Title: Keyboard Control
Description: Using a USB keyboard to control GhostESP
URL: /v2.1/usb/keyboard/
Version: v2.1
Section: USB
Search index: /search-index.json

# Keyboard Control

> Using a USB keyboard to control GhostESP

## On this page

- [Requirements](#requirements)
- [Enabling USB Host Mode](#enabling-usb-host-mode)
- [Via Settings Menu](#via-settings-menu)
- [Via Command](#via-command)
- [Keyboard Controls](#keyboard-controls)
- [Remote Keyboard](#remote-keyboard)
- [Important Notes](#important-notes)

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ESP32-S3 devices can use USB Host mode to accept input from a USB keyboard.
## Requirements
- ESP32-S3 based device (Cardputer ADV, T-Deck, etc.)
- USB OTG adapter (Type-C to USB-A)
- USB keyboard
- CONFIG_USE_USB_KEYBOARD enabled in build config (ESP32-S3 only)
## Enabling USB Host Mode
USB Host mode can be enabled in two ways:
### Via Settings Menu
- Navigate to Settings → System & Hardware
- Find USB Host Mode
- Toggle to On
### Via Command
usbkbd on
To disable:
usbkbd off
To check status:
usbkbd status
## Keyboard Controls
Once enabled, the following keys control navigation:
Key |
Action |
↑ Arrow |
Navigate up |
↓ Arrow |
Navigate down |
← Arrow |
Back / Left |
→ Arrow |
Right |
Enter |
Select |
ESC |
Back / Exit |
All other keys work as normal keyboard input for text fields.
## Remote Keyboard
When two GhostESP devices are connected via Dual Comm, keyboard events are transmitted between them. This allows one device with a USB keyboard to control another device remotely.
## Important Notes
- CDC Console: USB console is unavailable while in Host mode (port switches from Device to Host).
- Flashing: You must disable USB Host mode (or reboot) to flash new firmware via USB
- Not Persistent: The USB Host mode setting is runtime-only and resets on reboot