bogeysparadise / hub16

A macro pad with 16 keys, two rotary encoders, a four port USB hub, and plenty of LEDs!

Hub16

Hub16 is an external keyboard / macro pad designed to work with software on your computer to enable powerful, context aware macros to be run, ensuring you never have to press a strange sequence of keys ever again. This is particularly useful for PCB design and other CAD tools, as it allows the user to have dedicated keys for common actions which are often tied to awkward keyboard combinations.

This project started as I wanted to utilise rotary encoders to change the grid and trace size in KiCad, along with having dedicated keys for certain operations. Following success of version one, I thought wouldn't it be cool to run a cable between the macro pad and keyboard, so a USB hub was added!

All design files required to manufacture the board and enclosure are available, along with a small production run currently in the works to make it easier and cheaper to get your hands on a board. Stay tuned...

Key Features

• 16 Cherry MX compatible switches, along with two switches in the encoders.
• Two rotary encoders, bringing an intuitive interface for many controls such as volume and music playback.
• Four port USB 2.0 hub with Type-C connectors, allowing connection to other keyboards, memory sticks, wireless receivers and more!
• Designed to interface with host computer to provide a level of interaction / macro control not available on standard keyboards, with examples provided for Windows and Linux.
• Various case designs, allowing the Hub16 to fit in on any desk.
• 11 individually addressable RGB LEDs for the bling factor.
• Full QMK programmability and customisation.

Build Instructions

• Keyboard Assembly
• Firmware and Software Configuration

Assembling the board from design files?

• PCB SMT Assembly Guide
• Firmware Flashing Instructions
• Enclosure Manufacturing

Errata

• Some rotary encoders output flipped signals (clockwise instead of counterclockwise), if after assembly your encoders appear to be sending the wrong signals, change the position of pins from line 87 to 89 (and vice-versa) in config.h, or alter the setting in your software.

If you have any questions or comments please get in touch. I can be found on Discord as _joshajohnson#9451, Twitter, and r/mk.

Happy typing!