Kinesis Gaming KB950 Freestyle Edge Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard User Manual

The keyboard features blue LED backlighting for gaming in low-light conditions. To toggle the backlight on/off, tap the LED key.
You can customize the keys by using the programmable feature. Refer to the user manual for detailed instructions on how to program specific keys.

The keyboard has a dual-layer layout with unique actions for certain keys. Explore the different functions of the Fn layer keys as described in the manual.

Keyboard models covered by this manual:

KB950-BLU
KB950-RED

KB950-BRN
KB950-SIL

March 10, 2020 Edition
This manual covers features included through firmware version 1.0.532. To download the latest firmware and to access all support resources visit www.KinesisGaming.com/Support.
To shop for accessories visit KinesisGaming.com/Accessories:

Lift Kit (AC910)- Adjustable tenting accessory (5°/10°/15°) for use with Palm Supports

V3 Pro (AC930)- Adjustable tenting accessory (5°/10°/15°) for use without Palm Supports
RGB Palm Pads (AC900)- Upgrade your KB950 to the new RGB palm pad. Thick cushioned Palm Pad with sweat-resistant surface.

Mac Modifier Keycaps (KC975-MAC4)- Set of 4 keycaps for the standard Mac modifiers.
XL Mouse Pad (MP8040)- Oversized Desk Mat/Mousepad designed for use with the Freestyle Edge

© 2020 by Kinesis Corporation, all rights reserved. Kinesis and Freestyle are registered trademarks of Kinesis Corporation. Freestyle Edge, SmartSet, and v-Drive are trademarks of Kinesis Corporation. All other trademarks are property of their respective owners.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. No part of this document may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any commercial purpose, without the express written permission of Kinesis Corporation.

FCC STATEMENT

FCC Radio Frequency Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver

Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help

Warning
To assure continued FCC compliance, the user must use only shielded interfacing cables when connecting to computer or peripheral. Also, any unauthorized changes or modifications to this equipment would void the user’s authority to operate.

INDUSTRY CANADA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT

This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interface-causing Equipment Regulations.

Read Me First
Health and Safety Warning
Continuous use of any keyboard may cause aches, pains or more serious cumulative trauma disorders such as tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome, or other repetitive strain disorders.

Exercise good judgment in placing reasonable limits on your keyboarding time every day.
Follow established guidelines for computer and workstation setup.

Maintain a relaxed keying posture and use a light touch to press the keys.

The keyboard is not a medical treatment

This keyboard is not a substitute for appropriate medical treatment! If any information in this guide appears to contradict your healthcare professional’s advice, please follow your healthcare professional’s advice.

No warranty of injury prevention or cure
Kinesis bases its product designs on research, proven features, and user evaluations. However, because of the complex set of factors believed to contribute to computer-related injuries, the company can make no warranty that its products will prevent or cure any physical ailment. Your particular risk of injury may be affected by workstation and chair design, posture, time worked without breaks, type of work, activities outside the workplace, and/or individual physiology.

Quick Start Guide

If you are eager to get started, please consult the included Quick Start Guide. The Quick Start Guide can also be downloaded from KinesisGaming.com/Support. Consult this full User Manual for detailed descriptions of both basic and advanced features.

Read This User’s Manual

Even if you don’t normally read manuals or you are a long-time user of Kinesis keyboards, we strongly encourage you to review this entire manual. The Freestyle Edge is a fully programmable keyboard with powerful tools and features. If you unknowingly execute a programming shortcut or key combination, you could inadvertently alter the layout of your keyboard which might necessitate a Hard Reset of the keyboard.
If you have no plans to re-program the keyboard and would like to disable all programming features see Section 4.11.

Keyboard Overview

Specifications

Compact tenkeyless design with standard US ANSI key layout
6’ USB cable and 20” adjustable linking cable
2 year limited warranty
Dimensions:
- With Palm Supports: 1.25” tall x 15.5” wide x 10.25” deep
- Without Palm Supports: 1.25” tall x 15.5” wide x 7.25” deep
Weight: 2.8 lbs

Features

Premium Cherry® MX mechanical switches
Brilliant blue LED backlighting with 12 custom lighting modes
SmartSet Programming Engine

9 dual-layer, fully-programmable layouts
4MB onboard memory (the v-Drive™)
Multimedia actions in the embedded Fn layer

Game Bank with 8 programmable game keys for binding macros and custom key actions
Available Game Mode & NKRO Mode
1000mz polling

100% anti-ghosting

Package Contents

Freestyle Edge mechanical keyboard & detachable Palm Supports

SmartSet Programming App for Windows (preinstalled on the Edge’s v-Drive)
Quick Start Guide

System Requirements

Windows® 7-10, macOS® v10.6+, Chrome OS® or Linux® & full-size USB Port

Installation

To install the Freestyle Edge simply plug the USB cable into a full-size USB port on your computer. The Edge does not require the installation of any special software or drivers or an internet connection.

