Introduction
Thank you for choosing the LINGBAO K98 Mechanical Keyboard. This keyboard features a Gasket structure, hot-swappable switches, tri-mode connectivity (2.4G Wireless, Bluetooth, Wired USB-C), and customizable RGB backlighting, designed for an enhanced gaming and typing experience. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your new keyboard.
1. Setup
1.1 Package Contents
- LINGBAO K98 Mechanical Keyboard
- USB-C Cable
- Keycap Puller
- Switch Puller
- User Manual (this document)
- Dust Cover
1.2 Connection Modes
The LINGBAO K98 supports three connection modes: 2.4G Wireless, Bluetooth, and Wired USB-C.
Figure 1: Connection Mode Switch and Ports (2.4G, USB, BT, USB-C)
1.2.1 Wired Connection
- Ensure the mode switch on the keyboard is set to the 'USB' (wired) position.
- Connect the provided USB-C cable to the keyboard's USB-C port and the other end to your computer's USB port.
- The keyboard will automatically be recognized and ready for use.
1.2.2 2.4G Wireless Connection
- Locate the USB receiver stored magnetically in the keyboard's compartment.
- Ensure the mode switch on the keyboard is set to the '2.4G' position.
- Plug the USB receiver into an available USB port on your computer.
- The keyboard should automatically connect. If not, press and hold FN + 4# for 3 seconds to enter pairing mode. The indicator light will flash blue, then turn solid blue upon successful connection.
Figure 2: Magnetic USB Receiver Storage
1.2.3 Bluetooth Connection
- Ensure the mode switch on the keyboard is set to the 'BT' (Bluetooth) position.
- Press and hold FN + 1!, FN + 2@, or FN + 3# for 3 seconds to enter pairing mode for Bluetooth device 1, 2, or 3 respectively. The corresponding indicator light will flash.
- On your computer or device, search for Bluetooth devices and select 'K98 BT1', 'K98 BT2', or 'K98 BT3' to pair.
- The indicator light will turn solid upon successful connection.
1.3 Operating System Switching
The keyboard supports different operating system layouts. Use the following key combinations to switch:
- FN + Q: Android System
- FN + E: Mac System
- FN + W: Windows System
For Windows systems, FN+WIN locks/unlocks the WIN key. For Mac systems, the left WIN/ALT keys are swapped.
2. Operating Instructions
2.1 Multimedia Function Keys
The keyboard features built-in FN combination keys for quick multimedia operations. (Example for Windows system)
- FN + F1: Home
- FN + F2: My Computer
- FN + F3: Switch Window
- FN + F4: Open Resource Manager
- FN + F5: Backlight Brightness -
- FN + F6: Backlight Brightness +
- FN + F7: Previous Track
- FN + F8: Play/Pause
- FN + F9: Next Track
- FN + F10: Mute
- FN + F11: Volume -
- FN + F12: Volume +
- FN + ESC: Toggle Mute (press once to mute, press again to unmute)
2.2 RGB Backlight Control
Figure 3: RGB Backlight Effects and Control
2.2.1 Backlight Effect Adjustment
- FN + \|: Switch between 15 RGB backlight effects (e.g., Flowing Wave, Colorful, Breathing, Game Mode, etc.) and turn off.
- FN + ↑: Increase backlight brightness.
- FN + ↓: Decrease backlight brightness.
- FN + ←: Decrease backlight speed.
- FN + →: Increase backlight speed.
- FN + TAB: Switch backlight color.
2.2.2 Side Light Effect Adjustment
Figure 4: Side and Ambient Light Adjustment
- FN + Right Shift: Toggle side light effects (Flowing/Rainbow/Breathing/Off).
- FN + Right Ctrl: Adjust side light brightness and turn on/off.
- FN + /?: Switch side light speed.
- FN + .>: Switch side light color (Breathing and Constant modes).
2.2.3 Ambient Light Strip Adjustment
- FN + Left Shift: Switch ambient light strip effects (Flowing/Rainbow/Breathing/Off).
- FN + Z: Switch ambient light strip speed.
- FN + B: Enter power display mode (battery level and charging effect display).
3. Maintenance
3.1 Hot-Swappable Switches
The LINGBAO K98 features a full-key hot-swappable design, allowing for easy replacement of switches without soldering. This feature supports most 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches on the market.
Figure 5: Hot-Swappable Switch Replacement
3.1.1 Replacing Switches
- Use the provided keycap puller to carefully remove the keycap from the desired switch.
- Use the provided switch puller to gently grip the top and bottom clips of the switch.
- Pull the switch straight up to remove it from the PCB.
- Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure the pins are not bent.
- Replace the keycap.
3.2 Cleaning
- Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keycaps.
- For stubborn dirt, remove the keycaps and clean the switch housing with a cotton swab lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol.
- Wipe the keyboard surface with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
4. Troubleshooting
- Keyboard not responding: Check the connection mode switch (2.4G/BT/USB). Ensure the USB cable is securely connected or the wireless receiver is properly inserted. Check battery level.
- Wireless connection issues: Ensure the keyboard is within range of the receiver/device. Re-pair the keyboard (see Section 1.2.2 and 1.2.3). Avoid interference from other wireless devices.
- Backlight not working: Ensure backlight brightness is not set to minimum (FN+F5). Try cycling through backlight effects (FN+\|).
- Keys not registering: If a specific key is not working, try replacing the switch (see Section 3.1.1). Ensure the switch is fully seated.
- Battery not charging: Ensure the USB-C cable is properly connected to a power source and the keyboard.
5. Specifications
Figure 6: LINGBAO K98 Configuration Overview
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Model | K98 |
| Brand | AULA |
| Keyboard Standard | 98 Keys (with numeric keypad) |
| Operation Style | Mechanical |
| Keycup Material | PBT plastic |
| Switches Hot Swap | Yes (3-pin/5-pin compatible) |
| Structure | Gasket Structure |
| Internal Filling | Five-layer sound-dampening (PO core cotton, IXPE shaft pad, PET shaft pad, cotton, silicone pad) |
| PCB | 1.2mm single-key slotted PCB (under-light design) |
| Stabilizers | Fine-tuned satellite stabilizers |
| Connectivity | Tri-Mode: 2.4Ghz Wireless (1000Hz), Wired USB (1000Hz), Bluetooth (125Hz) |
| Backlight Type | Multicolor RGB (full color) |
| Side Lighting | Yes, side stream lighting |
| Battery Capacity | 5000mAh / 10000mAh (model dependent) |
| USB Receiver Storage | Magnetic absorption compartment |
| Language | English |
| Certification | CE |
| Dimensions (approx.) | Length: 40cm, Width: 20cm, Height: 10cm |
| Weight (approx.) | 1.1 kg |
Figure 7: Five-Layer Sound-Dampening Structure
Figure 8: Available Switch Types and Specifications
Figure 9: Battery Capacity Options
6. Warranty and Support
The LINGBAO K98 Mechanical Keyboard is designed for durability and performance. For any issues or support inquiries, please contact the seller or refer to the platform's return and refund policy. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.
7. User Tips
- Experiment with Switches: Since the keyboard is hot-swappable, don't hesitate to try different switch types to find your preferred typing or gaming feel.
- Customize RGB: Take advantage of the extensive RGB customization options to match your setup or mood.
- Battery Management: For optimal battery life, consider turning off the keyboard or using wired mode when not actively using the wireless features.
- Firmware Updates: Check the manufacturer's website periodically for any available firmware updates that might improve performance or add new features.
