Kreo Swarm 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard User Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Kreo Swarm 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard. Designed for versatility and performance, this keyboard features multiple connectivity options, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB lighting. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure optimal use of your device.

What's in the Box

Upon unboxing your Kreo Swarm keyboard, you should find the following items:

• Kreo Swarm 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
• USB-A to USB-C Cable (for wired connection and charging)
• 2.4GHz Wireless Dongle
• Plastic Dust Cover
• User Manual
• Kreo Stickers
• Switch and Keycap Puller
• Two (2) Extra Switch Replacements

Image: The Kreo Swarm 75% Wireless Mechanical Keyboard, showcasing its white and purple keycap design.

Product Overview

The Kreo Swarm keyboard features a compact 75% layout, balancing functionality with a space-saving design. It is constructed with a durable polycarbonate material and incorporates a gasket-mounted design for a comfortable typing experience.

Key Features:

• 75% Layout: Compact design without sacrificing essential keys.
• Gasket Mounted Design: Provides a soft and flexible typing feel, reducing vibrations.
• 5 Layers of Sound Absorption: Enhances acoustics for a smoother, quieter typing sound.
• Pre-lubed Switches: Available with Huano Speed Yellow (linear) or GTMX Sense (tactile) switches for smooth and consistent keystrokes.
• 5-pin Hot-Swappable PCB: Allows for easy replacement and customization of mechanical switches.
• Double Shot PBT Keycaps: Durable keycaps that resist fading and shine over time.
• Metal Volume Knob: Tactile control for audio adjustments, with a mute function.

Image: An exploded view illustrating the internal layers of the Kreo Swarm keyboard, including the 5-pin PCB, foam layers, and silicone pad for sound absorption.

Image: A close-up of the 5-pin hot-swappable PCB, highlighting its compatibility with various mechanical switches.

Setup

Connectivity Options:

The Kreo Swarm keyboard offers three modes of connection:

1. 2.4GHz Wireless:

   Locate the 2.4GHz wireless dongle, typically stored magnetically on the underside of the keyboard. Insert the dongle into an available USB-A port on your computer. Ensure the keyboard's mode switch (located on the top edge) is set to the wireless icon (Wi-Fi symbol). The keyboard features a 1000 Hz polling rate in this mode.

2. Bluetooth 5.0:

   Set the keyboard's mode switch to the Bluetooth icon (BT). On your device (PC, laptop, smartphone, tablet), search for Bluetooth devices and select "Kreo Swarm" to pair. The keyboard supports connection to up to three devices simultaneously. Switch between paired devices using the FN + 1, FN + 2, or FN + 3 key combinations.

3. Wired (USB-C):

   Connect the provided USB-A to USB-C cable from your computer's USB port to the USB-C port on the keyboard. Set the keyboard's mode switch to the USB icon. This mode also charges the keyboard's internal battery.

Image: A close-up of the keyboard's side, showing the three-way switch for USB, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth connectivity, alongside the USB-C port.

Adjusting Typing Angle:

The keyboard includes dual-stage kickstands on the back, allowing you to adjust the typing angle for ergonomic comfort. Extend the kickstands to your preferred height.

Operating Instructions

RGB Lighting Control:

The Kreo Swarm keyboard features customizable RGB backlighting with 16 different presets. You can cycle through these presets and adjust brightness and speed directly from the keyboard or via the dedicated software.

• Change Presets: Press FN + PRTSC to cycle through different RGB lighting effects.
• Adjust Brightness: Use FN + ↑ (Up Arrow) to increase brightness and FN + ↓ (Down Arrow) to decrease brightness.
• Adjust Speed: Use FN + ← (Left Arrow) to decrease effect speed and FN + → (Right Arrow) to increase effect speed.
• Gaming Mode: In Gaming Mode, ESC, WASD, and arrow keys will be backlit with blue.

Image: The Kreo Swarm keyboard displaying various RGB lighting effects, with a monitor showing the customization software interface.

Volume Control:

The metal knob located on the top right corner of the keyboard controls the system volume. Rotate it clockwise to increase volume, counter-clockwise to decrease volume. Press the knob to mute or unmute audio.

Mac/Windows Mode Switching:

The keyboard supports both Windows and macOS operating systems. To switch modes:

• Switching to Mac Mode: Press and hold the FN key and the Q key simultaneously for 3 seconds. The 2nd indicator light will start blinking, indicating the keyboard is now in Mac mode. In Mac mode, the Alt key functions as Command, and the Windows key functions as Option. Function keys (F1-F12) are mapped to Mac-specific actions like screen brightness, Mission Control, Launchpad, and media controls.
• Switching to Windows Mode: Press and hold the FN key and the Q key simultaneously for 3 seconds. The 1st indicator light will start blinking, indicating the keyboard is now in Windows mode.

Checking Battery Percentage:

To check the approximate battery level, press and hold FN + Spacebar. The number keys (1-0) will light up, indicating the battery percentage (e.g., 1-5 for 10-50%, 1-0 for 100%). You can also check the battery percentage via Bluetooth connection on your device.

Maintenance

Cleaning and Protection:

Use the provided plastic dust cover when the keyboard is not in use to protect it from dust and debris. For cleaning, gently wipe the keycaps and chassis with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.

Switch and Keycap Replacement:

The Kreo Swarm features a 5-pin hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to easily replace switches without soldering. Use the included switch and keycap puller for safe removal and installation.

• Removing Keycaps: Gently hook the keycap puller onto the sides of the keycap and pull upwards.
• Removing Switches: Use the switch puller to grip the top and bottom clips of the switch and pull straight up.
• Installing Switches: Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB and press down firmly until it clicks into place. Ensure pins are not bent.
• Installing Keycaps: Align the keycap with the switch stem and press down gently until it is secure.

Image: Detailed view of the durable double-shot PBT keycaps, designed for longevity and clear backlighting.

Troubleshooting

• Keyboard not responding: Ensure the keyboard is charged and the correct connectivity mode (2.4GHz, Bluetooth, or Wired) is selected via the switch on the top edge. For wireless modes, check dongle connection or Bluetooth pairing.
• Keys not registering: If individual keys are not working, try replacing the switch using the hot-swap feature. Ensure the switch is properly seated.
• RGB lights not working: Check the brightness settings using FN + ↑/↓. Ensure the keyboard is not in a power-saving sleep mode.
• Connectivity issues: Try re-pairing Bluetooth devices or re-inserting the 2.4GHz dongle. Ensure no other wireless devices are causing interference.
• Software not detecting keyboard: Ensure the keyboard is connected via USB-C and the mode switch is set to USB. The software is currently only available for Windows.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Your Kreo Swarm Mechanical Keyboard comes with a comprehensive warranty and support:

• 400 Day Warranty: Enjoy peace of mind with a 400-day warranty covering manufacturing defects.
• 7 Day Replacement: In case of any issues upon delivery, a 7-day replacement policy is available.

For further assistance, technical support, or warranty claims, please contact Kreo customer service at help@kreo-tech.com or visit the official Kreo website.

Image: Icons representing the 400-day warranty and 7-day replacement policy offered by Kreo.