Keychron Q12 HE Wireless Magnetic Switch Keyboard

Fully Assembled Version

Keyboard Components:

• 1x Fully Assembled Keyboard
• 1x Aluminum Case
• 1x PCB
• 1x Aluminum Plate
• 1x Sound Absorbing Foam
• 1x Latex Bottom Pad
• 1x Bottom Case Acoustic Foam
• 1x Bottom Case PET Film
• 16x Gaskets (14 Installed and 2 in the Box)
• 7 sets x Stabilizers
• 1 set x Keycaps (PBT Double-shot)
• 1 set x Magnetic Switches

Included Accessories:

• 1x Type-C Cable
• 1x Type-A to Type-C Adapter
• 1x Extension Adapter for Receiver
• 1x Type-A 2.4 GHz Receiver
• 1x Keycap & Switch Puller
• 1x Screwdriver
• 1x Hex Key

Quick Start Guide

If you are a Windows user, please find the appropriate keycaps in the box, then follow the instructions below to find and replace the following keycaps.

Mac / Windows Keycap Replacement

Diagrams illustrate the standard keyboard layout with indicators for specific keycaps that may need replacement for Mac/Windows compatibility.

1. Connect 2.4 GHz Receiver

Step 1: Switch to 2.4 GHz mode. Locate the mode toggle switch on the keyboard and set it to the 'G' position (indicating 2.4 GHz). The text 'G = 2.4 GHz' is shown next to the switch.

Step 2: Activate pairing. Press and hold the 'fn' key and the '4' key simultaneously for 3 seconds.

Step 3: Connect receiver. Connect the 2.4 GHz receiver to your device's USB port using the provided Type-A 2.4 GHz Receiver and Type-C Cable. An extension adapter for the receiver is also provided for optimal placement.

Note: For the best wireless experience, it is recommended to use the extension adapter and place the 2.4 GHz receiver close to your keyboard to minimize latency and signal interference.

2. Connect Bluetooth

Step 1: Switch to Bluetooth mode. Locate the mode toggle switch and set it to the 'BT' position.

Step 2: Activate pairing. Press and hold the 'fn' key and the '1' key simultaneously for 3 seconds. The keyboard will enter Bluetooth pairing mode.

Step 3: Pair with device. On your device, search for and connect to the Bluetooth device named "Keychron Q12 HE".

3. Connect Cable

Step 1: Switch to Cable mode. Locate the mode toggle switch and set it to the Cable position (indicated by a USB symbol).

Step 2: Connect keyboard. Connect the keyboard to your computer using the provided Type-C cable.

Note: Backlighting will be turned on in Wired Mode. The keyboard will not enter Battery Saver Mode.

4. Switch To The Right System

Ensure the system toggle switch on the top left corner of the keyboard is set to match your computer's operating system (Mac/iOS or Windows/Android).

5. The Backlight

Change Lighting Effect: Press 'fn' + 'Q'.

Turn Backlight On/Off: Press 'fn' + 'tab' or 'fn' + 'knob (press)' or 'fn' + [other key].

6. Adjust The Backlight Brightness

Increase Brightness: Press 'fn' + 'W'.

Decrease Brightness: Press 'fn' + 'S'.

7. Adjust The Backlight Speed

Increase Speed: Press 'fn' + 'T'.

Decrease Speed: Press 'fn' + 'G'.

8. Warranty

The Keychron Q12 HE keyboard is designed for customization and ease of rebuilding. In the event of any component failure during the warranty period, Keychron will replace only the defective parts, not the entire keyboard.

9. Factory Reset & Firmware Update

Factory Reset:

1. Power on your keyboard.

2. Press and hold 'fn' + 'J' + 'Z' for 3 seconds. The keyboard backlight will flash red quickly for 3 seconds, indicating a successful reset.

Flash Keyboard Firmware:

1. Visit launcher.keychron.com to open the online Launcher web app.

2. Ensure the keyboard is in Cable or Wired mode and connect the power cable.

3. Navigate to the 'Firmware Update' tab within the Launcher and connect your keyboard.

4. Follow the on-screen instructions in the Launcher to complete the firmware update.

For a step-by-step guide, search for "firmware" on keychron.com.

10. The Keychron Launcher App

Access the Keychron online launcher app at launcher.keychron.com. This application allows users to remap keys, adjust key actuation points, assign multiple commands to a single key, enter game controller mode, and more.

If the app does not recognize your keyboard, please contact Keychron support for assistance.

Note: The online launcher app is currently compatible with the latest versions of Chrome, Edge, and Opera browsers.

[Keychron Logo Icon]

11. The Layers

The keyboard features four layers of key settings:

• Layer 0 & 1: For Mac systems.
• Layer 2 & 3: For Windows systems.

When the system toggle is set to 'Mac', Layer 0 is activated.

When the system toggle is set to 'Windows', Layer 2 is activated. It's important to make changes on Layer 2 in Windows mode, not Layer 0, to avoid common user errors.

