Keychron Q0 QMK/VIA Mechanical Numeric Keypad User Manual

1. Introduction

The Keychron Q0 is a QMK/VIA compatible mechanical numeric keypad designed for enhanced productivity and customization. Featuring a hot-swappable design, an aluminum frame, RGB backlighting, and Gateron G Pro switches, it offers a premium typing experience for various computing environments.

Image: The Keychron Q0 numeric keypad shown alongside a full-size Keychron keyboard and a computer monitor, illustrating its use as an accessory.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your Keychron Q0 package:

• 1x Fully Assembled Number Pad (including Aluminum Case, PCB, Steel Plate, Sound Absorbing Foam, Case Foam, 3x sets Stabilizers, 1 set x Keycaps (Double-Shot PBT), 1 set x Switches (Gateron G Pro))
• 1x Type-C to Type-C Cable
• 1x Type-A to Type-C Adapter
• 1x Switch Puller
• 1x Keycap Puller
• 1x Screwdriver

Image: An illustration detailing the components included in the Keychron Q0 package, such as the numeric keypad, USB cables, switch puller, keycap puller, and screwdriver.

3. Key Features

• QMK & VIA Support: Program and remap each key with open-source firmware for custom layouts, shortcuts, and backlight effects.
• Premium Aluminum Frame: Crafted from 6063 aluminum through CNC machining, polishing, anodizing, and sandblasting for a durable and aesthetically pleasing finish.
• OSA Profile Double-Shot PBT Keycaps: Provides excellent oil resistance, enhances typing feel, and prevents legend fading.
• Hot-Swappable Gateron G Pro Switches: Optimized switches with precise positioning and reduced wobble. Sockets on the PCB allow for switch installation or changes without soldering, supporting both 3-pin and 5-pin MX mechanical switches.
• South-facing RGB LED Lights: Designed to illuminate the backlight effectively from the typist’s angle, especially with non-shine-through PBT keycaps. This orientation also prevents interference when using OEM or Cherry-profile keycaps.

Image: A graphic summarizing key features of the Keychron Q0, including QMK/VIA support, 1000 Hz polling rate, hot-swappable switches, and south-facing RGB lighting.

Image: An exploded diagram illustrating the internal layers of the Keychron Q0, from keycaps and switches down to the bottom case, highlighting components like the PCB and sound-absorbing foam.

Image: A close-up view of the stabilizers used in the Keychron Q0 numeric keypad, showing their design and construction.

4. Setup

1. Unpack: Carefully remove the Keychron Q0 numeric keypad and all accessories from its packaging.
2. Connect: Use the provided USB-C to USB-C cable to connect the keypad to your computer. If your computer only has USB-A ports, use the included USB-A to USB-C adapter.
3. Placement: Position the keypad on your desk in a comfortable and accessible location, typically to the right of your main keyboard.
4. Initial Test: Open a text editor or spreadsheet program and test each key to ensure proper functionality.

5. Operation

The Keychron Q0 functions as a standard numeric keypad, providing number input and common arithmetic operators. Its QMK/VIA compatibility allows for advanced customization beyond standard operation.

5.1 Basic Key Functions

The keypad includes standard numeric keys (0-9), decimal point (.), and arithmetic operators (+, -, *, /). It also features "num clear" and "enter" keys for typical numeric entry tasks.

5.2 RGB Backlighting

The Keychron Q0 features south-facing RGB LED lights. The backlight patterns and colors can be adjusted through the QMK/VIA software. Refer to the customization section for details on how to configure lighting effects.

Image: The Keychron Q0 numeric keypad illuminated with multi-color RGB backlighting, showcasing the south-facing LED design.

5.3 Typing Sound Test

The Keychron Q0 is equipped with Gateron G Pro Brown switches, offering a tactile typing experience. For an auditory demonstration of the typing sound, please refer to the official product video below.

6. Customization with QMK & VIA

The Keychron Q0 fully supports QMK (Quantum Mechanical Keyboard) firmware and VIA software, allowing for extensive customization of key assignments, macros, and lighting effects without requiring any programming knowledge.

1. Download VIA Software: Visit the official Keychron website or the VIA configurator website to download the latest version of the VIA software compatible with your operating system.
2. Connect Keypad: Ensure your Keychron Q0 is connected to your computer via USB-C.
3. Launch VIA: Open the VIA software. It should automatically detect your Keychron Q0.
4. Remap Keys: Use the graphical interface to drag and drop key functions to different keys, create macros, and configure multiple layers for diverse functionalities.
5. Adjust Lighting: Customize RGB backlight patterns, colors, and brightness directly through the VIA software.

For detailed instructions and advanced configurations, refer to the official QMK and VIA documentation available online.

Image: A screenshot of the VIA software interface, demonstrating how users can remap keys and configure layers for the Keychron Q0 numeric keypad.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Cleaning

• Keycaps: Use the provided keycap puller to remove keycaps. Clean them with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth, then rinse and dry thoroughly before reattaching.
• Case: Wipe the aluminum case with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Switches: For deeper cleaning or switch replacement, use the switch puller to carefully remove switches. Use compressed air to clear dust and debris from the PCB.

7.2 Hot-Swapping Switches

The Keychron Q0 features hot-swappable sockets, allowing you to change switches without soldering. Use the provided switch puller to gently remove existing switches and press new compatible 3-pin or 5-pin MX mechanical switches into place. Ensure the pins are aligned to avoid bending.

8. Troubleshooting

Keypad not recognized by computer:

• Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keypad and the computer.
• Try a different USB port on your computer.
• Test with a different USB-C cable.
• Restart your computer.

Keys not responding:

• Check if the keycaps are properly seated.
• If using hot-swappable switches, ensure the switches are fully inserted and their pins are not bent.
• Clean any debris around the affected switch.
• If a specific key is consistently unresponsive, consider replacing the switch.

RGB backlighting not working or incorrect:

• Ensure the keypad is powered on and connected.
• Check VIA software settings for lighting configurations.
• Update the keypad's firmware if available from the Keychron website.

9. Specifications

10. Warranty and Support

For detailed warranty information, product support, and frequently asked questions, please visit the official Keychron website. You can also find updated firmware and VIA software downloads there.

Keychron Official Website: www.keychron.com

Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.