What is it?

The BlueHand was custom designed for the layout of artsey.io. This layout uses 8 keys as a chorded layout that allows for typing pretty much everything by pressing chords instead of single keys (a bit like steno keyboards). It's easy to pick up in your own hands and even type from inside your pockets!

Why did you make it?

I always wanted to have a small pocketable macropad that could easily be programmed for various uses (Presentations, OBS Studio scene switcher, etc) and connect wirelessly to my computer using BLE. Since it's completely enclosed using the acrylic mid-plate, it's looks quite finished and doesn't look like a maker prototype.

Since it's BLE enabled, it can be used with phones and tablets for things like easy access to Procreate shortcuts.

What makes it special?

It's designed to be compatible with the BlueMicro840. This means that it uses the same bootloader and can be programmed using a wide range of tools going from the simple Arduino IDE, to the latest Zephyr framework (and ZMK), all the way to the complex but very powerful Nordic SDK.

Since it's a full wireless BLE keyboard, it has the following features:

• nRF52840 Processor
• 8 keys
• Works by USB or BLE (depends on firmware implementation)
• On-board LiPo Battery charger
• 3 LEDs: 1 for Battery Charging Status and 2 controlled by the firmware for status information
• On board speaker/buzzer for audio feedback (depends on firmware implementation)
• Hidden power and reset switches

The BlueHand comes pre-programmed with the BlueMicro840 bootloader and a test firmware for you to test each key when you assemble it. Artsey.io layout programmed in ZMK can be flashed to it. Let me know if you want left or right config. Alternately, you can go to the Artsey ZMK Repo to get the latest build. If you want to reprogram the BlueHand, you can start with the examples provided in the BlueMicro_BLE firmware.

CircuitPython

Since the BlueHand is a macropad designed to be compatible with the BlueMicro840 and that the BlueMicro840 now supports CircuitPython, you can program your BlueHand with CircuitPython! To get started, get the latest download from the official CircuitPython.org site, "double-reset" the BlueHand and drop in the UF2. On rebooting, the BlueHand will show up as "CIRCUITPY" drive on your computer.

Notes

• The Acrylic plate shown requires a few more holes to be drilled to allow room for the switches to be installed. The design of the acrylic mid-plate will be updated in future updates to ensure that drilling isn't required for proper assembly.
• Standoffs and screws must all be installed and tightened. Electrical connection between the switches and the processor is made through these standoffs.
• Although designed to be used with Kailh Choc Low Profile switches, the switch plate also supports MX-style switches.
• Standard order does not come with switches or keycaps. You will need to obtain these yourself.
• Some assembly is required, including soldering of the switches.