Matrix keyboard

[bobricius]

Hi,

Is possible add support for 6x6 matrix keyboard directly scannet by GPIO without expanders ?
I have sucesfuly implemented in meshtastic on Heltec T114 (internall LCD and I2C OLED), Heltec Tracker (internall LCD and I2C OLED)
Heltec E290 (internall eInk), Heltec v3 (internall OLED)

I can send hardware for testing

PM

[csrutil]

Finally got some time to work on this issue. You mean adding a 6×6 keyboard, right? I’ve actually been thinking about that too. But each device needs fixed GPIOs—do you happen to have a good solution for that? THANK YOU @bobricius !

[bobricius]

I managed to standardize some layout that I have been using for several years. so the definition of the buttons is fixed, you just need to assign columns and rows. I can send you HW for testing. Now I like T114 the most, even though the display is not the best, but I2C pins are free and it also has GPS and unbeatable consumption.
In combination with a large 2.42 OLED it starts to be very interesting.
I have a similar toy for rakwireless
there are no chips, buttons directly connected to the MCU. Everyone tell me to put some expander or processor, but I'm old school, I like simple things and I don't understand why such a powerful processor with a bunch of free pins should be assisted by some chip

You can see how my devices look, for example, here

https://www.instagram.com/bobricius76/

[csrutil]

The keyboard looks great, how can I get one of those?

[bobricius]

you can create an order here https://www.tindie.com/products/37414/ , I will cancel the order, refund your money, then I will send the goods for free. It would be ideal to try something with rakwireless or T114. But I can only send you a keyboard without the t114 module or RAK19001, which I currently only have. We can specify the details by email.
Or if you have any ideas on how to improve it, don't hesitate to contact me.
t114 might have a cover like this in the future, I still have to fix a few inaccuracies https://www.youtube.com/shorts/BO3aTtKvZCI

[csrutil]

@bobricius Sorry for the delayed response! That sounds great—I’ll place an order this week and keep you posted!