Introduction

Backlight On/Off

The Freestyle Edge is equipped with brilliant blue LED backlighting for gaming in low-light conditions. Tap the LED key to quickly toggle between Off and the Custom setting. See Section 4.17 for details on adjusting the Custom setting.

Dual Layer Layouts (Embedded Fn Layer)

The Freestyle Edge has two separate layers so each of the 95 full-size keys can be programmed to perform two unique actions per Layout– a top layer action and an “embedded” Fn layer action. Tap the Fn key to toggle between the top layer and the Fn layer. The Fn indicator light will illuminate while the Fn layer is active.

The default Fn layer actions mirror the top layer except for 7 keys which have unique actions: the F1-F6 keys (multimedia actions) and the Pause key (Insert). These 7 keys have secondary key legends at the bottom of the keycap.

Multimedia Actions

Change your audio on the fly by accessing the 6 standard multimedia actions by using the Fn key to toggle on the Fn layer.
These multimedia actions can be reassigned to any key on the keyboard in either layer using onboard programming or the SmartSet App.

Programming Cluster

The four Programming Cluster keys enable quick and easy onboard reprogramming. The Layout key toggles between the 3 primary layouts (1, 2, and 3), the Macro key controls on-the-fly macro recording, and the Remap key controls onboard remapping (aka rebinding).
The 4th key is the SmartSet Key, and it controls all onboard programming shortcuts.

Indicator LEDs

The two Layout LEDs indicate which layout is currently active. The Macro LED flashes when on-the-fly macro recording is in progress. The Remap LED flashes when onboard remapping is in progress. The SmartSet LED flashes to confirm certain programming commands.

The four indicator LEDs in the upper right corner of the right key module are Caps Lock, Game Mode, Scroll Lock, and the Fn Layer.
Note: Num Lock can be enabled but there is an indicator LED on the Edge.

Removable Palm Supports
The palm supports are detachable so you can customize the keyboard based on your typing and gaming preferences. To remove, flip the keyboard over and gently wiggle the palm support to lift the tabs over the bumps on the underside of the keyboard, and then pull straight out. To reattach, slide the palm rests into the key modules until they latch into place. Note: if the palm support doesn’t snap into place easily you may be trying to attach it to the wrong key module, or it may be misaligned.

SmartSet Programming Engine- Onboard Shortcuts

The SmartSet key is used in conjunction with the F7-F12 keys to activate onboard shortcuts. Onboard shortcuts are legend in italics to differentiate them from embedded Fn layer actions. Additional (unlegended) onboard shortcuts are described in Sections 4.10 – 4.15.

To trigger an onboard shortcut, first press and hold the SmartSet Key and then tap F7-F11. To prevent accidentally triggering the Soft Reset shortcut you must also press and hold Shift along with the SmartSet Key before tapping F12 (“RESET” appears in all-caps to indicate that it requires the shift key). For a detailed explanation of onboard shortcuts see Section 4.

Adjustable Linking Cable

The two key modules are connected by a 20” braided linking cable that can be adjusted to suit your preferences and gaming style. The basic configuration allows for up to 12” of separation. If you need additional cable, simply remove the cable compartment cover on the back of the left key module and thread out more of the stored cable. Once you have achieved the desired cable length, carefully fit the excess cable into the compartment removing any kinks, and slide the cable cover until it latches.

Rotate the left key module as needed to remove any kinks from the cable so it lies flat

Position the key modules in the optimal configuration relative to your other input devices, or separate the modules to shoulder-width for maximum typing comfort. There is no wrong way to configure the Edge, experiment with different positions to find the configurations that work best for you.

Game Bank

The Game Bank comprises eight fully programmable keys (blank by default) that can be programmed to perform any custom key action or macro, in either layer. The Game Bank is perfect for moving critical right-sided keys over to the left key module to enable one-handed play.

