DIY Custom Keyboard: Logitech, Backlit, Long-lasting

Enhancing your typing experience involves crafting a bespoke keyboard with superior features. While mechanical keyboards offer excellent tactile feedback, finding a wireless option with backlighting can be challenging. This guide presents a step-by-step process to transform an underutilized backlit Dareu mechanical keyboard and a Logitech K270 Unifying wireless keyboard into a high-performance, personalized device.

Key Objectives:

· Optimal Mechanical Feel: Maintain the superior tactile response of a mechanical keyboard.

· Wireless Convenience: Leverage Logitech's expertise in wireless technology for extended range and minimal latency.

· Efficient Power Management: Address the common issue of frequent recharging with a strategic battery solution.

· Customizable Backlighting: Integrate backlighting capabilities for enhanced visibility and aesthetic appeal.

Materials Needed:

· Backlit Dareu mechanical keyboard (unused)

· Logitech K270 Unifying wireless keyboard

· Miller charger

· Scratch-resistant jumper wires

· One diode

· Screws

· Minimal wiring

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Disassembly and Main Control Integration:

· Disassemble the Dareu keyboard, considering its limited internal space.

· Trim a section from the top right corner of the Dareu's PCB for securing the Logitech K270's main control.

· Utilize steel wires for stable soldering on both sides, ensuring a secure fit.

2. Battery and Charging Optimization:

· Choose between internal lithium batteries (e.g., CR2032) for minimal backlighting or an external Miller charger for extended battery life.

· Modify the charger with a toggle switch for backlight control and a diode for voltage reduction.

· Secure the modified charger inside the keyboard for stability.

3. Backlighting and Circuit Refinement:

· Unsolder 4148 diodes on the PCB to minimize cutting.

· Retain the original keyboard lights and connect the Logitech keyboard's caps lock light to the corresponding location.

· Add a resistor between the Logitech main control's D+ and D- pins for proper functioning of the original keyboard light.

4. Final Assembly:

· Verify the functionality of all keys and lights.

· Assemble the keyboard, appreciating the optimized switches and tactile response.

· Enjoy the customizable backlighting feature, which can be turned off during daylight hours.

Performance Metrics:

· Current draw with backlight on: 65mA, providing approximately 50 hours of continuous use.

· Without backlight, a single charge of a 18650 battery should last around 5 years, with minimal power consumption due to the battery's self-discharge.

Embark on this DIY journey to create a personalized, high-performance keyboard that combines mechanical excellence, wireless convenience, efficient power management, and customizable backlighting.