Create and verify a custom keyboard layer
6 steps
Connect the keyboard directly
Connect Launch to the computer with its data cable. Confirm ordinary typing works before changing any assignment.
Check: The operating system accepts text from the unmodified base layer.
Companion guide, source references and reuse license
Open the configurator
Install or open the official System76 Keyboard Configurator and select the connected Launch. Compare its keyboard diagram with the physical keyboard.
Check: The displayed model and key positions match the connected unit.
Record the base mapping
Write down the current action of the key to change and the location of the layer-access key. Keep at least one dependable way to return to the normal typing layer.
Check: The original mapping can be restored without guessing.
Choose a secondary layer
Select the secondary layer in the configurator, then choose the physical key to edit. Assign a harmless shortcut or function key from the available action list.
Check: The selected layer diagram shows the intended action on the intended key.
Test both meanings
In a text editor, test the key normally and while holding the layer key. Then test the shortcut in the application where it is intended to work.
Check: Normal typing remains intact and the secondary action appears only on its layer.
Check lighting and persistence
If useful, give the layer a distinct LED pattern in the configurator. Reconnect the keyboard and repeat the mapping check.
Check: The mapping remains usable after reconnection and the layer can be recognized.
Project credit: System76 and Launch contributors. Guide reuse: CC-BY-SA-4.0. Upstream reference. Prepared with AI assistance for a TwinWorks-managed contributor; no physical build/test is claimed.