SmartSet Onboard Programming

The SmartSet Programming Engine allows you to custom program your Freestyle Edge keyboard without installing any software or special drivers on the computer. Custom layouts and settings are saved directly to the keyboard’s v-Drive so they move with the keyboard when you take your game on the road. There are three ways to program your Freestyle Edge: 1) Onboard Programming (all O/S), 2) the SmartSet Programming App (Windows), and Direct Programming (all O/S).
Onboard programming is a quick and convenient way to build custom layouts by remapping keys, recording powerful macros, and adjusting keyboard settings with simple-to-use onboard shortcuts.

Layouts (Layout or SmartSet + Number Row)

The Freestyle Edge puts 9 fully programmable, dual-layer layouts at your disposal. Each layout can be custom-configured for different games or users. The two LEDs above the Layout Key indicate the active layout.
Tap the Layout Key to toggle through the three primary layouts (Layouts 1-3). To jump directly to any of the nine layouts, hold the SmartSet Key and then tap 1-9 in the number row to select the layout you wish to load.

Recording Macros
A macro is string of characters or key actions that is triggered by a single key press. Macros are powerful tools that allow you to quickly produce multiple in-game actions in rapid-fire. Macros are assigned to the active layout at the time of recording and each layout can store 24 macros, each up to 300 characters long. To record a macro on the fly, tap the Macro key in the Programming Cluster to enter Macro Record Mode, choose your trigger key(s) and then type out your macro. Tap the Macro key stop recording.

Macro Trigger Key(s)
After entering Macro Record Mode, the Macro LED will flash rapidly prompting you to select a trigger key or key combination. Any full-size non-modifier key can be used as a macro trigger. A macro can also be triggered by a two-key combination by pairing the primary trigger key with a modifier-key “co-trigger”. To assign a key combination as a macro trigger, first press and hold one of the six standard modifier keys (either the left or right Ctrl, Alt or Shift) and then tap the desired primary trigger key. The Windows key is not recommended for use as a macro co-trigger.

Macro Contents
After a valid macro trigger has been selected, the Macro LED will flash slowly prompting you to begin recording your macro (open an appropriate program during recording). Every single keystroke will be recorded so if you make a mistake, we recommend restarting rather than using the backspace key. To stop recording and save your macro, simply tap the Macro key. Note: Macro Record Mode will end automatically when you hit the max length of 300 keystrokes.
The speed at which you type out the macro and pauses between keystrokes are not recorded. The macro will playback at the Global speed setting (see Section 4.6) by default, but the playback can be customized by adding internal timing delays or by setting an custom playback speed for that specific macro using the SmartSet App or Direct Programming.

Macro Playback

To playback a macro, simply press the trigger key(s). Modifier co-triggers should be pressed first and held while the primary trigger key is then tapped.to adjust the playback speed.

Erasing a Macro

To erase a macro onboard, simply tap the Macro key, then input the trigger key(s) of the macro you wish to erase. Once the Macro LED starts flashing slow, simply tap the Macro key again to record an “empty” macro.

Macro Limit

Each layout can accommodate 24 macros. When you have reached the limit the keyboard will flash when if you tap the Macro key to signal that you must erase a macro before recording a new one.

Remapping Keys

With the Remap key, you can reassign any default key action on the Freestyle Edge to any other full-size key (in either layer) to customize the layout for gaming or typing. The only key that cannot be remapped onboard is the Fn key but the Fn key can be remapped using the SmartSet App or Direct Programming.

Tap the Remap key to enter Remap Mode. The Remap LED will flash rapidly to prompt you to first select the “Source” key action (i.e., the key action that you wish to assign). After selecting the Source key, the LED will flash slowly prompting you to select the “Destination” key position (i.e., the physical key that you wish to perform the new action). Once you select the Destination key Remap Mode will end.

Remapping Tips

Remapping is a one-way process, it creates a duplicate key action but it does not “swap” two key actions.
To “swap” two keys you must perform two separate remap programming commands.
Remapping only operates on one layer at a time. To remap the same key in both layers you must perform two separate remap commands, one for each layer.

While Remap Mode is active, you can use the Fn key to navigate between layers as necessary if you wish to move a key action (e.g., the media keys) from the Fn layer to the top layer, or vice versa.
While Remap Mode is active, the keyboard reverts back to the default QWERTY layout.

Special Actions

If you would like to assign a key action that is not present in the default Edge layout, you can select from a menu of supported Special Actions using the SmartSet App or Direct Programming.

Macro and Remap conflict

It is possible to assign a macro and a remap to the same physical key. In that event, the macro playback will take priority over the remap action when you press that key, except when macros have been temporarily disabled.

Run Status Report (SmartSet + F7)
Use the Status Report to “print-to-screen” a convenient report of the current global keyboard settings.

