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Basic 99 Key Keyboard​ Layout (EN014)

A project log for Basic Hot-Swappable Keyboard with RGB

Designed for hand assembly and low cost. Can be powered from an STM32, RP2040, or any module with enough GPIOs.

michael-otooleMichael O'Toole • 06/18/2025 at 04:25•0 Comments

My series of Basic Keyboard PCB differs from other keyboards in that they use an external Keyboard Module for processing. They do however contain all the necessary components including; Matrix Diodes, RGB Leds and MX Key Sockets (hot-swappable). This allows for hand assembly and results in much lower costs at low quantities.   

Connection from the Keyboard to Module is via a a single 34 pin 1.27mm IDC connector.

EN014 Keyboard:

Basically the same as my first keyboard with the following changes:

  1. Changed IDC connector to from 30 to 34 pin...
  2. Removed the need for the second connector...
  3. Moved the rotary encode to new position (better spacing for function keys)...
  4. Added several capacitors stabilize supply lines (optional, just in case but not required so far)...
  5. Moved Caps Lock LED to left of caps lock key...
  6. Updated KiCad files for plate included...
  7. Rev 2.0 Module Board required (all revisions) *see testing below...

This is my final full sized Basic Keyboard design for now.

All components (RGB, Diodes, MX switch Connectors and 34 pin module Connector are mounted on back of PCB, the Caps Lock Led is mounted on front along with the Keyboard MX Switches. I also tend to use plate mounted stabilizers although the PCB mounted type should work too... I haven't confirmed that yet.

Modules:

This keyboard requires version 2.0x of the Modules (version 2.x uses one 34 pin connector), see also the testing section below for more details.

Testing:

Completed all tests, all working perfectly (although I had to use a module board with the 34 pin connector mounted on the back, a slight screw up as I intended it to be on the component side) but not critical, perhaps I need *Rev 3 of the module ;)

KiCad Files (PCB & Plate)...

Mike

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