User Manual
Programmable
KB950
Backlit Split
Mechanical
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22030 20th Avenue SE, Suite 102
Bothell, Washington 98021 USA
Kinesis Corporation
Keyboard models covered by this manual:
sales@kinesis.com, tech@kinesis.com
KB950-BLU
KB950-RED
KB950-BRN
September 20, 2017 Edition
This manual covers features included through firmware version 1.0.0. To download the latest firmware
and to access all support resources visit www.KinesisGaming.com/Support.
To shop for accessories visit KinesisGaming.com/Accessories:
Lift Kit (AC910)- Adjustable tenting accessory (5°/10°/15°) for use with Palm Supports
V3 Pro (AC930)- Adjustable tenting accessory (5°/10°/15°) for use without Palm Supports (coming
soon)
Palm Pads (AC700blk)- Cushioned palm pads for use with Palm Supports
www.KinesisGaming.com
© 2017 by Kinesis Corporation, all rights reserved. Kinesis and Freestyle are registered trademarks of Kinesis
Corporation. Freestyle Edge, SmartSet, and v-Drive are trademarks of Kinesis Corporation. All other
trademarks are property of their respective owners.
Information in this document is subject to change without notice. No part of this document may be reproduced
or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any commercial purpose, without the
express written permission of Kinesis Corporation.
FCC Radio Frequency Interference Statement
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is operated in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio
frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee
that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning
the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help
Warning
To assure continued FCC compliance, the user must use only shielded interfacing cables when connecting to computer or peripheral. Also, any unauthorized changes or
modifications to this equipment would void the user’s authority to operate.
INDUSTRY CANADA COMPLIANCE STATEMENT
This Class B digital apparatus meets all requirements of the Canadian Interface-causing Equipment Regulations.
Cet Appareil numerique de la classe B respecte toutes les exiginces du Reglement sur le material broilleur du Canada.
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Table of Contents
1.0 Read Me First………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4
1.1 Health and Safety Warning……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
1.2 Quick Start Guide………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
1.3 Read this User's Manual………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 4
2.0 Keyboard Overview………………………………………………………………………………………………………………... 4
2.1 Specifications………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
2.2 Features…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
2.3 Package Contents…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 5
2.4 System Requirements…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 5
2.5 Installation…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 5
3.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
3.1 Backlight On/Off……..…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 6
3.2 Dual Layer Layouts (Embedded Fn Layer)……………………………………………………………………………… 6
3.3 Multimedia Actions…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
3.4 Programming Cluster………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 6
3.5 Indicator LEDs……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 6
3.6 Removable Palm Supports……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7
3.7 SmartSet Programming Engine- Onboard Shortcuts………………………………………………………………….. 7
3.8 Adjustable Linking Cable………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 7
3.9 Game Bank…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 7
4.0 SmartSet Onboard Programming………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8
4.1 Layouts……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 8
4.2 Recording Macros…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 8
4.3 Remapping Keys…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 9
4.4 Run Status Report…………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
4.5 v-Drive………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 10
4.6 Adjust Global Macro Speed………………………………………………………………………………………………. 11
4.7 NKRO Mode………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11
4.8 Game Mode………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 11
4.9 Reset– Soft & Hard……………………………..…………………………………………………………………………. 11
4.10 Refresh Settings…………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12
4.11 Program Lock………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 12
4.12 Update Firmware………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 12
4.13 Adjust Status Report Playback Speed…………………………………………………………………………………… 12
4.14 Force v-Drive Open………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 12
4.15 Adjust Custom Backlighting Mode……………………………………………………………………………………….. 12
5.0 SmartSet Programming App…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 13
6.0 Direct Programming………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 14
6.1 Programming Layouts…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 14
6.2 Position Token Map……………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 15
6.3 Action Token Dictionary…………………………………………………………………………………………………… 16
6.4 Programming Remaps……………………………………………………………………………………………………. 17
6.5 Programming Macros……………………………………………………………………………………………………… 17
6.6 Programming Settings…………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 18
6.7 v-Drive Repair………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 18
7.0 Maintenance………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 19
8.0 Technical Support, Repairs, and Returns…………………………………………………………………………………….. 19
9.0 Warranty & Limitation of Liability……………………………………………………………………………………………….. 19
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1.0 Read Me First
1.1 Health and Safety Warning
Continuous use of any keyboard may cause aches, pains or more serious cumulative trauma disorders such
as tendinitis and carpal tunnel syndrome, or other repetitive strain disorders.
Exercise good judgement in placing reasonable limits on your keyboarding time every day.
Follow established guidelines for computer and workstation setup.
Maintain a relaxed keying posture and use a light touch to press the keys.
Keyboard is not a medical treatment
This keyboard is not a substitute for appropriate medical treatment! If any information in this guide appears to
contradict your health care professional’s advice, please follow your health care professional’s advice.