Make sure you have a text editing program (e.g., Notepad, Word) selected as the active window before running a Status Report.

Layout> Indicates the active layout currently loaded to the keyboard (1-9).

Remaps> Indicates the number of remapped keys in the active layout
Macros> Indicates the number of macros saved to the active layout
Macro Speed> Indicates the “Global” speed at which all macros are played back.

Status Report Speed> Indicates the Speed at which the Status Report is played
LED> Indicates the current backlighting mode

Open/Close v-Drive (SmartSet + F8)

The Freestyle Edge features a 4MB virtual drive called the “v-Drive” which is the heart of the SmartSet Programming Engine. During normal use, the v-Drive is hidden from your computer but it can be temporarily “opened” using the onboard shortcut to 1) run the SmartSet Programming App (see Section 5), 2) to Direct Program layouts and settings files (see Section 6), 3) or to install a firmware update (see Section 4.12). Note: It is not necessary to access the v-Drive for basic keyboard use.
When you use the onboard shortcut to open the v-Drive your computer will now recognize the keyboard as a Removable Storage Device called “FS EDGE”. The specific appearance and location of the “FS EDGE” drive on your computer will depend on your operating system.

Windows: If a pop-up doesn’t appear, open File Explorer and look under “This PC”

Mac: If the drive does not appear on the desktop, look under “DEVICES”
Linux: Look in in “MY COMPUTER”
Chrome: Look in “FILES”

Keep the v-Drive closed when not in use

For best results, keep the v-Drive closed when not using the SmartSet App and refrain from re-programming the keyboard using onboard shortcuts while the v-Drive is open. Note: The keyboard’s multimedia and mouse actions are disabled while the v-Drive is open.

Closing the v-Drive
Before closing the v-Drive, always save your work and close all .txt files and the SmartSet App. You can use the shortcut to close the v-Drive (LEDs will flash) or you can simply unplug the keyboard. If you receive a message from your computer that the “FS EDGE” device was not ejected properly you may safely ignore it.

Adjust Global Macro Speed (SmartSet + F9, then number row)
The Freestyle Edge can playback macros at one of nine different speeds, ranging from a super-slow 4 actions -per second (APS) up to a blazing fast 3,000 APS! The default Global speed is Speed 5, which is good for text macros but might be too slow for in-game macros. To adjust the Global speed, use the onboard shortcut to enter Macro Speed Mode and then use the number row to select a speed from 1-9. If you wish to temporarily disable macro playback without deleting any macros, choose “0” instead.

Setting	Speed 1	Speed 2	Speed 3	Speed 4	Speed 5	Speed 6	Speed 7	Speed 8	Speed 9
Actions Per Second	4	8	12	22	35 (default)	62	85	125	250
Words Per Minute	48	96	144	264	420	744	1,020	1,500	3,000

Playback speeds are approximate. The exact speeds will depend on the length of the macro, your computer, and the active application.

Note: You can override the Global speed setting and assign a custom, individual playback speed for any given macro using the SmartSet App or Direct Programming.

Enable/Disable NKRO Mode (SmartSet + F10)

NKRO (“n-key rollover”) mode is a special operating mode that allows the keyboard to register all simultaneous key presses. Most standard keyboards, and even many gaming keyboards, limit the number of keys you can press at one time to six (aka “6KRO”). If you press more than 6 keys at a time on a 6KRO keyboard, the keyboard may fail to register some of those key presses. 6KRO is fine for basic typing and will work for most gamers a majority of the time, but hardcore gamers who are playing at lightning-fast speeds prefer NKRO keyboards for maximum performance. Use the onboard shortcut to toggle NKRO Mode on and off (the Edge will take a second to re-enumerate). NKRO mode will remain in effect until the keyboard is unplugged or the v-Drive is opened. Confirm NKRO mode with the Status Report.

Enable/Disable Game Mode (SmartSet + F11)

Game Mode disables all Windows key actions to keep you from accidentally exiting out of your game. Use the onboard shortcut to toggle Game Mode on and off. The Game Mode indicator LED will illuminate when Game Mode is enabled.

Soft Reset (SmartSet + Shift + F12) & Hard Reset (SmartSet + F12 while plugging in keyboard)

Use the Soft Reset onboard shortcut to erase all custom remaps and macros in both layers of the active layout. The “Reset” legend is capitalized to remind you that you need to combine the Shift key with the SmartSet key to protect you from accidentally performing a Soft Reset.
Use the Hard Reset onboard shortcut to erase all nine layouts and restore the keyboard to its default settings.

