Getting Started with your new LocalDeck

Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a beginner, this guide will help you get your LocalDeck up and running in no time. Let's dive in!

Unboxing Your LocalDeck

What's in the Box?

Your LocalDeck package includes:

• LocalDeck with 24 key switches and keycaps pre-installed
• A bag of 24 clear covers for the keycaps
• Optional faceplates (available in white and black if you ordered the bundle)

Note: The key labels are not pre-installed; you'll use the configurator to customize them.

Attaching the faceplate

1. Remove the Keys: Your LocalDeck ships in a "naked" configuration, meaning it doesn't have the faceplate installed. Start by removing all the keys.
2. Attach the Faceplate: Line up the faceplate with the LocalDeck and snap it into place by squeezing down on all four sides.
3. Reattach the Keys: Once the faceplate is securely in place, reattach the keys by pushing them back onto the switches.

Powering On and Initial Setup

Connecting Your LocalDeck

1. Plug It In: Connect your LocalDeck to power via USB.
2. Bluetooth Setup (if available): If your Home Assistant server supports Bluetooth (e.g., on a Raspberry Pi), you can easily configure the device. Press the button in the bottom left corner of the LocalDeck to start the provisioning process.
3. Captive Portal Setup: If Bluetooth is not available, use the captive portal method for setup. (Refer to the linked video for detailed instructions.)

Configuring in Home Assistant

1. Adopt Your LocalDeck: In the ESPHome add-on, adopt your LocalDeck like any other ESPHome device.
2. Name Your Device: Give your LocalDeck a unique name, such as "Office LocalDeck," to easily identify it later.
3. Update Firmware: Copy the encryption key and update the firmware to ensure your LocalDeck has the latest features.

Using the Configurator

Setting Up the Configurator

1. Install the Configurator: Add the LocalDeck configurator to Home Assistant and start it.
2. Import Configuration: Open the configurator and import your config file.

Customizing Buttons

1. Bind Devices: Select a button on the LocalDeck and bind it to a device or entity (e.g., a smart plug or light switch).
2. Choose Actions:
   • Toggle Entity: Pressing the button will toggle the device on or off.
   • Follow State: The LED on the LocalDeck will follow the state of the device (on/off, brightness, color).
3. Print Labels: Once you're satisfied with the button configurations, print and cut out the labels for your keycaps.

Finalizing Setup

1. Reinstall Firmware: Head back to the ESPHome add-on and reinstall the firmware to apply the new configurations.
2. Enable Service Calls: In the Home Assistant settings, allow your LocalDeck to make service calls for direct control over devices.

Testing and Troubleshooting

Verify Functionality

1. Test Buttons: Press the configured buttons to ensure they control your devices as expected.
2. Adjust LED Brightness: Use the brightness slider to dim the LEDs on the LocalDeck, which is useful if it's in your direct eyeline.