No warranty of injury prevention or cure
Kinesis bases its product designs on research, proven features and user evaluations. However, because of
the complex set of factors believed to contribute to computer-related injuries, the company can make no
warranty that its products will prevent or cure any physical ailment. Your particular risk of injury may be
affected by workstation and chair design, posture, time worked without breaks, type of work, activities outside
the workplace, and/or individual physiology.
1.2 Quick Start Guide
If you are eager to get started, please consult the included Quick Start Guide. The Quick Start Guide can also
be downloaded from KinesisGaming.com/Support. Consult this full User Manual for detailed descriptions of
both basic and advanced features.
1.3 Read This User’s Manual
Even if you don’t normally read manuals or you are a long-time user of Kinesis keyboards, we strongly
encourage you to review this entire manual. The Freestyle Edge is a fully-programmable keyboard with
powerful tools and features. If you unknowingly execute a programming shortcut or key combination, you
could inadvertently alter the layout of your keyboard which might necessitate a Hard Reset of the keyboard.
If you have no plans to re-program the keyboard and would like to disable all programming features see
Section 4.11.
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2.0 Keyboard Overview
2.1 Specifications
Compact tenkeyless design with standard US ANSI key layout
6’ USB cable and 20” adjustable linking cable
2 year limited warranty
Dimensions:
With Palm Supports: 1.25” tall x 15.5” wide x 10.25” deep
Without Palm Supports: 1.25” tall x 15.5” wide x 7.25” deep
Weight: 2.8 lbs
2.2 Features
Premium Cherry® MX mechanical switches
Brilliant blue LED backlighting with 12 custom lighting modes
SmartSet Programming Engine
9 dual-layer, fully-programmable layouts
4MB onboard memory (the v-Drive™)
Multimedia actions in the embedded Fn layer
Game Bank with 8 programmable game keys for binding macros and custom key actions
Available Game Mode & NKRO Mode
1000mz polling
100% anti-ghosting
2.3 Package Contents
Freestyle Edge mechanical keyboard & detachable Palm Supports
SmartSet Programming App for Windows (preinstalled on the Edge’s v-Drive)
Quick Start Guide
2.4 System Requirements
Windows® 7-10, MacOS® X v10.6+, Chrome OS® or Linux® & full-size USB Port
2.5 Installation
To install the Freestyle Edge simply plug the USB cable into a full-size USB port on your computer. The Edge
does not require the installation of any special software or drivers or an internet connection.
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3.0 Introduction
3.1 Backlight On/Off
The Freestyle Edge is equipped with brilliant blue LED backlighting for
gaming in low-light conditions. Tap the LED key to quickly toggle between
Off and the Custom setting. See Section 4.17 for details on adjusting the
Custom setting.
3.2 Dual Layer Layouts (Embedded Fn Layer)
The Freestyle Edge has two separate layers so each of the 95 full-size keys
can be programmed to perform two unique actions per Layout– a top layer
action and an “embedded” Fn layer action. Tap the Fn key to toggle
between the top layer and the Fn layer. The Fn indicator light will illuminate
while the Fn layer is active.
The default Fn layer actions mirror the top layer except for 7 keys
which have unique actions: the F1-F6 keys (multimedia actions)
and the Pause key (Insert). These 7 keys have secondary key
legends at the bottom of the keycap.
Embedded Fn Layer actions shown in white
3.3 Multimedia Actions
Change your audio on the fly by accessing the 6 standard
multimedia actions by using the Fn key to toggle on the Fn layer.
These multimedia actions can be reassigned to any key on the
keyboard in either layer using onboard programming (see Section
Mute
4.3) or the SmartSet App (see Section 5).
3.4 Programming Cluster
The four Programming Cluster keys enable quick and easy onboard
reprogramming (see Section 4). The Layout key toggles between the 3
primary layouts (1, 2, and 3), the Macro key controls on-the-fly macro
recording, and the Remap key controls onboard remapping (aka rebinding).
The 4th key is the SmartSet Key, and it controls all onboard programming
shortcuts.
3.5 Indicator LEDs
The two Layout LEDs indicate which layout is currently active. The Macro
LED flashes when on-the-fly macro recording is in progress. The Remap
LED flashes when onboard remapping is in progress. The SmartSet LED
flashes to confirm certain programming commands.
Volume
Down
Volume
Up
Play/
Pause
Previous
Track
Next
Track
SmartSet
Key
The four indicator LEDs in the upper right corner of the right key module are
Caps Lock, Game Mode (see Section 4.8), Scroll Lock, and the Fn Layer.
Note: Num Lock can be enabled but there is indicator LED on the Edge.
