Custom Mechanical Hackpad with OLED Display

Technology Stack

The Problem

A project that combine electronics, PCB layout, and mechanical design to build foundational skills in creating complete products from scratch

Technical Implementation

Designed complete schematic and PCB layout in KiCad featuring XIAO RP2040 microcontroller, 4 mechanical key switches, 2 SK6812-MINI RGB LEDs, and 0.91" 128x32 OLED display. Created my first custom 3D-printed case in Fusion 360 with top and bottom parts for professional assembly. PCB fabrication handled by JLCPCB with hand-soldering of all components. Programmed firmware for key mapping, LED control, and OLED display output. Project approved by Hack Club's Blueprint program (YSWS initiative) and received $15 grant covering PCB fabrication and 3D printing costs. Hack Club is shipping a complete kit with all required components.

Reflective Analysis & Growth

This project was a comprehensive introduction to hardware product development, taking me through the complete design-to-manufacturing pipeline. Learning KiCad for PCB design taught me about component footprints, trace routing, and design rule checking. Creating my first 3D case in Fusion 360 developed my mechanical design skills and understanding of tolerances for 3D printing. The Blueprint program approval validated my design work and provided real-world experience with grant applications and project documentation. Currently, this project is fully designed with approved funding, but I haven't yet received and assembled the physical components. Once I complete the hand-soldering of surface-mount components like the SK6812-MINI LEDs and assemble the complete unit, it will significantly improve my precision soldering techniques and practical hardware assembly skills. Most importantly, this end-to-end experience—from concept to funded production—demonstrates that hardware projects are accessible to hobbyists and reinforces my passion for combining software and hardware engineering.