This is a custom mechanical macropad (Hackerpad), designed entirely from scratch (my first time btw).
I wanted cool looking macropad for Competitive programming, so I made this one. The design is inspired by cyberpunk aesthetics and orpheuspad design. The device features 5 mechanical keys, a rotary encoder for multimedia control, an OLED display, and RGB lighting.
- 5 Mechanical Keys (Cherry MX): Programmable macros for VS Code and terminal commands.
- Rotary Encoder (EC11): Smooth volume control and scrolling.
- OLED Display (0.91"): Displays active layers, WPM (words per minute), or Bongo Cat animations.
- Per-Key RGB: Light (SK6812 MINI-E).
- Sandwich Case Design: Designed in Fusion 360 for easy 3D printing and glueless assembly.
- Silkscreen art Unique silkscreen art on the PCB.
| Component | Quantity | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microcontroller | 1 | XIAO RP2040 DIP | Brain of the device |
| Switches | 5 | Cherry MX | Mechanical switches |
| Keycaps | 5 | DSA profile (blank) | Keycaps |
| Diodes | 6 | 1N4148 (through hole) | For anti-ghosting |
| Encoder | 1 | EC11 rotary encoder | With push button |
| Display | 1 | 0.91" OLED I2C (128x32) | Pinout: GND-VCC-SCL-SDA |
| Pin Header | 1 | 1x4 pin header (2.54mm) | For connecting the display |
| LEDs | 2 | SK6812 MINI-E | Addressable RGB LEDs |
| Screws | 4 | M3 x 10mm | Case screws |
| Inserts | 4 | M3 heatset inserts | Threaded inserts |
The PCB was designed in KiCad.
- Size: 97.7mm x 57.15mm.
- Layers: 2 Layers (Top & Bottom).om).
| Schematic | Routing | 3D View |
|---|---|---|
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The case was designed in Autodesk Fusion 360. It uses a "Sandwich" construction consisting of two parts:
- Bottom Case
- Top Case
Printable files (.step) can be found in the /cad folder.
├── cad/ # 3D printing files (STL, STEP, F3D)
├── pcb/ # KiCad project (schematic, board, gerbers))
├── firmware/ # Source code (main.py))
├── assets/ # Renders and photos for READMEE
└── README.md # This filee