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3.6 Removable Palm Supports
The palm supports are detachable so you can customize the keyboard
based on your typing and gaming preferences. To remove, flip the keyboard
over and gently wiggle the palm support to lift the tabs over the bumps on
the underside of the keyboard, and then pull straight out. To reattach, slide
the palm rests into the key modules until they latch into place. Note: if the
palm support doesn’t snap into place easily you may be trying to attach it to
the wrong key module, or it may be misaligned.
3.7 SmartSet Programming Engine- Onboard Shortcuts
The SmartSet key is used in conjunction with the F7-F12 keys to activate
onboard shortcuts. Onboard shortcuts are legended in italics to differentiate
them from embedded Fn layer actions. Additional (unlegended) onboard
shortcuts are described in Sections 4.10 - 4.15.
To trigger an onboard shortcut, first press and hold the SmartSet
Key and then tap F7-F11. To prevent against accidentally
triggering the Soft Reset shortcut you must also press and hold
Shift along with the SmartSet Key before tapping F12 (“RESET”
appears in all-caps to indicate that it requires the shift key). For a
detailed explanation of onboard shortcuts see Section 4.
Onboard shortcuts activated with they SmartSet Key
SmartSet
Key
3.8 Adjustable Linking Cable
The two key modules are connected by a 20” braided linking cable that can
be adjusted to suit your preferences and gaming style. The basic
configuration allows for up to 12” of separation. If you need additional cable,
simply remove the cable compartment cover on the back of the left key
module and thread out more of the stored cable. Once you have achieved
the desired cable length, carefully fit the excess cable into the compartment
removing any kinks and slide the cable cover onuntil it latches.
Rotate the left key module as needed to remove any
kinks from the cable so it lies flat.
Position the key modules in the optimal configuration relative to your other
input devices, or separate the modules to shoulder-width for maximum
typing comfort. There is no wrong way to configure the Edge, experiment
with different positions to find the configurations that work best for you.
3.9 Game Bank
The Game Bank comprises eight fully programmable keys (blank by
default) that can be programmed to perform any custom key action or
macro, in either layer. The Game Bank is perfect for moving critical rightsided keys over to the left key module to enable one-handed play.
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4.0 SmartSet Onboard Programming
The SmartSet Programming Engine allows you to custom program your Freestyle Edge keyboard without
installing any software or special drivers on the computer. Custom layouts and settings are saved directly to
the keyboard’s v-Drive so they move with the keyboard when you take your game on the road. There are
three ways to program your Freestyle Edge: 1) Onboard Programming (all O/S), 2) the SmartSet
Programming App (Windows), and Direct Programming (all O/S).
Onboard programming is a quick and convenient way to build custom layouts by remapping keys, recording
powerful macros, and adjusting keyboard settings with simple-to-use onboard shortcuts.
4.1 Layouts (Layout or SmartSet + Number Row)
The Freestyle Edge puts 9 fully-programmable, dual-layer layouts at your
disposal. Each layout can be custom configured for different games or
users. The two LEDs above the Layout Key indicate the active layout.
Layout 1 Layouts 4-9
Tap the Layout Key to toggle through the three primary layouts (Layouts 1-3). To jump directly to any of the
nine layouts, hold the SmartSet Key and then tap 1-9 in the number row to select the layout you wish to load.
4.2 Recording Macros
Layout 2
Layout 3
A macro is string of characters or key actions that is triggered by a single key press. Macros are powerful
tools that allow you to quickly produce multiple in-game actions in rapid-fire. Macros are assigned to the
active layout at the time of recording and each layout can store 24 macros, each up to 300 characters long.
To record a macro on-the-fly, tap the Macro key in the Programming Cluster to enter Macro Record
Mode, choose your trigger key(s) and then type out your macro. Tap the Macro key stop recording.
Macro Trigger Key(s)
After entering Macro Record Mode, the Macro LED will flash rapidly prompting you to select a trigger key or
key combination. Any full-size non-modifier key can be used as a macro trigger. A macro can also be
triggered by a two-key combination by pairing the primary trigger key with a modifier-key “co-trigger”. To
assign a key combination as a macro trigger, first press and hold one of the six standard modifier keys (either
the left or right Ctrl, Alt or Shift) and then tap the desired primary trigger key. The Windows key is not
recommended for use as a macro co-trigger.
Macro Contents
After a valid macro trigger has been selected, the Macro LED will flash slowly prompting you to begin
recording your macro (open an appropriate program during recording). Every single keystroke will be
recorded so if you make a mistake, we recommend restarting rather than using backspace key. To stop
recording and save your macro, simply tap the Macro key. Note: Macro Record Mode will end automatically
when you hit the max length of 300 keystrokes.
The speed at which you type out the macro and pauses between keystrokes are not recorded. The macro will
playback at the Global speed setting (see Section 4.6) by default, but the playback can be customized by
adding internal timing delays or by setting an custom playback speed for that specific macro using the
SmartSet App (see Section 5) or Direct Programming (see Section 6.5).
