P.I. Engineering

Introduction/product description:

The X-Keys Desktop MWII (Part # XD-03-USB-R) is a user programmable computer input device. It is a complete keypad suitable for handheld, mounted, or desktop use. It uses USB Human Interface Device (HID) to communicate with the host computer. It can emulate a keyboard, mouse, and communicate with MacroWorks 3 software. The standard keycaps are designed for custom labels and special sizes or other keycap types may be fitted to the Cherry MX key stems.

Features:

• 20 total keys, arranged in 4 x 5 matrix
• Green and red indicator LEDs
• MWII firmware, which features keyboard and mouse hardware endpoints
• Full MacroWorks 3 for software programming, in addition to internal memory for hardware resident macros.
• ControllerMate support for Mac software programming
• Complete SDK for Windows
• Accessories such as key blockers and keycaps available
• Phantom key protection

Indicator LEDs

The green LED will be on by default when the device is powered. When using the alternate red device layer, the red LED will turn on to create a visual reference for the current layer. Both LEDs are also capable of flashing. The LEDs can be manipulated in either software or hardware mode.

Programming Switch:

The programming switch is located on the right side of the X-Keys Desktop MWII. Turning the switch to the on 'red' position will display the MacroWorks 3 GUI by default. The programming switch MUST be on to write to the device memory, or change the unit ID.

Labeling a Key:

Labels may be inserted under the clear lens, which can be removed by prying with a fingernail or other thin object. Additionally, custom keycaps and lens are available. Please visit our website for more information on labels.

Removing a Key:

To remove a key, use a key puller or gently pry the keycap off the plunger. The keycaps may be rotated in 90 degree increments and inserted back into the stems if you desire.

Large Keys:

The X-Keys Desktop MWII uses Cherry MX mechanical switches with a cross stem. We offer an assortment of replacement keycaps, including tall, wide, square, and various colors of replacement single keycaps.

Visit our website for more details.

• XK-A-004-R Set of 10 beige keys
• XK-A-002-R Set of 10 beige tall keys
• XK-A-003-R Set of 10 beige wide keys
• XK-A-006-R Set of four 2x2 beige keys
• XK-A-303-R Key Puller

Key Blockers:

Key blockers can be installed by first removing the keycap, then pushing the blocker into place. Blocked keys can be indicated in MacroWorks 3 by restricting programming to that particular key.

XK-A-257-R Set of 10 key blockers for Cherry switch

Key Matrix:

Keys are arranged in a 4 x 5 matrix. The X-Keys Desktop MWII has a total of 20 keys

Phantom Key Protection:

Diodes are in place at each key, to prevent phantom keys when multiple keys are pressed. Unlike a normal computer keyboard, this unique design prevents keys from being ignored during multiple key press scenarios.

Non-volatile Memory:

The X-Keys Desktop MWII has a non-volatile memory to allow the unit to record keyboard and other hardware messages. If programmed, these message are retained with the individual unit. The messages are permanent until the unit is reprogrammed. This allows the programmed unit to be used on any USB compatible system without extra software. Keyboard and mouse messages can be stored and replayed from this memory.

A total of approximately 1200 keystrokes can be recorded on a single unit. These can be distributed over the 20 keys in any fashion. Mouse and joystick commands also use this memory and will reduce the total number of keystrokes available in memory. Additionally, other variables are stored in the unit memory, such as: Product ID, Endpoint settings, Unit ID, and start up backlighting state.

Unit ID:

Each device has a Unit ID to help identify an individual unit and prevent conflicts if 2 or more of the same devices are attached to computer. From the factory the UID is set to 0. The unit ID is incremented by the programming software to prevent conflicts and uniquely identify the associated macros. The maximum UID is 255, and is stored in the non-volatile device memory.

Endpoints and PIDs:

This device has 4 available USB HID endpoints to allow the device to emulate standard USB HID devices. The Product ID (PID) for the X-Keys Desktop MWII is 677; which includes the PI Consumer Input and Output endpoints. PID 678 is also available; including the keyboard and mouse endpoints. PID 678 is essentially hardware mode on the X-Keys Desktop MWII. Each endpoint is responsible for a specific kind of USB HID communication with our device.

Keyboard - Sends keyboard scancodes
Mouse - Mouse clicks, buttons, movements
PI Consumer Input - Sends consumer page messages to custom software
Output - Output to device, required endpoint for programming

SDKs:

The SDK (software development kit) contains data and sample programs to demonstrate how to write a complete custom application interface. There are samples that can view the full HID USB device consumer input reports, enabling you to manipulate the input with your own custom application. All aspects of the X-Keys Desktop MWII hardware can be tested with the sample programs. SDKs are available for the X-Keys Desktop MWIII in Windows. Please visit our website for more information on SDKs.

Mounting Kits:

Mounting kits are available for several devices. Visit our website for details.

Cable Length:

The standard USB limit on cable length is 5 meters, about 16 feet.

To achieve lengths much greater than 5 meters a USB Extender can be used. The X-keys Extender uses standard Category 5 cable to extend the connection between any X-keys USB device and the USB port on the computer. A standard CAT 5 cable cut to any length up to 150 feet (45.7 m) and wired with standard RJ45 network connectors is required.

Specifications:

Specifications are subject to change without notice.