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The keytar as we know it today began appearing in the late 1970s, but didn't hit its stride until the '80s where it would become a symbol of that decade's music. A keytar is just a digital keyboard or synthesizer optimized for portability with a strap and an extension that makes it easier to play from a standing position. But keytars let keyboard players rock out on stage like their guitarist brethren, which makes them cool. To bring that same charisma to the world of computer keyboards, 24Eng designed a wearable mechanical keyboard inspired by iconic keytars.
There isn't a significant difference between this and a regular mechanical keyboard — aside from style, of course. But it does have a few features to make it more suitable for this purpose. The most obvious are the strap and handle to make the device portable. The keyboard is wireless and has a battery for power, so the user can type without a tether. There is also a "neck" with four additional keys, similar to that of a keytar, which lets the user quickly activate macros, shortcuts, alternate layers, or even chording functionality. Finally, a small Adafruit NeoPixel jewel provides seven RGB LED user-configurable indicators.
Because this is really just a normal keyboard in an unusual form factor, 24Eng was able to use standard components. Those included an Adafruit Feather 32u4 Bluefruit LE development board, an Adafruit IO Expander, Cherry MX-style key switches and key caps, and a 500mAh battery (also from Adafruit). The body is a combination of laser-cut plywood, aluminum extrusion, and some guitar hardware.
24Eng seems to have developed their own firmware for this project and that includes all of the necessary functions. It lets the user connect to the keyboard via Bluetooth from a computer, smartphone, or tablet. They can then type, switch modes, and so on. Macros and shortcuts can be configured in the code. It should also be possible to use other types of firmware if you prefer to use something you're more familiar with.
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