Diagrams illustrate the layer mapping for Mac and Windows systems.

Key Description

Detailed descriptions of various key functions across different layers are provided, including:

• Brightness Control: Scr-, Scr+, Bright-, Bright+
• Media/Playback: Prvs, Play, Next, Mute, Vol-, Vol+
• RGB Control: RGB Toggle, RGB Md+, RGB Md-, Hue+, Hue-, Sat+, Sat-, RGB SPI, RGB SPD
• System/OS: Task, File, MCtl, LPad, 2.4G, Batt, NKRO
• Layer Switching: MO(1) (activates Layer 1), MO(3) (activates Layer 3)
• Bluetooth Devices: BTH1, BTH2, BTH3 (for switching between paired Bluetooth devices)

Q12 HE WIRELESS MAGNETIC SWITCH KEYBOARD SPECIFICATIONS

Operating environment: -10 to 50°C

Technical specifications are subject to change without notice.

Q12 HE WIRELESS MAGNETIC SWITCH KEYBOARD OVERVIEW

Diagrams illustrate the keyboard layout for Mac and Windows, highlighting various indicators and ports:

• 1. Bluetooth Channel Indicator: Shows Bluetooth connection status.
• 2. 2.4 GHz Channel Indicator: Shows 2.4 GHz connection status.
• 3. G Cable BT (Mode Toggle): Switch between 2.4 GHz, Cable, and Bluetooth modes.
• 4. Win/Android Mac/iOS (OS Toggle): Switch between operating systems.
• 5. Type-C Port: For wired connection and charging.
• 6. Power Indicator: Shows charging status.
• 7. Caps Lock Indicator: Indicates Caps Lock status.

DEFAULT KEY LAYOUT: LAYER 0 (Mac)

This layer is activated when the keyboard's system toggle is switched to Mac. It displays the standard keyboard layout with primary functions.

Special keys include: Mute, F13-F15, N.Lck, Scr-, Scr+, MCtl, LPad, Brght-, Brght+, Prvs, Play, Next, Mute, Vol-, Vol+, RGB Md+, Left Shift, Left Ctrl, LOpt, LCmd, Right Shift, RCmd, M0(1), RCtl.

LAYER 1 (Mac + fn/MO(1))

This layer is activated when the system toggle is switched to Mac and the 'fn' key (or MO(1)) is pressed. It provides access to secondary functions:

Includes RGB controls (Toggle, Md+, Brght+, Hue+, Sat+, SPI, Md-, Brght-, Hue-, Sat-, SPD), Bluetooth device switching (BTH1, BTH2, BTH3), 2.4G mode, Battery Life (Batt), N-Key Rollover (NKRO), and End key.

LAYER 2 (Windows)

This layer is activated when the keyboard's system toggle is switched to Windows. It displays the standard keyboard layout with Windows-specific keys:

Includes: Mute, F13-F15, N.Lck, Scr-, Scr+, Task, File, Brght-, Brght+, Prvs, Play, Next, Mute, Vol-, Vol+, RGB Md+, Left Shift, Left Ctrl, LWin, LAlt, Right Shift, RAlt, M0(3), RCtl.

Key Mapping: LWin = Left Windows, LAlt = Left Alt, RAlt = Right Alt, RCtl = Right Ctrl.

LAYER 3 (Windows + fn/MO(3))

This layer is activated when the system toggle is switched to Windows and the 'fn' key (or MO(3)) is pressed. It provides access to secondary functions:

Includes RGB controls, Bluetooth device switching, 2.4G mode, Task View, File Explorer, Mission Control, LaunchPad, and End key.

LED STATUS OVERVIEW

FUNCTION DESCRIPTION: CHARGING

To charge the keyboard, plug the USB cable into a USB port and connect the other end to the keyboard's Type-C port. The Power Indicator will show a static red light while charging. A static green light indicates a full charge. Low power is indicated by a blinking red light.

Note: The Keychron keyboard is compatible with all USB ports. For optimal performance, use a 5V 1A adapter or USB 3.0. The Keychron Q12 HE can be charged in 2.4 GHz, Cable, or Bluetooth modes. This product supports up to 5V charging voltage and 1A charging current. Keychron is not responsible for issues caused by improper charging.

2.4 GHZ / BLUETOOTH / WIRED MODE (MODE TOGGLE)

2.4 GHZ WIRED MODE

1. Switch the toggle to the "G" option.

2. Press 'fn' + '4' for 3 seconds to activate 2.4 GHz pairing status.

3. Connect the 2.4GHz receiver to your device's USB Port. The keyboard will automatically connect.

FORCED PAIRING:

1. Remove the receiver from your device and switch the keyboard to the "G" option.

2. Press 'fn' + '4' for 3 seconds to activate 2.4 GHz pairing status (indicator flashes for 3 minutes).

3. Reinsert the receiver into the device; the keyboard will start pairing. The 2.4 GHz indicator turns off upon successful pairing.

