ROCCAT Isku Illuminated Gaming Keyboard User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides comprehensive instructions for the ROCCAT Isku Illuminated Gaming Keyboard. It covers setup, feature explanations, operational guidance, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device.

Image 1: The ROCCAT Isku Illuminated Gaming Keyboard. This image displays the full layout of the keyboard, including the main key area, macro keys, media keys, and the integrated wrist rest, all illuminated with blue backlighting.

Setup

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the keyboard from its packaging. Ensure all components are present.

2. Connection: Connect the keyboard's USB cable to an available USB port on your computer. The keyboard is designed for plug-and-play functionality.

3. Driver Installation: The ROCCAT Isku typically installs necessary drivers automatically upon connection. For advanced customization and macro management, download the latest ROCCAT driver and Macro Manager software from the official ROCCAT website. This software provides sound feedback and macro presets for various applications.

4. Cable Management: Utilize the integrated cable channels located under the keyboard to route your headset or mouse cables, maintaining a tidy workspace.

Key Features

• Easy-Shift[+] Technology: This feature allows for key duplication, effectively expanding the number of programmable functions. It provides 36 customizable macros strategically located in three zones, including the WASD area. The Easy-Shift[+] key functions similarly to a standard shift key, enabling activation of secondary functions.

  

  Image 2: Close-up of the left side of the ROCCAT Isku keyboard, highlighting the M1-M5 macro keys and the Easy-Shift[+] key, which enables secondary functions for various keys.

• Thumbster Macro Keys: Three individually programmable macro keys are positioned below the spacebar, designed for quick activation with your thumb.

  

  Image 3: Detail of the ROCCAT Isku keyboard's lower section, showing the three Thumbster keys (T1, T2, T3) located beneath the spacebar, designed for ergonomic thumb access.

• Macro Live! Recording: This feature allows for in-game macro recording. Press the dedicated M-Rec button, and the Sound Feedback tool will guide you through the recording process. Up to 500 actions can be programmed for each of the 180 available macros.

• Macro Manager Software: For menu-based macro recording and fine-tuning, the Macro Manager software offers precise control and an intuitive interface. It includes a Loop Function for repeating settings up to 255 times and comes with presets for popular games and office applications.

• Profile Management: Five profile slots are available to save customized settings, including button configurations, lighting levels, and DPI preferences. Profiles can be activated instantaneously with a dedicated button, indicated by five bright LED profile indicators. The ROCCAT Voice Sound Feedback tool announces the selected profile. A dedicated Windows profile can also be set for automatic switching.

• Optimized Illumination: The keyboard features off-white UV-coated keys with extreme ice blue backlighting, offering 6 adjustable brightness levels. This ensures key visibility in low-light conditions and helps reduce eye strain during extended use. An auto-dim feature can be programmed to switch off illumination after a user-defined period of inactivity.

• Integrated Wrist Rest: An extra-large granular wrist rest provides stability and comfort, designed to prevent wrist fatigue. Its surface texture supports controlled lateral movement.

• ROCCAT Talk: This technology enables compatible ROCCAT gaming devices, such as the Isku keyboard and Kone[+] mouse, to communicate. This allows for combined macro execution and features like Easy-Aim, where holding a keyboard key instantly optimizes the mouse's DPI for precise targeting.

• Ultra-Fast Key Response: Medium-height keys with optimized architecture provide a responsive keystroke. A 1000Hz polling rate ensures immediate command execution. Advanced anti-ghosting technology allows for simultaneous key presses without input loss.

• Audible Countdown Timer: The ROCCAT Timer provides an audible countdown for various events, useful for in-game tactical advantages.

• Configurable Media Keys: Eight media keys are positioned at the top of the keyboard, offering quick access to 25 assignable functions. Additionally, 12 programmable F keys provide further customization options.

Operating Instructions

Programming Macros

1. Using Macro Live! Recording:

   • Press the dedicated M-Rec button (located above F3).
   • Follow the audio prompts from the Sound Feedback tool to select a macro key (M1-M5, Thumbster keys, or other programmable keys) and record your sequence of actions.
   • Press M-Rec again to save the macro.

2. Using Macro Manager Software:

   • Open the ROCCAT Macro Manager software on your computer.
   • Select the desired key to program.
   • Input or record the macro sequence using the software interface.
   • Utilize the Loop Function for repetitive actions if needed.
   • Save your changes to the selected profile.

Activating Easy-Shift[+] Functions

To activate a secondary function assigned via Easy-Shift[+], press and hold the Easy-Shift[+] key (typically M3 or a designated key) simultaneously with the key that has the programmed secondary function. This allows for quick access to additional commands without changing hand position.

Switching Profiles

Use the dedicated profile switch buttons (P1-P5, usually located above the F-keys) to cycle through your saved profiles. The LED indicators will show the active profile. The ROCCAT Voice Sound Feedback will announce the profile name if enabled.

Adjusting Illumination

Press the illumination key (often represented by a lightbulb icon) to cycle through the 6 brightness levels or to turn the backlighting off. You can configure the auto-dim feature through the ROCCAT software.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the keyboard surface. For deeper cleaning, a slightly damp cloth with mild soap can be used, ensuring no liquid enters the key switches or internal components. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.

• Dust Removal: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keys. Hold the can upright to prevent propellant discharge.

• Storage: When not in use for extended periods, store the keyboard in a clean, dry environment away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.

Troubleshooting

Keyboard Not Responding:

Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer. Try a different USB port. Restart your computer.

Macros Not Activating:

Verify that the ROCCAT driver and Macro Manager software are installed and up to date. Check your macro assignments within the software. Ensure the correct profile is active. For Easy-Shift[+] macros, confirm you are holding the Easy-Shift[+] key simultaneously with the target key.

Illumination Issues:

Press the illumination key to adjust brightness levels. Check the ROCCAT software for any illumination settings or auto-dim configurations that might be active.

Keys Not Registering (Anti-Ghosting):

While the Isku features advanced anti-ghosting, ensure keys are fully pressed. If issues persist, update keyboard drivers or test on another computer to rule out system-specific problems.

ROCCAT Talk Not Functioning:

Ensure all connected ROCCAT devices are compatible with ROCCAT Talk and have the latest drivers installed. Verify ROCCAT Talk is enabled in the software settings for both devices.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

The ROCCAT Isku Illuminated Gaming Keyboard is sold "as is" according to the provided legal disclaimer. For further support, driver downloads, or to inquire about specific warranty details, please visit the official ROCCAT website or contact their customer service.

Official ROCCAT Website: www.roccat.com