Imported from GitHub: jpsutton/daspico · commit 8768746 · license GPL-2.0

Description

A custom keyboard controller (with QMK firmware) for the DasKeyboard Model S Professional

README

daspico

A custom keyboard controller (with QMK firmware) for the DasKeyboard Model S Professional

Overview

This project provides PCB designs and firmware to build a drop-in replacement keyboard controller for the DasKeyboard Model S Professional keyboard. The custom controller board connects to the keyboard's existing matrix through the original ribbon cable connector, providing modern USB connectivity and programmable functionality.

PCB Design Files

The board/ directory contains the complete KiCad project files for the custom controller PCB:

• CtrlBoard.kicad_pro - Main KiCad project file containing project settings and configuration
• CtrlBoard.kicad_sch - Schematic file with complete circuit design including:
  • Microcontroller (Raspberry Pi Pico/RP2040)
  • Matrix scanning circuitry
  • USB connectivity
  • Power management
  • Ribbon cable connector interface
• CtrlBoard.kicad_pcb - PCB layout file with component placement and routing
• CtrlBoard.kicad_prl - Project local settings (layer visibility, etc.)

Manufacturing

The PCB is designed to be manufactured by standard PCB fabrication services (I used OSHPark). The board includes:

• Standard 1.6mm thickness
• Single-sided assembly with minimal hand-soldering required
• Plated screw holes which line up with the placement of the original controller PCB

QMK Firmware

The qmk_profile/ directory contains a complete QMK firmware implementation for the daspico controller.

Building the Firmware

1. Set up QMK development environment following the QMK setup guide

2. Copy the profile to your QMK installation:

   cp -r qmk_profile/daspico /path/to/qmk_firmware/keyboards/
   

3. Build the firmware:

   qmk compile -kb daspico -km default
   

4. Flash to your controller:

   qmk flash -kb daspico -km default
   

Entering Bootloader Mode

To flash new firmware, enter the bootloader in one of these ways:

• Bootmagic reset: Hold Escape while plugging in the USB cable
• Physical reset: Press the reset button on the PCB (if populated)
• Keycode: Press the key mapped to QK_BOOT if available in your keymap

Customization

The default keymap provides standard DasKeyboard functionality. You can create custom keymaps by:

1. Copying qmk_profile/daspico/keymaps/default/ to a new directory
2. Editing the keymap.c file with your desired layout
3. Building with your custom keymap: make daspico:your_keymap_name

CircuitPython Firmware (Alternative)

In addition to QMK, this project includes a complete CircuitPython-based firmware implementation in code.py. This provides an alternative approach with easier customization and debugging capabilities.

For complete CircuitPython setup instructions, features, and customization options, see README.CPFirmware.md

The CircuitPython firmware (code.py) offers:

• Full USB HID keyboard functionality
• Advanced matrix scanning with debouncing
• Debug console for troubleshooting
• Easier customization without compilation
• Function key combinations
• N-key rollover support

Installation Photos

Adapter PCB

3D render of the daspico controller PCB showing component placement and board layout

Finished Installation

Installed in a DasKeyboard Model S Professional

Features

• Drop-in replacement: Designed to fit in the original DasKeyboard controller location
• Original connector compatibility: Uses the existing ribbon cable connection
• USB-C connectivity: Modern USB interface with reliable connection
• Programmable firmware: Full QMK support for custom layouts and macros
• Open source: Complete design files and firmware source available
• Multiple firmware options: Choose between QMK and CircuitPython implementations

Hardware Requirements

• Custom PCB (manufactured from provided design files)
• Raspberry Pi Pico or compatible RP2040 board
• Basic soldering skills for assembly
• DasKeyboard Model S Professional (for installation)

Contributing

Contributions are welcome! Please feel free to:

• Submit bug reports or feature requests
• Contribute PCB design improvements
• Add new firmware features
• Share installation photos and experiences

License

This project is licensed under the GPLv2 (same as QMK). See LICENSE for details.

Acknowledgments

• QMK Firmware project for the excellent keyboard firmware framework
• CircuitPython and Adafruit for the alternative firmware platform
• DasKeyboard Model S Professional for creating an excellent mechanical keyboard worth upgrading