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Inputronic Keyboard - Hardware details

Pinout

Click here for a high-resolution image of the pinout.

Pin details

Pin MarkingPin NameDescription
VCCPowerSupply voltage (1.65V to 3.6V supported)
GNDGroundCommon ground for power and signals
SDADataI²C data line for communication
SCLClockI²C clock line for communication
INTInterruptActive-low interrupt output (open-drain)
RESETResetActive-low reset input
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This board operates at 1.65V to 3.6V logic levels and is compatible with both 3.3V and 5V systems when used with appropriate level shifters or directly with 3.3V microcontrollers!


Qwiic

EasyC/qwiic cable
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This board is fully Qwiic-compatible! Just plug it into your board using a Qwiic/easyC/STEMMA QT cable and start coding!

Qwiic (formerly easyC) details and specifications

Learn about hardware specifications, compatibility, and usage of the Qwiic connector.


I²C Address

The TCA8418 has a fixed 7-bit I²C address:

0x34 (0b0110100)

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Unlike some I²C devices, the address on this board cannot be changed through hardware jumpers.

Dimensions

  • Board Dimensions: 136 x 60 mm
  • Header Pin Holes: 1.5 mm
  • Screw Holes: Designed for M3 screws (3.2 mm diameter)
  • Soldered boards are LEGO compatible! 🧱

Jumper Details

This board contains hardware jumpers. See below for their locations and functions:

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JumperDefault StateFunction
JP1Normally openOptional 3.3V power connection
JP2Normally openReset button connection option
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The keyboard matrix is pre-configured with 80 tactile switches arranged in an 8×10 matrix. All switches are connected to the TCA8418 chip's ROW and COL pins internally.

Hardware repository

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The hardware repository for this board is not available yet! We're working on it. In the meantime, please contact us to receive the hardware files.

The hardware repository contains everything you need to understand, modify, or manufacture the board. The different output folders are versioned. You can check which board version you have specifically by finding the version mark on the PCB.

Below is an overview of the available files.

CAD files

We use KiCad, an open-source PCB design tool. You can open and edit the .kicad_pro project file, which includes both the schematic and PCB layout.

The PANEL files are used internally for production.

Schematic

The OUTPUTS folder contains the schematic in .pdf format, exported from KiCad.

BOM (Bill of Materials)

The bill of materials (BOM) is provided in two formats:

  • A standard .csv table, listing all components, part numbers, and values.
  • An interactive BOM (.html) that visually highlights each component on the PCB, making it easy to locate and reference parts.

3D files

A 3D model of the PCB is available in .step format, allowing you to inspect the board design in CAD software.

Gerber files

Gerber files are essential for PCB manufacturing, as they contain precise instructions for each layer of the board. The repository includes standard Gerber outputs in a .zip file, such as:

  • Copper layers (.Cu.gbr) – Defines the traces and pads on the board.
  • Solder mask layers (.Mask.gbr) – Specifies the protective solder mask.
  • Silkscreen layers (.Silkscreen.gbr) – Contains text and component markings.
  • Paste layers (.Paste.gbr) – Used for stencil fabrication in SMD assembly.
  • Drill files (.drl) – Provides drilling coordinates for vias and holes.
  • Board outline (.Edge_Cuts.gbr) – Defines the shape of the PCB.
  • Gerber job file (.gbrjob) – Describes the set of Gerber files used for production.

These files are ready for fabrication and can be used in PCB manufacturing.

Compliance

The Compliance section includes important regulatory and safety documentation for this product. These files ensure compliance with relevant industry standards and legal requirements.

  • CE – Certification document confirming compliance with EU safety, health, and environmental requirements.
  • UKCA – UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) certification for the UK market.
  • Safety Instructions – Safety guidelines and precautions in English and in German.
  • Info.txt – Contains product details such as SKU, country of origin, HS tariff code, and barcode.