NeoKey 1x4 QT I2C - Four Mechanical Key Switches with NeoPixels

What could be better than a single mechanical key? How about four mechanical keys that can glow in any rainbow color! The Adafruit NeoKey 1x4 QT I2C Breakout makes this possible. This 3' x 0.8' PCB can hold four Cherry MX or compatible switches. It's easy to use with a breadboard, perfboard, or a STEMMA QT (Qwiic) connector for instant I2C connectivity on any platform. Each order includes one assembled and programmed PCB, but no switches, keycaps, or microcontroller. It's just the controller board that connects to a microcontroller. The breakout has four Kailh sockets, so you can plug in any MX-compatible switch instead of soldering. You might need a bit of glue to keep the switch in place. Each key has a reverse-mount NeoPixel that shines through the switch's LED spot. The microcontroller is pre-programmed with our seesaw firmware, allowing button presses and NeoPixel control over I2C. You can connect multiple boards by chaining the I2C and closing the I2C address jumpers. With four jumpers, you can have up to 16 boards on a single I2C bus. We have Arduino and CircuitPython/Python libraries for controlling the NeoKey 1x4, so you can quickly create a custom macropad with any microcontroller or computer. You can also place the breakouts on a breadboard. There are two sets of breakout pads for flexible use. There are two rows of 6-pin contacts on a 0.1' grid on both sides. Solder both sides for stability. Soldering is needed to attach the header for breadboard use and to close jumpers for connecting multiple boards. A microcontroller is required, and it's not a stand-alone device. Keys and keycaps are not included, but any MX-compatible switch like Kailh or Gateron will work!

Using the Adafruit NeoKey 1x4 QT I2C is quite straightforward. First, you need to get your own MX-compatible switches and keycaps as they are not included in the order. Plug the switches into the Kailh sockets on the PCB. You may use a bit of hot glue or epoxy to keep them in place. Connect the board to a microcontroller using the STEMMA QT (Qwiic) connector or solder the header for breadboard use. Remember, soldering is required for these steps. The microcontroller is pre - programmed with our seesaw firmware, so once connected, you can start controlling the button presses and the NeoPixel lights through I2C. If you want to use multiple boards, chain the I2C and solder the I2C address jumpers closed. With our Arduino and CircuitPython/Python libraries, you can easily create a custom macropad. As for maintenance, keep the board clean and dry. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures or humidity. If you need to remove a switch, gently heat the glue and pull it out carefully. And always make sure your microcontroller is properly powered when using the board.