Surmen 98 Matcha (GS98)

Surmen Green Creamy Keyboard User Manual

Model: 98 Matcha (GS98)

Brand: Surmen

Introduction

This user manual provides comprehensive instructions for the Surmen Green Creamy Keyboard (98 Matcha model). Please read this manual carefully before using the product to ensure proper setup, operation, and maintenance. This keyboard is designed for both office productivity and gaming, offering a compact yet feature-rich experience.

Surmen Green Creamy Keyboard, top-down view with connected USB-C cable

Figure 1: Top-down view of the Surmen Green Creamy Keyboard (98 Matcha) with its detachable USB-C cable.

Product Features

  • 98-Key Compact Efficiency: This practical 98-key layout includes a number pad and standalone arrow keys, utilizing 20% less space compared to traditional 104-key keyboards. It balances functionality with a space-saving design.
  • Hot-swappable Custom Keyboard: Switches and keycaps can be freely replaced. This customizable keyboard with a hot-swap PCB allows users to easily replace 3-pin/5-pin switches without soldering. Keycap and switch pullers are included.
  • Gasket Structure & Sound Absorbing Foams: Equipped with an IXPE switch dampener pad and thicker sound-absorbing foams, which reduce noise by 40% and eliminate 80% of hollow sound. This design provides a creamy or thocky sound profile with natural and clear feedback.
  • Fast, Neat, and Versatile: Experience high-speed and stable data transmission with the detachable Type-C wired connection. Grooves in the bottom case direct cables in three different directions, reducing clutter and keeping your desk neat.
  • 96% Mechanical Gaming Keyboard: The GS98 is a premium mechanical keyboard suitable for both work and gaming. It features 16 RGB lighting effects to enhance the gaming atmosphere. All keys support macro customization, allowing for macro recording, editing, custom key functions, and 16.8 million light colors. N-key rollover ensures the keyboard responds to multiple key presses simultaneously, which is beneficial in real-time games.
Diagram showing 96% Gasket keyboard features including RGB, linear switch, gasket structure, hot swappable, sound absorbing foam, and dye-sub PBT keycaps.

Figure 2: Overview of key features including 96% layout, gasket structure, and hot-swappable design.

Package Contents

Please verify that all items are present in your package:

  • Surmen Green Creamy Keyboard (98 Matcha)
  • Keycap/Switch Puller
  • Detachable USB Type-C Cable
Close-up of various keycaps and a keycap/switch puller, demonstrating the hot-swappable nature of the keyboard.

Figure 3: Included keycap and switch puller, alongside various keycaps.

Setup

Connecting the Keyboard

  1. Locate the USB Type-C port on the back of the keyboard.
  2. Connect the smaller end of the detachable USB Type-C cable to the keyboard's port.
  3. Route the cable through one of the three cable management grooves on the underside of the keyboard to keep your desk tidy.
  4. Connect the larger USB-A end of the cable to an available USB port on your computer (PC or Laptop).
  5. The keyboard will be automatically recognized by your operating system. No additional drivers are typically required for basic functionality.
Underside of the keyboard showing cable management grooves for routing the USB cable.

Figure 4: Cable management grooves on the keyboard's underside.

Operating Instructions

Basic Keyboard Functions

The Surmen 98 Matcha keyboard functions as a standard mechanical keyboard. All keys are plug-and-play compatible with Windows and macOS operating systems.

RGB Lighting Control

The keyboard features 16 built-in RGB lighting effects. Specific key combinations (often involving the 'Fn' key) are used to cycle through lighting modes, adjust brightness, and change speed. Refer to the quick start guide or product software for detailed key combinations.

Multifunctional Knob

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

  • Rotate Clockwise: Increase volume.
  • Rotate Counter-clockwise: Decrease volume.
  • Press Down: Play/Pause media.
Close-up of the multifunctional knob on the keyboard, showing its functions for volume control and play/pause.

Figure 5: The multifunctional knob and its controls.

Hot-Swapping Switches and Keycaps

The hot-swappable PCB allows for easy customization of your typing experience. Use the provided tools:

  • Keycap Removal: Use the keycap puller to gently remove keycaps by hooking onto two opposite sides and pulling straight up.
  • Switch Removal: Use the switch puller to grip the top and bottom clips of the switch and pull it straight out. Ensure the switch is fully disengaged before pulling to avoid damage.
  • Switch Installation: Align the pins of the new 3-pin or 5-pin switch with the holes on the PCB. Press firmly until the switch clicks into place. Ensure pins are straight to avoid bending.
  • Keycap Installation: Align the keycap stem with the switch stem and press down firmly until it is seated.
Image demonstrating the hot-swappable feature, showing switches being removed and installed on the keyboard PCB.

Figure 6: Hot-swappable switch and keycap replacement.

Macro Customization

The keyboard supports macro customization for all keys. This allows you to record and edit complex key sequences or assign custom functions. Software for macro customization can typically be downloaded from the manufacturer's official website. Refer to the software's instructions for detailed macro programming.

Product Demonstration Video

Video 1: A demonstration of the Surmen 98 Keys Gasket Mounted Matcha Gaming Keyboard, showcasing its RGB lighting effects and overall design.

Maintenance

Cleaning

  • Disconnect the keyboard from your computer before cleaning.
  • Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a mild cleaning solution to wipe the surface of the keyboard.
  • For cleaning between keycaps, use compressed air to blow away dust and debris.
  • If removing keycaps for deeper cleaning, ensure the keyboard is disconnected and reattach keycaps carefully.

Storage

Store the keyboard in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for an extended period, consider using the original packaging or a protective cover to prevent dust accumulation.

Troubleshooting

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Keyboard not respondingLoose cable connection; USB port issue; System driver issue.Ensure the USB cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer. Try a different USB port. Restart your computer. Check Device Manager for driver issues.
RGB lighting not workingLighting mode turned off; Brightness set to minimum; Software conflict.Press the RGB control keys (refer to quick start guide) to cycle modes or increase brightness. Reinstall keyboard software if applicable.
Keys not registering or double-typingDust/debris under keycap/switch; Faulty switch.Remove the keycap and use compressed air to clean around the switch. If the issue persists, consider hot-swapping the switch with a new one.
Knob not functioningSoftware conflict; Physical obstruction.Ensure no software is overriding the knob's function. Check for any physical debris around the knob.

Specifications

Model NumberGS98
Product Dimensions15.35 x 5.51 x 5.51 inches
Item Weight2.66 pounds
ManufacturerGTSP
Connectivity TechnologyUSB-A (Wired)
Keyboard DescriptionMechanical
Number of Keys98
Keyboard BacklightingRGB
Special FeaturesVolume Roller, Programmable Keys, Hot-Swappable

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact the manufacturer, GTSP, directly. Additional protection plans may be available for purchase, offering extended coverage for your device.

  • 3-Year Protection Plan (Optional)
  • 4-Year Protection Plan (Optional)
  • Complete Protect (Monthly, Optional)

For further assistance, visit the official Surmen Store online or contact their customer service.

Manufacturer: GTSP

© 2024 Surmen. All rights reserved.

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