Introduction

• Brief intro to macropads and what they’re useful for
• Why I decided to build one instead of buying

The design

• Based on void16 redux from victorlucachi’s GitHub
• 4x4 layout: 4 layer buttons + 12 macro keys
• Using nice!nano clone for Bluetooth capability with ZMK firmware

3D printing

• Printed case from void16 redux design
• Printed keycaps (red for layer buttons, black for macro keys)
• Link to flat MX keycap design on Printables

Hand-wiring the first version

• Soldering the matrix
• Using a nice!nano clone with a small battery
• Building ZMK locally

The keymap

• Initial attempt with F13-F24 keys didn’t work (system actions like Alt+F20 muting mic)
• Switched to Ctrl+Shift+Super modifier with regular keys
• 15 layers using button combinations (single buttons for 0-3, combos for 4-14)
• Gaming layer with WASD layout
• Combo to clear Bluetooth pairings (long-press all 4 layer buttons)

Designing a PCB

• Why I wanted a PCB version after the hand-wired prototype worked
• The KiCAD process (mention the footprint libraries used)

PCB assembly and mistakes

• Wrong footprint for nice!nano (had to hand-wire one pin to P1.06)
• Reversed +/- labels on battery connector silkscreen
• Flashing bootloader onto fake nice!nano boards
• Double-tap reset to enter USB mass storage mode for flashing

Epilogue

Tweet or toot at me, or email me directly.