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
1. Is the Fn key hardwired -- i.e., does it not send a scan code? I ask, because I usually use the far right-hand key on the bottom row as my own Fn key and then remap everything to a HHKB-like layout.
2. If the keyboard can become programmable later on, is it likely that the current Fn key could be remapped?
3. Which model(s) have a detachable cable?
4. How easy will it be to replace the springs? If the 50 g is similar to Cherry mx Red and the 70 g is similar to Cherry mx Black, I think I would prefer something near the middle -- around 60 g.
5. Thanks for the video, which gives an idea of the sound of the bamboo board. Could you post one that conveys the sound of the acrylic model? If not, could you describe the difference in sound between the acrylic and bamboo models?
Thanks!
1. The Fn key does not send a scan code to the host. It is not hard wired per se - it is configurable at compile time in the firmware - but there is no way to re-compile or configure the firmware at the moment. This is something I'm working to fix.
2. I'm hesitating to say anything about programming in the future because I don't want to promise a feature I cannot deliver. The fact is that the microcontroller and firmware used in these boards does offer some options. We're actively working with the microcontroller and firmware vendors to offer some re-programming solution.
3. In this drop, all models have detachable cables.
4. The springs are simple, if not tedious, to replace. Once you remove the key caps, and unscrew and remove back panel, the switch housings are held to the PCB with two plastic clips. The springs are inside the switch housings. There are instructions on how to do this in the printed manual. Bear in mind this is a tedious undertaking - expect 2-3 hours to replace all the springs.
5. I'll see what I can do about a side by side comparison! I believe the prototypes are heading back to me soon, so this could be a few days.
Cheers!
So, to not promise anything I can't deliver on for sure: assume no programming for these boards. If there is any way to offer it after the fact, I will. I don't want to be in a terrible situation like with the Rosewill RGB80 where they said that full LED programming capability was coming "eventually" and then they never delivered.
Both the bamboo and the acrylic are pretty robust. Acrylic is of course waterproof. Bamboo is pretty water resistant. I would treat some parts of the board with something like cutting board oil if this is really important to you. Surely the board will be fine if you spill a beverage on it, rinse it off and let it dry. If you want to use it in the pool I'd recommend the acrylic board, and also soldering on a cable (instead of the connector) and sealing that with hot glue. This was the original configuration but community feedback was so strong for the mini USB option that this is what I decided to offer.