1. Einleitung
The EPOMAKER EK21 is a versatile and highly functional numeric keypad designed for enhanced productivity and gaming. It features a 20-key layout with an aluminum alloy knob, hot-swappable switches, and customizable RGB lighting. The EK21 supports triple connectivity modes (wired, Bluetooth 5.0, and 2.4GHz wireless) and is programmable via VIA software, offering seamless compatibility across Windows, Mac, and Android operating systems.
2. Packungsinhalt
Bitte überprüfen Sie, ob alle Artikel in Ihrem Paket vorhanden sind:
- EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Dichtungsnummerblock
- 2-in-1 Keycap-and-Switch Puller
- 1.8m Detachable USB A-to-C Braided Cable
- 2.4Ghz Wireless Dongle
- Bedienungsanleitung
- Extra “Back” Keycap
Figure 2.1: Contents included in the EPOMAKER EK21 package.
3. Produktüberschreitungview
The EK21 is a 20-key mechanical number pad featuring a gasket-mounted design for a comfortable typing experience. It includes an aluminum alloy knob for versatile control and per-key RGB backlighting. The device supports hot-swappable switches, allowing users to easily change switches without soldering.
Abbildung 3.1: Überview of the EPOMAKER EK21 Number Pad and its key features.
Figure 3.2: EPOMAKER EK21 VIA Mechanical Numpad.
4. Einrichtung
The EK21 offers three connectivity options: wired, 2.4GHz wireless, and Bluetooth. Choose the method that best suits your needs.
4.1. Kabelgebundene Verbindung
- Connect the provided USB A-to-C cable to the USB-C port on the EK21.
- Stecken Sie das USB-A-Ende des Kabels in einen freien USB-Anschluss Ihres Computers.
- Ensure the mode switch on the side of the numpad is set to 'USB'. The device will be recognized automatically.
4.2. 2.4-GHz-Funkverbindung
- Suchen Sie den 2.4-GHz-Funk-Dongle in der Verpackung.
- Stecken Sie den Dongle in einen freien USB-Anschluss Ihres Computers.
- Set the mode switch on the side of the numpad to '2.4G'. The device should connect automatically.
4.3. Bluetooth 5.0-Verbindung
- Set the mode switch on the side of the numpad to 'BT'.
- Aktivieren Sie Bluetooth auf Ihrem Computer oder Gerät und suchen Sie nach neuen Geräten.
- Select 'EPOMAKER EK21' from the list of available devices to pair.
- The EK21 supports up to three Bluetooth devices. Switch between paired devices using Fn + Q/W/E.
Figure 4.1: Tri-Mode Connectivity options for the EK21.
Figure 4.2: Convenient Connectivity Hub on the EK21.
5. Bedienungsanleitung
5.1. Grundlegende Tastenfunktionen
The EK21 functions as a standard numeric keypad. Keys are pre-programmed for numerical input, arithmetic operations, and navigation (Home, End, PgUp, PgDn, Ins, Del).
5.2. Multi-functional Aluminum Alloy Knob
The aluminum alloy knob provides quick access to various functions. By default, it controls volume:
- Im Uhrzeigersinn drehen: Lauter
- Rotate counter-clockwise: Volume Down
- Drücken Sie: Stumm/Stumm aufheben
The knob's functionality can be customized using the VIA software (see Section 6).
Figure 5.1: Functions of the Multi-functional Aluminum Alloy Knob.
5.3. Funktionstastenkombinationen
Utilize the 'Fn' key for additional controls:
- Fn + . (dot key): Batterieprüfung
- Fn + Eingabetaste: Hintergrundbeleuchtungseffekt umschalten
- Fn + - / +: Passen Sie die Helligkeit der Hintergrundbeleuchtung an
Figure 5.2: Dynamic RGB Backlight and Function Key Combinations.
6. Anpassung mit VIA-Software
The EK21 is fully programmable via VIA software, allowing you to customize key assignments, create macros, and fine-tune the knob's functionality. This feature enables you to adapt the numpad to your specific workflow or gaming setup.
- VIA-Software herunterladen: Visit the official EPOMAKER webWebsite oder VIA website to download the latest version of the VIA software.
- JSON herunterladen File: Obtain the specific JSON keymap file for the EK21 from the EPOMAKER webSeite? ˅. Dies file is necessary for VIA to recognize and configure your numpad.
- Load Keymap: Open the VIA software. If the EK21 is not automatically detected, load the downloaded JSON file manually within the software.
- Anpassen: Once recognized, you can remap any key, create complex macros, and assign custom functions to the aluminum alloy knob. Changes are applied in real-time.
Figure 6.1: VIA Programmable features for effortless customization.
7. Dynamic RGB Backlight
The EK21 features per-key RGB backlighting, allowing for various lighting effects and colors. You can adjust these settings directly on the numpad using function key combinations or through the VIA software for more advanced customization.
- Effekte umschalten: Use Fn + Enter to cycle through different backlight effects.
- Helligkeit anpassen: Use Fn + - (minus) and Fn + + (plus) to increase or decrease backlight brightness.
Figure 7.1: Per-Key RGB Backlight in action.
Video 7.1: Demonstration of the EK21 VIA Numeric Keypad's lighting display.
