What is SpaceFN and why you should give it a try
The SpaceFN concept - setting up your space key as a layer switch when held - is probably one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby. Let me explain how it works. My SpaceFN article on kbd.news made some rounds recently - quite surprisingly given the age of this concept. This piece you're reading is a condensed version of the full post. If you're left with unanswered questions, you'll most likely find the info you're looking for in the original write-up. On my imaginary top list of the most useful keyboard features, tweaks and hacks, SpaceFN would deserve a podium finish for sure. But what makes it so special? In short: SpaceFN is easy to implement, easy to learn, costs nothing, can be used with any keyboard, and can improve your productivity instantly. I will list its benefits below, but can state right at this point that the SpaceFN concept, setting up your space key as a layer switch when held, is clearly one of the most useful tweaks in the keyboard hobby....
Apr 30, 2024
Here's what I've been able to figure out so far (I use this on a Mac):
FN + M (hold 2-3 seconds) = Mac Mode/Windows Mode Toggle (CapsLock flashes when toggled)
FN + Top Row key (1 through =) = F1 through F12
FN + Delete = Sound mute/unmute toggle
FN + PgUp = Increase sound volume
FN + PgDn = Decrease sound volume
FN + Backslash = Cycle through lighting effects
FN + Esc = Solid color backlight
FN + Enter = Change color of backlight
FN + Down Arrow = Decrease lighting brightness (Turn all the way down for OFF)
FN + Up Arrow = Increase lighting brightness
FN + Left Arrow = Increase speed of some lighting effects
FN + Right Arror = Decrease speed of some lighting effects
FN + Spacebar = Freeze some lighting effects (Lights stay on, animation stops)
FN + CapsLock = Change color of CapsLock indicator
(TIP: Turn CapsLock ON first to see what color you are selecting.)
LED under `/~ (Backtick/Tilde) = Battery indicator. Pulsates green while charging, Pulsates red when battery is low.
Reset the keyboard (Hold 4 corner keys: Esc + Tilde + Control + Right Arrow)
Hold FN + Backspace for 2 seconds until Backspace flashes = Enter record mode to save a profile. While in record mode you can cycle through the color of each keys backlight until you get the color you want. FN + Backspace = Exit record mode and save profile. FN + Backspace = Recall saved profile.
NOTE: This will let you edit and save 1 profile. There's a way to edit and save 2 profiles using the FN+PgUp and FN+PgDn keys. Haven't figured that out just yet!
FN + Tab = Is supposed to set light sleep time, but I can't get it to work! Caps light flashes once for sleep after 2 minutes. Caps light flashes twice for sleep after 30 minutes. Caps light flashes 3 times for no sleep.
The yellow accent keys look nice... UNTIL you turn on any lighting effects. The light shines through the yellow plastic in spots.
Bluetooth:
FN + R = Toggle Bluetooth on/off (Q key backlight flashes while waiting to be paired)
Mac displays a code to type on the keyboard to pair. (Q backlight goes out when paired)
I've not had much luck with Bluetooth yet. Disconnects as soon as I unplug USB. (Edit: DUH! Turn switch on bottom of keyboard ON before unplugging!) (Another edit: Switch is not the entire problem. Still having problems getting Bluetooth to connect and stay connected!)
(Edit again: Updated command list with additional functions from translated manual)
FCC STATEMENT :
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Warning: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna. Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver. Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected. Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. RF warning statement: The device has been evaluated to meet general RF exposure requirement. The device can be used in portable exposure condition without restriction.