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Macro Playback
To playback a macro, simply press the trigger key(s). Modifier co-triggers should be pressed first and held
while the primary trigger key is then tapped. See Sections 4.6 and 6.5 to adjust the playback speed.
Erasing a Macro
To erase a macro onboard, simply tap the Macro key, then input the trigger key(s) of the macro you wish to
erase. Once the Macro LED starts flashing slow, simply tap the Macro key again to record an “empty” macro.
Macro Limit
Each layout can accommodate 24 macros. When you have reached the limit the keyboard will flash when if
you tap the Macro key to signal that you must erase a macro before recording a new one.
4.3 Remapping Keys
With the Remap key, you can reassign any default key action on the Freestyle Edge to any other full-size key
(in either layer) to customize the layout for gaming or typing. The only key that cannot be remapped onboard
is the Fn key but the Fn key can be remapped using the SmartSet App or Direct Programming.
Tap the Remap key to enter Remap Mode. The Remap LED will flash rapidly to prompt you to first
select the “Source” key action (i.e., the key action that you wish to assign). After selecting the Source
key, the LED will flash slowly prompting you to select the “Destination” key position (i.e., the physical
key that you wish to perform the new action). Once you select the Destination key Remap Mode will end.
Remapping Tips
Remapping is a one-way process, it creates a duplicate key action but it does not “swap” two key actions.
To “swap” two keys you must perform two separate remap programming commands.
Remapping only operates on one layer at a time. To remap the same key in both layers you must perform
two separate remap commands, one for each layer.
While Remap Mode is active, you can use the Fn key to navigate between layers as necessary if you wish
to move a key action (e.g., the media keys) from the Fn layer to the top layer, or vice versa.
While Remap Mode is active, the keyboard reverts back to the default QWERTY layout.
Special Actions
If you would like to assign a key action that is not present in the default Edge layout, you can select from a
menu of supported Special Actions using the SmartSet App or Direct Programming (see Sections 5 and 6.3).
Macro and Remap conflict
It is possible to assign a macro and a remap to the same physical key. In that event, the macro playback will
take priority over the remap action when you press that key, except when macros have been temporarily
disabled (see Section 4.6).
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4.4 Run Status Report (SmartSet + F7)
Use the Status Report to “print-to-screen” a convenient report of the current global keyboard settings.
Make sure you have a text editing program (e.g., Notepad, Word)
selected as the active window before running a Status Report.
Layout> Indicates the active layout currently loaded to the keyboard (1-9).
Remaps> Indicates the number of remapped keys in the active layout
Macros> Indicates the number of macros saved to the active layout
Model> FS Edge
Firmware> 1.0.0.us (4MB), 07/15/2017
Acve Layout> 1
Remaps> 0
Macros> 0
Macro Speed 0‐9> 3
Macro Speed> Indicates the “Global” speed at which all macros are played
back (see Section 4.6)
Status Report Speed> Indicates the Speed at which the Status Report is played
LED> Indicates the current backlighting mode
Game Mode> Off
NKRO Mode> Off
Status Report Speed 0‐4> 3
LED 0‐9, B, P> 5
4.5 Open/Close v-Drive (SmartSet + F8)
The Freestyle Edge features a 4MB virtual drive called the “v-Drive” which is the heart of the SmartSet
Programming Engine. During normal use the v-Drive is hidden from your computer but it can be temporarily
“opened” using the onboard shortcut to 1) run the SmartSet Programming App (see Section 5), 2) to Direct
Program layouts and settings files (see Section 6), 3) or to install a firmware update (see Section 4.12).
Note: It is not necessary to access the v-Drive for basic keyboard use.
When you use the onboard shortcut to open the v-Drive your computer
will now recognize the keyboard as a Removable Storage Device called
“FS EDGE”. The specific appearance and location of the “FS EDGE”
drive on your computer will depend on your operating system.
Windows: If a pop-up doesn’t appear, open File Explorer and look
under “This PC”
Mac: If the drive does not appear on the desktop, look under
“DEVICES”
File Explorer view of “FS EDGE” removable v-Drive
Linux : Look in in “MY COMPUTER”
Chrome: Look in “FILES”
Keep the v-Drive closed when not in use
For best results, keep the v-Drive closed when not using the SmartSet App and refrain from re-programming
the keyboard using onboard shortcuts while the v-Drive is open. Note: The keyboard’s multimedia and mouse
actions are disabled while the v-Drive is open.
Closing the v-Drive
Before closing the v-Drive, always save your work and close all .txt files and the SmartSet App. You can use
the shortcut to close the v-Drive (LEDs will flash) or you can simply unplug the keyboard. If you receive a
message from your computer that the “FS EDGE” device was not ejected properly you may safely ignore it.
