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Posts on DIY Keyboard Development

I have gathered posts on my DIY keyboard "Cue2Keys" and its development.

What I Built

Cue2Keys 2: The Second Generation Full Modular KeyboardCue2Keys, the custom keyboard I make, is characterized by modularizing keyboard components. Since the keys themselves are also modularized, you can reconfigure it into the physical layout and key count you like. There are also input devices such as a trackball and rotary encoder, and you can freely decide their positions and quantity as well. No soldering is required, so you can start using it easily and expand it step by step. In this article, I introduce Cue2Keys 2, the second generation of the Cue2Keys series. Cue2Keys 2 is on sale on BOOTH.

Cue2Keys Full Modular KeyboardThe self-built keyboard "Cue2Keys" that I make is characterized by modularizing keyboard components. Since keys are also modularized, you can reconfigure them to your preferred physical layout and key count. This original version has been discontinued, and its successor, Cue2Keys 2, is on sale.

Introduction to DIY Keyboards: How to Build a Disassembled KeyboardAt Technical Book Festival 17, I will be distributing a technical book titled "Introduction to DIY Keyboards: How to Build a Disassembled Keyboard". This book is recommended not only for those interested in building their own keyboards but also for those who want to start electronics as a hobby or those who use keyboards frequently and want to deepen their understanding.

Keyboard Building Techniques

Controlling a Keyboard from Your PC with QMK Raw HIDQMK ships with a Raw HID feature. It is niche and rarely used explicitly, but when you leverage it you can offer end users very handy capabilities. This post introduces the feature and summarizes what you need, plus the basics of implementing it.

Running I2C on Pro Micro (4) - TRRS ConnectionIn the fourth installment of the series, we modify the setup to connect breadboards using a TRRS cable. This allows connecting breadboards at separate locations, increasing independence and streamlining the wiring.

How to Get Kailh Key Sockets (Online Shopping Comparison)We compare methods for purchasing Kailh KeySwitch Sockets, which allow for replaceable switches in mechanical keyboards. For users living in Japan, we compare prices and shipping costs for MX-compatible sockets to find the most cost-effective purchasing method.

Running I2C on Pro Micro (3) - Determining Pin StatesIn the third article of the series on running I2C on Pro Micro, we explain how to receive the state of I2C devices and determine if a button is pressed at a specific address. We interpret the MCP23017 datasheet, detail the wiring and programming steps to check pin states, and introduce implementation methods using the Arduino standard library and Adafruit's library.

Running I2C on Pro Micro (2) - I2C ConnectionThis article explains how to perform I2C communication with Pro Micro. It covers the basics of I2C, communication speeds and standards, connection methods, the I2C module used (MCP23017), required parts, wiring methods, and how to create an I2C Scanner program.

Running I2C on Pro Micro (1) - Setting up Pro MicroThis article explains the setup procedure for Pro Micro, including wiring on a breadboard, programming using Arduino IDE, and how to verify operation. The components used include a breadboard, Pro Micro + pin headers, reset switch, jumper wires, and a cable to connect Pro Micro to PC. It also covers the types of Pro Micro, pin assignments, and Arduino IDE configuration.

QMK Introduction: Running meishi Trackball Module with Custom FirmwareI'll introduce how to run meishi Trackball Module with custom firmware using QMK. I'll progress through the development of a custom keyboard, covering specific steps including solutions for trackball angle issues, QMK compilation error countermeasures, firmware configuration, and custom key implementation.

Developing Cue2Keys

Cue2Keys 2 Features: The Second Generation Full Modular KeyboardCue2Keys 2 is a full modular keyboard that modularizes the keys themselves, making additions and layout adjustments easier. There are also input devices such as trackballs and rotary encoders, and you can freely decide their positions and counts to build your configuration. No soldering is required, so you can start using it easily and expand it step by step. It suits people who want to keep modifying key counts and layouts. In this article, I summarize and introduce the features of Cue2Keys 2.

The History of Cue2Keys: From Development Start to Initial Sales (Part 2)This article covers the development of "Cue2Keys" from the prototype stage through the first production run, describing the iterations, tradeoffs, and design details at each phase. As the second part, it records the development history of each module in detail.

The History of Cue2Keys: From Development Start to Initial Sales (Part 1)This article covers the development of "Cue2Keys" from the prototype stage through the first production run, describing the iterations, tradeoffs, and design details at each phase. As the first part, it focuses on the overall motivation and core concepts.

Event Exhibitions

I Participated in Keyket 2026I participated in Keyboard Market Tokyo (Keyket) 2026. I distributed my new custom keyboard, "Cue2Keys 2," and thankfully sold out. In this article, I share the preparations in advance, what the event day was like and how it felt, the improvements I made to exhibiting this time, and my ideas for the next version as well.

Keyket 2026 Product LineupAt Keyket 2026, held on Saturday, March 28, 2026, I will be offering Cue2Keys 2, the next-generation model of the full modular custom keyboard "Cue2Keys" that I offered at my previous appearance. The main offering will be the Starter Set DX, with event-limited colors and discounted pricing. In this article, I summarize the lineup and related information for Keyket.

I Participated in Keyket 2025I participated in Keyket 2025 and distributed my custom keyboard, "Cue2Keys". This article describes the event day, the efforts leading up to it, and future prospects.

Keyket 2025 Product LineupAt Keyket 2025, held on 3/22, I will be selling the custom keyboard "Cue2Keys". This page lists the products and related information.