keyboard API for programming keyboard hardware (lighting) OTHER than iCue? (K70 RGB Pro)

[JohnL4]

Is there any other way to program the keyboard hardware lighting except through iCue? I expect the keyboard hardware has some sophistication that iCue isn't exposing.

For instance, I'd like to have keys change colors on keystroke based on their current color, as opposed to simply overwriting the current color with an unrelated color. I hoping for a color complement based on the current color, along with an expanding sort of "bleed" while the key is held down.

 

Also, the hardware effects like watercolor are too fast and I can't slow them down. There's gotta be some way, right?

 

John

[JohnL4]

I take it the answer to this question is "No, get another keyboard if you want that."

[c-attack]

The CUE SDK is on the downloads page on the main website.  However, I am not sure that is going to get you everything on your list.  There are definite limitations when it comes to hardware lighting since the effects must be generated and controlled from the KB's MCU.  The K70 pro is going to be more capable than most and uses the newer 'save to device' rules that allow for more complex effects and number of effects to saved to the board.

 

A lot of the things you want to do may be possible through using the various custom options.  However, something like automatically detecting the color and then using a contrasting or adjacent color value is a tall order.  I am not aware of any other boards that offer that level of detail in programming.  If the color of the key is known, then you can program a specific response, but its not really set up to react to random events.

 

One thing you cand do now is the "bleed effect".  This is better done through the custom lighting options as a gradient, rather than the preset "type lighting".  Most of the presets are for users who are not overly particular and want a simple set and done mechanic.  You may have better luck using some of the trigger mechanics in solid and gradients patterns, along with transparency for static colors.

 

Simple color tone down.  As the value of the key highlight fades, the underlying effect will shine through.  The effect underneath can be anything.  You also can do this by transitioning into the base color, but be aware that can create a white point shift if you pass through the center of the color wheel on transition.  

 

Edited April 30 by c-attack
Corrected play on pressed key in screen shot