This Smart Macro Keyboard Is Perfect for PCB Design and CAD
Hub16 is a programmable macro keyboard that you can build yourself in order to eliminate the need for annoying key combination shortcuts.
Working with any kind of complex software requires the frequent use of specific tools. Navigating through menus and toolbars to find them is usually slow, so most of us try to learn the shortcuts for them. But those can be difficult to remember and force you to push uncomfortable key combinations. That’s true for all kinds of software, including CAD (Computer Aided Design), PCB design, video editing, and illustration programs. Even some games have shortcuts to remember. Hub16 is a programmable macro keyboard that you can build yourself in order to eliminate the need for those annoying key combination shortcuts.
As the name suggests, Hub16 contains 16 keys. By default, all of them except for one can be used to activate macros and software tool shortcuts. The final key is used to change the LED lighting effects. All of those keys have Cherry MX compatible switches, which have a great tactile feel. You can use whatever specific switches you want to achieve your desired level of clickiness. There are also two rotary encoders that can be used for additional functions, such as adjusting the trace width in KiCAD. Hub16 has 11 individually-addressable RGB LEDs, and even a four port USB hub with Type-C connectors for your other devices.
Many other macro keyboards have similar hardware, but it’s the firmware and software that makes this one unique. Anytime a key is pressed, the microcontroller actually sends a key combination starting with F24. This ensures that it won’t inadvertently activate an actual shortcut. Software such as AutoHotKey running on the PC then picks up that key combination and activates the corresponding macro. AutoHotKey is a very robust scripting language that lets you automate all kinds of tasks, so Hub16 is far more powerful than a simple shortcut keyboard. If you want a Hub16, you can get the “barebones case” version for $49.95 on Tindie or one with a nicer acrylic case for $59.95. You will, however, need to provide your own key switches and key caps.