3W6 RP2040 Split Keyboard Kit

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€82.00 *

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Order number: KC10147

This is the new 3w6 RP2040 version. Instead of the old ATmega32U4, it uses a modern RP2040... more

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3W6 RP2040 Split Keyboard Kit

This is the new 3w6 RP2040 version. Instead of the old ATmega32U4, it uses a modern RP2040 32-bit dual ARM microcontroller.

New features:

Onboard controller (RP2040) on both sides
4MB (32Mbit) QSPI flash and 264 KB SRAM
Full Duplex UART split transport up to 1.5Mb/s
Handedness via eeprom (automatic dectect which one is the master side via VBUS detection)
1x Blue user led (GPIO17) and 1x RGB led (WS2812) (GPIO25) on both sides, for layer or caps lock indication
ESD protection on all USB-C ports (also on the serial circuit)
Optional Pimoroni Trackball on both sides (The Pimoroni Trackball Rev2024 have a Qw/ST socket at the bottom, which sticks out at the keyboard bottom)
VIAL firmware flashed on both halfs, open VIAL GUI and change the layout as you need

Features:

PCB's are completely assembled, only the Choc V1 switches need to be soldered on
USB-C connector on master side for computer <-> keyboard connection
USB-C to USB-C connection between split keyboard halfs
Support for Choc V1 switches (not V2)
Choc spacing (keycaps are closer to each other)
Low profile and lightweight
Aggressive pinky stagger

This split keyboard kit does not support hotswap, no multiple switchtypes, no encoders, no LEDs, no Oled display.

Includes:

Left and right keyboard PCB (SMD components already assembled)
Top plates (black with silver 3W6 logo, FR4 material)
Middle plates (3D printed, black PLA)
Bottom Foam (self adhesive)

You need:

36x Choc V1 switches (no V2)
34x Choc 1U keycaps
2x Choc 1.5U keycaps
USB-C cable
Short USB-C to USB-C cable to connect both halfs (15-30cm)
Solder and solder iron to solder the switches

Build-Guide

Souce code for VIAL firmware and Precompiled VIAL firmware

3D printed parts made with high quality filament from Redline Filament (made in Germany, environmentally friendly paper spool).

Photos of the completed kit are for demonstration purposes only.
Please note that this kit must be assembled (soldering switches) and does not include switches or keycaps.

PCB and case design by weteor, RP2040 port by 0xCB

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Customer evaluation for "3W6 RP2040 Split Keyboard Kit"

From: Sigi On: 22 Jun 2024

Elegant and functional, compact, easy to assemble, close to perfect

This is a fantastic "no frills" keyboard, suitable as a daily driver, and while on the move.
I love the simple and elegant design. The halves are connected with a USB-C cable, which is great, because high quality cables of the perfect length are easily available. I use a 20 cm braided cable, which proved to be the optimal length. For a really wide split a 30 cm cable should be used.
Assembly was really easy. Only the switches have to be soldered. I had to make some minor adjustments to the middle plate by filing away some plastic. This was not a problem, but the build quality of the 3D printed middle plate could be a bit better.
The keyboard itself is very quiet, because of the tight sandwiched design. With Ambient switches it should be a very low noise board (I have not verified this).
The bottom foam is perfectly cut, and sticks very well. I love the feel and no-slip quality of the material. The foam parts should be available separately in the shop, as a replacement, and in case the foam must be removed in order to change switches.
It is NOT possible to replace the springs of the switches after they are soldered! The switch decision is final when the board is assembled.
I use POM MCC profile keycaps, and convex keycaps on the thumbs. The inner thumb cluster can be "tightened" by using 2x 1.25u keycaps, cutting one short at an angle.
With regards to the design: since this uses RP2040 on-board on each half (good!), the design could be matrix-free ("diodeless"). The diodes are pre-soldered, but still not necessary.
Also, it would be good to at least have the option to apply hot-swap sockets, as this would have no downsides.
Overall, I strongly recommend this keyboard.

From: Admin On: 3 Jul 2024

A big thank you for this detailed and helpful review.
The bottom foam will be available soon in the shop, as spare part.
If i do a revision of the 3W6, i will consider your suggestions (diodes and hot-swap).