Keyboard Layout Overview
The SKYLOONG GK87 is a 87-key tenkeyless (TKL) wired mechanical keyboard designed for customization and performance. The layout includes a standard alphanumeric section, a function row (F1-F12), a navigation cluster (Insert, Home, Page Up, Delete, End, Page Down), arrow keys, and modifier keys (Ctrl, Win/Option, Alt/Command, Fn). The spacebar is a 6.25U size, with accessories available for replacement.
Keycaps are for reference only; additional functions are triggered by the Fn key combination.
Knob Function Settings
The keyboard features four rotary knobs located on the top right. These knobs can be customized using the VIA software. Default functions are:
- Knob 1 (Leftmost): Controls Volume.
- Turn Left: Volume ?
- Turn Right: Volume ?
- Press: Mute ?
- Knob 2: Controls Backlight Brightness.
- Turn Left: Brightness ?⬇️
- Turn Right: Brightness ?⬆️
- Press: Backlight ON/OFF ?
- Knob 3: Controls Zoom.
- Turn Left: Zoom Out ?➖
- Turn Right: Zoom In ?➕
- Press: Screenshot ?
- Knob 4 (Rightmost): Labeled 'M', its function can be customized via VIA.
A QR code is provided to learn more about modifying knob functions.
QMK Firmware RESET
To reset the keyboard firmware:
- While the keyboard is plugged in, press and hold the
RESETbutton (located near theBackspaceand\keys) for 5 seconds to enter Boot Mode. - Press the
RESETbutton again to exit Boot Mode and return to normal working mode.
For flashing firmware, use the qmk_toolbox.exe application.
A diagram shows the location of the RESET button.
Keyboard Status Indicator Light
Indicator lights above the number row show the status of certain keys:
- Caps Lock: Indicated by 'A'
- Scroll Lock: Indicated by 'S'
- MAC or other: Indicated by 'M'
Backlight Settings
Use the Fn key in combination with other keys to control backlighting:
| Key | Function | Key | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
Fn + ↑ | Backlight Brightness ⬆️ | Fn + 0 | Backlight ON/OFF ? |
Fn + ↓ | Backlight Brightness ⬇️ | Fn + - | Previous Backlight (Single light version: Monochrome) |
Fn + ← | Backlight Effect Speed ⬇️ | Fn + = | Next Backlight (Single light version: Breathing) |
Fn + → | Backlight Effect Speed ⬆️ |
Note: Backlight effect speed settings do not apply to the Single light version.
Mode Function Settings
Switch between Win and Mac modes, and access various functions using Fn key combinations:
| Key | Win Mode | Mac Mode | |
|---|---|---|---|
F1 | F1 | Screen brightness ⬆️ (Fn + F1 = F1) | |
F2 | F2 | Screen brightness ⬇️ (Fn + F2 = F2) | |
F3 | F3 (Fn + F3 = Desktop Switching ?️↔️) | F3 (Fn + F3 = F3) | |
F4 | F4 (Fn + F4 = Search ?) | F4 (Fn + F4 = F4) | |
F5 | F5 (Fn + F5 = Assistant) | F5 (Fn + F5 = Siri ??️) | |
F6 | F6 (Fn + F6 = Hibernate ?) | F6 (Fn + F6 = F6) | |
F7 | F7 (Fn + F7 = Previous ⏮️) | F7 (Fn + F7 = F7) | |
F8 | F8 (Fn + F8 = Pause ▶️⏸️) | F8 (Fn + F8 = F8) | |
F9 | F9 (Fn + F9 = Next ⏭️) | F9 (Fn + F9 = F9) | |
F10 | F10 (Fn + F10 = Mute ?) | F10 (Fn + F10 = F10) | |
F11 | F11 (Fn + F11 = Volume ?) | F11 (Fn + F11 = F11) | |
F12 | F12 (Fn + F12 = Volume ?) | F12 (Fn + F12 = F12) | |
Fn + 6 | Switch to Win mode | ||
Fn + 7 & & | Switch to Mac mode | ||
Fn + Shift(L) + N + Shift(R) | 6-Key Rollover and N-Key Rollover Shortcut key |
VIA Key Value Mapping
The SKYLOONG GK87 supports VIA key value mapping for extensive customization. You can remap keys, create macros, and configure lighting effects.
To use VIA:
- Visit usevia.app to access the VIA web application.
- Download the appropriate JSON file for your keyboard model.
- Load the JSON file into VIA to configure your keyboard.
Resources:
- VIA Key Value Mapping: https://usevia.app
- GitHub Repository (GK87 BL version): https://github.com/JZ-Skyloong/VIA_keyboards/tree/gk87_bl/v3/skyloong/gk87/bl
- GitHub Repository (GK87 PTIR version): https://github.com/JZ-Skyloong/VIA_keyboards/tree/gk87_ptir/v3/skyloong/gk87/ptir
A QR code is provided for a tutorial on split spacebar configuration.
VIA_keyboards/v3/skyloong/gk87/bl at gk87_bl · JZ-Skyloong/VIA_keyboards · GitHub