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4.6 Adjust Global Macro Speed (SmartSet + F9, then number row)
The Freestyle Edge can playback macros at one of nine different speeds, ranging from a super-slow 4 actions
-per-second (APS) up to a blazing fast 3,000 APS! The default Global speed is Speed 5, which is good for
text macros but might be too slow for in-game macros. To adjust the Global speed, use the onboard shortcut
to enter Macro Speed Mode and then use the number row to select a speed from 1-9. If you wish to
temporarily disable macro playback without deleting any macros, chose “0” instead.
Seng Speed1 Speed2 Speed3 Speed4 Speed5 Speed6 Speed7 Speed8 Speed9
Acons Per Second 4 8 12 22 35 (default) 62 85 125 250
Words Per Minute 48 96 144 264 420 744 1,020 1,500 3,000
*Playback speeds are approximate. Exact speeds will depend on the length of the macro, your computer, and the active application.
Note: You can override the Global speed setting and assign a custom, individual playback speed for any
given macro using the SmartSet App (see Section 5) or Direct Programming (see Section 6.5).
4.7 Enable/Disable NKRO Mode (SmartSet + F10)
NKRO (“n-key rollover”) mode is a special operating mode that allows the keyboard to register all
simultaneous key-presses. Most standard keyboards, and even many gaming keyboards, limit the number of
keys you can press at one time to six (aka “6KRO”). If you press more than 6 keys at a time on a 6KRO
keyboard, the keyboard may fail to register some of those key-presses. 6KRO is fine for basic typing and will
work for most gamers a majority of the time, but hardcore gamers who are playing at lightning-fast speeds
prefer NKRO keyboards for maximum performance. Use the onboard shortcut to toggle NKRO Mode on and
off (the Edge will take a second to re-enumerate). NKRO mode will remain in effect until keyboard is
unplugged or the v-Drive is opened. Confirm NKRO mode with the Status Report.
4.8 Enable/Disable Game Mode (SmartSet + F11)
Game Mode disables all Windows key actions to keep you from accidentally exiting out
of your game. Use the onboard shortcut to toggle Game Mode on and off. The Game
Mode indicator LED will illuminate when Game Mode is enabled.
4.9 Soft Reset (SmartSet + Shift + F12) & Hard Reset (SmartSet + F12 while plugging in
keyboard)
Use the Soft Reset onboard shortcut to erase all custom remaps and macros in both layers of the active
layout. The “Reset” legend is capitalized to remind you that you need to combine the Shift key with the
SmartSet key to protect you from accidentally performing a Soft Reset.
Use the Hard Reset onboard shortcut to erase all nine layouts and restore the Edge to its factory default
settings.
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4.10 Refresh Settings (SmartSet + Layout)
The Refresh shortcut is a very important tool if you are programming the keyboard using the SmartSet App or
Direct Programming. The SmartSet App is does not dynamically update and changes made do not go into
effect until the v-Drive is closed. Use the Refresh onboard shortcut to implement your changes immediately.
4.11 Program Lock (SmartSet + Shift + L)
Use the Program Lock onboard shortcut to temporarily deactivate the Programming Cluster keys. To disable
Program Lock use the same onboard shortcut.
4.12 Update Firmware (SmartSet + Shift + U)
Periodically Kinesis Gaming will release new versions of firmware for the Freestyle Edge with new features
and bug fixes. Installing new firmware is quick and easy.
1. Obtain a valid Freestyle Edge firmware file (“.upd” file) from KinesisGaming.com/Support
2. Open the v-Drive (SmartSet + F8)
3. Save the new firmware file inside the “firmware” subfolder on the v-Drive
4. Rename the firmware file “update.upd”
5. Press SmartSet + Shift + U to initiate the update
If a valid firmware file has been used, the keyboard will flash and the lights will go off for 10-12 seconds. The
keyboard will then re-enumerate with the new firmware. Run a Status Report to confirm the new firmware has
been installed correctly. Note: Custom layouts and settings are not affected by a firmware update.
4.13 Adjust Status Report Playback Speed (SmartSet + Shift + F7, then 0-4)
Certain computers may have problems playing the Status Report. If you are experiencing dropped characters
you can try a slower playback speed. Use the onboard shortcut to enter Status Speed Mode (LEDs will flash),
then tap “1-4” to select a different speed (default speed is 3), or “0” to disable the Status Report all together.
4.14 Force v-Drive Open (SmartSet + F8 while plugging in keyboard)
If you wish to have the v-Drive open when you plug in the keyboard or are having difficulty accessing the vDrive with the normal shortcut, simply hold down this shortcut while plugging in the keyboard.
