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
I have two different workflows where having cut/copy/paste/delete/tab/enter on a micro board while I’m using my left hand on my trackball or touchpad would be fantastic.
That said, I would much prefer more keys to do this, but with KM, I can signal it to respond to 1-4 taps, long presses, etc., so as long as it sends to unique codes on one layer, I can get a couple dozen actions out of just two keys. so, copy/past (1 tap) cut/delete (taps 2-3 on #1) tab/enter (taps 2-3 #2), etc.
I’m also worried about the comments suggesting it fails on USB 2.0; but we’ll see. I also need to be able to turn off the RGB altogether, unless I can match my blue backlit and make a cowl to keep the light-leakage to a minimum.
I’m going to take a chance, knowing full well I’m also going to have to swap out the (likely garbage) keys for browns or blues.