Avalanche v4.2 Photo Build Log
The Avalanche Keyboard is an open source keyboard designed by vitvlkv.
GitHub repo: https://github.com/vlkv/avalanche
Getting the Hardware
You can get the hardware from one of the following links.
Gerber Files (if you order the PCBs by yourself): https://github.com/vlkv/avalanche#gerber-files
Flash the Firmware
Flash the following firmware on the both controller breakout boards by QMK Toolbox.
VIA Firmware
Vial Firmware
Bridge Jumper Pads for OLED Displays and Serial
W1 is for serial. Bridge W1 on the left and right hand side.
For OLED displays, bridge the 4 jumper pads on the top side. Do not bridge them on the bottom side.
Diodes and Controller Board
Diodes are directional. Pay attention to the bottom row and the diodes placed horizontally.
Short pin headers or sockets are recommended.
Insert the pin headers and controller boards according to the silk screen.
You can test the single side with VIA or a web-based keyboard tester by shorting the hotswap socket solder pads. It's recommended to test all key presses before moving to the next step.
Reset Buttons and TRRS Jacks
Now, you can connect the both halves and test if they are sending the right key presses.
OLED Displays
The switch is to to enable/disable the power supply for the OLED display and RGB LEDs.
Set it to the "on" state, and plug it into the computer. The OLED screen should display some text. If it doesn't work, toggle the switch and reconnect it to the computer. The on state for the left side is the opposite of that of the right side.
Hot Swap Sockets for Key Switches and Encoders
The switch sockets are directional. Leave the switch slot empty if you decide to use an encoder. Encoders are optional, and you can use at most one encoder on a single side.
RGB LEDs
RGB LEDs are optional. Before soldering the RGB LEDs, make sure you have a fully working keyboard.
RGB LEDs are directional. Align the corner to the silk screen mark.
Solder the first RGB LED (L7). It should light it when you connect it to the computer.
Disconnect the keyboard from the computer. Repeat the above step for L8, L9, L10, ..., L38.
An RGB LED is also required when the slot is used for an encoder. Alternatively you can bridge the DIN/DOUT pins.
It's recommended to solder them in order, with 3-5 LEDs each time and test.
Last updated
Was this helpful?