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Make a Keyboard Wireless

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Updated February 10, 2023

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There are so many options when choosing the best keyboard, and sometimes you have to face the fact that you chose wrong. For example, some people yearn for the freedom of a wireless keyboard and feel like their wired keyboard is an inconvenience. But many people don’t know that it’s possible to make a keyboard wireless. And below, we’re going to show you how.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

Transitioning a wired keyboard into wireless requires installing a USB microcontroller and radio transmitter into both the keyboard and the computer.
The transition process is straightforward for keyboards with an extra USB port. But for those without the additional port, it requires taking the keyboard apart.
Once everything is in place, set the radio transmitters to 433.92 MHz to establish a connection.

And once you’ve learned how to convert your device, you can take the next step and read our article on how to connect a wireless keyboard.

How to Make a Keyboard Wireless

Contrary to what you might think, you don’t need to be an IT wizard to convert a wired keyboard into a wireless one. While it’s not quite as easy as knowing how to reattach a keyboard key or locking your MacBook keyboard, the process is manageable with some simple tools and technical know-how.

And if you want access to more great keyboard tips, you can check out our article explaining how to reset a keyboard.

Insider Tip

If your computer doesn’t have a spare USB port, you can solder one on yourself as another DIY project.

STEP 1 Unplug Keyboard from Computer

Disable or unplug your current keyboard from your computer.

STEP 2 Install a USB-Compatible Microcontroller

Sometimes, a keyboard will have an extra external USB port. If you have this, place the microcontroller there.
If your keyboard doesn’t have an extra USB port, you’ll have to remove the keyboard case by unscrewing it. Then, pry the clips holding the keyboard casing together using a flathead screwdriver.
Once the keyboard is apart, detach the USB cord from the harness. But if your keyboard’s USB cable is soldered, you’ll have to snip the wire.
Then, place the other USB receiver in your computer, whether it’s by attaching it to the harness or soldering in a new USB port.

Warning

Never have your keyboard plugged in when performing any electrical modifications, otherwise, you risk severe shock.

STEP 3 Install Radio Transmitters

Install radio transmitter to both the computer and keyboard microcontrollers.
Once installed, set the frequency to 433.92 MHz. Manufacturers recommend this frequency as the best to use, but if it doesn’t work, you can try other matching signals close to 433.92 MHz.

STEP 4 Test Keyboard

Once everything is set up, test out your wireless connection by trying to type something.

STAT: The average range of connection for wireless keyboards is 10 feet. (source)

F.A.Q.S

Why should I make a wired keyboard into a wireless device?

It’s a simple matter of preference. If you feel like the wire is inconvenient, you can remove it to save space.

Is it possible to turn a wireless keyboard back into a wireless one?

Once you’ve installed a USB port, you must remove the microcontroller and replace a detachable keyboard USB cord.

Can you make a wired keyboard into a Bluetooth keyboard?

You can do this by purchasing a Bluetooth USB dongle. You insert one into an available USB keyboard slot and the other into a USB slot on the computer. Once the keyboard has a power source, you can find the device and connect via Bluetooth.

REFERENCES:

Nathan Rizzuti

An abiding consumer, Nathan cares a great deal about advocating and informing fellow users on their latest rights, options, and news updates concerning their beloved and expanding assembly of gadgets.