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
First and foremost, if you're not happy with your board, return it for a refund, end of story. For many supporters who are not satisfied this is probably your best option. We are working with the manufacturer to remedy these problems.
After that, please realize that Massdrop support is limited with the technical guidance they can offer. The best guidance will come from me, and be on my Web site, xmitkeyboards.com. I'm working on posting an update user manual, remapping tools, and keyboard firmwares there. Until I do so, please realize that everything posted as of now to that Web site is for Round 1, and you use those tools on Round 2 boards at your own risk.
I'm really upset about the quality issues we've been seeing. Nearly all of these were brought up with the manufacturers before, and all are regressions. I put my name on the line for these boards and my name is being dragged through the mud.
The manufacturers also read this page (they lurk quietly) so please continue to speak up if you are seeing any issues. Praise is welcome too, but please post your issues here.
Until next time, happy typing.
Would you consider making the firmware open source so that I can edit it myself if I was so inclined, even if it is not ready for official public release?
I would LOVE to make the firmware open source. In fact, I'm committing to doing so for the next revision of these boards. But the manufacturers have flatly refused to do this. I didn't write the firmware, they did, and that was a mistake. I've since fired those particular manufacturers (with prejudice). Long term my boards will run either Kiibohd, a variant of TMK/QMK that supports backlighting, or something else.