Table of Contents
Recent Changes 2025
Welcome to Chorder
This website contains information on building and using a home made 7 key chording keyboard. At this point it also contains information on some previous versions of the device.
I have been using this device or one of its predecessors since the mid 1980's, by 1995 it has been a full function chorder and replaced any conventional keyboards I would have otherwise used. It works with my phone, tablet,Herbert my wearable computer(s), and conventional laptop and desktop machines. There are both USB and BLE1) versions that long ago proved themselves robust enough for daily use. As of 2025 both USB and BLE are using adafruit boards. The Spiffchorder was the first extensible build, but after 15 years my last spiffchorder, while still functional, has been retired in favor of version requiring far fewer separate components.
Earlier USB Chorder
For those interested in a pre-arduino build, the final version of the (SpiffChorder Project) is still available. This was a major upgrade on my earlier chorders and was made possible through the work done by Mikkel Holm Olsen.
Current (2025) USB & BLE Chorders
The current BLE and USB versions (FeatherChorder) was first coded in 2015-2016 as a BLE chorder and an upgrade of the earlier BT version. In 2025 it was revised, improved, and split into both a BLE and USB version with the help of Zach Lash.
We are currently working on a new combined BLE and USB version. Additionally there are still some improvements I hope will happen with the Featherchorder, specifically I am hoping a newer BLE feather will allow AES encryption and power saving functions. Currently there is only an on/off switch. I would like to have the device go into low power or off state when idle on it's own.
These pages are in transition as this site was originally all about the spiffchorder. If you are looking to build *right now* please write me directly so you are starting with the best current implementation.
Some of the instructions found here involve using sharp tools and soldering irons. We make no claims as to the safety of such activities.
Each project lists contact information for the person who created or maintains it. Please use that information when inquiring about a particular project. But if you can't reach them, write me.