EPOMAKER Shadow-X Gasket Mechanical Keyboard User Manual

1. Introduction

The EPOMAKER Shadow-X is a versatile mechanical keyboard designed for an enhanced typing experience. It features a gasket-mount structure, hot-swappable switches, and multiple connectivity options including wired USB-C, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. The keyboard also includes an intuitive color display screen and a metal rotary knob for easy control and status monitoring.

The EPOMAKER Shadow-X mechanical keyboard features a compact layout with RGB backlighting and a small display screen.

2. Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package:

• EPOMAKER Shadow-X Mechanical Keyboard
• User Manual
• 2-in-1 Keycap/Switch Puller
• USB-C Cable
• 2.4GHz Wireless Dongle
• Additional Keycaps (if included with your specific model)
• Additional Switches (if included with your specific model)

The package includes the Shadow-X keyboard, a user manual, a 2-in-1 keycap/switch puller, a USB-C cable, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle, and additional keycaps and switches for customization.

3. Setup

3.1 Physical Setup

1. Unpack the keyboard and all accessories.
2. Place the keyboard on a stable, flat surface.
3. Adjust the keyboard's height using the flip-out feet on the underside for ergonomic comfort.

3.2 Connectivity Modes

The Shadow-X keyboard supports three connection modes: USB-C Wired, 2.4GHz Wireless, and Bluetooth. Use the rotary knob located on the top right of the keyboard to select your desired mode.

The keyboard supports three connection types: 2.4GHz wireless via a USB dongle, Bluetooth 5.0 for low-latency connections, and a direct USB-C wired connection. The mode can be selected using the rotary knob.

3.2.1 USB-C Wired Mode

• Connect the provided USB-C cable to the keyboard's port and to your computer's USB port.
• Rotate the knob to the 'USB' position. The keyboard will be recognized automatically by your operating system.

3.2.2 2.4GHz Wireless Mode

• Insert the 2.4GHz wireless dongle into an available USB port on your computer.
• Rotate the knob to the '2.4G' position. The keyboard should connect automatically.

3.2.3 Bluetooth Mode

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

1. Rotate the knob to 'BT1', 'BT2', or 'BT3' to select a Bluetooth channel.
2. On your device (computer, tablet, smartphone), enable Bluetooth and search for new devices.
3. Select 'EPOMAKER Shadow-X' from the list of available devices to pair.
4. Once paired, the keyboard will connect to the selected Bluetooth channel.

4. Operation

4.1 Display Screen Functions

The 1.06-inch color screen provides real-time information and control options:

• Status Indicators: Displays current connection mode (Wired, 2.4G, BT1/2/3), battery level, Win/Mac mode, and Fn layer status.
• Time and Date: Shows the current time and date.
• RGB Effects: Allows toggling RGB effects and adjusting backlight brightness directly from the screen interface.

This image details the rotary knob for switching connection modes (BT1, BT2, BT3, 2.4G, USB) and the 1.06-inch color screen displaying indicators for Win/Mac, battery level, Fn layer, and current connection mode. The screen also allows toggling RGB effects and adjusting backlight brightness.

4.2 RGB Backlight Control

Control the keyboard's RGB backlighting using the following FN key combinations:

• FN + DEL: Turn On/Off Backlights
• FN + \|: Toggle RGB Effects (change lighting patterns)
• FN + Down Arrow: Decrease Backlight Brightness
• FN + Up Arrow: Increase Backlight Brightness
• FN + ESC (hold 3s): Reset the Keyboard
• FN + Z/X/C: Toggle Screen Layer 1/2/3 (for custom screen configurations)
• FN + Left CTRL: Enable/Disable F1-F12 Keys on 1-12 (toggles between number row and function row)

Instructions for controlling RGB backlighting: FN + DEL to turn on/off backlights, FN + \| to toggle RGB effects, FN + Down Arrow to decrease brightness, FN + Up Arrow to increase brightness. Also shows FN + ESC to reset the keyboard (hold 3s) and FN + Z/X/C to toggle screen layer 1/2/3.

4.3 Hot-Swapping Switches

The Shadow-X keyboard features a hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to change mechanical switches without soldering. This supports both 3-pin and 5-pin switches.

1. Gently remove the keycap using the included keycap puller.
2. Use the switch puller to carefully grip the switch from its top and bottom clips.
3. Pull the switch straight up to remove it from the PCB.
4. Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB. Ensure the pins are straight to avoid bending.
5. Press the new switch firmly into place until it clicks.
6. Replace the keycap.

The Shadow-X keyboard features hot-swappable PCB sockets, compatible with 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing users to easily change switches without soldering. A 2-in-1 key puller is included.

5. Maintenance

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the keyboard surface. For deeper cleaning, remove keycaps and use compressed air to clear dust and debris from between switches.
• Battery: The keyboard is equipped with a 3000mAh battery. To prolong battery life, turn off the keyboard when not in use for extended periods. Avoid exposing the keyboard to extreme temperatures.
• Storage: Store the keyboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and excessive moisture.

6. Troubleshooting

• Keyboard not responding: Ensure the correct connection mode (Wired, 2.4G, BT) is selected via the rotary knob. Check cable connections or dongle insertion. For Bluetooth, ensure the keyboard is paired and selected on your device.
• Keys not registering: If specific keys are not working, try hot-swapping the switch for that key with a known working switch to determine if the issue is with the switch or the PCB socket.
• RGB lighting issues: Use the FN key combinations to cycle through RGB effects and adjust brightness. If issues persist, try resetting the keyboard (FN + ESC, hold 3s).
• 2.4GHz wireless connection unstable: Ensure the dongle is in a clear line of sight to the keyboard and away from potential interference sources (e.g., other wireless devices, large metal objects).
• Bluetooth pairing failure: Ensure the keyboard is in pairing mode (often indicated by a flashing light on the screen or specific key). Remove previous pairings from your device and try pairing again.
• Screen not displaying: Check the keyboard's battery level. If the screen remains blank, try resetting the keyboard.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

EPOMAKER products typically come with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the warranty card included in your product packaging or visit the official EPOMAKER website. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.