Accessories
Closer Look
Macro Keys
The similar macro keys found on models like Trigger, Trigger-Z and Mech, but this time it’s implemented on a rubber done switch keyboard. These macro keys can be programmed to perform tasks such as complex keystrokes or program launching with the help of the software available – we’ll talk about this later.
The FN key used to trigger alternate function of the function key F1 ~ F7. We did notice that the right FN key is the only FN key that will trigger the alternate function while the left FN key remain as a Windows key for some reason.
From left to right: F1 – Switch ON/OFF the keyboard backlighting feature, F2 – reduce brightness, F3 – increase brightness, F4 – mute system volume.
From left to right: F5 – Decrease volume, F6 – Increase volume, F7 – Disable windows key.
The function keys located above the numpad area are the only function key that doesn’t requires holding down the FN key to trigger.
Keycaps
For longer keycaps like modifier key, space bar key uses metal wire stabilizer to ensure the stable and smooth travel of these larger keys. The space bar key comes with 2 pieces of spring to enhance the landing of the space bar key, giving a soft landing experience when bottoming the space bar key.
The keycap has the same structure used on Devastator and Octane – no Cherry MX keycaps!
![Unboxing & Review: CM Storm Suppressor 27](https://www.tech-critter.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_3599-1024x768.jpg)
At the back of the keyboard, you’ll find the mini USB port for the detachable USB cable to plug into.
Moving on to the bottom of the keyboard, you’ll find 4 large rubber feet and the stylish honeycomb design for your eye pleasure.
![Unboxing & Review: CM Storm Suppressor 35](https://www.tech-critter.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/IMG_3601-1024x768.jpg)
The armrest that comes with the keyboard can be installed and removed in the time of need, not to mention that the keyboard looks better this way.
The interface of the keyboard software is pretty simple and straight forward we’d say. To setup a macro, simply click on any key on the keyboard image and you will be prompted with a list of macro options on the top right of the interface:
- Default key will restore the targeted key to its original function
- Single key allows you to remap targeted key to a single key press, pretty similar to the warkey key mapping utility used by some DOTA players.
- Advanced allows you to set a targeted key to perform common tasks such as volume up/down, minimize to desktop, etc.
- No function will remove the programmed macro on a targeted key
- Launch program allows you to set the targeted key to launch certain programs when pressed
You can program up to 15 macros on each profile, making the total of 75 macros available.
At the settings tab, you can configure at such where the profile is applied based on the application launched.
The interesting part here is that the macro profiles are stored on the on-board memory of the keyboard, meaning that you don’t have to reconfigure the macros when the keyboard is plugged into a different PC.
- FPS – Counter Strike 1.6, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2, Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3, Far Cry 3, Battlefield 3, Battlefield 4
- RTS – Warcraft III, Starcraft, Starcraft II, Red Alert 2
- Other – Tomb Raider, DJMax Trilogy, O2Jam
- Programmable macro keys
- Media keys for music and video playback
- Comes with an optional armrest
- Optimized key matrix that works well on most mainstream games (FPS, RTS)
- Detachable USB cable for easy storage
- The gap of the armrest somewhat makes typing uncomfortable overtime (extends from spacebar to numpad 0)
- The armrest support is pretty fragile