HITIME x XVX M67 Topographic Wired Gaming Keyboard User Manual

1. Product Overview

The HITIME x XVX M67 is a 60% wired gaming keyboard designed for an enhanced typing and gaming experience. It features innovative IMD (In-Mold Decoration) technology for unique keycap aesthetics, full QMK/VIA support for extensive customization, and a gasket-mounted design for a soft and elastic typing feel. The keyboard also boasts dynamic RGB backlighting and hot-swappable switches, making it a versatile choice for both gamers and professionals.

Figure 1.1: The HITIME x XVX M67 Topographic Wired Gaming Keyboard in Stellar White.

Key Features:

• IMD Tech Keycaps: Revolutionary technology allowing RGB light to pass through unique topographic patterns on keycaps, enhancing visual appeal.
• QMK/VIA Support: Full compatibility for advanced customization, including key remapping, macro creation, and lighting effects.
• Gasket-mounted Design: Provides a softer, more elastic typing feel and optimizes resilience and stability. Features four layers of sound-dampening foam.
• Dynamic RGB Backlight: Over 17 built-in modes with adjustable color saturation, brightness, and speed.
• 65% Layout & Ergonomic Design: Compact form factor with arrow keys, featuring a 7° tilt angle and stepped keycap layout for comfortable typing.
• Hot-Swappable: Compatible with 3-pin and 5-pin mechanical switches for easy customization and maintenance.

Figure 1.2: Close-up of IMD Tech keycaps demonstrating pattern shine-through with RGB lighting.

Figure 1.3: Exploded view illustrating the multi-layered gasket structure for enhanced typing feel.

2. Setup Guide

2.1 What's in the Box

Upon opening your HITIME x XVX M67 keyboard package, you should find the following items:

• HITIME x XVX M67 Wired Gaming Keyboard
• USB Cable (USB-C)
• Keycap Puller
• Switch Puller
• Spare Switches (3 pieces)
• User Manual

Figure 2.1: All items included in the HITIME M67 keyboard package.

2.2 Connecting Your Keyboard

1. Locate the USB-C port on the back or side of your HITIME M67 keyboard.
2. Insert one end of the provided USB-C cable into the keyboard's USB-C port.
3. Insert the other end of the USB cable into an available USB port on your computer (PC or Mac).
4. The keyboard will automatically be recognized by your operating system. No additional drivers are typically required for basic functionality.

The HITIME M67 keyboard is compatible with both Windows and macOS operating systems.

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 RGB Backlight Control

The M67 keyboard features extensive RGB backlighting with multiple modes and customization options. Use the following key combinations to adjust the lighting:

• FN + [ : Adjust RGB effects (cycle through 17+ built-in modes).
• FN + Backspace: Adjust RGB colors (cycle through various monochrome and full-color modes).
• FN + PgUp / PgDn: Adjust color saturation.
• FN + ↑ / ↓: Adjust brightness.
• FN + ← / →: Adjust lighting speed.
• FN + Q: Activate a special "loaded light effect" (heart).

Figure 3.1: Visual guide to RGB backlight control key combinations.

Figure 3.2: Examples of optimized lighting effects, including stabilizer LEDs and spacebar LEDs.

3.2 QMK/VIA Customization

The HITIME M67 keyboard supports QMK (Quantum Mechanical Keyboard) and VIA software, allowing for advanced customization of key assignments, macros, and lighting effects. This provides unparalleled flexibility to tailor the keyboard to your specific needs for gaming or professional work.

1. Download VIA Software: Visit the official QMK/VIA website or the HITIME support page to download the latest VIA software compatible with your operating system.
2. Connect Keyboard: Ensure your M67 keyboard is connected to your computer via the USB-C cable.
3. Launch VIA: Open the VIA application. It should automatically detect your M67 keyboard.
4. Customize: Use the intuitive graphical interface to:
   • Remap any key to a different function.
   • Create complex macros for repetitive tasks or gaming commands.
   • Adjust and program custom RGB lighting patterns.
   • Manage multiple key layers for different profiles.
5. Save Changes: Changes made in VIA are typically saved directly to the keyboard's firmware in real-time.

For detailed instructions and advanced features of QMK/VIA, refer to the official QMK/VIA documentation online.

Figure 3.3: Screenshot of the VIA software interface, demonstrating key remapping and lighting customization.

3.3 Hot-Swappable Switches

The M67 keyboard features a hot-swappable PCB, allowing you to easily change mechanical switches without soldering. This enables you to customize the typing feel and sound to your preference.

1. Remove Keycap: Use the provided keycap puller to gently remove the keycap from the switch you wish to replace.
2. Remove Switch: Use the provided switch puller to carefully grip the top and bottom clips of the switch. Apply gentle pressure and pull the switch straight up to remove it from the PCB.
3. Insert New Switch: Align the pins of the new 3-pin or 5-pin mechanical switch with the holes on the PCB. Gently push the switch down until it clicks into place. Ensure the pins are straight to avoid bending.
4. Replace Keycap: Place the keycap back onto the new switch.

Always ensure the keyboard is disconnected from power before attempting to remove or install switches.

Figure 3.4: Demonstration of removing and replacing hot-swappable switches on the M67 keyboard.

4. Maintenance

Regular maintenance helps prolong the life and performance of your HITIME M67 keyboard.

• General Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the keyboard surface. For dust and debris between keycaps, use a can of compressed air or the provided brush.
• Keycap Cleaning: Keycaps can be removed for deeper cleaning. Wash them gently with mild soap and water, then ensure they are completely dry before reattaching.
• Switch Maintenance: As the switches are hot-swappable, you can easily remove them for cleaning or lubrication if desired.
• Cable Care: Avoid sharp bends or excessive pulling on the USB-C cable to prevent damage.

5. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your HITIME M67 keyboard, try the following troubleshooting steps:

• Keyboard Not Responding:
  • Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and the computer.
  • Try connecting the keyboard to a different USB port on your computer.
  • Test the keyboard on another computer to rule out a computer-specific issue.
• RGB Lights Not Working/Incorrect:
  • Check the RGB control key combinations (FN + [ / Backspace / PgUp / PgDn / ↑ / ↓ / ← / →) to ensure lights are not turned off or set to a very dim setting.
  • If using VIA, ensure no custom lighting profiles are overriding the default settings or causing conflicts.
• Specific Keys Not Working:
  • Since the keyboard is hot-swappable, carefully remove and re-insert the affected switch to ensure it is properly seated.
  • Try swapping the problematic switch with one of the spare switches provided or a known working switch from another key to identify if the issue is with the switch or the PCB.
• QMK/VIA Issues:
  • Ensure you have the correct and latest version of VIA software.
  • Verify that the keyboard's firmware is up to date. Firmware updates can often resolve compatibility or functionality issues.

If these steps do not resolve your issue, please contact HITIME customer support for further assistance.

6. Product Specifications

7. Warranty and Support

For information regarding product warranty, returns, or technical support, please refer to the official HITIME website or contact their customer service directly. Contact details can typically be found on the manufacturer's website or on the product packaging.

Manufacturer: HITIME