AK87

Generic AK87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard User Manual

Model: AK87

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your Generic AK87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the product to ensure proper functionality and longevity.

AK87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard with RGB lighting

Figure 1: The AK87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, showcasing its compact TKL design and vibrant RGB backlighting.

Package Contents

Ensure all items are present in the package:

  • AK87 Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
  • USB Cable (attached)
  • User Manual (this document)
  • Keycap Puller (if included)
  • Switch Puller (if included)

Setup

  1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the keyboard from its packaging. Retain the packaging for future storage or transport.

    AK87 Keyboard in its retail box

    Figure 2: The AK87 keyboard shown with its retail packaging, indicating product compatibility with various Windows operating systems.

  2. Connection: Connect the attached USB cable from the keyboard to an available USB port on your computer. The keyboard is plug-and-play and does not require additional drivers for basic functionality.

  3. Placement: Place the keyboard on a stable, flat surface. The foldable feet on the underside can be extended to adjust the typing angle for ergonomic comfort.

    Underside of AK87 keyboard showing model number and foldable feet

    Figure 3: The underside of the AK87 keyboard, displaying the model number and the integrated foldable feet for angle adjustment.

Operating Instructions

Basic Functionality

The AK87 keyboard functions as a standard 87-key (Tenkeyless) keyboard. All standard alphanumeric and function keys operate as expected.

RGB Backlighting Control

The keyboard features dynamic RGB backlighting with multiple modes and customization options.

  • Changing Lighting Modes: Press Fn + PrtSc to cycle through 18 different RGB lighting modes.
  • Changing Lighting Colors: Press Fn + Ins to cycle through 9 different backlight colors (for static modes).
  • Adjusting Brightness: Press Fn + PgUp to increase brightness and Fn + PgDn to decrease brightness (3 levels).
  • Adjusting Speed: Press Fn + Home to increase animation speed and Fn + End to decrease animation speed.
Close-up of AK87 keyboard keys with RGB lighting

Figure 4: A close-up view of the AK87 keyboard keys, highlighting the customizable RGB backlighting effects.

Multimedia Keys

The keyboard includes 12 dedicated multimedia functions accessible via the Fn key combined with the F-keys (F1-F12).

Table 1: Multimedia Function Key Combinations
Key CombinationFunction
Fn + F1My Computer
Fn + F2Search
Fn + F3Calculator
Fn + F4Media Player
Fn + F5Previous Track
Fn + F6Next Track
Fn + F7Play/Pause
Fn + F8Stop
Fn + F9Mute
Fn + F10Volume Down
Fn + F11Volume Up
Fn + F12Lock Keyboard

Maintenance

Cleaning

  • General Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe down the keyboard surface. For stubborn dirt, slightly dampen the cloth with water or a mild, non-abrasive cleaner. Ensure the keyboard is disconnected from the computer before cleaning.

  • Keycap Cleaning: Keycaps can be removed for deeper cleaning. Use a keycap puller (if provided) to gently lift the keycaps. Clean them with mild soap and water, then ensure they are completely dry before reattaching.

  • Dust Removal: Use compressed air to remove dust and debris from between the keys.

Hot-Swappable Switches

The AK87 keyboard features hot-swappable switches, allowing you to replace individual switches without soldering.

  1. Removing a Switch: Use a switch puller tool. Align the prongs of the switch puller with the clips on the top and bottom of the switch. Squeeze the clips and gently pull the switch straight up.

    Hand using a switch puller to remove a blue mechanical switch from the keyboard

    Figure 5: Demonstrating the removal of a hot-swappable mechanical switch using a switch puller tool.

  2. Installing a New Switch: Align the pins of the new switch with the holes on the PCB (Printed Circuit Board). Gently push the switch straight down until it clicks into place. Ensure the pins are not bent before insertion.

    Close-up of red mechanical switches installed on the keyboard PCB

    Figure 6: A close-up view of mechanical switches installed on the keyboard's circuit board. Note: While the product description mentions blue switches, this image displays red switches.

Note: The AK87 supports 2-pin hot-swappable switches. Ensure replacement switches are compatible.

Troubleshooting

Table 2: Common Issues and Solutions
ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Keyboard not respondingLoose USB connection, faulty USB port, driver issue.Ensure USB cable is securely connected. Try a different USB port. Restart your computer.
Keys not registeringDust/debris under keycap, faulty switch.Remove keycap and clean. If hot-swappable, try replacing the switch.
RGB lighting not workingLighting mode off, brightness too low, software conflict.Cycle through lighting modes (Fn + PrtSc). Increase brightness (Fn + PgUp). Ensure no conflicting software is running.
Multimedia keys not workingIncorrect key combination, software conflict.Ensure you are pressing the correct Fn + F-key combination. Check for any background applications that might interfere.

If the issue persists after trying these solutions, please contact customer support.

Specifications

Table 3: Product Specifications
FeatureDetail
Model NameAK87
BrandGeneric
ConnectivityWired USB
Keyboard Layout87-Key TKL (Tenkeyless), English Layout
Switch TypeHot-Swappable Blue Mechanical Switches
BacklightRGB LED (18 modes, 9 colors, 3 brightness levels)
Multimedia Keys12 Fn-accessible multimedia functions
CompatibilityWindows 10/8/7/XP, Mac OS X, Windows Vista (PC)
ColorBlack
MaterialsABS and PBT plastic
Dimensions (L x W x H)39.5 x 18.2 x 5.6 cm
Weight450 grams
Country of OriginChina