KiiBoom Phantom 68 Mechanical Keyboard User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the KiiBoom Phantom 68 mechanical keyboard. The Phantom 68 is a 65% layout, gasket-mounted mechanical keyboard featuring hot-swappable switches, multi-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and USB-C wired), and customizable RGB lighting. Its transparent acrylic construction and KiiBoom Crystal Switches offer a unique aesthetic and typing experience.

Image 1: KiiBoom Phantom 68 Mechanical Keyboard in purple, showcasing its transparent design and key layout.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in the package:

• KiiBoom Phantom 68 Mechanical Keyboard
• Keycap Puller
• USB Cable (USB-C to USB-A)
• 2.4GHz USB Dongle

3. Setup Guide

3.1 Initial Charging

Before first use, connect the keyboard to a USB power source using the provided USB-C cable to ensure it is fully charged. The keyboard features a 4000mAh battery.

3.2 Connectivity Modes

The Phantom 68 supports three connection modes: USB-C Wired, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4GHz Wireless.

Image 2: Illustration of the KiiBoom Phantom 68 keyboard highlighting its Tri-Mode Connection Support: Type C Wired, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4G Wireless.

3.2.1 USB-C Wired Connection

1. Connect the USB-C end of the cable to the keyboard's USB-C port.
2. Connect the USB-A end of the cable to your computer's USB port.
3. Ensure the mode switch on the keyboard (located on the side/back) is set to the wired mode (usually indicated by a cable icon or "USB").
4. The keyboard will be recognized automatically by your operating system.

3.2.2 2.4GHz Wireless Connection

1. Locate the 2.4GHz USB dongle.
2. Plug the USB dongle into an available USB port on your computer.
3. Set the mode switch on the keyboard to 2.4GHz wireless mode (usually indicated by a wireless icon or "2.4G").
4. The keyboard should connect automatically. If not, press Fn + R to activate 2.4GHz pairing mode.

3.2.3 Bluetooth 5.0 Wireless Connection

1. Set the mode switch on the keyboard to Bluetooth mode (usually indicated by a Bluetooth icon or "BT").
2. Press and hold Fn + Q, Fn + W, or Fn + E for 3-5 seconds to enter pairing mode for Bluetooth device 1, 2, or 3 respectively. The indicator light will flash rapidly.
3. On your device (computer, smartphone, tablet), open Bluetooth settings and search for new devices.
4. Select "KiiBoom Phantom 68" from the list of available devices to pair.
5. Once paired, the indicator light on the keyboard will stop flashing.
6. To switch between paired Bluetooth devices, press Fn + Q, Fn + W, or Fn + E briefly.

Image 3: Close-up view of the KiiBoom Phantom 68's side, showing the USB-C port, and switches for Windows/Mac and Bluetooth/2.4G modes.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Operating System Compatibility

The Phantom 68 is compatible with Windows and Mac operating systems. Use the dedicated switch on the keyboard to select the appropriate operating system mode (Win/Mac) for optimal key mapping.

4.2 RGB Lighting Customization

The keyboard features south-facing RGB LEDs with 16.8 million colors and multiple dynamic patterns. You can choose from over 19 RGB lighting presets.

• Changing Presets: Refer to the keyboard's quick function guide (often printed on the bottom or available online) for specific key combinations to cycle through lighting effects.
• Brightness Control: Use Fn + ↑ to increase brightness and Fn + ↓ to decrease brightness.
• Speed Control: Use Fn + ← to decrease effect speed and Fn + → to increase effect speed.

Image 4: The KiiBoom Phantom 68 keyboard illuminated with vibrant RGB lighting, showcasing the transparent keycaps and acrylic body.

4.3 Software Customization

The Phantom 68 is programmable with dedicated software for Mac and Windows. This software allows for full customization of RGB effects, custom key programming, and macro function mapping. Download the software from the official KiiBoom website.

Image 5: Screenshot of the KiiBoom Phantom 68 software interface, showing options for lighting customization and key remapping.

