Corsair Vanguard 96 Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard Instruction Manual

Product Overview

The Corsair Vanguard 96 is a wired mechanical gaming keyboard designed for high performance and customization. It features a compact 96% layout, MLX Fusion Tactile Switches, an 8000Hz polling rate, an integrated LCD display, programmable G-keys, and advanced features like Elgato Virtual Stream Deck integration and FlashTap SOCD handling.

Key Features:

• 96% Layout: Offers a full keyboard experience including arrow keys, a tenkey pad, LCD screen, rotary dial, and 6 programmable G-keys in a compact form factor.
• Vibrant Full-Color LCD Screen: A 1.9-inch LCD screen for custom animations, images, system stats, and game integration.
• 8000Hz Hyper-Polling: Achieves ultra-responsive input with minimal lag for fast in-game actions.
• Elgato Virtual Stream Deck Integration: Map Stream Deck functions to G-keys for shortcuts and enhanced productivity.
• FlashTap SOCD Handling: Optimizes how the keyboard resolves simultaneous opposite cardinal direction (SOCD) inputs for precise movement.
• Hot-Swappable MLX Switches: Pre-lubricated MLX switches with RGB lighting, supporting compatible 3-pin and 5-pin switches.
• Quad-Layer Sound Dampening: Four layers of foam minimize keyboard noise for improved keypress acoustics.
• Corsair Web Hub Customization: Lightweight web-based utility for programming macros, mapping buttons, and adjusting lighting effects without additional software installation.

Setup

Connecting the Keyboard:

The Corsair Vanguard 96 is a wired keyboard. Connect the included USB-C cable to the port located on the underside of the keyboard. Route the cable through the integrated channels for organized cable management.

Image: Underside of the Corsair Vanguard 96 keyboard showing the USB-C port and cable routing channels.

Attaching the Wrist Rest:

The keyboard comes with a magnetic wrist rest. Align the wrist rest with the front edge of the keyboard; it will snap into place magnetically. This provides ergonomic support during use.

Image: The Corsair Vanguard 96 keyboard with its magnetic wrist rest attached, illustrating the ergonomic design.

Adjusting Keyboard Feet:

Utilize the two-stage adjustable feet on the underside of the keyboard to set your preferred typing angle.

Software Configuration (Corsair Web Hub):

The Corsair Vanguard 96 is configured via the web-based Corsair Web Hub. Access the Web Hub through your browser to customize lighting effects, key assignments, rotary dial functions, FlashTap settings, and game mode. No software installation is required.

Image: Screenshot of the Corsair Web Hub, showing options for lighting effects, key assignments, and other customizations.

Note: iCUE software support for the Vanguard 96 is anticipated in a future update.

Operating the Keyboard

Customizing Lighting and Key Assignments:

Use the Corsair Web Hub to personalize RGB lighting effects, program macros, and reassign keys. You can create multiple lighting layers and effects such as Horizon, Static, Watercolor, Spiral Rainbow, Color Shift, Color Pulse, and Rainbow Wave.

Image: The Corsair Vanguard 96 keyboard showcasing dynamic RGB lighting across its keys.

LCD Display and Rotary Dial:

The 1.9-inch LCD screen can display custom animations, images, system information, and integrate with the multi-functional rotary dial. The dial can be assigned to control volume, media playback, screen brightness, horizontal scrolling, and zoom functions.

Image: A detailed view of the keyboard's LCD screen displaying a custom image and the textured rotary dial.

8000Hz Hyper-Polling:

The keyboard supports an 8000Hz polling rate, which can be configured via the Web Hub. This high polling rate reduces input lag, providing faster response times for competitive gaming.

Image: A visual representation of the 8000Hz hyper-polling technology, highlighting its speed advantage.

Elgato Virtual Stream Deck Integration:

Map Elgato Stream Deck functions directly to the 6 programmable G-keys on the left side of the keyboard. This allows for quick access to streaming controls, macros, and other shortcuts.

Image: Close-up of the programmable G-keys on the Corsair Vanguard 96, showing integration with Elgato Virtual Stream Deck icons.

FlashTap SOCD Handling:

Configure FlashTap SOCD (Simultaneous Opposite Cardinal Direction) handling in the Web Hub. This feature allows you to choose how conflicting directional inputs are resolved, enabling cleaner and more precise movement techniques in games.

Image: A visual demonstration of FlashTap SOCD handling, showing how conflicting directional inputs are managed.

Game Mode:

Activate Game Mode to disable the Windows key and switch to static lighting, preventing accidental interruptions during gameplay. This can be configured in the Corsair Web Hub.

Maintenance

Cleaning:

Regularly clean your keyboard to maintain performance. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the keycaps and chassis. For deeper cleaning, use a keycap puller (included) to remove keycaps and clean underneath with compressed air or a small brush.

Switch Replacement:

The Corsair Vanguard 96 features hot-swappable MLX switches. If a switch malfunctions or you wish to change switch types, use the included switch puller to carefully remove the switch. Insert a compatible 3-pin or 5-pin switch until it clicks into place.

Image: An exploded view of an MLX switch, illustrating its hot-swappable design for easy replacement or customization.

Troubleshooting

Keyboard Not Responding:

• Ensure the USB-C cable is securely connected to both the keyboard and your computer.
• Try connecting the keyboard to a different USB port on your computer.
• Restart your computer.

Lighting Issues or Customization Problems:

• Verify that your keyboard is recognized by the Corsair Web Hub.
• Ensure your browser is up-to-date (Chromium-based browsers are recommended for optimal compatibility with Web Hub).
• Check for any available firmware updates for your keyboard via the Web Hub.

Keystroke Chattering (Double Input):

Some users have reported occasional keystroke chattering. Ensure your keyboard firmware is up to date. If the issue persists, contact Corsair support for further assistance.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Warranty Information:

The Corsair Vanguard 96 Wired Mechanical Gaming Keyboard comes with a 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

Customer Support:

For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please visit the official Corsair support website. The Corsair Web Hub also provides resources and tools for managing your keyboard settings.

You can find additional information and support at the Corsair Store on Amazon.

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