MAKCU Information
Learn about what MAKCU is, what it does, and how it works.
What is MAKCU?
MAKCU is a USB passthrough device that acts as a bridge between your gaming PC and your mouse or keyboard. It consists of two ESP32-S3 microcontrollers working together to create a transparent connection that allows software to intercept and modify input signals in real-time.
- •Dual-chip architecture with independent processing on each side
- •Full USB passthrough capability for mice and keyboards
- •Real-time input interception and modification
- •Web-based configuration and firmware updates
- •Requires software control via USB 2 (COM port) from a second PC
- •Cannot function in standalone mode - requires active software connection
- •Must have a mouse or keyboard attached to USB 3 to function
Important Requirements
Standalone Mode
MAKCU cannot function in standalone mode. It requires software running on a second PC (connected via USB 2) to control and operate the device.
Attached Device Required
MAKCU cannot function without an attached mouse or keyboard device. A mouse or keyboard must be connected to USB 3 for MAKCU to operate.
Software Control Required
MAKCU requires software to control it via the COM port (USB 2) from a second PC. Without this software connection, MAKCU will not process or modify inputs.
What is MAKCU Used For?
MAKCU is designed for advanced users who need precise control over their input devices for gaming, automation, or accessibility purposes.
- •Gaming: Enhanced mouse and keyboard control with custom scripts and automation
- •Accessibility: Custom input remapping and assistive features
- •Automation: Programmatic control of input devices for testing or automation
- •Customization: Fine-tuned control over mouse sensitivity, key remapping, and input behavior
- •Device Control: Enables your computer to communicate directly with your mouse or keyboard, allowing you to change LEDs, DPI settings, and other device-specific features through the mouse/keyboard manufacturer's software
Direct Device Communication
MAKCU enables your computer to talk directly to your mouse or keyboard through USB 1. This allows you to use the manufacturer's software (such as Logitech G HUB, Razer Synapse, etc.) to control device-specific features.
- •Change RGB LED colors and effects
- •Adjust DPI settings and profiles
- •Configure mouse button assignments
- •Update device firmware
- •Access all manufacturer software features
What MAKCU Can and Cannot Do
What MAKCU Can Do
- ✓Pass through mouse and keyboard input with full compatibility
- ✓Intercept and modify mouse movements, clicks, and keyboard presses in real-time
- ✓Remap keys and mouse buttons
- ✓Adjust mouse sensitivity and acceleration
- ✓Execute custom scripts and automation
- ✓Support both wired and wireless devices (when connected via USB adapter)
- ✓Work with most standard USB HID mice and keyboards
- ✓Enable direct communication between your PC and mouse/keyboard for LED control, DPI changes, and other device features
- ✓Support console gaming directly if the game supports mouse and keyboard input
What MAKCU Cannot Do
- ✗Cannot work with Bluetooth devices directly (requires USB adapter)
- ✗Cannot modify encrypted or proprietary protocols
- ✗Cannot function without proper firmware installation
- ✗Cannot work with non-USB input devices
- ✗Limited compatibility with some specialized gaming peripherals with proprietary drivers
- ✗Cannot function in standalone mode - requires software control
- ✗Cannot function without an attached mouse or keyboard device
- ✗Cannot provide ESP (wallhacks), self-aiming, or aimbot capabilities
- ✗Cannot load or execute game scripts - it only processes input/output signals
- ✗Cannot work with consoles that don't support mouse and keyboard natively (requires XIM adapter)
Important Reminders
No Cheat Capabilities
MAKCU cannot provide ESP (wallhacks), self-aiming, or aimbot capabilities. It is a hardware passthrough device that only processes input and output signals. It cannot load scripts, modify game memory, or provide visual overlays.
Input Level Only
MAKCU works at the input level only. It can modify what you send to your computer, but it cannot read game data, provide visual information, or interact with game software directly.
Console Support
MAKCU can support console gaming, but the requirements depend on the console and game.
Direct Console Support
If your console's game natively supports mouse and keyboard input, MAKCU can work directly. Simply connect MAKCU to your console via USB 1, and connect your mouse/keyboard to USB 3.
- •PlayStation 5 games with native mouse/keyboard support
- •Xbox Series X/S games with native mouse/keyboard support
- •Any console game that officially supports mouse and keyboard input
XIM Adapter Required
If your console or game does not support mouse and keyboard natively, you will need a XIM adapter to convert MAKCU's mouse input into controller input.
Please see the XIM setup page for detailed instructions on how to configure MAKCU with XIM. See XIM Setup Guide
Pre-flashed vs Unflashed
MAKCU devices can come in two states depending on whether your reseller has prepared the device before shipping.
Pre-flashed MAKCU
A pre-flashed MAKCU has been set up by your reseller before shipping. The firmware has been loaded and the device has been tested to ensure it works correctly.
- •Ready to use immediately after connecting
- •Tested and verified by the reseller
- •No initial flashing required
- •Both sides (left and right) are already configured
Note: If your MAKCU is pre-flashed, it will connect normally when you plug it in, and you can start using it right away.
Unflashed MAKCU
An unflashed MAKCU comes directly from the factory without firmware installed. This is the default state of ESP32-S3 chips from the manufacturer.
- •Requires firmware flashing before first use
- •Will show USB disconnection loops in Device Manager until flashed
- •USB connection sound will loop endlessly when connected without holding buttons
- •This is normal behavior and not a defect
What to Do: If your MAKCU is unflashed, you'll need to flash the firmware using the firmware flashing page. After the first successful flash, this behavior will stop and never return.
