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geekhack Community => Input Devices => Topic started by: skullmonkey on Thu, 29 April 2021, 10:56:30

Title: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: skullmonkey on Thu, 29 April 2021, 10:56:30

So, like a lot of people I'm sure, I spend much of my time switching between different projects, and each project has a different 'context': a set of folders, files, email threads, browser tabs, yadda yadda.  I'd like to make a bank of switches, big fat keycaps on loud clicky switches with illumination like in a spacecraft control panel, all mounted in a row on the shelf above my monitor. Anyone made something like this?  I'm wondering what macro software do you use and how do you do the keymappings, and any build tips for this kind of thing?

Title: Re: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: F eq ma on Thu, 29 April 2021, 20:28:27

First thought would be hand wired keys hooked up to a pro micro.  The use qmk to map higher function keys (f13 - f24).  Once mapped, then use AutoHotKey to map those function keys to complex command sequences to control the environment.

Nothing states it needs to be keys either.   Maybe rocker switches or arcade buttons....really your imagination is the limit once you get comfortable with the hand wiring.   There maybe some pre-made panels that just need the wiring.   Maybe industrial controls at aliexpress/amazon/local army surplus.

Title: Re: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: F eq ma on Thu, 29 April 2021, 20:48:57

Another thought.   Find a cheap macropad/tenkey that can be flashed with qmk.   That way you can get feel for the firmware and AutoHotKey without the investment of the full on panel.    I just got done playing with a Bdn9 board, but i would not call it cheap in the end.   All those add-ons and components add up quickly.   Debt by a thousand cuts...

Title: Re: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: foxieze on Fri, 30 April 2021, 03:33:36

Quote from: F eq ma on Thu, 29 April 2021, 20:28:27

First thought would be hand wired keys hooked up to a pro micro.  The use qmk to map higher function keys (f13 - f24).  Once mapped, then use AutoHotKey to map those function keys to complex command sequences to control the environment.

Nothing states it needs to be keys either.   Maybe rocker switches or arcade buttons....really your imagination is the limit once you get comfortable with the hand wiring.   There maybe some pre-made panels that just need the wiring.   Maybe industrial controls at aliexpress/amazon/local army surplus.

Definitely agree with you for the most part, although I don't think it is necessary to use QMK for just a few buttons, and just writing some simple Arduino code should do the job fine.

Title: Re: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: skullmonkey on Fri, 30 April 2021, 21:57:19

sweet, thanks!

yeah, maybe industrial controls would be the thing. hmm...

maybe I'll try something like this, a DIY fake Tellite switch

https://bridgesim.net/discussion/476/building-physical-consoles-for-snis

Title: Re: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: foxieze on Sat, 01 May 2021, 07:26:19

Quote from: skullmonkey on Fri, 30 April 2021, 21:57:19

sweet, thanks!

yeah, maybe industrial controls would be the thing. hmm...

maybe I'll try something like this, a DIY fake Tellite switch

https://bridgesim.net/discussion/476/building-physical-consoles-for-snis

yeah they look cool!

Title: Re: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: F eq ma on Sat, 01 May 2021, 12:29:13

Some eye candy for inspiration
https://arstechnica.com/science/2019/06/behind-the-scenes-at-nasas-newly-restored-historic-apollo-mission-control/

Title: Re: I'd like to make a "work context" switcher box
Post by: foxieze on Sat, 01 May 2021, 13:54:31

Quote from: F eq ma on Sat, 01 May 2021, 12:29:13

Some eye candy for inspiration
https://arstechnica.com/science/2019/06/behind-the-scenes-at-nasas-newly-restored-historic-apollo-mission-control/

that would look awesome! make sure to send a picture when / if you complete it. i'd love to see it!