it can be made from materials like acrylic, aluminum, or steel. The choice of material will affect the keyboard's weight, sound, and feel.
• Other Tools: Besides the main components, you'll also need some essential tools for the build. A multimeter is useful for testing connections and troubleshooting issues. Wire strippers are necessary for preparing the wires. A soldering iron stand provides a safe place to rest the soldering iron when not in use. Tweezers can be helpful for handling small components. And a third hand tool can hold components in place while you solder.

Planning Your Layout

Before you start wiring, it's crucial to plan your keyboard layout. This involves deciding on the arrangement of keys, the placement of the microcontroller, and the wiring scheme. A well-planned layout will make the wiring process smoother and ensure that your keyboard functions correctly.

First, consider the physical arrangement of your keys. The Skeletyl, being a split ergonomic keyboard, offers flexibility in terms of how the two halves are positioned. Experiment with different angles and spacing to find a comfortable setup for your hands and wrists. Think about the placement of less frequently used keys, such as function keys or media controls. These can be placed in less accessible locations or assigned to layers.

Next, plan the placement of your microcontroller. The microcontroller should be positioned in a location that is easily accessible for wiring and programming. Consider the length of the wires needed to connect the microcontroller to the switches. Shorter wires are generally better, as they reduce the risk of signal interference. However, you also need to ensure that the microcontroller is protected from physical damage.

Wiring the Matrix

The keyboard matrix is the grid of rows and columns that connects the switches to the microcontroller. Understanding how the matrix works is essential for wiring your keyboard correctly. Each switch is connected to a row and a column. When a key is pressed, the switch closes the circuit between the row and the column, sending a signal to the microcontroller. The microcontroller then identifies which key was pressed based on the row and column combination.

Diodes are used in the matrix to prevent electrical backflow. Without diodes, pressing multiple keys simultaneously could create false signals, causing the microcontroller to misinterpret the keystrokes. Each switch is connected to a diode, which ensures that current flows in only one direction.

To wire the matrix, you'll need to connect each switch to a row and a column. The rows and columns are then connected to the microcontroller. The order in which you connect the switches doesn't matter, as long as each switch is connected to a unique row and column combination.

Start by soldering the diodes to one leg of each switch. The orientation of the diodes is important; make sure they are all facing the same direction. Next, connect the switches in each row together using wire. Then, connect the switches in each column together using wire. Finally, connect the rows and columns to the microcontroller.

When wiring the matrix, it's important to keep your wiring neat and organized. Use wire that is the appropriate length to avoid clutter and ensure that the connections are secure. You can use zip ties or wire organizers to keep the wires tidy.

Soldering Techniques

Soldering is a crucial skill for building a handwired keyboard. Proper soldering techniques ensure strong, reliable connections that will last. This section provides a step-by-step guide to soldering, along with tips for avoiding common mistakes.

Before you start soldering, make sure you have a clean workspace and all the necessary tools. This includes a soldering iron, solder, a soldering iron stand, and a damp sponge for cleaning the soldering tip. It's also a good idea to have a third hand tool or clamps to hold components in place while you solder.

Start by heating up your soldering iron to the appropriate temperature. The ideal temperature will depend on the type of solder you're using, but a good starting point is around 350-400°C (662-752°F). Once the soldering iron is hot, clean the tip by wiping it on the damp sponge. This removes any oxidation or debris that could interfere with the soldering process.

Next, tin the soldering iron tip by applying a small amount of solder to it. This helps the solder flow smoothly and create a good connection. Now, position the components you want to solder together. Make sure they are held securely in place, either by a third hand tool or clamps.

Touch the soldering iron tip to both the component lead and the pad on the PCB or the wire you're connecting to. Heat both the lead and the pad evenly for a few seconds. Then, apply solder to the joint where the lead and the pad meet. The solder should flow smoothly around the joint, creating a shiny, cone-shaped connection.

Remove the soldering iron and let the joint cool. It's important to let the joint cool naturally, without blowing on it or moving the components. A properly soldered joint should be shiny and smooth. If the joint looks dull or grainy, it may be a cold solder joint, which is a weak connection.

If you make a mistake, you can remove the solder using a solder sucker or solder wick. A solder sucker is a tool that sucks up molten solder. Solder wick is a braided copper wire that absorbs solder when heated. To remove solder, heat the joint with the soldering iron and then use the solder sucker or solder wick to remove the solder.

Programming with QMK Firmware

QMK (Quantum Mechanical Keyboard) Firmware is a powerful open-source firmware for mechanical keyboards. It allows you to customize your keyboard's layout, add macros, and even create custom functions. QMK is highly configurable and supports a wide range of keyboards and microcontrollers, making it an excellent choice for handwired builds like the Skeletyl.

To program your Skeletyl with QMK, you'll first need to set up the QMK build environment on your computer. This involves installing the necessary software and libraries. The QMK website provides detailed instructions for setting up the build environment on various operating systems.

Once you have the build environment set up, you can start configuring your keyboard layout. QMK uses a keymap system, where each key is assigned a specific function. You can create your own keymap or use one of the existing keymaps as a starting point.

The QMK Configurator is a web-based tool that makes it easy to create and customize keymaps. It provides a graphical interface for assigning functions to keys, adding layers, and configuring macros. You can also use the QMK command-line interface to create and modify keymaps.

Once you have your keymap configured, you can compile the firmware using the QMK build tools. This process converts your keymap configuration into a firmware file that can be flashed onto the microcontroller. To flash the firmware, you'll need to use a flashing tool like QMK Toolbox.

Flashing the firmware involves putting the microcontroller into bootloader mode and then uploading the firmware file. The process for entering bootloader mode varies depending on the microcontroller. For the Pro Micro, you typically need to short the RST and GND pins twice in quick succession. QMK Toolbox provides clear instructions for flashing the firmware on different microcontrollers.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Building a handwired keyboard can be a challenging project, and it's common to encounter issues along the way. This section provides troubleshooting tips for some of the most common problems you might face.

• Keys Not Working: If some of your keys aren't working, the first thing to check is the wiring. Make sure that all the connections are secure and that there are no shorts or breaks in the wires. Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the connections. Also, check the orientation of the diodes. If the diodes are facing the wrong direction, the keys won't work.

• Multiple Keys Activating: If pressing one key activates multiple keys, this is likely due to a matrix issue. Double-check the wiring to ensure that each switch is connected to the correct row and column. Make sure there are no accidental connections between rows or columns.

• Microcontroller Not Recognizing: If your computer isn't recognizing the microcontroller, try reflashing the firmware. Make sure you're using the correct firmware for your microcontroller and that you're following the flashing instructions correctly. If the issue persists, try a different USB cable or a different USB port.

• Soldering Problems: Cold solder joints are a common cause of keyboard issues. If your solder joints look dull or grainy, they may be cold joints. Reheat the joints and apply more solder to create a strong connection. Also, make sure you're using the correct soldering temperature and that you're cleaning the soldering iron tip regularly.

Conclusion

Building a handwired Skeletyl keyboard is a rewarding project that allows you to create a truly unique and personalized typing experience. While the process can be challenging, the satisfaction of typing on a keyboard you built yourself is well worth the effort. By following this comprehensive guide, you'll have the knowledge and skills to successfully build your own Skeletyl keyboard and embark on the exciting world of custom mechanical keyboards.

Remember to take your time, plan carefully, and don't be afraid to ask for help. The mechanical keyboard community is full of knowledgeable and supportive individuals who are always willing to share their expertise. With patience and persistence, you can create a keyboard that you'll be proud to use for years to come.