Converting an NEC PC98 Keyboard to USB

[EpikalPuppy]

What the title says, basically, I got a weird NEC keyboard that I *think* goes with the NEC pc98 computer, although I can't be sure. It uses an 8 pin mini din connector, so that's what I assume. It is very clean and has a compact size that I'm a big fan of, but I am unable to convert it as is. I was wondering, if I have a Teensy 2.0, could I somehow convert it to USB? I've used the teensy along with a guide to make a converter before, but this is definitely uncharted territory for me, so any help would be appreciated. Here are some pics of the keyboard for reference. For those curious, the model number is MMTKB-1001. I will link pics below!

[Sup]

Damn that spacebar. That aside i think it’s the best you ask this to the Deskthority community they have a lot of experience and knowledge converting old boards with a Teensy.

[EpikalPuppy]

Damn that spacebar. That aside i think it’s the best you ask this to the Deskthority community they have a lot of experience and knowledge converting old boards with a Teensy.

Ok! I haven't had much luck with them in the past, but I certainly will. This keyboard is so fascinating to me, I'm kind of a fan of the layout even. It's not every day I get a vintage board that's smaller than my modern ones.

[nevin]

your board has nec blue ovals right?
here's a review of a similar model with the same switches by the famous chryosran22 (youtube) chyros (here on gh)

[nevin]

saw your post in hasu's PC98 converter. figured i'd drop you a line here as well. let me know if you need a hand figuring out the converter.

[EpikalPuppy]

your board has nec blue ovals right?
here's a review of a similar model with the same switches by the famous chryosran22 (youtube) chyros (here on gh)

Yep! They are actually very nice, like said in the video, they feel a lot like stiffer Montereys, AKA perfect for me haha

[EpikalPuppy]

Hey! Since this seems like it might be an as of now undocumented keyboard, I decided to take some pics of the pcb, here ya go!

[Rika]

I remember seeing a NEC KB in a chat once as someone was saying about how Touhou was made for the weird arrow keys (iirc think numpad enter key, for left and right arrow and 1u for up down, atleast from what I remember)

Sent from my SM-N976B using Tapatalk

[EpikalPuppy]

One more pic! I forgot the model number and date sticker. This used the Japanese dating system(I think) and that says that it was made in March of 1987(I think), just want as much info out there as possible so I can find out more about this kb, like what pc it shipped with, why it exists, etc

[Sup]

If you can't find out how to convert it you can always go to the hardwire route.

[nevin]

if you pull this connector, is there any labeling on the silk screen like the resistors, diodes, or jumpers on that side of the board?

[EpikalPuppy]

if you pull this connector, is there any labeling on the silk screen like the resistors, diodes, or jumpers on that side of the board?
(Attachment Link)

Haha, I wish. There's actually nothing behind it

[nevin]

eh, was worth a shot. sent pm as well