> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.minimalmacropad.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Make MinimalPad yours

> Build, connect, and configure your MinimalPad — from your first key assignment to advanced firmware changes.

Everything you need to get from unboxing to a setup that feels entirely your own. Start with the five-minute setup, configure keys in your browser, or jump straight to the problem you need to solve.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Set up your MinimalPad" icon="rocket" href="/getting-started/quick-start">
    Connect your MinimalPad and change your first key in about five minutes.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Configure your keys" icon="sliders" href="/studio/change-a-key">
    Remap keys, shortcuts, layers, media controls, and lighting in your browser.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Connect your device" icon="usb" href="/connecting/connect-usb">
    Choose a reliable USB connection or pair MinimalPad over Bluetooth.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Fix a problem" icon="life-ring" href="/troubleshooting/studio-cannot-find">
    Work through connection, saving, Bluetooth, and firmware issues.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## What is MinimalPad?

MinimalPad gives you 16 hot-swappable low-profile mechanical keys arranged in a 4×4 grid, a rotary encoder you can turn and press, and RGB underglow — all in a compact form factor that sits beside your keyboard or sits under your hand.

<CardGroup cols={3}>
  <Card title="16 Programmable Keys" icon="keyboard">
    Every key is fully assignable on every layer. Switch profiles instantly.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Rotary Encoder" icon="rotate">
    Turn clockwise or counter-clockwise, or press it like a button.
  </Card>

  <Card title="USB & Bluetooth" icon="bluetooth">
    Work wired over USB-C or wireless with up to five Bluetooth profiles.
  </Card>

  <Card title="RGB Underglow" icon="lightbulb">
    16 LEDs with adjustable hue, brightness, and animation effects.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Hot-Swap Switches" icon="wrench">
    Swap Kailh Choc low-profile switches without a soldering iron.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Browser Config" icon="globe">
    MinimalPad Studio runs in Chrome or Edge — no app to install.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## From first connection to daily use

<Steps>
  <Step title="Choose and receive your MinimalPad">
    Pick a [DIY kit or a fully assembled MinimalPad](/getting-started/choose-your-minimalpad) from the store. Check what you'll need [before you begin](/getting-started/before-you-begin) — a USB-C data cable and, for wireless use, a compatible battery are required and not included.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Connect and load your keymap">
    Plug in your MinimalPad, open [MinimalPad Studio](https://studio.minimalmacropad.com/) in Chrome or Edge, and select your device. Your current key configuration loads automatically.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Assign keys and save">
    Click any key, pick an action, and hit **Save**. Changes persist directly to the device — no firmware reflash needed for everyday customisation.
  </Step>
</Steps>

## Go further

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Buy MinimalPad" icon="bag-shopping" href="https://www.minimalmacropad.com/">
    View current configurations, pricing, and availability.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Firmware Repository" icon="github" href="https://github.com/TimoWielink/zmk-config-minimalpad">
    Source code, advanced customisation, and firmware builds.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>