Add USB C Port to Wired Mechanical Keyboard

After having this mechanical keyboard for a while, it is time to do some modification. There are several things to do to improve the keyboard. Some basic stuff are replace switch with better ones, replace key caps with stylish ones and perhaps replace the stabilizers. I have done those things and let's take it to the next level.

In this project, I would like to show you how to replace existing (fixed) wire with USB C port, so you can easily replace your USB cables with more fancy ones.

Disclaimer: I am not responsible for any damages that may occur. Do it at your own risk.

Here are the things you need for the upgrade process:

• (Mechanical) Keyboard.
• Screwdriver
• Soldering iron and materials
• Electrical tape
• Glue or adhesive tape
• USB C female socket with pcb
• Scissor
• USB C cable (magnetic is preffered)

Since access to the keyboard PCB is needed, the first thing to do is to find all the screws that are holding the keyboard body. The screws could be located on top, bottom or both of the keyboard. It may also required to remove (several) key caps to have access to the screws.

This is an easy thing to do, be prepared for next steps.

You need to locate the wire that connects to the PCB. Since this is USB cable, usually there are colored cables inside. Usually the colors are red, black, white and green. Do not cut the cables too short, make sure you leave quite a bit length, just in case. Strip the each of the colored cables and leave enough length to solder.

Here is the fun part. Make sure you have basic soldering skill before proceeding with this step. Above are pictures of different USB C sockets. Those are what I recommend to use. The main consideration of choosing such USB C socket is the size, make sure it is small enough to be placed inside the keyboard. Make sure to find the best location inside the keyboard to glue the USB C socket.

Like I mention before the cables should be colored. Here is how to connect the right cable to the right port.

• Red cable to VCC
• Green cable to D+ (data positive)
• White cable to D- (data negative)
• Black cable to GND

The USB C socket that I bought has 12 ports / holes. Please refer to the diagram above on how to wire to this kind of socket. Use (black) electrical tape in order to insulate and secure the cables.

Find the best location where to put the USB C socket inside the keyboard, secure it by glue on to the body of the keyboard.

Be very careful when soldering, cutting and placing the socket. Take your time.

Before reassembling, perform some test to make sure that connecting and soldering have been done properly. Plug USB C cable to your keyboard and then to your PC. After you are sure that everything is working correctly, congratulations by the way, it is time to wrap things up.

Reassembly the keyboard carefully. Make sure the USB C socket is secure and could be accessed from outside the keyboard.

Congratulations, you have done this project. Enjoy your newly modded keyboard. To make it even fancier, you can use magnetic USB C cables, see picture above. This way, it would be easier for you to plug and unplug your keyboard. Fancy, right?

You can also use USB C to USB C cable in order to connect to your smartphone, tablet or other devices.

If you have any questions, please leave a comment. Also take a look at my video, and leave a comment there as well.