Vial

We recommend using the Vial software for full functionality. Access the web version at vial.rocks (Chrome required). It provides more features and a better user experience.

Here are some simple statements about its capabilities:

Fully Customizable Keys

• Each key can have different behaviors for:
  • Tap (short press)
  • Hold (long press)
  • Tap Dance (double-tap or multiple taps)

Macros

• Configure sequences such as phone numbers, ID numbers, or frequently used passwords.
• Dynamic macros can be recorded and executed anytime.

Tap Dance

• Trigger special actions by quickly tapping a key multiple times.
• Can be combined with macros for advanced behaviors.

Combos

• Press multiple keys simultaneously to produce another key.
• Example: press J + K → outputs L, press U + I → outputs Enter.

AutoShift

• Enable in QMK Settings: slightly longer press of numbers 1 2 3 4 outputs ! @ # $.

Layers

• Each layer can have different key functions.
• You can assign long presses on ASDF or HJKL to switch layers.

Thumb Cluster Optimization

• Place high-use keys under thumbs:
  • Ctrl, Shift, Alt, Esc, Tab, Space, etc.
  • Combine short press / long press for maximum efficiency.

Compact Layer Layouts

• Configure a small layer for quick numeric input.
• Configure brackets in a layer:
  • O + P → { }
  • L + ; → [ ]
  • Note: 9 and 0 are already brackets.

Quantum Features

• Map key combinations like Ctrl + Alt + Delete to a single key.

Special Keys

• GUI: Windows Win or Mac Command.
• LGUI / RGUI: Left and right Win/Command keys (not tied to split halves).
• Other modifier keys (Shift, Ctrl, etc.) follow similar Lxxx convention.

For more advanced configuration, see the full QMK documentation.