4.15 Adjust Custom Backlighting Mode (SmartSet + LED Key)
The LED key toggles between Off and the Custom setting. The Custom setting can be programmed to one of
twelve different modes using onboard programming. Hold the SmartSet Key and tap the LED key to enter
Backlight Mode (LEDs will flash while mode is active). Tap “0” to disable backlighting, “1-9” to adjust the
brightness, “B” for Breathe mode, or “P” for Pitch Black mode. Breathe mode radiates soothing pulses of light
and Pitch Black mode disables all of the static indicator LEDs so your focus is where it belongs, on the game.
When you have selected your desired Custom setting, tap the SmartSet key to exit Backlight Mode and
resume normal keyboard operation.
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5.0 SmartSet Programming App
The SmartSet App lets you design custom layouts, build powerful macros, and customize keyboard settings.
The App works in conjunction with onboard programming, but it has several additional tools for power users.
Remap tools: F13-F24, Fn “Shift”, numeric keypad actions, Dvorak/Colemak layouts and more.
Macro tools: individual playback speeds, multiplay, Windows combinations, timing delays, and
various pre-configured macros.
For detailed programming instructions consult the SmartSet App User Manual which is saved to the
v-Drive in the “help” sub-folder.
Windows Users
The SmartSet App for Windows is pre-installed on the v-Drive. Connect the Edge to a Windows PC and open
the v-Drive. Locate the FS Edge removable drive in File Explorer, and double-click the SmartSet App icon.
Mac Users
Mac users will need to download the Mac version of the SmartSet App from KinesisGaming.com/Support and
then save the App to the v-Drive (in the top-level folder, not in a subfolder).
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6.0 Direct Programming
The keyboard’s layouts and settings are stored on the v-Drive as a series of simple text files (.txt), which can
be accessed in Windows, Linux, Mac, and Chrome. Each time a remap or macro is created, it is written to the
corresponding layout .txt file as a discrete line of “code”. Each time a keyboard setting is changed, the
change is recorded in the appropriate field in the “kbd_settings.txt” file. Users can edit these files directly to
customize keyboard layouts and settings.
For those that do not have a computer that can run the SmartSet App, Direct Programming is a way to
access to the various power user tools which are not otherwise available through onboard programming.
Eject v-Drive before closing (Windows Users)
After editing any .txt files on the v-Drive, it is necessary to first save and close the files, and
then use the Windows eject protocol before closing the v-Drive. Right click the “FS EDGE”
removable drive in File Explorer and select Eject. Once you receive the “Safe to Eject”
notification you may proceed to closing the v-Drive with the onboard shortcut. Failure to
eject can result in a minor drive error that Windows will ask you to repair (see Section 6.7).
Non-US Users
Your computer must be configured for the English (US) keyboard layout. Other language drivers use different
codes/positions for certain keys which are critical for programming characters such as [], {} and >.
6.1 Direct Programming Layouts
The nine default layouts are saved as separate .txt files in the “layouts”
subfolder. Only custom remaps and macros are saved to the file, so if no
changes have been made to a layout, the file will be empty. Users can either
write code from scratch or edit keyboard-generated code using the syntax rules
described below. Deleting a layout file will permanently delete its stored remaps
& macros, but the keyboard will automatically regenerate a blank layout file.
File Naming Convention
Only the nine numbered layouts can be loaded to the Freestyle Edge. Additional “backup” layouts can be
saved as .txt files with descriptive names, but they cannot be loaded to the keyboard without renaming them.
Syntax Overview
Remaps and macros are encoded in a layout file using a basic programming syntax. Each of the 95 full-size
keys on the keyboard has been assigned a unique “Position” token used to identify that key during
programming (see Section 6.2). Each keyboard & mouse action supported by the Edge has been assigned a
unique “Action” token corresponding to a standard USB “scan code” (see Section 6.3). Each line of code
must include a position token and one or more action tokens. The “>“ symbol is used to separate position
tokens from actions tokens, and individual tokens are surrounded by brackets. Examples:
Remaps are encoded with Square Brackets: [position]>[action]
Macros are encoded with Curly Brackets: {position1}{position2}>{action1}{action2}{action3}...
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Layout Programming Tips
If the keyboard cannot understand the desired remap, then the default action will remain in effect.
Do not mix and match square and curly brackets in a single line of code
Separate each line of code with Enter/Return
The order in which the lines of code appears in the .txt file does not generally matter, except in the event
of conflicting commands, in which case the command closest to the bottom of the file will be implemented.
Tokens are not case-sensitive. Capitalizing a token will not produce the capitalized action (see Section
6.5).
A line of code can be temporarily disabled by placing an asterisk (*) at the beginning of the line.
6.2 Position Token Map
Top Layer Position Tokens
Fn Layer Positions
In general, to designate a key position in the Fn layer, you simply encode the prefix “fn“ (with a space) before
the basic, top-layer token. The “fn” prefix goes outside of the brackets. Examples:
The embedded Hotkey 1 position is: fn [hk1]>...
