Layout

The one-handed keyboard uses an ergonomic design with a 5-key thumb cluster and optional joystick. As users of this keyboard likely will be used to typing one-handed on a standard keyboard, typical row-stagger is utilized for familiarity. The open-sourced files are designed to be used for the right hand, but can be easily flipped to work with the left hand.

The keyboard is fully programmable, but as a suggested layout, you can first try using the one shown right.

This layout is designed for people who type one-handed on a standard keyboard, and balances a faster learning curve with typing efficiency (the most commonly used keys are most easily accessible). Layers are shown in their respective colors.

Additional layers can be added through Vial or any other keyboard software you choose to use. The optional joystick can be configured to work differently based on which layer is selected, and can act as either analog input or discrete keypresses (arrow keys would be a common use).

STEP 03

It’s now time to begin soldering. Because of the ergonomic nature of this keyboard, hand-wiring is the best option. A good guide to follow is this one, which details how diodes should be bent, and best practices for soldering using this method. I first soldered the columns using diodes.

You should solder using the shown columns (red), and rows (blue) for the switch matrix.

Now would also be a good time to solder four wires for your joystick.

Next, you should solder the rows using standard wire. Here I used 30AWG wire, but something somewhat thicker would also work.

It’s important to ensure that no rows or columns are shorting together at this point, and you should use electrical tape or an equivalent to prevent this.

STEP 04

Next up is soldering the microcontroller. I used an Elite-C for this build because of its support for joystick using its analog pins.

I used some jumper cables for convenience, though you can also solder using standard wires. Ensure to reserve your analog pins, in this case F0 and F1 for the analog data of your joystick if you choose to use one.

The micro controller fits nicely under the thumb-cluster. Lastly, you can glue a short usb-c jumper cable to the included port and connect it to your microcontroller. It may be necessary to use additional electrical tape to prevent shorting between the controller and other components in the case.

STEP 05

Place the bottom plate against the bottom of the base, and ensure that no wires or other electronics are pushing against it with excessive force.

Screw the case together with 4 M3x0.5 4mm screws.

You’re all done!

For flashing firmware, refer to your respective keyboard microcontroller for instructions. The included firmware is intended for use with the Elite-C and Vial.