SHKB, QMK & VIA compatible HHKB Pro 2 controller
An alternative controller for the HHKB.
Lite-version, USB-mini:
- 3 available USB2.0 ports, two external + one port on internal header (no physical connector)
- ATmega32U4 for keyboard firmware (TMK/QMK/VIA)
- Per port current limit on each downstream port (excluding internal header)
- Drop in replacement for the original controller
- Open sourced with C-OHL S
Lite-version, USB-C on riser PCB*:
- 3 available USB2.0 ports, two external + one port on internal header (no physical connector)
- ATmega32U4 for keyboard firmware (TMK/QMK/VIA)
- Per port current limit on each downstream port (excluding internal header)
- Near drop-in replacement, minor modifications to the case may be needed depending on alignment and cables due to the USB-C connector.
- Open sourced with C-OHL S
Full-version:
- 3 available USB3 ports, two external, one internal.
- ATmega32U4 for keyboard firmware (TMK/QMK/VIA)
- Per port current limit on each downstream port
- Will need modification of the HHKB Pro 2 case because of the USB-C connector, a riser PCB* can not be used due to the super speed USB (3.0). Link
- Recommended to connect directly to PC/computer. Some compatibility issues have been reported with some USB-hubs (this is also a USB-hub, chaining hubs can cause compatibility issues).
- Open sourced with C-OHL S
PCB is delivered tested and pre-flashed with QMK with VIA support enabled.
Note: The old VIA application is no longer supported and developed by the VIA team. From now on, use the VIA website for remap, a chromium based browser is needed: Link
*The riser PCB is a 0.8mm PCB that the USB-C connector is mounted on to make it sit a bit higher.
I always wanted to try HHKB but wanted to keep using my muscle memory and layers so this board solved all of my issues.
The lite version with riser is very easy swap that adds USB-C without the need for modification of the keyboard case.
The only thing that could be an issue is the fact that the USB-C port is bit tight because it's behind the top part of the mini USB hole. For me it is not an issue but someone with tighter tolerances on the keyboard case would need to slightly enlarge the hole with a file, so just try plugging cable in before closing the case.
Shipping inside EU was also very fast, arrived in less than a week.
Overall I'm really happy with the product and if I end up buying another HHKB, I'm getting this board again as well.
I was missing the USB-C quite a lot with the HHKB Pro 2, the SHKB solved this! It's super clean, nothing more to say about it :)
Thanks a lot for the product xx
The lite board is a dream come true to see, adding Via/QMK support has increase the versatility and longevity of the HHKB Pro 2. I would recommend this for anyone looking for an easy upgrade.
I've had a HHKB kicking about for years. It's a great typing experience but the layers left a lot to be desired. Bringing QMK to the HHKB is absolutely amazing. I haven't stopped using it since I put this in (a very very easy process). Massive bonus it now being usb-c instead of mini usb too.
I was 99% happy with the HHKB's layout, and 90% happy using it overall. The one thing I was missing is the Shift-Tap-Parentheses feature in QMK (thusly also in VIA, and Vial) that had me cycling between HHKB and my main mechanical board. I now rarely ever reach for my other boards, and the HHKB stays on my desk permanently.
My dream "OEM Plus" HHKB Pro 2 is now finished. I would recommend the SHKB to anyone who wants QMK features for their HHKB Professional 2. I've even changed a few keycodes around to match my muscle-memory on I developed on my UNIX-cross-ISO layout, plus added "Delete" to the Fn layer of Backspace for maximum comfort in editing text.
I was worried it would have problems, but it just works. HHKB is now Even Happier Hacking Keyboard.