Understanding USB Ports
MAKCU has three USB ports, each serving a specific purpose. Understanding how they work is essential for proper setup.
USB 1 - Left Side (Device Port)
USB 1 is connected to the left-side ESP32-S3 chip and serves as the device connection to your gaming PC or console.
Purpose:
This is where MAKCU appears as a USB device to your computer or console. Your gaming PC or console connects here.
Usage:
Connect USB 1 to your gaming PC or console. This is the primary connection that allows your computer/console to recognize MAKCU as a mouse or keyboard device.
Power:
USB 1 provides power to the left side of MAKCU.
Device Communication:
This port also enables direct communication between your PC and the connected mouse/keyboard, allowing you to use manufacturer software to control device features.
USB 2 - COM Port (Communication)
USB 2 is the communication port used for sending commands and configuring MAKCU. This is essential for MAKCU to function.
Purpose:
This port creates a serial COM port connection that allows software and the MAKCU website to communicate with the device. MAKCU requires active software control via this port to operate.
Usage:
Connect USB 2 to the same computer you're using to configure MAKCU (typically your gaming PC or a separate configuration PC). This is used for settings, firmware updates, device control, and is required for MAKCU to process inputs.
Power:
USB 2 does NOT provide power to MAKCU. This prevents back-feeding power between your main PC and a second PC.
Important: In normal mode, both USB 1 and USB 2 must be connected for MAKCU to receive power. USB 2 is only for communication, not power. Without software connected via USB 2, MAKCU cannot function.
MAKCU requires software running on the PC connected to USB 2 to control and operate the device. Without this software connection, MAKCU will not process or modify inputs.
USB 3 - Right Side (Host Port)
USB 3 is connected to the right-side ESP32-S3 chip and serves as the host port for your mouse or keyboard.
Purpose:
This is where you connect your actual mouse or keyboard. MAKCU acts as a USB host and receives input from your device.
Usage:
Connect your mouse or keyboard to USB 3. This is the input device that MAKCU will pass through to your gaming PC via USB 1. A device must be connected here for MAKCU to function.
Power:
USB 3 provides power to the right side of MAKCU and also powers the connected mouse/keyboard.
Required: A mouse or keyboard must be connected to USB 3 for MAKCU to operate. MAKCU cannot function without an attached device.
Quick Summary
Connections:
Normal Mode: Normal Mode: USB 1 → Gaming PC/Console, USB 2 → Configuration PC (COM port - REQUIRED for operation), USB 3 → Mouse/Keyboard (REQUIRED)
Flash Mode: Flash Mode: Only USB 1 OR USB 3 connected (one at a time, not both)
Power Requirement: Power Requirement: USB 1 + USB 2 must both be connected in normal mode for MAKCU to receive power. USB 2 does not provide power - it's communication only.
Operation Requirement: Operation Requirement: MAKCU requires both USB 2 (for software control) and USB 3 (with attached device) to function. It cannot operate in standalone mode.
Connection Status
The MAKCU connection status is displayed in the top right of the navbar, next to the audio toggle. The status shows the current connection state and mode of your MAKCU device.
Connection Status Overview
Not Supported
Your browser does not support Web Serial API. Please use Chrome/Edge 89+, Opera 76+, or another Chromium-based browser.
Disconnected
MAKCU is not connected. Click the Connect button to establish a connection.
Connecting...
The system is attempting to connect to MAKCU and detect which mode it is in (normal or flash mode).
Normal mode
MAKCU is connected and running in normal mode. You can use the settings page to configure and test MAKCU. USB 1 is connected to gaming PC, USB 2 is the COM port, USB 3 should be connected to either your mouse or keyboard. **3.9 fw only supports keyboard.
Important: MAKCU only allows one device connected to USB 2 (COM port) at a time. Close this tool before using MAKCU with your software.
Flash mode
MAKCU is connected in flash mode. This mode is used for firmware updates only. Settings cannot be used in this mode. Only one USB cable should be connected (USB 1 or USB 3).
Fault
Connection failed or device is not responding. Check your USB connections and try again. Swapping USB ports and refreshing the page may help.
Note: The COM port number is not displayed as it is not available via the Web Serial API for security reasons. The connection status will show the mode (normal or flash) instead.
Baud Rate
The baud rate is usually 115200. Please refer to the troubleshooting page for information on how to change the baud rate if needed.
Important Warning: Baud rate change is PERMANENT and should only be set if your software has told you to use a different baud rate. A mismatched baud rate will stop your software from communicating with MAKCU.
How to Change Baud Rate
Press the left button on MAKCU 4 times fast to change the baud rate from 115200 to 4mbps. The LED will flash 1 or 4 times and the baud rate will be saved.
Note: When MAKCU starts, the baud rate indicator LED (left) will show what speed MAKCU is running at.
Baud Rate Indicator
When MAKCU starts, the baud rate indicator LED (left) will flash to indicate the current baud rate: 1 flash = 115200, 4 flashes = 4mbps.
Website and Tool Requirements
The MAKCU website expects to use 115200 baud rate. Ensure if you are trying to use normal mode with the MAKCU website, you set the baud rate to 115200.
Setting Baud Rate
The baud rate can be set by the user (using the button method), or by the developer in code.
For API usage, please refer to the baud rate section in the API page.
Critical: USB 1 + USB 2 must be connected for MAKCU to take power to change the baud rate. USB 2 does not provide power to MAKCU - this is done to ensure there is no back feeding to the main PC and the 2nd PC from both USB ports.