Refresh Settings (SmartSet + Layout)

The Refresh shortcut is a very important tool if you are programming the keyboard using the SmartSet App or Direct Programming. The SmartSet App does not dynamically update and changes made do not go into effect until the v-Drive is closed. Use the Refresh onboard shortcut to implement your changes immediately.

Program Lock (SmartSet + Shift + L)
Use the Program Lock onboard shortcut to temporarily deactivate all of the Programming Cluster keys. To disable Program Lock use the same onboard shortcut. If you have no plans to reprogram the keyboard or have successfully programmed the keyboard to your liking, we highly recommend engaging the Program Lock to prevent accidental reprogramming.
Note: Indicator LEDs flash 4x upon Lock, and 2x upon Unlock.

Update Firmware (SmartSet + Shift + U)
Periodically Kinesis Gaming will release new versions of firmware for the Freestyle Edge with new features and bug fixes. Installing new firmware is quick and easy.

Obtain a valid Freestyle Edge firmware file (“.upd” file) from KinesisGaming.com/fs-edge-support/#firmware
Open the v-Drive (SmartSet + F8)
Save the new firmware file inside the “firmware” subfolder on the v-Drive
Rename the firmware file “update.up”
Press SmartSet + Shift + U to initiate the update

If a valid firmware file has been renamed properly and saved to the correct location, the keyboard will flash and the lights will go off for 10-12 seconds. The keyboard will then re-enerate with the new firmware. Run a Status Report to confirm the new firmware has been installed correctly. Note: Custom layouts and settings are not affected by a firmware update.

Adjust Status Report Playback Speed (SmartSet + Shift + F7, then 0-4)
Certain computers may have problems playing the Status Report. If you are experiencing dropped characters you can try a slower playback speed. Use the onboard shortcut to enter Status Speed Mode (LEDs will flash), then tap “1-4” to select a different speed (default speed is 3), or “0” to disable the Status Report altogether.

Force v-Drive Open (SmartSet + F8 while plugging in keyboard)

If you wish to have the v-Drive open when you plug in the keyboard or are having difficulty accessing the v- V-Drive with the normal shortcut, simply hold down this shortcut while plugging in the keyboard.

Adjust Custom Backlighting Mode (SmartSet + LED Key)

The LED key toggles between Off and the Custom setting. The Custom setting can be programmed to one of twelve different modes using onboard programming. Hold the SmartSet Key and tap the LED key to enter Backlight Mode (LEDs will flash while the mode is active). Tap “0” to disable backlighting, “1-9” to adjust the brightness, “B” for Breathe mode, or “P” for Pitch Black mode. Breathe mode radiates soothing pulses of light and Pitch Black mode disables all of the static indicator LEDs so your focus is where it belongs, on the game. When you have selected your desired Custom setting, tap the SmartSet key to exit Backlight Mode and resume normal keyboard operation.

SmartSet Programming App

The SmartSet App lets you design and edit custom layouts, build powerful macros, customize keyboard settings and configure backlighting. The App works in conjunction with onboard programming, but it has several additional tools for power users. The App can be run from any Windows or Mac computer and all settings are saved directly to the keyboard for use on all Operating Systems.

Special Actions: F13-F24, mouse actions, Fn “Shift”, numeric keypad actions, Dvorak/Colemak layouts and more.
Macro tools: individual playback speeds, multiplay, Windows combinations, timing delays (including random delays), or choose from various preconfigured macros. ***Firmware update required for some features.
Tap-and-Hold Actions: Assign two distinct actions to a single, non-typing key (example: Hold the Shift Key for Shift, or tap it for Escape). ***Firmware update required.
Multi-modifiers: Assign the Hyper or Meh multi-modifier keys for conflict-free, system-wide shortcuts using third-party software. ***Firmware update required.

Launching the App
Use the onboard shortcut to connect the v-Drive, then locate and open the “FS EDGE” removable drive The v-Drive is pre-loaded with a Windows version and a 32-bit Mac version of the SmartSet App. Select the appropriate version of the App based on the Operating System of the connected computer. Be sure to save your changes in the App, and then close the App and eject the v-Drive in your O/S before disconnecting the v-Drive using the onboard shortcut.
Note: Mac users who have upgraded to a 64-bit version of macOS will need to download the 64-bit version of the SmartSet App at the URL below.