The embedded Escape key position is: fn [esc]>...
However, for the seven keys which have a unique embedded key action, there is a unique Fn layer token
which corresponds to the embedded layer action for that key position.
TopLayer
PosionToken
FnLayer
PosionToken
[F1] [F2] [F3] [F4] [F5] [F6]
fn [MUTE] fn [VOL-] fn [VOL+] fn [PLAY] fn [PREV] fn [NEXT]
[PAUSE]
fn [INS]
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6.3 Action Token Dictionary
Alphanumeric
A B C D E F G H I J
M N O P Q R S T U V
Y Z 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
‐ =
Function Keys
F1 F2 F3 F4 F5 F6 F7 F8 F9 F10 F11 F12
F13 F14 F15 F16 F17 F18 F19 F20 F21 F22 F23 F24
Modifiers
LeShi RightShi LeAlt RightAlt LeWindows
&Command
LSHFT RSHFT LALT RALT LWIN RWIN LCTRL RCTRL
Punctuation
OpenBracket CloseBracket Period Comma Apostrophe Tilde ForwardSlash BackSlash
OBRK CBRK PER COM APOS TILDE / \
Multimedia & Mouse Clicks
RightWindows
&Command
LeCtrl RightCtrl
K
W
9
L
X
0
Mute Volume
Up
MUTE VOL+ VOL‐ PLAY NEXT PREV
Editing & Navigation
Enter Tab Space Delete Backspace Home End PageUp
ENT TAB SPC DEL BSPC HOME END PUP
LeArrow RightArrow UpArrow DownArrow Escape PrintScreen Pause ScrollLock Insert
LFT RGHT UP DWN ESC PRNT PAUSE SCRLK INS
Numeric Keypad
NumLock Keypad1 Keypad2 Keypad3 Keypad4 Keypad5 Keypad6 Keypad7 Keypad8
NUMLK KP1 KP2 KP3 KP4 KP5 KP6 KP7 KP8
Keypad9 Keypad0 Keypad
KP9 KP0 KP+ KP‐ KP/ KP* KPENT KP= KP.
Volume
Down
Plus
Play/Pause Next
Track
Keypad
Minus
Previous
Track
Keypad
Divide
Le
Mouse
LMOUS
Keypad
Mulply
Right
Mouse
RMOUS
Keypad
Enter
Middle
Mouse
MMOUS
Keypad
Equals
Mouse
Buon4
MOUS4
Mouse
Buon5
MOUS5
PageDown
PDN
Keypad
Decimal
Miscellaneous
CapsLock Fn
Toggle
CAPS FNTOG FNSHF MENU INTL/ CALC SHTDN LED
Fn
Shi
Menu/App Internaonal Calculator Shutdown LED
Toggle
125MS
Delay
D125
500MS
Delay
D500
NoKey
Acon
NULL
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6.4 Programming Remaps
To program a remap, encode the position token and the action token in square brackets, separated by “>“.
Remap Examples:
1. Hotkey 1 performs Q: [hk1]>[q]
2. Escape key performs Caps Lock: [esc]>[caps]
3. The Windows key in the Fn layer performs Right Shift: fn [lwin]>[rshft]
4. F1 in the embedded layer performs Tab: fn [mute]>[tab]
6.5 Programming Macros
Shifted Actions
To produce a shifted key action, it is necessary to encode a macro which includes the both the down and up
stroke of the shift key surrounding the basic key action. Downstrokes are indicated by placing a “-” inside the
bracket and upstrokes are indicated by placing “+”. See example 1 below.
Individual Playback Speed Prefix {s_}
By default, all macros play at the selected “Global” playback speed. To assign a custom speed for improved
playback performance for a given macro you can use the “Individual Playback Speed” prefix “{s_}”. Choose a
number from 1-9 corresponding to the speed scale shown Section 4.6. The speed prefix should be placed to
the right of the “>“ before the macro content. See example 2 below.
Multiplay Prefix {x_}
By default, all macros playback continuously while the trigger key is held. To override the repeat feature and
restrict a macro to playback a specific number of times you can use the “Macro Multiplay” prefix “{x_}”.
Choose a number from 1-9 corresponding to the number of times you want the macro to replay. The multiplay
prefix should be placed to the right of the “>“ before the macro content. See example 3 below.
If a macro is not playing back properly, try assigning a Multiplay value of 1. The macro may actually
be firing multiple times before you are releasing the trigger key.
Delays
Delays can be inserted into a macro to improve playback performance or to produce a mouse double-click.
Delays are available in 125 and 500 millisecond increments ({d125} & {d500}). Delay tokens can be combined
to produce delays of various durations and inserted at any point in a macro. See example 4 below.