8. Batteriemanagement
The EK21 is equipped with a 1000mAh battery, providing extended usage in wireless modes. The battery status can be checked using a function key combination.
- Batterieprüfung: Press Fn + . (dot key) to check the current battery level. The RGB lighting may indicate the charge status.
- Laden: Connect the numpad to a power source using the provided USB-C cable. The device can be used while charging.
Figure 8.1: The EK21 features a 1000mAh battery for extended use.
Figure 8.2: The 1000mAh battery ensures powerful and lasting performance.
9. Comfort and Ergonomics
The EK21 is designed with user comfort in mind, incorporating several features to enhance the typing experience and reduce fatigue.
- Dichtungsstruktur: The gasket-mounted design provides a cushioned and flexible typing feel, reducing harsh impacts and improving sound profile.
- Poron Bottom Layer & Sandwich Foam: These internal layers absorb sound and vibrations, contributing to a quieter and more pleasant typing sound.
- IXPE Switch Pad: Further enhances the typing feel by providing a soft landing for switches.
- Finely Tuned Stabilizers: Ensures consistent and stable key presses, especially for larger keys like 'Enter' and '0'.
- PC Plate with CNC Cutting: Offers a robust and aesthetically pleasing finish, contributing to the overall durability.
Figure 9.1: Internal structure and components contributing to comfort and sound.
Abbildung 9.2: Explosionsdarstellung view of the EK21's gasket-mount construction.
10. Wartung
10.1. Reinigung
To maintain the longevity and appearance of your EK21, regular cleaning is recommended:
- Use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the surface of the numpad.
- For deeper cleaning, remove keycaps using the provided keycap puller.
- Verwenden Sie Druckluft, um Staub und Schmutz zwischen den Schaltern zu entfernen.
- Keycaps can be cleaned with mild soap and water, ensuring they are completely dry before reattaching.
10.2. Hot-Swap-fähige Switches
The EK21 features hot-swappable sockets, allowing you to change mechanical switches without soldering. Use the provided switch puller for this process:
- Gently grip the switch with the switch puller and pull upwards until it detaches from the PCB.
- Richten Sie die Pins des neuen Schalters an den Löchern auf der Leiterplatte aus.
- Drücken Sie fest nach unten, bis der Schalter einrastet. Achten Sie darauf, dass die Stifte beim Einsetzen nicht verbogen werden.
Figure 10.1: Hot-swappable switches allow for easy customization and maintenance.
11. Fehlerbehebung
If you encounter issues with your EK21, try the following troubleshooting steps:
- Verbindungsprobleme:
- Ensure the mode switch is set correctly (USB, 2.4G, or BT).
- For 2.4GHz, ensure the dongle is securely plugged in.
- For Bluetooth, ensure your device's Bluetooth is enabled and the numpad is paired. Try re-pairing if necessary.
- Um drahtlose Probleme auszuschließen, versuchen Sie, eine Verbindung über ein USB-C-Kabel herzustellen.
- VIA Software Not Recognizing Device:
- Ensure the numpad is connected via USB-C cable. VIA typically requires a wired connection for initial setup and flashing.
- Verify you have downloaded and loaded the correct EK21 JSON file in the VIA software.
- Starten Sie die VIA-Software und/oder Ihren Computer neu.
- RGB Backlight Not Working:
- Check backlight brightness using Fn + + (plus).
- Toggle backlight effects using Fn + Enter.
- Ensure the numpad is sufficiently charged if in wireless mode.
- Tasten reagieren nicht:
- If only specific keys are affected, try hot-swapping the switch with a known working one to check if the switch is faulty.
- Stellen Sie sicher, dass die Schalter vollständig in ihren Fassungen eingerastet sind.
12. Spezifikationen
| Besonderheit | Detail |
|---|---|
| Technische Daten | 3.66 x 5.43 x 1.14 Zoll (9.3 x 13.8 x 2.9 cm) |
| Artikelgewicht | 13.4 Unzen (0.38 kg) |
| Konnektivitätstechnologie | 2.4-GHz-Funkverbindung, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C-Kabelverbindung |
| Batteriekapazität | 1000 mAh |
| Tastaturbeschreibung | Mechanisch |
| Besondere Merkmale | Backlit (RGB), Ergonomic, Hot-Swappable PCB, Lightweight, VIA Programmable |
| Kompatible Geräte | Laptop, PC, Smartphone, Tablet (Windows, Mac, Android) |
| Tastenkappenmaterial | Dye-sub PBT |
| Plattenmaterial | PC (Polycarbonate) with CNC Cutting |
| Interne Struktur | Gasket Mount with Poron bottom layer, sandwich foam, IXPE switch pad |
Figure 12.1: Dimensions and Weight of the EK21 Number Pad.
Figure 12.2: Switch Specifications for the EK21.
13. Garantie und Support
EPOMAKER products come with a standard manufacturer's warranty. For specific warranty details, duration, and terms, please refer to the warranty information provided with your purchase or visit the official EPOMAKER website. If you encounter any issues or require technical assistance, please contact EPOMAKER customer support through their official channels.
EPOMAKER Support: https://www.epomaker.com/pages/contact-us
