This page is intended for Pabile keyboards and macro pads that utilizes ATMEGA32U4 or RP2040 microcontrollers. We strive to provide the most accurate and detailed information available. If you encounter any issues, errors, or have suggestions for improvements, please let us know by contacting us through our Google Mail handler, pabile.
Inspect packaging for damage. Report at once if damage is found.
Open package and inspect content - typically contains: keypad; USB cable; quick start guide in sticker form. Report at once if damage is found or if incomplete.
Plug keypad to computer using the USB cable provided. Test if all keys are working. Report at once if defect is found.
(Optional) Configure/remap keymap to your liking.
Confirm order received, and, leave 5 stars :)
As of Feb. 10, 2022, all pads released are VIAL compatible. You may download the software applicable to your system at https://get.vial.today or use their cloud based application: https://vial.rocks. Software manual can be found at https://get.vial.today/manual/.
If VIAL configurator could not detect your confirmed working keypad, it is mostly like that it is using old firmware - this is common to pre-owned units. Please update your firmware following this guide: https://sites.google.com/site/pabile/firmware-update-guide. Also see Keypad not detected by Vial.
Advanced users may find the keyboard/pad's QMK configuration files at https://github.com/pabile/Pabile-Keyboards.
Pabile Keyboards offers programmable keyboards and macro pads, collectively referred to as "keypads" in our repositories. These keypads leverage the powerful QMK Firmware and are easily configurable through the Vial GUI, providing seamless programmability.
Our keypads are thoroughly tested for compatibility with a range of operating systems, including Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, and iOS.
Explore our repository for more details and resources here: https://github.com/pabile/Pabile-Keyboards/wiki
Programmable keypads are keyboards and macropads wherein functions assigned to each key can be changed to one or more commands/functions.
Keyboard University have detailed information about these keyboards. It is highly recommend to visit and read the contents on this site to familiarize yourselves with these devices and its capabilities.
Pabile Keyboards were tested to work with Windows, Mac and Linux. These keypads have USB Type C ports but have been reported that they do not meet all USB Type C specifications/protocols. Some devices, like those with USB Type C ports only, may need to use powered USB hubs for these keypads to function properly on some (mobile) devices.
Please visit Vial official documentation for programming/configuration guide: https://get.vial.today/manual/
VIA (without L) is no longer supported. Please update your firmware using this guide: https://sites.google.com/site/pabile/firmware-update-guide
Changes in the configurations on the keypad are saved at real time. Configurations are saved and retained on the keypad even if used on other devices. Vial is only required to change configurations.
Yes. Users can bind any keyboard shortcuts from that program to these keypads and its encoders.
16 macros is the maximum that the controller can accommodate. This number is further reduced on some keypads to make room for other features. More functions can be achieved using Quantum, Combo, Tap Dance and even ANY key. Please see Vial manual for more details: https://get.vial.today/manual/
RP2040 powered keypads have 32 macros enabled. Since there are more space, some features are also increased and/or enabled.
Other QMK features not available in the default firmware installed in your keypad/macropad can be added by compiling your own firmware. You can use configurations from our repository as guide.
Here are list of mist useful resources when compiling your own firmware:
https://docs.qmk.fm - main QMK documentation
https://get.vial.today/ - official Vial website
https://github.com/vial-kb/vial-qmk - official Vial repository
https://github.com/pabile/Pabile-Keyboards/tree/main/qmk_firmware/keyboards/pabile - our saved files/configurations
Please refer to pabile branch or use configuration files from our backup. Kindly note that we use vial-qmk repository and not the official qmk_firmwware.
Please feel free to push to push your versions to the official vial-qmk repository. Contributors are very welcome.
Our fork is not merged to official QMK repository. Should you wish to compile your firmware from source, please refer to pabile branch or use configuration files from our backup.
Please feel free to push to push your versions to the official vial-qmk repository. Contributors are very welcome.
Some users reported that the dedicated button for Copy, Paste does not work. Workaround is to use buttons under "Quantum" tab of Vial configurator. Look for button labeled LCtl with small box under it. Place it on a key then indicate C for copy and V for Paste.
