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
- Coolermaster Masterkey S PBT as the base without switches, MCU, stabs or keycaps
- Add Unloved Bastard MCUs with EasyAVR and eventually TMK/QMK
- Profit
Enthusiasts could get a completely custom programmable platform to build a custom TKL at low cost, estimate this to be ~100USD even at retail prices; 65 for the PCB with switches at Amazon and 40USD for the MCU from 1upkeyboards.If MD decided to pick it up, they could create packages with switches, stabs and keycap bundles to go with the base kit. Then if this took off, people could standardize around the CM M S PCB and offer aftermarket cases in Acrylic and Alu.
Anyone else think this is a workable idea or just plain stupid?