Custom macro keypads are great for shortcuts in video games, document editing, or anywhere else a good keyboard shortcut comes in handy. The problem is they tend to get expensive, especially when you look at higher-end models. Luckily, it’s easy and cheap to build your own.
If you go DIY, you obviously won’t get some of the super-tactile, super-shiny branded models that are targeted at gamers or built to be ergonomic, but if you only use yours occasionally, it’s worth the money you’ll save. Instructables user johnofe outlines the process in the full post linked below, but overall it’s simple. You’ll need to pick up a USB keypad — they’re available for around $10 on eBay — then print some custom labels for the keys and glue them on using PVA glue, plug it in, and configure your macros.
Johnofe suggests HID Macros for the task, and even includes the macros he used (and his label sheets!) for the Photoshop-focused keypad he built. Of course, this isn’t the first time we’ve suggested using peripherals like these for productivity, since macro buttons and special features like these can help you work and play more efficiently.
In this case, you can have a whole keyboard for the task — whether it’s Photoshop actions, writing shortcuts, or MMO macros. Hit the link below to see how it’s all done.
Making a powerful programmable keypad for less than $US30 ($42) [Instructables]
Comments
2 responses to “How To Build A Cheap DIY, Programmable Macro Keypad”
Was expecting something a bit more full on in ‘building’ than just grabbing a numberpad and printing new labels and then just remapping the keys, using software specifically designed for this task.
I’d like to build a scientific calculator. It will have about 45 keys.
Somehow, the idea of buying 3 USB keypads and laying them side by side doesn’t seem right.
And that’s before we start talking about a display.