Getting Started — Build Your Own VibeKeypad

This guide walks you through building your own VibeKeypad from scratch. Total cost is around $30-40 and takes about 15 minutes to set up.

What You Need

1. Programmable Keypad

Recommended: LUKCOZMO 6-Key Programmable Keypad

Note: Currently only the version with volume knob is available. The knob can be used for scrolling or other shortcuts.

Key features:

  • 6 mechanical keys + rotary encoder
  • USB-C rechargeable
  • Bluetooth & 2.4GHz wireless
  • Configurable via sayodevice.com

2. Transparent Keycaps

Recommended: BTXETUEL Double Layer Transparent Keycaps (12pcs)

These keycaps have a transparent top layer where you can slide in printed icons.

3. Printed Icons

Print your own icons on regular paper. Cut to 12×12mm squares and slide them into the transparent keycaps.

Assembly Steps

Step 1: Unbox and Charge

  1. Unbox your keypad
  2. Connect via USB-C to charge (takes ~1 hour for full charge)
  3. While charging, prepare your icons

Step 2: Print Icons

Download and print icon templates:

Print at 100% scale (no scaling). Cut to 12×12mm squares.

Step 3: Replace Keycaps

  1. Gently pull off the original keycaps
  2. Open the transparent keycaps (they have a removable top layer)
  3. Place your printed icons inside
  4. Snap the keycaps back together
  5. Press onto the switches

Step 4: Configure Keys

  1. Open sayodevice.com in Google Chrome
  2. Connect your keypad via USB
  3. Click "Connect" when prompted
  4. Map each key to your desired shortcut
  5. Click "Save" to write configuration to device

See Claude Code Preset or Cursor Agent Preset for recommended configurations.

Step 5: Enable Bluetooth (Optional)

For wireless use, see Enable Bluetooth guide.

Tips

Icon Printing

  • Use a laser printer for sharper results
  • Matte paper works better than glossy
  • Print a few extras in case of mistakes

Keycap Fit

  • The transparent keycaps should fit standard MX-style switches
  • If too tight, gently sand the stem
  • If too loose, add a tiny piece of tape

Battery Life

  • Expect 2-4 weeks on a single charge with moderate use
  • The keypad auto-sleeps when not in use
  • Wake by pressing any key

Troubleshooting

Keypad not recognized

  • Try a different USB cable (must be data-capable)
  • Try a different USB port
  • Restart Chrome and reconnect

Keys not working after configuration

  • Make sure you clicked "Save" in SayoDevice
  • Disconnect and reconnect the device
  • Check that the target application accepts your shortcuts

Bluetooth not pairing

  • Make sure RF mode is set to "BLE&Auto" in SayoDevice
  • Disconnect USB before pairing
  • Remove old pairings from your computer and try again

Next Steps