Downloading New Versions

Newer versions of the App may be available here: www.KinesisGaming.com/fs-edge-support/#smartset

Detailed App Usage Instructions

For detailed App programming instructions consult the Freestyle Pro SmartSet App Manual available here: wwwKiinesisGaming.com/fs-edge-support/#manuals

Direct Programming

The keyboard’s layouts and settings are stored on the v-Drive as a series of simple text files (.txt), which can be accessed in Windows, Linux, Mac, and Chrome. Each time a remap or macro is created, it is written to the corresponding layout .txt file as a discrete line of “code”. Each time a keyboard setting is changed, the change is recorded in the appropriate field in the “kbd_settings.txt” file. Users can edit these files directly to customize keyboard layouts and settings.
For those who do not have a computer that can run the SmartSet App, Direct Programming is a way to access to the various power user tools that are not otherwise available through onboard programming.

Eject v-Drive before closing (Windows Users)

After editing any .txt files on the v-Drive, it is necessary to first save and close the files, and then use the Windows eject protocol before closing the v-Drive. Right-click the “FS EDGE” removable drive in File Explorer and select Eject. Once you receive the “Safe to Eject” notification you may proceed to closing the v-Drive with the onboard shortcut. Failure to eject can result in a minor drive error that Windows will ask you to repair.

Non-US Users

Your computer must be configured for the English (US) keyboard layout. Other language drivers use different codes/positions for certain keys which are critical for programming characters such as [], {}, and >.

Direct Programming Layouts
The nine default layouts are saved as separate .txt files in the “layouts” subfolder. Only custom remaps and macros are saved to the file, so if no changes have been made to a layout, the file will be empty. Users can either write code from scratch or edit keyboard-generated code using the syntax rules described below. Deleting a layout file will permanently delete its stored remaps & macros, but the keyboard will automatically regenerate a blank layout file.

File Naming Convention

Only the nine numbered layouts can be loaded to the Freestyle Edge. Additional “backup” layouts can be saved as .txt files with descriptive names, but they cannot be loaded to the keyboard without renaming them.

Syntax Overview
Remaps and macros are encoded in a layout file using a basic programming syntax. Each of the 95 full-size keys on the keyboard has been assigned a unique “Position” token used to identify that key during programming (see Section 6.2). Each keyboard & mouse action supported by the Edge has been assigned a unique “Action” token corresponding to a standard USB “scan code” Each line of code must include a position token and one or more action tokens. The “>“ symbol is used to separate position tokens from action tokens, and individual tokens are surrounded by brackets. Examples:

Remaps are encoded with Square Brackets: [position]>[action]
Macros are encoded with Curly Brackets: {position1}{position2}>{action1}{action2}{action3}…

Layout Programming Tips

If the keyboard cannot understand the desired remap, then the default action will remain in effect.
Do not mix and match square and curly brackets in a single line of code
Separate each line of code with Enter/Return
The order in which the lines of code appear in the .txt file does not generally matter, except in the event of conflicting commands, in which case the command closest to the bottom of the file will be implemented.
Tokens are not case-sensitive. Capitalizing a token will not produce the capitalized action.
A line of code can be temporarily disabled by placing an asterisk (*) at the beginning of the line.

Position Token Map
Top Layer Position Tokens

Fn Layer Positions
In general, to designate a key position in the Fn layer, you simply encode the prefix “fn“ (with a space) before the basic, top-layer token. The “fn” prefix goes outside of the brackets. Examples:

The embedded Hotkey 1 position is: fn [hk1]>…
The embedded Escape key position is: fn [esc]>…

However, for the seven keys that have a unique embedded key action, there is a unique Fn layer token that corresponds to the embedded layer action for that key position.

Top Layer Position Token	[F1]	[F2]	[F3]	[F4]	[F5]	[F6]	[PAUSE]
Fn Layer Position Token	fn [MUTE]	fn [VOL-]	fn [VOL+]	fn [PLAY]	fn [PREV]	fn [NEXT]	fn [INS]

Action Token Dictionary

Alphanumeric

A	B	C	D	E	F	G	H	I	J	K	L
M	N	O	P	Q	R	S	T	U	V	W	X
Y	Z	1	2	3	4	5	6	7	8	9	0
–	=

Function Keys

F1	F2	F3	F4	F5	F6	F7	F8	F9	F10	F11	F12
F13	F14	F15	F16	F17	F18	F19	F20	F21	F22	F23	F24

Modifiers (Firmware update required for Hyper and Meh multi-modifier support)

