2023 May update
grid 100’s GB & Stock hybrid sale is online on zFrontier!
Here is the link.
Due to miscommunication, there was no option for the CYCLE-ENCODER module (smooth) . By default, we will ship you a detented one (a regular)to anyone who ordered this module on the first day of the sale. If you place your order on the first day (before 2023 April 31st) of sale. Please E-mail me at gridishere@gmail.com; we will change it for you.
We’ve uploaded an openbox & setup video of grid 100.
Here is the youtube link.
We have been gathering some questions since the launch of grid 100. Here is some Q&A.
General questions:
Q: Why do I need to flash a new firmware when I change the layout of grid 100?
A: Depending on your setup, grid 100 can be very different. For example, when you install a new CYCLE-JOYSTICK module, the firmware needs to contain the correct support so your devices can recognize it properly; when you use other modules, the JSON file also needs changes, so Vial and VIA can display the proper layout.
Q: How soon will stock units get shipped?
A: About 2 weeks. First come, first served.
Q: How soon will GB units get shipped?
A: November 2023. Liquid silver Ver.FLASH will come sooner since they are in the pipeline.
Q: Why the connector between the core board and mini modules has a rate for 200 swaps? Does that mean the connector will break after 200 swaps?
A: The connector wears during the process of module removal and installation. We chose pretty much the best connector, which has gold-plated pins and fiber-reinforced housing. In our real-world tests during manufacturing, a prototype core PCB withstands more than 1000 swaps in careful hands.
Q: How can I modify the key and joystick input, or adjust light effects?
A: We recommend using Vial to configure grid 100, primarily due to its decentralization concept that allows us to store JSON definitions on the keyboard. You can still use V1.3.1 VIA if you load the JSON file.
Both Vial and VIA only allow one type of light adjustment in GUI, so we program this way: on Vial, you can change the matrix light effects; on VIA, you can change the ARGB light effects.
The pushbutton of the CYCLE-JOYSTICK is recognized as a regular key, and it can be seen and modified in Vial or VIA. However, the joystick's analog signal can only be seen by the operating system.
To map the joystick's input into something else, you will need some software. On Windows, JOY2KEY works the best for us; on MAC OS, try Joystick Mapper ($) or Controllers($$). There is an open-source software called enjoyable, but it lacks the dead zone function, so you will likely need to compile your firmware to adjust the dead zone. These are just what we learned during our usage; we bet you have better ideas.
CYCLE-ENCODER questions:
Q: What’s the difference between a smooth CYCLE-ENCODER to a detented one?
A: A smooth CYCLE-ENCODER features a smooth, no detent, continuous knob with only friction or damping force; A detented one, more like a regular one, has detents that help you to locate each step, plus the friction feeling.
Both module variations suit different scenes. A smooth one is more suitable for tuning the volume or scrolling the webpage. A detented one is more suitable for precision control, like time frame selection on editing software.
Detented encoder vs. Smooth encoder. Signal and steps are the same, the feel is not.
2. Q: How is CYCLE-ENCODER 5x faster than typing?
A: Just like some professional gameplayer maps the scrolling wheel on their mouse to some maneuvers for faster input speed. ( For example, many players map JUMP to the scrolling wheel for better bunny hop in game Apex Legends ). Thanks to the standalone encoder signal processor, a rotation signal takes about 10ms to take effect, about 5 times faster than pressing a key.
CYCLE-JOYSTICK questions:
Q: Which devices support CYCLE-JOYSTICK mini module?
A: PC, Mac, and android devices. Not supported by iOS, iPad OS, Sony Playstation, Microsoft Xbox, or Nintendo Switch.
Q: How to adjust the tension in the CYCLE-JOYSTICK module
A: Unscrew the Joystick cap (rotate counterclockwise). There is an M3 hex screw inside. Use an 2mm hex drive to adjust the screw.
Tension adjust on the CYCLE-JOYSTICK module
Joystick tension comparison in slow motion
A slow motion video clip about the Joystick tension settings. Not really a Q&A part but we think it might be useful here.
We are about to ship some stock orders and can’t wait to see them reach you.
