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
LSDJ does offer up an interesting option though: use a keyboard to enter your values in in real-time. This is an interesting little project that requires literally splicing an old school gameboy link cable with a PS2 cabled PC keyboard, and then actually playing that keyboard like a piano using the designated rows of keys. It seems a little extreme, but after you've typed in values for a few days with the DMG, you're ready to try just about anything. It also lets you play 'live' using the gameboy, which is pretty cool.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mi4dRRKKAG8
So my question to this group is, what keyboard and switches would you recommend for this project? Off the top of my head I'm thinking Red switches so you minimize any extra clicking while you're playing music, but I don't know if there's an even better low-noise option. What are some good boards that have PS2 cables instead of USB? Most of the one's I've seen are done with old junky keyboards, but I'd love to make something truly special. Lastly, does anyone know of any LSDJ keycap sets?
Thanks for your ideas!