RedThunder RT84 Retro Typewriter Mechanical Keyboard User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the RedThunder RT84 Retro Typewriter Mechanical Keyboard. This keyboard combines a classic typewriter aesthetic with modern mechanical keyboard technology, offering a unique typing experience. It features multi-device connectivity, hot-swappable switches, and customizable backlighting. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your new keyboard.

The RedThunder RT84 keyboard showcasing its retro design with a smartphone and tablet.

2. Package Contents

Please check the package for the following items:

• RedThunder RT84 Mechanical Keyboard
• USB-C to USB-A Cable
• User Manual
• Keycap Puller
• Switch Puller
• Spare Mechanical Switches (Red)

All items included in the RedThunder RT84 keyboard package.

3. Product Features

• Retro Typewriter Design: Features a classic aesthetic with a silver lever, metal rollers, and round electroplated keycaps.
• Multi-Device Connectivity: Supports both wired (USB-C) and wireless (Bluetooth 5.0) connections. Connect up to three Bluetooth devices simultaneously and switch between them easily.
• Hot-Swappable Red Switches: Equipped with smooth and fast red mechanical switches that can be replaced without soldering. Ideal for both typing and gaming.
• Compact 84-Key QWERTZ Layout: A 75% layout with 84 keys, including function keys and arrow keys, in a standard German QWERTZ configuration.
• Dynamic Backlighting: Offers 14 built-in lighting modes. The left scroll wheel controls brightness.
• Wide Compatibility: Compatible with Android, Windows 7/8/8.1/10, iOS, and Mac OS. Can be connected to desktop PCs via USB cable.
• Long Battery Life: Integrated high-capacity battery provides up to 10 hours of continuous use with backlighting.

Detail view of the hot-swappable red mechanical switches.

4. Setup

4.1 Charging the Keyboard

Before first use, fully charge the keyboard using the provided USB-C cable. Connect the USB-C end to the keyboard's port and the USB-A end to a power source (e.g., computer USB port, USB wall adapter). The charging indicator light will show charging status.

4.2 Wired Connection

To use the keyboard in wired mode:

1. Ensure the power switch on the back of the keyboard is in the "OFF" position.
2. Connect the USB-C cable to the keyboard and the USB-A end to your computer.
3. The keyboard will be automatically recognized and ready for use.

4.3 Bluetooth Pairing

The RT84 supports connecting up to three Bluetooth devices.

1. Turn the power switch on the back of the keyboard to the "ON" position.
2. Press and hold Fn + Q (for device 1), Fn + W (for device 2), or Fn + E (for device 3) for 3-5 seconds until the corresponding indicator light (Q, W, or E) flashes rapidly. This indicates pairing mode.
3. On your device (PC, Mac, tablet, smartphone), enable Bluetooth and search for new devices.
4. Select "RedThunder RT84" from the list of available devices.
5. Once connected, the indicator light will stop flashing and remain solid for a few seconds before turning off.

The RedThunder RT84 keyboard demonstrating multi-device connectivity with a smartphone and tablet.

4.4 Switching Between Devices

To switch between paired Bluetooth devices, simply press Fn + Q, Fn + W, or Fn + E (short press) corresponding to the desired device. The keyboard will connect to the selected device within a few seconds.

4.5 Operating System Mode Switch

The keyboard supports both Windows and Mac OS layouts. To switch between modes:

• For Windows: Press Fn + A
• For Mac OS: Press Fn + S

Ensure the correct mode is selected for optimal key functionality on your operating system.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Basic Typing

The RT84 features a standard QWERTZ German layout. Simply type as you would on any other keyboard.

5.2 Backlight Control

• Change Lighting Mode: Use the silver lever on the left side of the keyboard to cycle through the 14 built-in backlight modes.
• Adjust Brightness: Rotate the left scroll wheel to increase or decrease the backlight brightness.

The silver lever and left knob used for backlight control.

5.3 Function Key Combinations (Fn)

The Fn key allows access to secondary functions printed on the keycaps. Some common combinations include:

• Fn + F1-F12: Multimedia controls (e.g., volume, play/pause, stop).
• Fn + Q/W/E: Switch between Bluetooth devices.
• Fn + A: Switch to Windows OS mode.
• Fn + S: Switch to Mac OS mode.
• Fn + Right Shift: Toggle backlight effects (alternative to lever).

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning the Keyboard

To clean your keyboard:

1. Turn off the keyboard and disconnect it from any power source.
2. Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution to wipe the keycaps and chassis.
3. For deeper cleaning, use the provided keycap puller to remove keycaps and clean underneath with compressed air or a small brush.

6.2 Replacing Switches

The RT84 features hot-swappable switches, allowing you to change them without soldering.

1. Use the provided switch puller to carefully remove the desired switch. Grip the switch firmly and pull straight up.
2. Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB.
3. Gently press the new switch into place until it clicks. Ensure it is seated correctly and functions properly.

7. Troubleshooting

7.1 Keyboard Not Responding

• Check Power: Ensure the keyboard is turned on and has sufficient battery charge. Connect it via USB-C cable to charge.
• Wired Connection: If using wired mode, ensure the cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer. Try a different USB port or cable.
• Bluetooth Connection: If using Bluetooth, ensure the keyboard is paired correctly (see Section 4.3) and you have selected the correct device channel (Fn+Q/W/E). Try re-pairing the device.

7.2 Bluetooth Disconnection Issues

• Battery Level: Low battery can cause unstable Bluetooth connections. Charge the keyboard fully.
• Interference: Move the keyboard closer to your device and away from other wireless devices that might cause interference.
• Re-pair: Remove the keyboard from your device's Bluetooth list and re-pair it.

7.3 Incorrect Key Output (e.g., @ symbol)

• OS Mode: Ensure the keyboard is set to the correct operating system mode (Fn+A for Windows, Fn+S for Mac OS). The QWERTZ layout can have different key mappings depending on the OS.
• Device Language Settings: Verify that your device's operating system language and keyboard layout settings match the QWERTZ German layout.

7.4 Backlight Not Working

• Brightness: Ensure the brightness is not set to the lowest level using the left scroll wheel.
• Battery: Low battery can affect backlight functionality. Charge the keyboard.
• Mode: Cycle through backlight modes using the lever to ensure it's not in an 'off' or 'dim' mode.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty Information

RedThunder products come with a standard manufacturer's warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package or visit the official RedThunder website for detailed warranty terms and conditions. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

10. Support

If you encounter any issues or have questions regarding your RedThunder RT84 keyboard that are not covered in this manual, please contact RedThunder customer service. Our support team is available to assist you.

You can typically find contact information on the RedThunder official website or through the retailer where you purchased the product.