The KiiBOOM Phantom 81 is a 75% hot-swappable mechanical keyboard designed for versatility and user customization. It offers a compact layout with 81 keys, making it suitable for both productivity and gaming while saving desk space. The keyboard is compatible with multiple operating systems, including Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS, ensuring broad usability across different computing environments.
Function Description
The Phantom 81 functions as a primary input device for computers, allowing users to type text, execute commands, and control various software applications. Its mechanical switches provide tactile feedback and durability, enhancing the typing experience compared to membrane keyboards. The hot-swappable design is a key feature, enabling users to easily change out switches without soldering. This allows for extensive customization of typing feel and sound, catering to individual preferences. The keyboard supports multiple connection methods: USB-C for a wired connection, Wireless 2.4G for a low-latency wireless experience, and Bluetooth 5.0 for convenient pairing with up to three different devices.
Usage Features
The Phantom 81 is designed with a focus on user convenience and customization.
Connectivity:
- Wired (USB-C): Provides a stable and reliable connection, ideal for competitive gaming or situations where wireless interference is a concern.
- Wireless 2.4G: Offers a dedicated wireless connection with minimal latency, suitable for users who prefer a clutter-free desk without compromising performance.
- Bluetooth 5.0: Allows for pairing with up to three distinct Bluetooth devices (e.g., a laptop, tablet, and smartphone). Users can switch between these devices quickly using dedicated shortcuts (FN+1, FN+2, FN+3).
Pairing Instructions:
- Bluetooth Pairing: To pair a Bluetooth device, long-press FN+1, FN+2, or FN+3 for 3 seconds. The keyboard will enter pairing mode, indicated by flashing lights. If no connection is established, the keyboard will eventually enter sleep mode. A short press of FN+1, FN+2, or FN+3 will switch to the last paired device.
- Wireless 2.4G Pairing: First, ensure the keyboard is turned on via the switch on its bottom. Plug the 2.4G receiver into your device. Then, press and hold FN+4 for 3 seconds. The '4' key's backlight will flash, indicating pairing mode. Once the LED stays green, the pairing is successful. A short press of FN+4 switches to Wireless Mode.
Operating System Compatibility:
- The keyboard is fully compatible with Microsoft Windows and Apple macOS.
- Windows Shortcuts: Dedicated shortcuts (FN+F1 through FN+F12) control screen brightness, task switching, explorer, email, homepage, media playback (last song, play/pause, next song), mute, and volume control. A specific shortcut (FN+WIN-L) is available to lock the Windows key.
- macOS Shortcuts: Similar dedicated shortcuts (FN+F1 through FN+F12) manage screen brightness, task control, Siri activation, media playback, mute, and volume.
- General Function Shortcuts: These shortcuts are universal across operating systems and control various keyboard features:
- Lighting Control: FN+\ toggles the main RGB light mode, FN+DEL toggles backlight direction, FN+↑ and FN+↓ adjust backlight brightness, FN+← and FN+→ control backlight speed, and FN+] toggles the backlight color.
- Sidelight Control: FN+P toggles the sidelight mode, FN+Z and FN+X adjust sidelight brightness, FN+C and FN+V control sidelight speed, and FN+B toggles the sidelight color.
- RGB On/Off: FN+PgUp turns the main RGB lighting on or off.
- Battery Check: FN+ allows users to check the keyboard's battery status.
Keyboard Layout and Shortcuts:
- When switching between different devices or operating systems, it is crucial to toggle the independent switch on the keyboard to match the system being used. This ensures that the keyboard layout and all shortcuts/multimedia keys function correctly. Failure to do so may result in certain keys not working as expected.
Power Management:
- Wake Up/Sleep: If the keyboard enters sleep mode, pressing any key will wake it up. The keyboard will automatically reconnect to the last device it was connected to.
Customization:
- RGB Effects: The keyboard features customizable RGB lighting. Pressing FN+\ allows users to cycle through various RGB effects, personalizing the keyboard's aesthetic.
- Hot-Swappable Switches: The ability to easily swap switches means users can experiment with different switch types (e.g., linear, tactile, clicky) to find their preferred typing feel without needing specialized tools or technical expertise beyond the provided switch puller.
Maintenance Features
The KiiBOOM Phantom 81 is designed for user-level maintenance, primarily focusing on switch and keycap replacement.
Switch Removal and Installation:
- Tools: The keyboard comes with a keycap puller and a switch puller, essential tools for maintenance.
- Removing Switches:
- Use the switch puller. Align its gripping teeth vertically (along the Y-axis) at the center of the switch.
- Apply pressure to grab the switch until it releases from the plate.
- Gently pull the switch straight up and away from the keyboard.
- Installing Switches:
- Before installation, ensure that the metallic pins on the new switch are perfectly straight and clean. Bent pins can prevent the switch from working and may damage the keyboard's PCB.
- Align the switch vertically, typically with the Gateron logo facing north, ensuring the pins align with the holes on the keyboard's PCB.
- Press the switch down firmly until you hear a "click." This indicates that the switch clips have securely attached to the keyboard plate.
- After installation, inspect the switch to confirm it is properly seated and test its functionality.
- Troubleshooting Switch Issues: If a key does not work after installing a new switch, it is likely that one of the switch pins was bent during installation. In such cases, carefully remove the switch, straighten the pins, and re-install it.
- Caution: Always handle switches and keycaps with care. Avoid applying excessive force during removal or installation, as this can damage the switches, keycaps, or the keyboard itself. If you encounter difficulties, it is recommended to contact customer service for assistance to prevent accidental damage.
General Care:
- Keeping the keyboard clean by regularly dusting it and wiping down keycaps can help maintain its appearance and prevent debris from interfering with switch operation.
- The PBT keycaps are known for their durability and resistance to shine over time, requiring less frequent replacement than ABS keycaps.
Technical Support:
- For any technical assistance or issues not covered by the manual, users are encouraged to contact support@kiiboom.com. When seeking support, it is important to include the purchase order number and a detailed description of the problem to facilitate a quicker resolution.
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