https://github.com/VikOlliver/Microwriter

A reboot of the 80's Microwriter accessible chord keyboard done using an Arduino
https://github.com/VikOlliver/Microwriter

arduino chord hid keyboard microwriter mouse quinkey usb

Last synced: about 2 months ago
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A reboot of the 80's Microwriter accessible chord keyboard done using an Arduino

• Host: GitHub
• URL: https://github.com/VikOlliver/Microwriter
• Owner: VikOlliver
• License: gpl-3.0
• Created: 2019-02-16T23:35:31.000Z (over 5 years ago)
• Default Branch: master
• Last Pushed: 2024-05-14T01:39:59.000Z (4 months ago)
• Last Synced: 2024-07-02T18:05:11.529Z (3 months ago)
• Topics: arduino, chord, hid, keyboard, microwriter, mouse, quinkey, usb
• Language: C++
• Size: 49.8 KB
• Stars: 14
• Watchers: 3
• Forks: 4
• Open Issues: 2
• Metadata Files:
  • Readme: README.md
  • License: LICENSE

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README

        
# Microwriter

A reboot of the 80's Microwriter accessible chord keyboard done using an Arduino

The Microwriter and Quinkey were 6-key chord keyboards created in the 80's for use by people with various physical limitations such as brittle bones. They developed a following among all types of users being simple, reliable, easy to use, and effectively allowed instant touch typing at speed. See https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Microwriter

The chord sequence is vaguely mnemonic, but where the Microwriter/Quinkey patents have long expired, the copyright on the mnemonic instruction sheet has not. Versions can be found on the web regardless (most notably on Microsoft's website of all things). A new Beginner's Guide and a typing tutor can be found at https://github.com/VikOlliver/Quirkey

This version uses ATMega32u4 Arduino-compatible devices to scan the six keys and generate standard US USB HID keyboard and mouse (yes, mouse) input. A list of known supported Arduino-type devices can be found here https://github.com/NicoHood/HID . Internal pullups are used on the inputs, so beyond the microswitches and a USB lead no other components are needed.

A 3D-printable shell for the device can be found at https://www.printables.com/model/667870-quirkey-v3-accessibility-keyboard-for-one-handed-u

The original Microwriter used an RCA 1802 CPU and LCD for the user interface, and uploaded via RS232. A TV interface was also available. The author (Vik Olliver) created the original Amstrad and IBM Quinkey drivers.