Swapping PCB Controllers?

[grav3serker]

Is it possible to take the existing controller off and solder on http://winkeyless.kr/product/ps2avrgb-parts/?

Seems like it would be a great idea. Anyone have any experience with this?

[suicidal_orange]

You would need to find a board which uses a chip with the same pinout as the replacement, otherwise you may be plugging the USB cable from your computer in to pins where it's expecting to find the keyswitches - best case it just won't work, worst case you connect 5v to the wrong pin and fry the chip.

Physically desoldering the chip is certainly possible if you have the right tools, I only lifted a couple of pads when I removed the controller chip from my Ducky using a mini blowtorch but I didn't attempt to replace the chip directly for the reason above.  Instead I connected the existing matrix up to a Teensy to make it programmable.

[grav3serker]

You would need to find a board which uses a chip with the same pinout as the replacement, otherwise you may be plugging the USB cable from your computer in to pins where it's expecting to find the keyswitches - best case it just won't work, worst case you connect 5v to the wrong pin and fry the chip.

Physically desoldering the chip is certainly possible if you have the right tools, I only lifted a couple of pads when I removed the controller chip from my Ducky using a mini blowtorch but I didn't attempt to replace the chip directly for the reason above.  Instead I connected the existing matrix up to a Teensy to make it programmable.

Is there a way to know which pin is supposed to go to the USB connector?

I mainly want to use that chip and USB connector so I would be able to use the RGB function it has.

[suicidal_orange]

I found this schematic in the source code linked from Winkeyless, you'd need to compare that circuit with the datasheet of whatever chip you're replacing.

I also notice that it uses a matrix of 8x12 which means the switches aren't connected in a way that's easy to understand, and unless your board has the same matrix your keys will not appear in the right place in the keymapper - I think it's safe to say you need a new plan

[grav3serker]

I found this schematic in the source code linked from Winkeyless, you'd need to compare that circuit with the datasheet of whatever chip you're replacing.

I also notice that it uses a matrix of 8x12 which means the switches aren't connected in a way that's easy to understand, and unless your board has the same matrix your keys will not appear in the right place in the keymapper - I think it's safe to say you need a new plan

I really appreciate you digging up all that information for me! Haha yeah, it seems that way. It was worth the ask though! Thanks again!! 

[grav3serker]

I guess that just gives me an excuse to buy a WKL PCB then, huh? Haha 

[suicidal_orange]

That would certainly be an easier option )