ckbcomp

ckbcomp [-o OUTPUT_FILE] [-d] [-h] [-v] INPUT_FILE.ckbl

INPUT_FILE.ckbl
    The path to the input keyboard layout file to be compiled. This file typically has a .ckbl extension and contains definitions for key assignments, lighting, and macros.

-o OUTPUT_FILE
    Specifies the path for the compiled output file. If this option is not provided, ckbcomp may output to a default location or standard output, depending on the specific implementation. The output file typically has a .ckbc extension.

-d, --debug
    Enables verbose debug output during the compilation process. This can be particularly useful for troubleshooting syntax errors or unexpected behavior within the input layout file.

-h, --help
    Displays a brief help message detailing the command usage and available options, then exits.

-v, --version
    Displays the version information of the ckbcomp utility, then exits.

ckbcomp is a utility provided by the ckb-next project, a Linux driver for Corsair RGB peripherals. Its primary function is to compile custom keyboard layout files, typically with a .ckbl extension, into a binary format (.ckbc) that the ckb-next daemon can interpret and load. This process allows users to define custom key assignments, lighting effects, and macros for their Corsair keyboards. The command also performs syntax checking on the input layout files, ensuring they are correctly formatted before compilation. It is an essential tool for advanced customization of Corsair RGB devices under Linux, enabling tailored user experiences beyond default configurations.

ckbcomp is specifically designed for compiling layout files used by the ckb-next open-source driver for Corsair RGB peripherals. The compiled files (.ckbc) are not standalone and require the ckb-next daemon to be running on a Linux system to be loaded and applied to the hardware. Users must ensure their .ckbl input files strictly adhere to the specific syntax defined by the ckb-next project for successful compilation.

The .ckbl layout files processed by ckbcomp follow a specific declarative syntax. Users should refer to the official ckb-next project documentation and examples for detailed information on how to write these files, including definitions for key mappings, intricate lighting zones, and complex macro programming.

After a layout file is successfully compiled by ckbcomp into a .ckbc binary, it must then be loaded by the ckb-next daemon to take effect on the connected Corsair device. This loading process is typically managed using the ckb-cli command-line tool or through the graphical user interface provided by the ckb-next suite, allowing for immediate application of custom layouts.

ckbcomp is an integral component of the open-source ckb-next project, which began development to address the lack of official Linux support for Corsair RGB keyboards and mice. As Corsair peripherals gained popularity, ckb-next provided a crucial solution for Linux users, and ckbcomp became essential for enabling deep customization of these devices through custom layout compilation. Its development is tied directly to the evolution and maintenance of the ckb-next driver itself, continuously improving support and features for Corsair hardware on Linux.

ckbd(8), ckb-cli(1)