12/15/2025 - Blender Render Created & Kit Arrived

I created a render using all of the parts of the hackpad in Blender. I used my usual studio lighting setup with two area lights and a curved background. This can be used as the project photo for GitHub and Blueprint.

I also just received the kit with parts and my soldering iron from Amazon. I am following some beginner solder tutorials online before I get to the real thing. I am very excited to begin assembly once my PCB arrives (although it still has not left China)!

12/23/2025 - PCB Arrived, Soldered Everything Except XIAO

My PCBs arrived!

I spent a very long time learning to solder, and was able to easily solder on all of the key switches. The diodes were significantly harder but with the smaller solder tip, I was able to get all but one in easily. I accidentally soldered it on with the diode sticking out, and had to work together with my sister using pliers and me using the iron to remove it.

The SMD LEDs were incredibly difficult to attach, and I am not fully sure the connections are stable. I had to bend the pins 90 degrees to attach them with help.

I have to wait for my new XIAO I ordered to arrive because I fried my first one on accident.

12/24/2025 - 3D Printed All Parts, Mock Assembly

I successfully 3d printed my new and redesigned case. In fusion, I edited my design as I was only sent four threaded inserts, so I used those to attach the lid to the case, along with using nuts as spacers because I made my case body a bit too short. After a lot of trial and error on my QIDI 3D printer, I was able to get a really nice print

Lastly, I did a mock assembly of the entire hackpad! I am very happy with how it looks. The actual chip will have to wait until the new year though.

1/1/2026 2 PM - XIAO Soldering, LED removal, test firmware

My new XIAO arrived, and I soldered the pin headers onto it and then soldered it on the board. I quickly rewrote my firmware with help from AI to debug, and now I can type numbers 1 through 8!

I also had to remove the LEDs as I used the wrong footprint and the 5v was going into the data input, which is kind of a shame, but the rest of the board is completely functional! I also redesigned the lid so that it did not require any nuts as standoffs, and the new design is currently printing. After this, I will be ready to ship my project.

1/1/2026 4 PM - Firmware finalized, Final Assembly!

I created a slightly more complex firmware with a copy, paste, cut, and ctrl-alt-del keys on the first row, and browser controls on the second row. I 3D printed the new top of the case and did a complete assembly (with a hackclub sticker easter egg inside).

Lastly, I updated and finalized the git repo and I am ready for build review!