Post

*Schemes in single controller split keyboard*

It occurs to me that when using RJ45 for its eight conductors, I can do better than 4x4 matrix for keys. Since those conductors could be used for the ground, Vcc, data, clock and latch, and still have three lines to complete the matrix... totaling to 24 keys, more than I'd usually use for one hand!

Given that the 595 shift register produces 8 outputs, with my general layout preference (5x3 grid and up to 3 thumbs), that would only require 6 of the 8 outputs to work, which got me thinking: "Aren't LEDs digital output?" (when not PWM controlled) So I could have ≤2 indicator lights if it worked!

Also, with something like the Corne's 5/6 column options, I could provide that 6 column option by reducing the LED count by one. If I could design the hardware accordingly, my concern shifts to the firmware and whether it could be implemented (or at least, without too many hacks). So I made an MWE: