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P20 Macropad

pabile edited this page Jun 13, 2024 · 7 revisions

Pabile 20-key or P20 was initially designed for ALPS switches and rotary encoder. You can find more details of this version here and PCB fabrication files here.

P17 was released together with P20v8 version. Both uses RP2040 Pico micro-controller. A supposedly minor adjustment on P20v8iii went chaotic that a separate configuration is needed to make a firmware fully functional. Take note of version numbers at back of PCB when choosing firmware - P20v8 is not interchangeable with P20v8iii and vice versa.

As of 20221026, ver6 and ver7 are available and out in the market. ver6 PCBs supports multiple layouts but will require switches to be soldered. ver7 on the other hand, have limited layout options but supports hot swap switches. More photos here.

Version Encoder Hot swap RGB Backlight ALPS Switch Support Layout
P17 Up to 4 Yes Yes No Fixed Numpad
P20v8 Up to 4 Yes Yes No Fixed Grid
P20v7 At least 1, up to 4 Yes Yes No Fixed
P20v6 Up to 4 No Yes Yes Grid / Numpad
P20v5 Up to 4 No No Yes Grid / Numpad
P20v1 2 No No Yes Grid / Numpad

Assembly Guide for P20 Macropad

This guide is intended for P20 with PCB version 6. Older versions may follow this guide.

Parts List

Qty Description
1 P20 PCB
1 P20 Top Plate
1 Pro Micro with pin headers
1 Tact switch
20 Diodes (either THT or SOD-123 package)
16 SK6812 RGB LEDs
up to 20 MX compatible switches
up to 4 EC11 Rotary Encoders
up to 3 Set of 2u PCB mount stabilizer
1 set Compatible keycaps and knobs

Additional component for P20v7 PCB

Qty Description
up to 19 Kailh CPG151101S11 or compatible sockets

P20v7 is fixed with its full grid layout. Stabilizers are not required for P20v7.

Required tools

  • Solder iron and solder wire
  • Flush cutter
  • Electrical tape
  • Tweezers

Preparations

There are at least 24 layouts that can be set for P20v6 PCB. It is important that the final layout be decided since all components are soldered. Changing the layout afterwards will require removable/desolder of Pro Micro and other components.

Soldering

  1. Seat and solder diodes to PCB
  2. Seat and solder RGB LEDs to PCB. GND is position on the top right most pad for P20v6. For P20v7, GND position is marked with a dot.
  3. For P20v7, seat and solder switch sockets to PCB. Hard press may be required to properly seat these sockets - lay the PCB on a flat and stable surface before pressing to avoid damaged on the PCB. Ignore this step for older PCB versions.
  4. Seat and solder pin headers to PCB.
  5. Seat and solder EC11 encoders to the PCB. For the encoder that seats on the side of the Pro Micro, it is advisable to trim its pins by at least 1mm so that it will not protrude and cause short circuit with the Pro Micro USB port. For P20v7, jump to step 8.
  6. If using stabilizers, seat stabilizers to its position/s.
  7. Seat switches to the top plate. Then seat/position on to the PCB. Firm but gentle press may be required to properly seat the switches' pins to the PCB.
  8. Solder switches
  9. Apply tape on the exposed pins on the Pro Micro area to prevent short circuit.
  10. Seat and solder Pro Micro. Trim excess pins on the bottom of the Pro Micro.

Firmware

QMK Firmware files shared here are VIAL compatible. Use below guide when choosing firmware on your P20:

  • pabile_p20_ver1_vial.hex - for PCB version 1
  • pabile_p20_ver2_vial.hex - for PCB version 2 with mono color LED. Actual PCB version ranges from 2 to 4 (iirc).
  • pabile_p20_ver2_vial_rgb.hex - for PCB version 2 with RGB LED. Actual PCB version ranges from 5 to 6 (iirc).
  • pabile_p20_ver2_p20v7.hex - for PCB version 7

Casing

3D design files for PCB v6 and older are available in the _casings folder. Each 3D printed casings will require at least 4pcs M2x6mm screws.

Stacked acrylic casings will require M2 bolts and stand offs. There are also two versions of the top most sheet: one for those with 4 encoders; and, open top version for all others.

Shown below are set of P20s. First two on the left are P20v6 - one in 3D printed casing and the other in stacked acrylic. Right most one is a P20v7 in stacked acrylic with a ~7 degree angle.

P20v7 DIY kits comes with a bottom cover to make a skeleton kit. Drawings for the stacked acrylic casing to be uploaded.

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