"ANY" key can also hold combination of modifier and keycode. More details in the official QMK documentation: https://docs.qmk.fm/#/feature_advanced_keycodes
Keypad must be plugged in before opening VIAL configurator. If done the other way, click "Reset" button on the upper right hand corner of the screen.
A user reported that after installation of Vial, keypad was still not detected but was corrected after a pc/system restart.
If using USB cable other than those provided by us, make sure that the cable is capable to transmit data and not for charging purposes only.
If VIAL configurator still could not detect your confirmed working keypad, it is mostly like that it is using old firmware. This is common to pre-owned units. Please update your firmware following this guide: https://sites.google.com/site/pabile/firmware-update-guide
Keypad must be plugged in before opening VIAL configurator. If done the other way, click "Reset" button on the upper right hand corner of the screen.
A user reported that after installation of Vial, keypad was still not detected but was corrected after a pc/system restart.
If using USB cable other than those provided by us, make sure that the cable is capable to transmit data and not for charging purposes only.
If VIAL configurator still could not detect your confirmed working keypad, it is mostly like that it is using old firmware. This is common to pre-owned units. Please update your firmware following this guide: https://sites.google.com/site/pabile/firmware-update-guide
This typically happens when switch pins are bent. Pull out the non-registering switch and check for bent pins. Replace if necessary.
Frequent pull and re-seat of switches also causes the wear on sockets making its clips loose. Inspect and replace sockets if necessary (soldering required).
Top plate holds the switches. The switches clips to top plate. Switches with top plate seats to the PCB. They keep each in place - as long as installed properly. Make sure that all switch clips holds the top plate properly and switch pins are properly insert in PCB sockets.
These are typically set, but not limited to: volume, mouse wheel, zoom, etc.
Bonus: Rotary encoders are electrical components while knobs are the cover of these electrical components. In analogy... encoders are to switches, and, keycaps are to knobs.
Encoders are soldered.
Knobs on the encoders can be replaced. Look for those that fit a 6mm diameter knurled shaft and an outer diameter of no more than 15mm.
This means that the switches can be replaced without the need of soldering.
Keyboard University have detailed information about these keyboards. It is highly recommend to visit and read the contents on this site to familiarize yourselves with these devices and its capabilities.
Yes. But first, you will need to assign a keypad shortcut on each of the program you want to open with the keypad. Second, assign that keypad shortcut to one of the keys on your keypad/macropad. How to assign keypad shortcut to an application?
Also, please visit our youtube channel.
Please see FAQ-BLE page.
As of January 2023, keypads with 30-key and above are forced to full NKRO via USB. Keypads released prior to this date may update their firmware to enable full NKRO: https://sites.google.com/site/pabile/firmware-update-guide.
Please see frequently asked "how to" videos on our youtube channel.
If you experience any issues with your keyboard, please first reach out through our social media channels or contact the store where you purchased it.
We may need to ask a few questions and guide you through some troubleshooting steps to identify and resolve the problem. Sending us photos or videos of the issue can greatly assist us in finding a solution.
If we are unable to resolve the issue remotely, we will provide you with our mailing address in Bacoor, Cavite, Philippines, for further assistance.
3D printed (FDM) PLA.
Stacked acrylic
If you are experiencing issues with your language specific characters, please update your firmware that matches with your language and key/macro pad:
Message us if you do not find firmware specific to your keypad and language. Please use this format in the subject line: Request for Language Specific Firmware - [name of keypad] [keypad version] [language]
Firmware flashing guide: Pro Micro Atmega32U4; RP2040
Please note that while our Pro Micros use a USB Type-C port, they are not fully compliant with USB Type-C or USB 3.0 standards. They operate using USB 2.0 protocols.
Backlights on RP2040 powered keypads won't turn off when PC sleeps.
Frequently Asked Questions (General. This Page)
Pabile at Thingiverse (old files)
Avoid over-tightening screws on acrylic casings, as the acrylic sheets can crack or creak easily. To ensure screws stay securely in place, consider applying a small amount of all-purpose glue to the screw threads before fastening them.
For users who frequently move/carry their keypads, magnetic USB data cables can help reduce stress on the USB ports and prevent damage.
For split keyboard users, [you should always disconnect the board from USB before unplugging and plugging in TRRS cables, or you can short the controller ...]