Macro Examples:
1. Pause key performs “Hello” with a capital H: {pause}>{-lshft}{h}{+lshft}{e}{l}{l}{o}
2. Hotkey 5 performs “qwerty” at speed 9: {hk5}>{s9}{q}{w}{e}{r}{t}{y}
3. Hotkey 1 increases the volume 3 notches: {hk1}>{x3}{vol+)
4. Tab key performs a left-mouse double click: {tab}>{lmous}{d125}{lmous}
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6.6 Programming Settings
Keyboard Settings
The current global settings for the keyboard are saved in the
“kbd_settings.txt” file in the “settings” sub-folder. Users can update
these settings by modifying the fields in this .txt file and then using the
Refresh shortcut (SmartSet + Layout) to implement them.
startup_file: Edit the name of the .txt file to instruct the keyboard to
load a different active layout.
macro_speed: Change the Global Macro Speed (see Section 4.7) with “1-9” for speed,
or “0” to disable (default = 5).
game_mode: Disable Game Mode with “OFF” or enable with “ON” (see Section 4.8).
nkro_mode: Disable NKRO Mode with “OFF” or enable with “ON” (see Section 4.7).
status_play_speed: Change the Status Report Playback speed (see Section 4.13) with
“1-4” for speed, or “0” to disable (default = 3).
program_key_lock: Disable Program Locking with “OFF” or enable with “ON” (see Section 4.11).
v-drive: Force the v-Drive to open automatically every time the keyboard is plugged in with “auto” or
require manual opening with “manual”.
startup_file=layout1.t xt
macro_speed=9
game_mode=OFF
status_play_speed=3
program_key_lock=OFF
v_drive=manual
led_mode=5
led_mode: Choose LED brightness with “1-9”, Off with “0”, Pitch Black with “P”, and Breathe mode with
“B” (see Section 4.15).
SmartSet App Settings
In the settings sub-folder you may also notice the “app_settings.txt” file. This file stores your
saved preferences for in-App notifications when using the SmartSet App. “On” disables the
notification and “Off” enables the notification.
app_intro_msg=on
saveas_msg=off
save_msg=on
mulplay_msg=off
speed_msg=off
copy_macro_msg=off
reset_key_msg=off
6.7 v-Drive Repair
If you forget to eject the v-Drive after Direct Programming on a Windows PC as described in Section 6.0, the
next time you open the v-Drive on a Windows computer you may receive a harmless drive error warning.
If you receive this error, follow the prompts to quickly “repair” the drive.
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7.0 Maintenance
To keep your Freestyle Edge performing at its peak, we recommend periodically spraying canned air between
the keycaps to remove any loose debris and wiping it clean with a damp, soft cloth (no soap).
8.0 Technical Support, Repairs, and Returns
Kinesis offers free, lifetime technical support from trained agents Monday through Friday (excluding US
Holidays) between the hours of 8:30-11:30am and 12:30-4:30pm (Pacific). Call 425-402-8100 or email
tech@kinesis.com. Basic support questions can also be submitted via Twitter at @KinesisGaming.
For FAQs, troubleshooting tips and links to other resources visit: KinesisGaming.com/Support.
Return Merchandise Authorizations (“RMAs”)
For any repair, regardless of warranty coverage, you must first contact Kinesis Technical Support to obtain a
Return Merchandise Authorization (“RMA”).
Repairs
This product must be repaired by authorized personnel only. Unauthorized repairs may seriously jeopardize
the safety of the user (such as from fire danger) and may invalidate your warranty.
Packaging and Shipping
To ship a product back to Kinesis please use its original packaging or other suitable packaging that protects
the device against impact and shock. You should insure the package with your carrier as Kinesis is not
responsible for items until they are received at the Kinesis repair center. Packages sent to Kinesis without an
RMA number marked on the outside of the box may be refused.
9.0 Warranty & Limitation of Liability
Visit KinesisGaming.com/Warranty for the current terms of the Kinesis Limited Warranty. Kinesis does not
require any product registration to obtain warranty benefits. Proof of purchase is required for warranty repairs.
Disclaimer of Other Warranties
The warranty and remedies described in the Kinesis Limited Warranty referenced above are exclusive and in
lieu of all others, whether oral or written, express or implied. Kinesis specifically disclaims any and all implied
warranties, including, without limitation, warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. No
Kinesis dealer, agent, reseller, or employee is authorized to make any modification, extension, or addition to
this warranty. Kinesis does not warrant that the product will meet your requirements, or that operation of the
product will be uninterrupted or error-free, or that all errors will be corrected.
Limitation of Liability
Kinesis is not responsible for special, incidental, or consequential damages resulting from any breach of
warranty, or under other legal theory, including but not limited to lost profits, downtime, goodwill, damage to or
replacement of equipment and/or property nor any costs of recovering, reprogramming, or reproducing any
program or data stored in or used with Kinesis products.
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