XK-8 Stick

Features

8 relegendable keys
Addressable blue backlighting for each key

One of our most popular X-keys. The XK-8 offers eight programmable keys to trigger macros, shortcuts, and applications, select tools or open files or directories. The low profile, slim footprint fits nicely under display monitors or above keyboards. The XK-8 provides a versatile control strip for any computer-driven application.

Also available in 4 key and 16 key versions

specs

Operating System	Use: Any OS via USB HID \| Programming: Windows XP through 11, Mac OS 10.14 - Mac OS 13
Free Programming Software	Windows: MacroWorks 3.1
Free Software Development Kits	Windows (C++, C#, VB.NET Linux (C++) Android (Java) Raw HID (any language/OS)
Emulation Modes	HID keyboard, HID mouse, HID game controller, HID multimedia
Switch Types	Low profile tactile switch with audible click, guaranteed for 100,000 operations
Number of Keys	16, 8, or 4 single keys, 1 programming slide switch
Actuation Force	Approx. 6 oz (170g) break-over, approx. 2 oz (57g) hold, audible click
Keycaps	0.625” (16mm) sq.; relegendable with window for backlight and square stem
Key Spacing	0.75" O.C.
Backlighting	1 blue addressable LED under each key
Connector	Wired USB standard “A” plug
Cord Length	118” (3 m)
Dimensions and Weight	XK-16: 14.25” x 0.9”” x 0.65", (362 mm x 23 mm x 17 mm), 7 oz. (200 g) XK-8: 8.2” x 0.9”” x 0.65", (208 mm x 23 mm x 17 mm), 4 oz. (115 g) XK-4: 5.35” x 0.9”” x 0.65", (136 mm x 23 mm x 17 mm), 3 oz. (85 g)
USB Type	USB 1.1 compatible through 3.0 Type-c with adapter
Power Source	USB port, nominal voltage = 5 VDC
Power Consumption	XK-16: no backlighting: 21mA, backlighting at full intensity: 32mA XK-8: no backlighting: 19mA, backlighting at full intensity: 28mA XK-4: no backlighting: 19mA, backlighting at full intensity: 26mA
Temperature Range	-20 to 60 C
Memory Capacity	Approximately 1,000 keystrokes or commands in onboard memory
Memory Type	EEPROM, non volatile memory (X-keys retains memory for over 200 years)
Environmental Rating	IP 40, typical indoor office environment
Certifications	FCC class B, CE, RoHS, Declaration of Conformity, WEEE compliant

XK-8 Stick Spec Sheet PDF

drawings

XK-8 Stick

Download PDF: XK-8 Stick DD.pdf

3D

Sketchup 3D Model

We offer this Sketchup model as a 3D rendering of the XK-8 for viewing or planning purposes. Dimensions and details of the model, while reasonably accurate, should not be used for critical specifications.

View or download this model in Sketchup 3D Warehouse.

Software

Software options for X-keys

X-keys can store native USB HID commands in their own memory. P.I. Engineering Inc. supplies setup software to allow you to program X-keys to meet your exact needs. Additionally, X-keys can send low level HID commands that can be used by other 3rd party software to take full advantage of all the features of X-keys. We offer free SDKs to assist anyone wishing to develop their own software solution. For more information, check out our Software Pages

X-keys on Windows

Macroworks Supports all current X-keys USB devices on Windows 8 to 11
Software Mode supports shortcuts to files or applications, application specific programming, and script-based special functions. Programming is stored in a script on the computer.
Hardware Mode emulates keyboard, mouse, game controller, and media commands. Programming is written to X-keys memory.
SDKs available for Windows

X-keys on Mac

Supports hardware mode for all current X-keys USB devices on Mac
Hardware Mode emulates keyboard, mouse, game controller, and media commands. Programming is written to X-keys memory.
SDKs available for Mac

X-keys on Linux

Must be programmed in hardware mode on a Windows or Mac machine, then X-keys will run on any Linux machine with USB
Hardware Mode emulates keyboard, mouse, game controller, and media commands. Programming is written to X-keys memory
SDKs available for Linux

Accessories

More Keys

Choose from a variety of key colors and key sizes to create a customized layout on your X-keys.

More Keys

Choose from gray and beige keycaps to customize your X-keys Stick.

Key Blockers

Add Blockers to create spacing between keys or add Light Pipe blockers and take advantage of Light Indicators.

Tilt Stand

Tilt your X-keys at a 45° angle for better viewing and accessibility. Stand also folds flat for easy storage.

Tilt Stand

Tilt your X-keys at a 45° angle for better viewing and accessibility. Stand also folds flat for easy storage.

Tilt Stand

Tilt your X-keys at a 45° angle for better viewing and accessibility. Stand also folds flat for easy storage.

Tilt Stand

Tilt your X-keys at a 45° angle for better viewing and accessibility. Stand also folds flat for easy storage.

Custom Acrylic Printed Keys

Check out our different key options for printing your custom layout and reach out for a quote and lead times.