Introduction
The Unicorne PCB, designed by Boardsource, is a cutting-edge split keyboard PCB powered by an RP2040 microcontroller with 16MB of ROM on each side. This PCB is perfect for those looking to build a unique and feature-rich keyboard. In this guide, we will cover all the essential information you need to make the most of your Unicorne PCB.
Key Features
The Unicorne PCB boasts a wide range of features that set it apart from other keyboards. Here's what you can expect:
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Split Design: The Unicorne PCB is split into two halves, making it an ergonomic choice for typists who want a comfortable and customizable typing experience.
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RP2040 MCU: Each side of the Unicorne PCB is powered by an RP2040 microcontroller, providing ample processing power for advanced features and customization.
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16MB of ROM: With 16MB of ROM on each side, you have plenty of space for storing keymaps, macros, and even animations for OLED displays.
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OLED Support: The Unicorne PCB comes with pre-installed OLED headers, allowing you to easily add OLED screens to both halves of your keyboard. You can display current layer information, typing speed (WPM), keyboard status, or simply showcase cool art.
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RGB Perkey & Underglow The Unicorne PCB supports vibrant RGB per-key lighting for individual key customization and dynamic underglow lighting to illuminate your workspace in style.
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USB-C Connectivity: The Unicorne PCB uses USB-C to USB-C cables to connect the two halves, ensuring a stable and reliable connection between the split keyboard sections.
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Joystick Support: Each side of the Unicorne PCB has a dedicated joystick input, making it a great choice for gaming or navigating menus.
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Boot and Reset Switches: Conveniently located on the top of the PCB, labeled boot and reset switches make it easy to access and manage firmware updates and resets.
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Breakaway Outer Column: The Unicorne PCB's outer columns are breakaway, allowing you to create a 5-column Corne keyboard for a compact 30% keyboard design.
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Backwards Compatibility with Corne/CRKBD PCBs: The Unicorne PCB is fully backward compatible with the Corne/CRKBD PCB, ensuring that any case designed for the Corne will also fit the Unicorne seamlessly.
Pin Configuration
Left Half
| Pin Name | Python Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| gpio0 | TX | Split Com |
| gpio1 | RX | Split Com (defaults disabled) |
| gpio2 | GP02 | Column 0 |
| gpio3 | GP03 | Column 1 |
| gpio4 | GP04 | Column 2 |
| gpio5 | GP05 | Column 3 |
| gpio6 | GP06 | Column 4 |
| gpio7 | GP07 | Column 5 |
| gpio8 | GP08 | Encoder A (MX Only) |
| gpio9 | GP09 | Encoder B (MX Only) |
| gpio14 | GP14 | Row 0 |
| gpio15 | GP15 | Row 1 |
| gpio16 | GP16 | Row 2 |
| gpio17 | GP17 | Row 3 |
| gpio18 | GP18 | Command Pin |
| gpio22 | GP22 | OLED SDA |
| gpio23 | GP23 | OLED SCL |
| gpio25 | GP25 | SPI CS |
| gpio26 | GP26 | Joystick X & SPI SCK |
| gpio27 | GP27 | Joystick Y & SPI TX |
| gpio29 | GP29 | RGB LED Control |
Right Half
| Pin Name | Python Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| gpio0 | TX | Split Com |
| gpio1 | RX | Split Com (defaults disabled) |
| gpio2 | GP02 | Column 0 |
| gpio3 | GP03 | Column 1 |
| gpio4 | GP04 | Column 2 |
| gpio5 | GP05 | Column 3 |
| gpio6 | GP06 | Column 4 |
| gpio7 | GP07 | Column 5 |
| gpio8 | GP08 | Encoder A (MX Only) |
| gpio9 | GP09 | Encoder B (MX Only) |
| gpio14 | GP14 | Row 0 |
| gpio15 | GP15 | Row 1 |
| gpio16 | GP16 | Row 2 |
| gpio17 | GP17 | Row 3 |
| gpio18 | GP18 | Command Pin |
| gpio22 | GP22 | OLED SDA |
| gpio23 | GP23 | OLED SCL |
| gpio25 | GP25 | SPI CS |
| gpio26 | GP26 | Joystick X & SPI SCK |
| gpio27 | GP27 | Joystick Y & SPI TX |
| gpio28 | GP28 | Buzzer Control (Right) |
| gpio29 | GP29 | RGB LED Control |
Case Compatibility
The Unicorne PCB is designed to fit seamlessly into compatible cases. Below is a list of cases that are compatible with the Unicorne PCB:
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MX Cases:
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LP Cases:
Getting Creative
One of the standout features of the Unicorne PCB is the exposed pins that allow for customization and hacking. You can take advantage of the following functionalities:
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Full-Color TFT Screens: While full-color TFT screens are not yet supported in Peg, they can be used with CircuitPython and QMK. These screens are perfect for displaying various information, animations, or even just cool art.
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I2C and ADC Lines: With access to I2C and three ADC lines, you have the flexibility to experiment and create custom functionalities or expand your keyboard's capabilities.
Notes on Programing
The Unicorne PCB comes pre flashed with a QMK via map, to be used with VIA. You can use QMK Configurator to reprogram your keyboard.
And of course you can swap over to BS-python and use peg, here is guide on how to do that. then you can plug it into peg and let it take care of the rest.
Lets Talk About Getting Into The Bootloader
Since it comes preloaded with QMK firmware, you have two convenient methods to access the bootloader. The first is to hold down the top left key while plugging it in. The second is the tried-and-true approach: press and hold the boot switch, then the reset switch, and finally release the boot switch.
You'll find clear labels for the boot and reset switches on the PCB. Just to reiterate, the boot switch is the rightmost one, and the reset switch is the leftmost.
This keyboard is equipped with an RP2040 microcontroller, eliminating the need for QMK Toolbox. As soon as you activate the bootloader, your keyboard will appear as a drive named "RPI-RP2," allowing you to effortlessly drag and drop your new keymap onto it.