For those eager for instant keyboard action, we offer the charming Adafruit Macropad with a 3x4 grid of MX + NeoPixel key switches. But if you're the type to blaze your own trail, we've got the perfect solution for creating custom ortholinear (gridded) key matrices. The Adafruit NeoKey 5x6 Ortho Snap - Apart Mechanical Key Switches with NeoPixel feature 30 key switches that can be easily snapped apart to form any grid size you desire. You can transform the initial 5x6 layout into 2x3, 1x6, 4x3, or any other configuration, and it'll work flawlessly. The break - apart tabs have traces for power, NeoPixel, and keymatrix lines. Each sub - key has diode - protected column and row lines. Just connect a digital IO pin from your microcontroller to the outer rows and columns of your chosen grid size, and you won't have to worry about key ghosting. Adding some glow is a breeze. Each key has a reverse - mount NeoPixel. Connect 3 to 5V power to the + and - pins on the grid and a single digital IO line to the start of the 'NeoPixel snake'. A 2.2K pass - through resistor takes care of data shunting. Every breakout has a Kailh socket, so you can plug in any MX - compatible switch instead of soldering. You might need a bit of glue to secure the switch. The sub - keys are spaced 0.75' apart for a compact keyboard. There are large 0.125' mounting holes at each key's corners for easy backplane mounting. Each order includes one assembled PCB sheet that can be broken apart, along with top and bottom railing bits for flat shipping. Note that mechanical switches and keycaps are not included. Any MX - compatible switch like Kailh or Gateron will work.
Using this product is a piece of cake. First, decide on the grid size you want for your keyboard. You can break apart the 30 key switches to form different configurations like 2x3 or 4x3. Once you've got your grid, connect a digital IO pin from your microcontroller to the outer rows and columns of the grid. This way, you won't have to worry about keys ghosting. To add some glow, connect 3 to 5V power to the + and - pins on the grid, and a single digital IO line to the start of the NeoPixel snake that runs through the matrix. When it comes to switches, you can use any MX - compatible switch like Kailh or Gateron. Just plug them into the Kailh sockets. You might want to use a bit of glue, like hot glue or epoxy, to keep the switches in place. The sub - keys are spaced 0.75' apart, and there are large 0.125' mounting holes at the corners of each key for easy mounting to a backplane. Each order comes with one assembled PCB sheet that can be broken apart, along with top and bottom railing bits to keep it flat during shipping. Remember, mechanical switches and keycaps are not included. After you break the grid, you could try to reconnect the breakout pads, but it's not very fun. Also, store the product in a dry place to avoid damage to the electronic components.