*Keep the keyboard within 20 cm of the receiver for optimal pairing.

WIRED MODE

1. Switch the toggle to the 'USB' or 'Cable' option (indicated by a USB symbol).

2. Connect the keyboard to your PC using the USB cable.

3. Backlighting will turn on. The keyboard will not enter Battery Saver Mode.

BLUETOOTH MODE

1. Switch the toggle to the "BT" option.

2. Backlighting will turn on.

3. Hold 'fn' + '1' for 3 seconds to activate Bluetooth pairing (Bluetooth channel indicator flashes for 3 minutes).

4. Search for "Keychron Q12 HE" on your device and connect. The indicator goes off after successful pairing.

Note: Supports pairing up to 3 devices via 'fn' + '1', 'fn' + '2', or 'fn' + '3'. Slow or failed connections may occur due to different Bluetooth versions.

SWITCH BLUETOOTH DEVICES

Short press 'fn' + '1', 'fn' + '2', or 'fn' + '3' to switch between paired devices.

RECONNECT

1. Switch the keyboard to the "BT" option.

2. The Bluetooth channel indicator flashes for 3 seconds and automatically pairs with the last connected device.

3. If the indicator is off, press any button to reconnect.

*The keyboard must have been previously paired with the device.

TURN OFF THE KEYBOARD

Switch the keyboard to the 'off' position (indicated by a power symbol) and unplug the power cable.

BACKLIGHT SETTING

• Turn Backlight On/Off: Short press 'fn' + 'tab', 'fn' + 'knob (press)', or 'fn' + [other key].
• Switch Lighting Effects: Short press 'fn' + 'Q' or 'fn' + 'A'.

AUTO SLEEP MODE

In Bluetooth or 2.4G wireless mode, the keyboard enters AUTO SLEEP MODE after inactivity to save power.

1. After 10 minutes of inactivity, the backlight turns off. Press any key to wake the keyboard.

2. After 30 minutes of inactivity, the keyboard enters deep sleep, disconnecting wireless connection. Press the SPACE BAR to wake it up; the backlight will turn on, and it will automatically reconnect.

PROFILE SWITCHING IN HALL EFFECT MODE

Short press 'fn' + 'P' + 'Z' / 'X' / 'C' to switch between Profile 1 / 2 / 3. The keyboard backlight flashes red, with the Z/X/C key flashing white, indicating successful profile switching.

Profile key combinations can be configured in the Launcher app (Keymap > Custom > select PROF1/PROF2/PROF3 and drop onto a key).

* PROF1 = Profile 1; PROF2 = Profile 2; PROF3 = Profile 3

OS TOGGLE

1 – MAC/iOS: Switch the toggle to Mac/iOS when connected to a Mac or iOS device.

2 - WINDOWS/ANDROID: Switch the toggle to Windows/Android when connected to a Windows or Android device.

*In Windows/Android mode, the [Windows key] and [Alt key] are used for "Windows" and "Alt" functions respectively.

TROUBLESHOOTING

Pairing Issues:

If unable to pair, confirm the device is Bluetooth-capable. Restart both the device and the keyboard, then try pairing again.

Note: On Windows, new Bluetooth connections may require additional software updates. Wait at least 20 minutes after pairing for updates to complete before restarting the computer.

Ensure the device is configured to accept Bluetooth connections (Windows) and supports an external keyboard (HID profile). Check Bluetooth device settings: Allow Bluetooth devices to find/connect to the computer, and alert when a device wants to connect.

Keyboard Not Working in Bluetooth Mode:

For Computer/Smartphone: Go to device Bluetooth settings, select the keyboard, remove/delete/unpair it, then restart the device.

For Keyboard: Turn the keyboard off and back on, then reconnect to your device.

Wireless Connection Interruption

If the wireless connection is interrupted (even within 10 meters), check if the keyboard is on a metal surface that might interfere with the signal.

Third-Party Input Tools

Functions of third-party input tools may be affected due to compatibility, versions, brands, and drivers of Windows/Android OS. Ensure your operating system and drivers are up to date.

Multimedia Keys / Function Keys

Functions of certain multimedia or function keys may be disabled due to compatibility issues with devices, versions, brands, and drivers.

*Multimedia keys: [Description of multimedia key functions]

Function keys: F1/F2/F3 / F4 / F5 / F6 / F7 / F8 / F9 / F10 / F11 / F12

Safety Precaution

• Keep the product, accessories, and packaging out of reach of children to prevent accidents and choking hazards.
• Always keep the product dry to avoid corrosion.
• Do not expose the product to extreme temperatures: below -10°C (14°F) or above 50°C (122°F) to preserve the keyboard's lifespan.

Keychron, Inc.

Dover, DE 19901, United States

Find us at:

https://www.keychron.com

support@keychron.com

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Designed by Keychron

Made in China