Custom Keyboard
KY-GD Control Keyboard for Experimental Instruments
KY-GD is a control keyboard for experimental instruments, built in 304 stainless steel to a customer-defined size and key set.
Product Overview
KY-GD is a control keyboard for experimental instruments, built in 304 stainless steel to a customer-defined size and key set. It communicates over RS485, which suits instrument racks where several devices share one bus over long cable runs. Each build is tooled to the instrument's own command layout.
- RS485 connection supports long cable runs and multi-drop instrument buses
- 304 stainless steel resists the cleaning agents used around laboratory benches
- Custom size fits the instrument fascia rather than forcing a redesign
- Custom keys let each control map to one instrument function
- KEYU CNC and sheet-metal equipment in house shortens prototype iterations
- OEM and ODM service covers drawing through series production
Application Scenarios
- Laboratory analytical instrument front panels
- Test chamber and environmental rig controls
- Multi-instrument racks sharing an RS485 bus
- Calibration bench control positions
- Research equipment built in small series
Who It Is For
- Scientific instrument manufacturers
- Test and measurement equipment builders
- Research facility engineering teams
- Contract equipment designers
Problems It Solves
- USB keyboards cannot span the cable distances an instrument rack needs
- Generic keyboards do not map cleanly to instrument functions
- Painted panels degrade under laboratory solvents
- Off-the-shelf panels rarely match a bespoke instrument fascia
Technical Features
- 304 stainless steel panel and keys
- RS485 serial interface
- Custom size to the instrument drawing
- Custom key count and function layout
- Etched legends for permanent function labelling
- Built to order with KEYU in-house molds
Specifications
| Material | 304 stainless steel |
|---|---|
| Size | Custom size |
| Keys | Custom keys |
| Interface | RS485 |
| Application | Control keyboard of experimental instrument |
| Service | OEM and ODM from the KEYU Shenzhen factory |
Materials
- 304 stainless steel panel and keys
Manufacturing Process
- Review of the instrument fascia drawing
- CNC and sheet-metal forming of the custom panel
- Brushing of the stainless steel surface
- Etching of the instrument function legends
- RS485 controller assembly and protocol setup
- Sample approval before series build
Quality Control
- First article compared against the approved drawing
- RS485 communication verified against the instrument protocol
- Each key checked against the agreed function map
- Panel finish inspected for solvent resistance readiness
Customisation Options
- Panel outline and thickness to the instrument fascia
- Key count, spacing and grouping by function
- Etched legends using the instrument's own terminology
- RS485 addressing and protocol to customer specification
- Cable length and connector type
How It Compares
| USB control keyboard | RS485 carries over longer runs and supports multi-drop instrument buses |
|---|---|
| Catalogue metal keypad | Custom size and custom keys match an instrument fascia instead of dictating it |
| Plastic instrument keypad | 304 stainless steel stands up to the solvents and cleaning used at laboratory benches |
Use Guide
- Send the fascia drawing and the RS485 protocol details at enquiry
- Agree the key function map before legend artwork is etched
- Terminate the RS485 bus correctly at both ends
- Request a sample for fit and protocol trial
- Clean the panel with a cloth rather than pouring solvent on the face
Industries
Questions About This Model
What is this keyboard designed for?
It is a control keyboard for experimental instruments, built to the customer's own size and key layout.
Which interface does it use?
RS485.
What is the panel made from?
304 stainless steel.
Can you build to our fascia drawing?
Yes. Custom size and custom keys are the basis of this product.
Can KEYU handle small research volumes?
KEYU offers OEM and ODM service with over 1,000 sets of in-house molds, so low volume bespoke work is standard.
Where is it made?
At the KEYU factory in Shenzhen, China, founded in 1995.
Request A Quote On KY-GD
Tell us quantity, interface and mounting method. Drawings and panel cutouts are welcome by WhatsApp or email.