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X-keys® XKE-128 for KVM Control
X-keys XKE-128

X-keys XKE-128 front top detail back special feet box contents

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Optimized for controlling a KVM, these programmable keys can send any key combination or string of keystrokes, and lower operator error and training time. Anything an operator can do on a keyboard can be replicated and assigned to one clearly labeled key. Dedicated keys maximize efficiency and lower operator training time.

Please note: KVM version X-keys send pure USB HID keyboard codes and are intended for use only with hardware that does not have a traditional operating system behind it (like a KVM). If the X-keys will be connected directly to a Windows, OS X, or Linux computer, our standard X-keys products may be better suited to fit your requirements.

*This item has a lead time of five to ten working days. We will make every reasonable effort to prepare and ship your order as soon as possible. Your credit card will not be charged before we ship.

XKE-128 USB Keyboard Info Sheet

XKE-128 USB Keyboard Product Manual


Features

  • Specifically designed to work with KVM switches
  • Easy to program and duplicate
  • No software required for operation
  • 8x16 grid for keys and blockers
  • Heavy duty extruded aluminum case with powder coated finish
  • Addressable blue and red backlighiting for each key
  • USB connection to computer
  • A wide range of key caps and blockers available

This version of our X-keys XKE-128 is configured to work with KVM (Keyboard Video Mouse) switches to control multiple computers from a single work station.  Our free Windows based programming utility makes it easy to assign keystrokes, key combinations, and strings (with or without modifiers) to clearly labeled, dedicated keys.  The X-keys emulates a standard USB keyboard and eliminates issues with most KVM input limitations.

Prototyping
The XKE-128 KVM version ships fully populated with 128 relegendable keys - perfect for testing multiple layout options. Add optional large keys and key blockers to refine the layout. Using an established hardware platform saves time moving from prototype to production.

Production
When it comes time to reproduce your finished prototype, select options ranging from printed key legends to acrylic printed ABS keys to double-shot molded key caps. We offer custom brand labeling, assembly, programming, and testing to provide a delivered plug-and-play solution. We specialize in 10-100 unit custom control solutions with the capability to step up to thousands of units for large scale deployment.
X-keys XKE-128 Detail
Operating System
 Use: Any OS via USB HID | Programming: Windows XP through 10, Mac OS X 10.4 through 10.10
Free Programming Software
 MacroWorks 3.1 for Windows (XP or newer)
Emulation Modes
 HID Boot Keyboard
Switch Types
 Full-travel rubber dome, carbon on gold contacts, guaranteed for over 1 million operations
Number of Keys
 128 single keys + programming button
Actuation Force
 Approx. 2.5 oz (72g) break-over, approx. 1.5 oz (42g) hold
Key Cap Type
 Relegendable with Cherry MX compatible stem
Key Cap Size
 0.625” (16mm) sq.
Key Spacing
 0.75" O.C.
Optional Keys
 2X1, 1X2, 2X2
Backlighting
 128 blue and 128 red LEDs, individually addressable
Connector
 Wired USB 2.0 standard “A” plug
Cord Length
 56” (1.42 m)
Dimensions
 14" x 7.3" x 1.8" (279mm x 185mm x 46mm)
Weight
 4.7lbs (2.13 kg)
USB type
 USB 1.1 compatible through 3.0
Power Source
 USB port, nominal voltage = 5 VDC
Current Draw
 NO backlight: 37 mA , Blue backlight full: 176 mA, Red backlight full: 265 mA, All backlights full: 358 mA
Temperature Range
 -20 to 60 C
Memory Capacity
 Approximately 21,000 keystrokes or commands in onboard memory
Humidity
 80% Rh non-condensing
Environmental Rating
 IP 40, typical indoor office environment
Certifications
 FCC class B, CE, RoHS, WEEE compliant

XKE-128 KVM Spec Sheet PDF
X-keys XKE-128 Dimensioned Drawing

Download PDF: XKE-128DD.pdf

 

Sketchup 3D Model

We offer this Sketchup model as a 3D rendering of the XKE-128 for viewing or planning purposes. Dimensions and details of the model, while reasonably accurate, should not be used for critical specifications.

View or download this model in Sketchup 3D Warehouse.

Download a free copy of Sketchup or Sketchup Viewer here: www.sketchup.com

    MacroWorks 3.1 for Windows (free download)

  • Launch programs, insert Unicode, open files and directories, select tools and more
  • Can write macros to X-keys memory for Hardware Mode macro programming
  • Control backlighting globally or for individual keys
  • Create custom scripting with Visual Basic (Software Mode only)
  • Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista (32 or 64 bit) and Windows XP (32 bit only)
  • Free technical support via email or phone
  • More info...

    X-keys Basic Setup (free download)

  • Record hardware-based macros to your X-keys hardware for playback on any system that supports USB
  • Program keystroke, mouse, game controller, multimedia and alt-code messages (compatibility depends on your device)
  • Control backlighting globally or for individual keys
  • Compatible with Windows 10, 8, 7, and Vista (32 or 64 bit) and Windows XP (32 bit only)
  • Free technical support via email or phone
  • More info...

Keycaps and Key Blockers

Tall, wide, quad and colored keys for your X-keys. Transparent keys enhance backlighting.

Key Legends

Blank legend sheets and custom printed legends.

USB Extender

Extend your X-keys up to 150 feet via CAT 5 or equivalent network cable.

Keycaps for X-keys

Resources for Software Developers

P. I. Engineering offers a wide range of options for application developers.  Click on any heading to learn more.  If you don’t see what you’re looking for here, please contact us ([email protected]).  We have friendly techs and engineers waiting to help you integrate X-keys into your solution.

X-keys Integration

See how to integrate your X-keys with the Hardware Mode, Software Mode with MacroWorks Software, or the Software Mode with a Custom Application.

Windows SDK

Includes comprehensive examples in C#, C++, and VB.NET for Windows desktop development in Visual Studio, as well as Java for Android development in Eclipse. Supported via phone and email during standard business hours by our technical support staff.

Linux SDK

Open source Linux support written in C++. Features code for accessing all X-keys controls and key states and includes a simple, straight forward example GUI. Written by Linux HID expert Alan Ott.

Android Samples

Assorted Eclipse projects we have created to demonstrate how to handle various input options (such as joystick and game controller button data) on Android.

HID Data Reports

Learn how to read the X-keys’ raw output and use it to integrate X-keys into your application in any language, on any HID-enabled platform.  

Case Studies

See how other developers have implemented X-keys for fun and profit.