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
Its a sturdy build and I am happy with its build but ... at least this is only NKRO for Windows. If you use Linux, all modifies (Shift, Windows, Alt) become left-Shift. Sucks. The situation is similar with Mac but not exactly the same. (I did not test it in detail there).
Massdrop site doesn't mention but the manufacture's site only lists compatibility with Windows. So this may be expected.
Under Linux console (non-X), I run "showkey" command to check the situation.
All modifies under the NKRO mode produced "keycode 42" which is L-Shift under Linux.
Interesting thing is FN-key under the NKRO mode produced "keycode 190" (What is this?) and GNOME desktop toggles microphone input under Linux. (This may be related to the fact that FN under the NKRO mode caused up-arrow equivalent response under the MAC Xterm.)
I have no idea why FN-key transmit keycode to the PC. This NKRO mode maybe relying on some Windows only feature.
When switching to the NKRO mode under Linux, I do not see any rediscovery of USB device. NKRO itself is working since I can press more than 6 keys under Linux and Mac too.
I think I will use this keyboard as is for now. I hope the vendor releases some fix though.
With metal board mounted key switches, it was a bit noisy since the metal plate enhances noise. With some grease injected to the side of key stems in the key switches, noise is now reduced to be quiet enough.
Maybe ... later, I may put different controller such as Teensy with TMK to make FN key to offer more functionalities and right kind of NKRO.