What it does
Matchbox is a DIY project that upcycles old keyboards into video game controllers, reducing waste and providing affordable, engaging learning opportunities for entry-level learners to start their hardware development journey.
Your inspiration
Gaming is a passion for our team and a powerful tool to inspire children's interest in STEAM learning. As a child, one of our members built a game controller using a STEAM keyboard emulator kit, but the high cost of importing such educational kits was a barrier, especially in eastern or rural areas. Seeing a large pile of perfectly functional keyboards about to be discarded in our workspace inspired us to develop low-cost, sustainable game controller kits from salvaged parts. Our goal is to reduce e-waste while providing engaging and affordable tools that encourage children to explore hardware development in a fun and accessible way.
How it works
The core component of Matchbox is a salvaged keyboard encoder that acts as the brain. This encoder detects keystrokes when specific pins are connected. We start by identifying which pins correspond to which keys for the specific keyboard model. The encoder is then connected to a custom-designed PCB, where each pin links to an array of connectors. A breadboard is included, allowing users to easily add buttons or other components and wire them to the encoder. When a button is pressed, it creates a connection between two pins, mimicking a keystroke on a real keyboard. The encoder then sends this signal to a computer, turning simple connections into functional keyboard inputs. To make the device more comfortable and durable, the assembly is housed in a shell featuring a D-pad, start/select buttons, and additional controls. We’ve taken special care to ensure the setup is straightforward and foolproof, making it more accessible and preventing mistakes.
Design process
We follow an iterative design process, testing each version through workshops and refining it based on participant feedback. A major challenge was connecting the encoder to our PCB. Our first prototype used a messy jumble of wires, which was not ideal. Then we tried a flexible PCB that proved too difficult for beginners to solder in our first workshop. Finally, we switched to elastomeric connectors, which eliminate soldering and only require pressing the parts together for a secure connection. The shell has also seen continuous improvements. Early versions suffered from buttons falling out when opened (leading many to think they broke the Matchbox), so we introduced a two-half locking design that stays attached. We also added snapping tabs for satisfying feedback and nubs to ensure correct orientation during assembly, which was well-received. In our latest version, we tried to encourage modification by hollowing out the top of the controller to allow users to draw their own button layout on cardboard or connect to external assemblies. We also optimized the workflow for adapting Matchbox to different keyboard models. Initially, mapping and developing PCBs took a full day per model, but we later developed automated tools that reduced this process to about an hour.
How it is different
We believe Matchbox is unique compared to other STEAM kits for the following reasons. First, Matchboxes are very affordable. If you already have a keyboard, it will only take around 3USD to get the rest of the components as we try to use off-the-shelf components whenever possible and the shell is designed to be printable on the worst printers. A similar keyboard emulator kit would cost ~50USD. Additionally, Matchbox promotes sustainability by upcycling keyboards that would otherwise be discarded, helping reduce e-waste. Many schools replace keyboards when updating computers, even if they are still functional. Matchbox turns this e-waste into a fun, educational tool. We’re also confident in Matchbox’s ability to engage children. During workshops, most kids were extremely excited to play their favorite games with it, providing motivation beyond traditional STEAM kits. We are sure that Matchbox's unique perks make it special among STEAM kits.
Future plans
After more than a year of development, workshops, and participating in global events, we've received requests to purchase Matchbox kits and educational materials. However, since most of our team members are in their final year of university, Matchbox will be on a short hiatus. We may consider commercializing it in the future or open-sourcing the project, but not at this moment. Please stay tuned for more updates in the next-next year!
Awards
Tam Wing Fan Innovation Wing InnoShow Award 2025 - Winner
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