Left Shift	Right Shift	Left Alt	Right Alt	Left Windows & Command	Right Windows & Command	Left Ctrl	Right Ctrl	Shift + Ctrl + Win +Alt	Shift + Ctrl + Alt
LSHFT	RSHFT	LALT	RALT	LWIN	RWIN	LCTRL	RCTRL	HYPER	MEH

Punctuation

Open Bracket	Close Bracket	Period	Comma	Apostrophe	Tilde	Forward Slash	Back Slash
OBRK	CBRK	PER	COM	APOS	TILDE	/	\

Multimedia & Mouse Clicks

Mute	Volume Up	Volume Down	Play/Pause	Next Track	Previous Track	Left Mouse	Right Mouse	Middle Mouse	Mouse Button 4	Mouse Button 5
MUTE	VOL+	VOL-	PLAY	NEXT	PREV	LMOUS	RMOUS	MMOUS	MOUS4	MOUS5

Editing & Navigation

Enter	Tab	Space	Delete	Backspace	Home	End	Page Up	Page Down
ENT	TAB	SPC	DEL	BSPC	HOME	END	PUP	PDN
Left Arrow	Right Arrow	Up Arrow	Down Arrow	Escape	Print Screen	Pause	Scroll Lock	Insert
LFT	RGHT	UP	DWN	ESC	PRINT	PAUSE	SCRLK	INS

Numeric Keypad

Num Lock	Keypad 1	Keypad 2	Keypad 3	Keypad 4	Keypad 5	Keypad 6	Keypad 7	Keypad 8
NUMLK	KP1	KP2	KP3	KP4	KP5	KP6	KP7	KP8
Keypad 9	Keypad 0	Keypad Plus	Keypad Minus	Keypad Divide	Keypad Multiply	Keypad Enter	Keypad Equals	Keypad Decimal
KP9	KP0	KP+	KP-	KP/	KP*	KENT	KP=	KP.

Miscellaneous

Caps Lock	Fn Toggle	Fn Shift	Menu/App	International	Calculator	Shutdown	LED Toggle	125 MS Delay	500 MS Delay	No Key Action
CAPS	FNTOG	FNSHF	MENU	INTL/	CALC	SHTDN	LED	D125	D500	NULL

Programming Remaps

To program a remap, encode the position token and the action taken in square brackets, separated by “>“.

Remap Examples:

Hotkey 1 performs Q: [hk1]>[q]
Escape key performs Caps Lock: [esc]>[caps]
The Windows key in the Fn layer performs Right Shift: fn [lwin]>[rshft]
F1 in the embedded layer performs Tab: fn [mute]>[tab]

Programming Macros
Shifted Actions

To produce a shifted key action, it is necessary to encode a macro that includes both the down and up stroke of the shift key surrounding the basic key action. Downstrokes are indicated by placing a “-” inside the bracket and upstrokes are indicated by placing “+”. See example 1 below.

Individual Playback Speed Prefix {s_}
By default, all macros play at the selected “Global” playback speed. To assign a custom speed for improved playback performance for a given macro you can use the “Individual Playback Speed” prefix “{s_}”. Choose a number from 1-9 corresponding to the speed scale shown in Section 4.6. The speed prefix should be placed to the right of the “>“ before the macro content. See example 2 below.

Multiplay Prefix {x_}
By default, all macros playback continuously while the trigger key is held. To override the repeat feature and restrict a macro to playback a specific number of times you can use the “Macro Multiplay” prefix “{x_}”.
Choose a number from 1-9 corresponding to the number of times you want the macro to replay. The multiplay prefix should be placed to the right of the “>“ before the macro content. See example 3 below.
If a macro is not playing back properly, try assigning a Multiplay value of 1. The macro may actually be firing multiple times before you release the trigger key.

Delays
Delays can be inserted into a macro to improve playback performance or to produce a mouse double-click.
Delays are available in 125 and 500-millisecond increments ({d125} & {d500}). Delay tokens can be combined to produce delays of various durations and inserted at any point in a macro. See example 4 below.