4.4 Checking Battery Power

To check the battery level, press the key combination Fn + Backspace. The backlight will temporarily turn off, and the number keys 1 through 0 will light up to indicate the power percentage:

• Lights 1 to 10 indicate 10% to 100% power.
• Below 30% power, the indicator will be red.
• Between 30% and 50% power, the indicator will be yellow.
• Above 50% power, the indicator will be green.

Image 6: The KiiBoom Phantom 68 keyboard demonstrating the battery power check feature, with keys illuminating to show charge level.

5. Maintenance

5.1 Cleaning the Keyboard

To clean the transparent acrylic body and keycaps, use a soft, lint-free cloth. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water or a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the acrylic.

5.2 Hot-Swappable Switches

The Phantom 68 features hot-swappable sockets, allowing you to easily replace mechanical switches without soldering. It is compatible with most 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches.

1. Removing a Switch: Use the provided switch puller tool. Gently grip the switch from the top and bottom clips and pull upwards with even pressure until the switch detaches from the PCB.
2. Installing a Switch: Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB. Ensure the switch is oriented correctly. Gently press the switch down until it clicks into place. Do not force the switch, as this may bend the pins. If resistance is met, remove the switch, check the pins for bending, straighten them if necessary, and reattempt installation.

Image 7: A switch being removed from the KiiBoom Phantom 68 keyboard using a switch puller, demonstrating its hot-swappable feature.

6. Troubleshooting

6.1 Keyboard Not Responding

• Wired Mode: Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer. Verify the mode switch is set to wired mode. Try a different USB port or cable.
• 2.4GHz Wireless Mode: Ensure the USB dongle is properly inserted into a USB port. Check that the mode switch is set to 2.4GHz. Press Fn + R to re-establish connection.
• Bluetooth Mode: Confirm the keyboard is in Bluetooth mode and paired correctly with your device. Re-enter pairing mode (Fn + Q/W/E) and re-pair if necessary. Ensure your device's Bluetooth is enabled.
• Battery: Check the battery level (Fn + Backspace) and charge the keyboard if the battery is low.

6.2 Keys Not Registering or Double Typing

• This can sometimes be caused by a faulty switch or improper switch seating.
• Carefully remove the affected switch using the switch puller.
• Inspect the switch pins for any bends or damage. Straighten gently if bent.
• Reinsert the switch firmly into the socket, ensuring it is fully seated.
• If the issue persists, try replacing the switch with a known working one.

6.3 RGB Lighting Not Working or Incorrect

• Ensure the keyboard is powered on and not in a low-power state.
• Cycle through RGB presets using the designated key combinations.
• Check brightness settings (Fn + ↑/↓).
• If using the software, ensure the settings are applied correctly and the software is up to date.

6.4 Software Issues

• Ensure you have downloaded the correct software version for your operating system from the official KiiBoom website.
• Restart your computer and the keyboard.
• Reinstall the software if problems persist.

7. Specifications

7.1 KiiBoom Crystal Switch Specifications

The Phantom 68 comes with KiiBoom's proprietary pre-lubed Crystal Switches. Specifics for different color variants are provided below:

KiiBoom Pink Switch

• Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 38±15gf
• Bottom Force: 42±15gf
• Total Travel: 3.80±0.2mm
• Pre Travel: 1.6±0.4mm

KiiBoom Purple Switch

• Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 45±15gf
• Bottom Force: 55±15gf
• Total Travel: 3.80±0.2mm
• Pre Travel: 1.6±0.4mm

KiiBoom Crystal Switch

• Type: Linear
• Actuation Force: 55±15gf
• Bottom Force: 60±15gf
• Total Travel: 3.60±0.2mm
• Pre Travel: 1.6±0.4mm

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official KiiBoom website or contact KiiBoom customer service directly. Details regarding specific warranty periods and service procedures can be found on their support pages.

Official KiiBoom Website: www.kiiboom.com