Vial Key Remapping Guide

Vial lets you remap a compatible keyboard in a desktop app. Normal keymap edits are saved to the keyboard immediately, so this workflow applies equally to single-piece and split keyboards without compiling firmware.

Before you start

Your keyboard must be running Vial-compatible firmware. Connect it with a data-capable USB cable, then download and open the Vial desktop app. For split keyboards, connect the USB or primary half specified by the maker. If Vial does not detect the keyboard, confirm that the cable carries data and ask the keyboard maker for the correct Vial firmware instead of flashing an unrelated file.

Change one key

1. Select the layer you want to edit; Layer 0 is normally the base layer.
2. Click the physical key position in the keyboard preview.
3. Choose the replacement key from the lower key palette.
4. Test the key immediately.

Vial saves normal keymap changes to the keyboard automatically. The position in the preview is the physical switch location, even if the keycap legend says something else.

Add a function layer

Click a higher layer number at the top of the Vial window to edit it. On that layer, the triangle symbol means transparent: the key keeps the action from the layer below.

To reach the new layer, select a key on Layer 0, open the Layers tab in the lower palette, and assign MO(1). Holding that key activates Layer 1; releasing it returns to Layer 0. Use the new layer for arrows, media, navigation, or any keys missing from a compact layout.

Macros and advanced keys

The Macros tab lets you create a sequence of key actions, then assign that macro to a key from the keymap view. The Quantum and Layers tabs provide dual-role keys, layer toggles, and other advanced functions. Change one behavior at a time and test it before modifying the next one.

If Vial is locked or cannot find the keyboard

Some keyboards require the maker-defined unlock key combination before settings can be changed. Use the Vial Security unlock option and the combination documented for your specific keyboard; do not guess or use a combination meant for another model.

If the keyboard is still not detected, it is usually using non-Vial firmware or a charge-only USB cable. Obtain the correct Vial firmware from the keyboard maker, flash it using that model's instructions, and reconnect the board.