MATRIX01
RP2040 firmware
Scanning, key behavior, layers and lighting run directly on the keyboard controller.
GlassHarp
Full RP2040 firmware for the Framework 16 RGB keyboard, paired with a Rust Linux companion.
operational RP2040 firmware · extensive layers/effects · Rust + KDE integration
PB-09 operational
SYS/KEYS 04 CHANNELS PALOMA BB
- Controller
- RP2040
- Hardware
- Framework 16 RGB
- Companion
- Rust + Linux
- Desktop
- KDE-aware
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02
03
04
What is real today
A keyboard that behaves like part of the computer.
GlassHarp is complete RP2040 firmware for the Framework 16 RGB keyboard paired with a Rust Linux companion. It turns the board into a practical instrument panel with extensive functional layers, restrained lighting behavior and feedback from the operating system.
Volume, brightness and other system state can be expressed through the keyboard rather than confined to an on-screen overlay. The firmware and host companion divide responsibility cleanly: immediate key behavior stays on-device while richer desktop context remains on Linux.
The project is operational and useful as daily hardware, which makes polish, recovery and restraint more important than novelty effects.
System shape
Firmware handles touch; Linux supplies context.
The keyboard stays responsive and self-contained while the companion adds information only the host can know.
LAYER02
Functional layouts
Extensive layers make the board useful for system control and specialized workflows without sacrificing ordinary typing.
LIGHT03
Restrained feedback
RGB communicates state and interaction rather than operating as constant visual noise.
HOST04
Rust companion
Linux and KDE state can reach the keyboard through a small purpose-built integration layer.
Current evidence
The complete loop is already operational.
GlassHarp is judged as daily-use firmware and system integration, not as an isolated lighting demonstration.
01
Firmware
Full replacement
Core keyboard behavior is implemented on the RP2040 rather than layered over stock effects.
02
Controls
Extensive layers
Functional input extends beyond a small demo layer or macro set.
03
Feedback
System-aware
Host state such as volume and brightness can be represented on the board.
04
Companion
Rust + KDE
Desktop integration is implemented as a native Linux companion.
Operating principles
Constraints that keep the work honest.
Immediate behavior stays local
The keyboard remains useful and responsive without host round trips.
Lighting communicates
Effects are restrained enough to function as information.
Layers earn their place
Added controls support real workflows rather than feature count.
Hardware joins the desktop
The keyboard can reflect system state as an integrated surface.
Connected work