I Accidentally Built a Mechanical Keyboard – The Squirrel Moment
I was doing some research for an upcoming project when I had a classic “squirrel moment.” You know, when you’re focused on one thing, but suddenly a shiny new idea grabs your attention? Well, before I knew it, I had accidentally built a mechanical keyboard.
Research is an essential part of any project. It allows me to see how others have tackled similar problems. But for me, it also poses a danger. While browsing tech sites and how-to guides, I often stumble upon fascinating little projects that pull me in. Before I realize it, I’ve planned an entirely new project I never intended to do in the first place. Sound familiar? Or is it just me?
The Ergonomic Quest
Working in IT, I spend a lot of time on a keyboard. My research initially focused on finding an ergonomic keyboard to reduce strain on my fingers and wrists, improving overall comfort during long work hours. But then a little voice in my head said, “Hey, you’re a maker. Why not build one instead?” And the logical part of my brain agreed—it sounded like a really cool idea.
That thought led me down a rabbit hole, where I discovered the Redox hand-wired keyboard. This design doesn’t require a traditional printed circuit board (PCB). Instead, it relies on a custom enclosure, microcontrollers, switches, diodes, wires, and, most importantly, a lot of patience. And yes, I needed quite a bit of patience.
The Build Process
Printing and Assembly
I started by 3D printing the enclosure and installing the switches into the top plate, ensuring they were correctly oriented. Next, I moved on to installing the diodes.
How a Keyboard Works
A keyboard operates using a matrix of rows and columns to detect key presses. Diodes are essential in this circuit, preventing unintended electrical feedback between keys. Without them, pressing multiple keys simultaneously could cause erratic behavior.
To install the diodes, I carefully bent a loop in one leg, ensuring the black line faced away from the key switch. Proper orientation is critical—if a diode is installed backward, the key press won’t register at all. (Spoiler: I made this mistake, but more on that later.)
Wiring the Matrix
Once the rows were complete, I moved on to the columns, using enameled (magnet) wire. This thin copper wire is coated with insulation, which only conducts electricity where soldered.
Next, I prepared the microcontroller by tinning the necessary pads. Using the build log, I identified the correct pins for columns, rows, and communication between the two halves of the keyboard. The halves connect via a TRRS cable, transferring power and data using I2C communication.
Matching the correct pins was crucial—my microcontroller’s pinout differed from the documentation. Always check schematics before making permanent connections!
Securing the Microcontroller
To secure the microcontroller inside the keyboard enclosure, I used superglue—much better than having it loosely attached or held with double-sided tape. Then, I connected the row and column wires to their respective microcontroller pins, testing connections along the way.
I also installed a reset button, a crucial component for putting the microcontroller into programming mode. Having this accessible on the outside of the case makes firmware updates much easier.
Finally, I wired the TRRS socket for power and data transfer, carefully ensuring consistency across both keyboard halves. Getting these connections wrong would mean only one half of the keyboard would work.
Programming the Keyboard
With the first half complete, I repeated the process for the second half. Initially, I used the QMK Configurator to compile and install the firmware. Then, a friend introduced me to Cujo, a Twitch streamer who specializes in mechanical keyboards. He guided me through setting up a fork of the QMK firmware, enabling on-the-fly remapping via the VIAL configurator instead of flashing new firmware each time I wanted to make a change.
Check out Cujo’s Twitch channel for some great mechanical keyboard content—his passion for the hobby is next level!
Troubleshooting & Final Thoughts
While testing the keyboard, I discovered an issue: one of my diodes was installed backward. This meant one key press wasn’t registering at all. The fix was simple but required disassembling part of the keyboard, replacing the diode, and resoldering it correctly. Once that was done, everything worked perfectly.
I absolutely love this keyboard. It looks great and feels satisfying to use. But now, I face a new challenge: learning how to type on it! The unique key layout means I’ll have to re-train my muscle memory—so wish me luck.
Ever had a similar squirrel moment where an unplanned project took over your time? Let me know in the comments!