EPOMAKER CIDOO ABM066 Alice Mechanical Keyboard Kit User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the EPOMAKER CIDOO ABM066 Alice Mechanical Keyboard Kit. This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your new keyboard. The ABM066 features a 65% Alice layout, hot-swappable PCB, triple-mode connectivity (wired, 2.4GHz, Bluetooth), a multifunction knob, and a TFT-LCD screen, all supported by VIA software for extensive customization.

Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package:

• 1 x CIDOO ABM066 Keyboard Kit
• 1 x USB-C Cable (1.5m)
• 1 x 2.4G Receiver
• 1 x User Manual

Image: Contents of the EPOMAKER CIDOO ABM066 package, including the keyboard kit, USB cable, 2.4G receiver, and user manual.

Setup

1. Initial Assembly (for Kit Version)

The ABM066 is a barebone kit, allowing for customization. To assemble:

1. Install Switches: Align the pins of your preferred 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches with the holes on the hot-swappable PCB. Gently press each switch until it clicks into place. Ensure pins are straight to avoid bending.
2. Install Keycaps: Place your desired keycaps onto the installed switches.

Image: A close-up view of the hot-swappable PCB board, demonstrating the installation of mechanical switches.

2. Connectivity Options

The ABM066 supports three connection modes:

• Wired (USB-C): Connect the keyboard to your device using the provided USB-C cable. The keyboard will automatically switch to wired mode.
• 2.4GHz Wireless: Insert the 2.4G receiver into a USB port on your device. On the keyboard, press Fn + R to activate 2.4GHz mode. The screen will indicate the connection status.
• Bluetooth 5.0: Press Fn + Q, Fn + W, or Fn + E to select one of three Bluetooth channels. The keyboard will enter pairing mode (indicated on the screen). On your device, search for "CIDOO ABM066" in Bluetooth settings and connect.

Image: An illustration detailing the three connectivity options for the keyboard: 2.4GHz wireless, USB-C wired, and Bluetooth, along with their respective activation keys.

Operating Instructions

1. Basic Functions

The ABM066 is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems. Use the designated switch on the keyboard to select your operating system mode.

2. RGB Backlight Control

The keyboard features south-facing RGB LEDs. Specific key combinations (usually involving the Fn key) control backlight effects, brightness, and speed. Refer to the quick guide included with your kit for detailed key combinations.

3. Multifunction Knob

The knob on the keyboard provides quick access to media controls:

• Rotate Clockwise: Volume Up
• Rotate Counter-clockwise: Volume Down
• Press: Mute/Unmute

The knob's functions can also be customized using the VIA software.

Image: A detailed view of the multifunction knob, highlighting its default controls for volume adjustment and muting.

4. VIA Software Customization

The ABM066 is fully compatible with VIA software, an open-source tool for keyboard customization. With VIA, you can:

• Remap keys to different functions.
• Create and assign macros.
• Adjust RGB lighting effects.
• Customize the multifunction knob.

To use VIA, download the software from the official website. Connect your keyboard via USB-C, open VIA, and load the appropriate JSON file for the ABM066 (if required by your VIA version). Changes are applied in real-time.

Image: A computer screen displaying the VIA software interface, illustrating how users can remap keys and customize their keyboard layout.

5. TFT-LCD Screen Functionality

The integrated TFT-LCD screen displays useful information such as connection mode, battery status, date, and time. The screen's content can be further customized using dedicated software (note: this software may not be compatible with macOS/iOS).

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

To clean your keyboard:

• Disconnect the keyboard from all power sources.
• Use a soft brush or compressed air to remove dust and debris from between keycaps.
• For stubborn dirt, gently wipe keycaps and the keyboard surface with a slightly damp, lint-free cloth. Avoid excessive moisture.
• Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

2. Battery Information

The keyboard is equipped with a 3000 mAh battery. To prolong battery life:

• Charge the keyboard fully before first use.
• Avoid completely draining the battery regularly.
• If storing the keyboard for an extended period, charge it to approximately 50% and store in a cool, dry place.

Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your ABM066 keyboard, please refer to the following common solutions:

• Keyboard Not Responding: Ensure the keyboard is charged and properly connected (wired, 2.4GHz receiver, or Bluetooth paired). Try restarting your computer.
• Keys Not Registering / Chattering: This can sometimes occur due to switch installation or PCB issues. Carefully re-seat the affected switch. If the issue persists, try swapping the switch with a known working one. Ensure the switch pins are not bent during installation.
• VIA Software Not Recognizing Board: Ensure the keyboard is connected via USB-C. Download the latest VIA software version. If using VIA V2.x or V3.x, you may need to enable the 'Design' tab and manually load the ABM066 JSON definition file.
• Bluetooth Connectivity Issues: Ensure the keyboard is in Bluetooth pairing mode (Fn + Q/W/E). Remove previous pairings from your device and attempt to re-pair. Ensure no other devices are interfering with the Bluetooth signal.
• Screen Not Displaying Correctly / Customization Issues: Ensure the keyboard firmware is up to date. Note that dedicated screen customization software may have OS limitations (e.g., not fully compatible with macOS/iOS).
• Rattly Stabilizers: While factory-lubed, some stabilizers may still exhibit rattle. For optimal sound, consider re-lubricating or replacing the stabilizers.
• No Pure White RGB Backlight: The RGB system may not support a true pure white (R+G+B) color option. Experiment with different RGB settings to find a suitable alternative.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official EPOMAKER website or contact your retailer. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.