Keyboard Manufacturing

Overview

The Sandpiper keyboard is a custom USB keyboard designed to fit into the provided enclosure. Note: This PCB is optional and is not required to run Sandpiper—the system works with any standard USB keyboard.

Requirements

Software

PCB Design: KiCad 9 or above
Enclosure Design: SolidWorks (for modifications)
Firmware Programming: AVRdude, AVRdudess, or QMK Toolbox

Hardware

AVR programmer (for flashing firmware)
6-pin ISP header

PCB Manufacturing

The PCB can be manufactured through online services such as:

Important: When ordering, match the parts to the ones listed in the BOM as closely as possible. Mismatches in part numbers might result in wrong pin connections.

Firmware Programming

To program the keyboard firmware:

Locate the firmware in the firmware/ folder of the sandpiper_pcb repository
Use an AVR programmer with AVRdude, AVRdudess, or QMK Toolbox to flash the firmware
The programming header goes on the bottom side of the board where the chip sits

ISP Pin Note: The square pin connection is actually the MISO pin and not the ground pin due to an error in the silkscreen. See the diagram below for correct pin locations:

Keyboard Layout

The keyboard layout can be viewed and edited using:

Keyboard Layout Editor - Import the sandpiper-layout.json file
KBFirmware - Use to verify wiring and compile firmware

A premade firmware layout file (sandpiperfirmwarelayout.json) is provided in the layout folder for convenience.

Enclosure

The enclosure is designed to be 3D printed:

Recommended Material: PETG-strong (very unlikely to warp)
Structure: One piece for top half, one piece for bottom half, plus side connection pieces

Note: Other materials might work but print at your own risk. There are no built-in measures in the design to avoid warping, so consider splitting the design manually if using warp-prone materials.

Final Assembly

After programming:

Optionally, cut or remove the programming header pins once you're done, if you desire. The enclosure has a hole at the bottom plate to ensure the pins do not cause a problem.

Resources

Sandpiper PCB Repository - PCB schematics, keyboard firmware, and enclosure files