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
It started with [of all things] a Nexus 7. Nice enough machine, but Android LCD touchscreens don't make the best experience. The "mini" keyboards require their own battery - which seems just silly. Throw in a few recent articles about custom builds [Ben Heck: Raspberry Pi Zero Personal Computer; Hackaday: "RasPSION"] and it's time to look at a custom built machine, with it's own keyboard.
At this stage, in my efforts to keep the design "low profile" the choices seem to be: Cherry ML, or surface mounted tactile switches. Also trying to keep overall width under 200mm [8 inches], by reducing key spacing from 19mm to 15mm - meaning standard keycaps are out of the question.