Macro Examples:

Pause key performs “Hello” with a capital H: {pause}>{-lshft}{h}{+lshft}{e}{l}{l}{o}
Hotkey 5 performs “qwerty” at speed 9: {hk5}>{s9}{q}{w}{e}{r}{t}{y}
Hotkey 1 increases the volume 3 notches: {hk1}>{x3}{vol+)
Tab key performs a left-mouse double click: {tab}>{lmous}{d125}{lmous}

Programming Settings
Keyboard Settings
The current global settings for the keyboard are saved in the “kbd_settings.txt” file in the “settings” sub-folder. Users can update these settings by modifying the fields in this .txt file and then using the Refresh shortcut (SmartSet + Layout) to implement them.

startup_file: Edit the name of the .txt file to instruct the keyboard to load a different active layout.
macro_speed: Change the Global Macro Speed (see Section 4.7) with “1-9” for speed, or “0” to disable (default = 5).
game_mode: Disable Game Mode with “OFF” or enable with “ON”.
nkro_mode: Disable NKRO Mode with “OFF” or enable with “ON”.
status_play_speed: Change the Status Report Playback speed with “1-4” for speed, or “0” to disable (default = 3).
program_key_lock: Disable Program Locking with “OFF” or enable it with “ON”.
v-drive: Force the v-Drive to open automatically every time the keyboard is plugged in with “auto” or requires manual opening with “manual”.
led_mode: Choose LED brightness with “1-9”, Off with “0”, Pitch Black with “P”, and Breathe mode with “B”.

SmartSet App Settings

In the settings sub-folder you may also notice the “app_settings.txt” file. This file stores your saved preferences for in-app notifications when using the SmartSet App. “On” disables the notification and “Off” enables the notification.

v-Drive Repair

If you forget to eject the v-Drive after Direct Programming on a Windows PC as described in Section 6.0, the next time you open the v-Drive on a Windows computer you may receive a harmless drive error warning.

If you receive this error, follow the prompts to quickly “repair” the drive.

Maintenance

To keep your Freestyle Edge performing at its peak, we recommend periodically spraying canned air between the keycaps to remove any loose debris and wiping it clean with a damp, soft cloth (no soap).

Technical Support, Repairs, and Returns

For FAQs, troubleshooting tips and links to other resources visit: www.kinesis.com/support/freestyle-pro/.
Kinesis offers free, lifetime technical support on all of our devices. Please submit a ticket and provide all of the requested information so we can diagnose your issue as fast as possible.
For FAQs, troubleshooting tips and links to other resources visit: KinesisGaming.com/contact-tech-support/.

Return Merchandise Authorizations (“RMAs”)

For any repair, regardless of warranty coverage, you must first contact Kinesis Technical Support to obtain a Return Merchandise Authorization (“RMA”)

Repairs

This product must be repaired by authorized personnel only. Unauthorized repairs may seriously jeopardize the safety of the user (such as from fire danger) and may invalidate your warranty.

Packaging and Shipping
To ship a product back to Kinesis please use its original packaging or other suitable packaging that protects the device against impact and shock. You should insure the package with your carrier as Kinesis is not responsible for items until they are received at the Kinesis repair center. Packages sent to Kinesis without an RMA number marked on the outside of the box may be refused.

Warranty & Limitation of Liability

Visit KinesisGaming.com/Warranty for the current terms of the Kinesis Limited Warranty. Kinesis does not require any product registration to obtain warranty benefits. Proof of purchase is required for warranty repairs.

Disclaimer of Other Warranties
The warranty and remedies described in the Kinesis Limited Warranty referenced above are exclusive and in lieu of all others, whether oral or written, express or implied. Kinesis specifically disclaims any and all implied warranties, including, without limitation, warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. No Kinesis dealer, agent, reseller, or employee is authorized to make any modification, extension, or addition to this warranty. Kinesis does not warrant that the product will meet your requirements, or that the operation of the product will be uninterrupted or error-free, or that all errors will be corrected.

Limitation of Liability
Kinesis is not responsible for special, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any breach of warranty, or under other legal theory, including but not limited to lost profits, downtime, goodwill, damage to or replacement of equipment and/or property nor any costs of recovering, reprogramming, or reproducing any program or data stored in or used with Kinesis products.

FAQ

Q: Can I adjust the brightness of the backlight?
- A: Yes, you can adjust the brightness of the backlight by referring to Section 4.17 in the user manual for details on adjusting the Custom setting.
Q: Do I need to install any special software for programming keys?
- A: No, the KB950 does not require any special software for programming keys. Consult the user manual for instructions on programming keys directly on the keyboard.

CONTACT

Kinesis Corporation
22030 20th Avenue SE, Suite 102
Bothell, Washington 98021 USA
sales@kinesis.com
www.KinesisGaming.com

Documents / Resources

Kinesis Gaming KB950 Freestyle Edge Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard [pdf] User Manual
KB950, KB950 Freestyle Edge Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, KB950, Freestyle Edge Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard, Gaming Keyboard, Keyboard

References

User Manual

Kinesis Gaming KB950 Freestyle Edge Split Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

Product Usage Instructions