Weikav Stars21 Mechanical Keyboard Kit User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, and maintaining your Weikav Stars21 Mechanical Keyboard Kit. The Stars21 is a versatile numeric keypad kit featuring three connection modes (2.4G wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, and wired Type-C), RGB lighting, hot-swappable switches, and a customizable magnetic back panel. It supports QMK/VIA for advanced key remapping and programming.

Setup and Assembly

1. Unboxing and Initial Inspection

Carefully remove all components from the packaging. Ensure the following items are present:

• Stars21 Numeric Keypad Kit (case, PCB, positioning plate)
• USB Type-C cable
• Magnetic back panel (pre-installed or separate)
• Any additional accessories (e.g., switch puller, keycap puller, if included in your specific kit)

Note: This product is a kit and does not include switches and keycaps. You will need to purchase these separately.

2. Installing Switches and Keycaps

The Stars21 features a full-key switch socket hot-swapping design, allowing for free replacement of five-pin or three-pin switches without soldering.

1. Align the pins of your desired mechanical switch with the holes on the PCB.
2. Gently press the switch into the socket until it clicks into place. Ensure the switch is fully seated and the pins are not bent.
3. Repeat for all desired switch positions.
4. Once all switches are installed, align your keycaps with the switch stems and press down firmly until they are securely attached.

3. Attaching the Magnetic Back Panel

The Stars21 features a press-type magnetic back panel for easy customization.

1. Ensure the back panel is clean and free of debris.
2. Align the back panel with the bottom of the keypad.
3. Gently press the back panel into place. Magnets will secure it. To remove, press the upper part of the nameplate to detach it from the magnet and lift up.

4. Charging the Battery

The keypad is equipped with a built-in 2000mAh large-capacity lithium battery. For optimal performance, fully charge the device before first use.

• Connect the provided USB Type-C cable to the keypad's Type-C port and to a USB power source (e.g., computer, wall adapter).
• The RGB lighting may indicate charging status (refer to operating section for specific light indicators if available).

Operating Instructions

1. Connection Modes

The Stars21 supports three connection modes: 2.4G wireless, Bluetooth 5.0, and wired Type-C. A switch on the device allows you to toggle between modes.

• Wired Mode (Type-C): Connect the keypad directly to your computer using the provided USB Type-C cable. This mode also charges the battery.
• 2.4G Wireless Mode:
  1. Toggle the mode switch to 2.4G.
  2. Insert the 2.4G USB receiver into an available USB port on your computer.
  3. The keypad should connect automatically.
• Bluetooth 5.0 Mode:
  1. Toggle the mode switch to Bluetooth.
  2. On your device (computer, tablet, etc.), search for Bluetooth devices.
  3. Select "Stars21" (or similar name) from the list of available devices to pair.
  4. The keypad can connect to three devices simultaneously via Bluetooth. Refer to the specific key combinations for switching between paired Bluetooth devices (e.g., Fn+1, Fn+2, Fn+3).

2. RGB Lighting Effects

The Stars21 features 16 million color RGB dazzling light effects. You can enjoy dazzling cyber lighting effects and support multiple adjustable lighting modes to create a personalized gaming atmosphere.

Specific key combinations for changing lighting modes, brightness, and speed are typically found in the product's quick start guide or through QMK/VIA software. Common combinations include:

• Fn + [key] for changing effects.
• Fn + [arrow keys] for adjusting brightness or speed.

3. Custom Programming (QMK/VIA)

The Stars21-PAD fully supports QMK and VIA, allowing you to easily program each key on the keyboard and customize open-source firmware. This means keyboard layout, shortcuts, backlight effects, and more can be personalized.

To use QMK/VIA:

1. Download the VIA software from the official website (VIA supports MacOS, Windows, and Linux).
2. Connect your Stars21 keypad to your computer via the USB Type-C cable.
3. Open the VIA software. It should automatically detect your keypad.
4. Use the graphical interface to remap keys, create macros, and customize lighting effects.
5. Save your changes to the keypad's firmware.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning the Keypad

To ensure longevity and optimal performance, regular cleaning is recommended.

• General Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution to wipe down the exterior of the keypad. Avoid harsh chemicals.
• Keycap Cleaning: If keycaps become dirty, you can remove them using a keycap puller and wash them with mild soap and water. Ensure they are completely dry before reattaching.
• Dust Removal: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keycaps and switches.

2. Replacing the Magnetic Back Panel

The magnetic back panel can be easily replaced to change the aesthetic of your keypad.

• To remove the current back panel, gently press on the upper part of the nameplate to detach it from the magnets, then lift it off.
• To install a new back panel, align it with the bottom of the keypad and press firmly until the magnets engage.

Troubleshooting

1. Connectivity Issues

• Wired Connection Not Working:
  • Ensure the USB Type-C cable is securely connected to both the keypad and your computer.
  • Try a different USB port on your computer.
  • Test with a different USB Type-C cable if available.
• 2.4G Wireless Connection Issues:
  • Ensure the keypad is switched to 2.4G mode.
  • Verify the 2.4G USB receiver is properly inserted into a USB port.
  • Try moving the keypad closer to the receiver to rule out interference.
  • Re-pair the 2.4G connection if necessary (refer to specific pairing instructions if provided with the 2.4G receiver).
• Bluetooth Connection Issues:
  • Ensure the keypad is switched to Bluetooth mode.
  • Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your host device.
  • Forget the device in your device's Bluetooth settings and attempt to re-pair.
  • Ensure the keypad is not already connected to another device (it supports up to three simultaneous Bluetooth connections, switch using Fn+1/2/3).

2. Charging and Battery Issues

• Keypad Not Charging:
  • Check the USB Type-C cable and power source.
  • Ensure the cable is fully inserted.
  • Try a different cable or power adapter.
• Short Battery Life:
  • High RGB brightness and complex lighting effects consume more power. Try reducing brightness or using simpler effects.
  • Ensure the keypad is fully charged before use.

3. Key Functionality and Lighting Issues

• Keys Not Registering:
  • Ensure switches are fully seated in their sockets. Remove and re-insert if necessary.
  • Check for bent switch pins.
  • If using QMK/VIA, verify the key mapping is correct.
• RGB Lights Not Working/Incorrect:
  • Check lighting settings via QMK/VIA software.
  • Ensure the keypad is not in a low-power mode that disables lighting.

Specifications

The following table outlines the key specifications of the Weikav Stars21 Mechanical Keyboard Kit:

User Tips

• Experiment with Switches: The hot-swap feature allows you to try different switch types (linear, tactile, clicky) to find your preferred typing feel without needing a new keyboard.
• Customize with VIA: Take advantage of the QMK/VIA compatibility to create custom key layouts, macros, and lighting effects tailored to your workflow or gaming needs. This can significantly enhance productivity.
• Battery Management: To maximize battery life, consider turning off RGB lighting when not needed, especially in wireless modes.
• Magnetic Back Panel: Explore different magnetic back panel designs to personalize your keypad's appearance.
• Sound Customization: The PCB-GASKET structure and sound-dampening layers provide a premium typing sound. Experiment with different switches and keycaps to further refine the acoustic profile.

Warranty and Support

For any technical issues, warranty claims, or support inquiries, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.

The product is certified with CE and UL standards, indicating compliance with relevant safety and quality regulations.