12h 16m 18s logged

🎛️ ByteBoard — RGB Macropad

Day 0 — 19.06.2026

I started ByteBoard after seeing my friend Sunrit Hazra build a macropad through Hack Club Blueprint. The project inspired me to design one completely from scratch while learning PCB design, electronics, firmware, and CAD along the way.

I began by studying the fundamentals of schematic design and PCB layout, creating a simple practice PCB before moving on to the real project.

Time spent: 3 hours

Day 1 — 20.06.2026

After that, I designed the complete schematic for the macropad, including a 3×3 key matrix powered by the Seeed Studio XIAO RP2040, a rotary encoder, and a 0.91” OLED display.

Time spent: 5 hours

Day 2 — 21.06.2026

Once the schematic was complete, I designed the PCB, added SK6812 MINI-E RGB LEDs around each switch for underglow, placed the mounting holes, and routed the entire board. After several iterations and design rule checks, the PCB was successfully completed and exported.

Time spent: 8 hours

Day 3 — 22.06.2026

With the electronics finished, I started learning Autodesk Fusion to design the enclosure. After practicing with a small bracket model, I began creating the case for ByteBoard.

Time spent: 2 hours

Day 4 — 23.06.2026

I designed the bottom plate, added standoffs and walls, and fixed multiple clearance issues around the USB Type-C connector to ensure the board would fit and remain fully usable inside the enclosure.

Time spent: 7 hours

Day 5 — 25.06.2026

I continued refining the case design and resolving fitment issues to improve usability and structure.

Time spent: 3 hours

So far, I’ve spent over 28 hours on the project, learning both PCB design and mechanical CAD while documenting my progress through Hack Club Lapse timelapses. The next steps are to finish the enclosure, manufacture the PCB, solder all components, write the firmware, and assemble the final macropad.

Timelapses