EPOMAKER TH80-X Gasket Mechanical Keyboard

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the EPOMAKER TH80-X Gasket Mechanical Keyboard. This advanced 75% layout keyboard is designed to provide an unparalleled typing experience with its innovative features, including a customizable LCD screen, triple connectivity modes, and a gasket-mount structure. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your new keyboard.

Figure 1.1: EPOMAKER TH80-X Gasket Mechanical Keyboard.

2. What's in the Box

Please check the package contents to ensure all items are present:

• EPOMAKER TH80-X Mechanical Keyboard
• Keycap Puller
• USB Cable (Type-C)

Figure 2.1: Package contents of the EPOMAKER TH80-X.

3. Product Overview

The TH80-X keyboard is designed with several key features to enhance user experience:

• Customizable LCD Screen: A built-in display screen allows for custom animations, logos, or images, reflecting personal style.
• Three Modes of Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB-C connections for versatile use across multiple devices.
• Built-in 4000mAh Battery: Provides extended usage time, reducing the need for frequent recharging.
• Optimized 75% Layout: A compact 79-key layout that retains essential keys while saving desk space.
• Precise Sound Control Knob: A convenient rotary knob for easy volume adjustment.
• Gasket-Mount Mechanical Keyboard: Features an EVA sandwich layer and bottom case pad for a soft, smooth typing experience with reduced noise.
• Hot-Swappable Switches: Keys are hot-swappable (3/5-pin), allowing for easy switch replacement without soldering.

Figure 3.1: Multifunctional Knob and Interactive LCD Screen.

Figure 3.2: Optimized 75% Layout with Knob and LCD Screen.

4. Setup and Connectivity

The TH80-X offers three connection modes: Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless, and wired USB-C.

4.1. Wired Connection

Connect the keyboard to your device using the provided USB-C cable. The keyboard will be automatically recognized and ready for use. This mode also charges the keyboard's internal battery.

4.2. 2.4GHz Wireless Connection

1. Locate the 2.4GHz USB dongle, usually stored in a compartment on the keyboard.
2. Plug the USB dongle into an available USB port on your computer.
3. On the keyboard, long press FN + 4 until the LCD screen displays "Pairing".
4. The keyboard will automatically connect to the dongle. Once connected, the screen will indicate successful pairing.

4.3. Bluetooth Connection

The keyboard supports up to three Bluetooth devices (BT1, BT2, BT3).

1. On the keyboard, long press FN + 1, FN + 2, or FN + 3 to enter Bluetooth pairing mode for the desired slot. The LCD screen will display "Pairing".
2. On your device (computer, tablet, smartphone), enable Bluetooth and search for new devices.
3. Select "EPOMAKER TH80-X" from the list of available devices.
4. Once paired, the LCD screen will confirm the connection.

To switch between paired devices (2.4GHz, BT1, BT2, BT3), short press FN + 4, FN + 1, FN + 2, or FN + 3 respectively.

Figure 4.1: Three Connection Modes.

Figure 4.2: Multi-platform Compatibility (Windows, Mac, Android).

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. LCD Screen Functions

The interactive LCD screen displays various information such as connection mode, battery level, and time. It can also be customized:

• Custom Animations/Images: Use the EPOMAKER driver software to upload custom GIFs or images to the screen.
• Mode Display: Shows current connection mode (Wired, 2.4G, BT1/2/3).
• Battery Indicator: Displays the current battery level.

5.2. Volume Control Knob

The rotary knob located on the top right of the keyboard provides convenient audio control:

• Turn clockwise to increase volume.
• Turn counter-clockwise to decrease volume.
• Press the knob to mute/unmute audio.

5.3. RGB Backlighting Control

The keyboard features customizable RGB backlighting. Use the following key combinations to adjust lighting effects:

• FN + ↑ / ↓: Adjust backlight brightness.
• FN + ← / →: Change backlight speed/direction.
• FN + Backspace: Cycle through different backlight modes.
• FN + \|: Switch backlight colors.
• FN + P: Toggle RGB on/off.

5.4. Programmable Driver and Macros

The EPOMAKER TH80-X supports a programmable driver for advanced customization, including key remapping, macro recording, and GIF/doodle uploads to the LCD screen.

• Download the official EPOMAKER driver software from the EPOMAKER website.
• Install the software and connect your keyboard.
• Use the intuitive interface to customize key functions, create complex macros, and personalize your LCD screen.

Figure 5.3: EPOMAKER Driver Software Interface.

Figure 5.4: Customizing the LCD Screen with the Sketchpad feature.

6. Maintenance

6.1. Cleaning the Keyboard

To maintain the keyboard's appearance and functionality:

• Disconnect the keyboard from all power sources before cleaning.
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution to wipe the keycaps and chassis.
• For deeper cleaning, use the provided keycap puller to remove keycaps and clean underneath with compressed air or a small brush.
• Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

6.2. Hot-Swapping Switches

The TH80-X features hot-swappable sockets, allowing you to change switches without soldering. This is useful for customizing typing feel or replacing faulty switches.

1. Using the keycap puller, gently remove the desired keycap.
2. Use a switch puller (not included, but often comes with switch sets) to carefully grip the switch and pull it straight up from the PCB.
3. Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB. Ensure the pins are straight to avoid bending.
4. Gently press the new switch into place until it clicks securely.
5. Reattach the keycap.

Figure 6.1: Gasket-Like Structure and Hot-Swap Capability.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your EPOMAKER TH80-X keyboard, please refer to the following common solutions:

7.1. Connectivity Issues

• Keyboard not connecting: Ensure the keyboard is charged. Verify the correct connection mode (wired, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth) is selected using FN key combinations. For wireless, ensure the dongle is properly inserted or Bluetooth is enabled on your device.
• Intermittent connection: Move the keyboard closer to your device. Avoid sources of interference (e.g., other wireless devices, large metal objects).
• Bluetooth pairing failure: Remove the keyboard from your device's Bluetooth list and attempt to re-pair. Ensure no other devices are trying to connect simultaneously.

7.2. Key Functionality Problems

• Keys not responding: Check if the keyboard is properly connected. If a specific key is not working, it might be a faulty switch. Utilize the hot-swap feature to replace the switch.
• Key chattering (multiple inputs from a single press): This can indicate a faulty switch. Try replacing the switch for the affected key.
• Incorrect key output: Ensure the keyboard is in the correct operating system mode (Windows/macOS). Check the EPOMAKER driver software for any custom key assignments or macros that might be causing unexpected behavior.

7.3. LCD Screen Issues

• Screen not displaying: Ensure the keyboard is powered on and charged. If the screen is blank, try restarting the keyboard.
• Custom content not appearing: Verify that the custom images/GIFs were uploaded correctly using the EPOMAKER driver software. Ensure the file format and size are compatible.

7.4. Battery Life Concerns

• Shorter than expected battery life: High brightness RGB lighting and continuous LCD screen activity consume more power. Reduce backlight brightness or turn off RGB when not needed. Ensure the keyboard is fully charged before use.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, and further assistance, please refer to the official EPOMAKER website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.