BOYI GMK84-75% RGB Mechanical Keyboard Barebones Kit Instruction Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the assembly, operation, and maintenance of your BOYI GMK84-75% RGB Mechanical Keyboard Barebones Kit. Please read this guide thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize your keyboard's functionality.

What's in the Box

• BOYI GMK84-75% Keyboard Barebones Kit
• USB Cable

Image: The BOYI GMK84-75% Keyboard Barebones Kit, showing the main keyboard unit without keycaps or switches.

Setup

1. Installing Switches and Keycaps

The GMK84-75% kit supports 3-pin or 5-pin hot-swappable mechanical switches. Carefully align the pins of your desired switches with the sockets on the PCB and press down until they click into place. Once switches are installed, attach your keycaps by pressing them firmly onto the switch stems.

2. Connection Modes

The keyboard supports three connection modes: Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired.

• Type-C Wired Mode: Connect the provided USB-C cable from the keyboard to your computer. The keyboard will automatically switch to wired mode.
• 2.4GHz Wireless Mode: Insert the 2.4GHz USB dongle (located in the keyboard's storage compartment) into your computer's USB port. Switch the keyboard to 2.4GHz mode using the switch on the side/back of the keyboard.
• Bluetooth 5.0 Mode: Switch the keyboard to Bluetooth mode. On your device (computer, laptop, smartphone), search for available Bluetooth devices and select 'BOYI GMK84' to pair. The keyboard supports up to three Bluetooth devices (BT1, BT2, BT3) which can be switched using specific key combinations (refer to the operating section).

Image: Illustration of the keyboard connecting to various devices via wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth modes.

Operating the Keyboard

1. Multifunction Knob

The knob on the top right of the keyboard has dual functionality:

• Volume Control (Default): Rotate left to decrease volume, right to increase volume. Press down to mute/unmute.
• RGB Lighting Control: Long press the knob for 3 seconds to switch to lighting adjustment mode. Rotate left/right to change RGB lighting effects. Press down to turn the backlight on/off.

Image: Close-up of the multifunction knob, illustrating its use for volume and RGB lighting adjustments.

2. System Switching

The keyboard supports both Windows and Mac operating systems.

• Fn + Z: Switch to Mac system layout.
• Fn + X: Switch to Windows system layout.

3. RGB Lighting Effects

The keyboard features various RGB lighting modes and customization options:

• Fn + Ins: Toggle through different RGB lighting effects.
• Fn + Home: Toggle scroll lock.
• Fn + PgDn: Toggle different single RGB modes.
• Fn + Arrow Up/Down: Increase/decrease backlight brightness.
• Fn + Arrow Left/Right: Decrease/increase backlight speed.
• Fn + Back: Turn on/off indicator lights.

4. Programmable Keys

The keyboard is fully programmable. Custom software (available for Windows PC only) allows for macro recording and key remapping for complex commands and custom functions.

Key Features

• Gasket Structure: Utilizes a gasket material on the keyboard plate's top to reduce vibrations, providing a satisfying typing experience.
• 75% 84-Key Layout: A compact layout that retains essential keys while saving desk space.
• Hot-Swappable Switches: Supports 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switches, allowing for easy customization and replacement without soldering.
• Triple Mode Connection: Offers versatile connectivity options including Bluetooth 5.0, 2.4GHz wireless, and Type-C wired.
• 3500mAh Battery: Built-in long-life battery for extended wireless use.
• Full RGB Lighting: Customizable RGB backlighting with various effects and brightness levels.
• Multifunction Knob: A rotary knob for convenient control of volume and RGB lighting effects.
• Full Key Anti-Ghosting (NKRO): Ensures all key presses are registered accurately, even during rapid typing or gaming.

Image: An exploded diagram illustrating the layers of the keyboard's gasket-mounted structure, including the volume knob, upper cover, PC positioning board, Poron cotton, IXPE pad, PE film, circuit board, Poron bottom cushion, and bottom shell.

Specifications

Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your keyboard, follow these maintenance tips:

• Cleaning: Regularly clean the keycaps and keyboard surface with a soft, damp cloth. For deeper cleaning, use the provided keycap puller to remove keycaps and clean underneath with compressed air or a brush.
• Storage: When not in use, store the keyboard in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
• Battery Care: Avoid fully discharging the battery frequently. Charge the keyboard when the battery indicator is low.

Troubleshooting

• Knob not controlling volume in wired mode: Some users report the knob only controls RGB in wired mode. Try using the keyboard in 2.4GHz wireless or Bluetooth mode for volume control.
• PCB flexes when installing switches: Exercise caution when installing switches to avoid damaging the PCB. Ensure switches are aligned correctly before applying pressure.
• Connectivity issues: Ensure the keyboard is fully charged. For 2.4GHz, verify the dongle is securely inserted. For Bluetooth, ensure the device's Bluetooth is enabled and the keyboard is in pairing mode.
• Software compatibility: Custom macro software is currently only available for Windows PC.

Warranty and Support

For software macro drivers or any product-related inquiries, please contact BOYI directly.

• Software Support: Contact BOYI directly for the GMK84 software macro driver.
• Email Support: boyiservice2020@163.com
• Amazon Store: Visit the BOYI Store on Amazon and click "Ask a question" to contact us.

Product Overview Video