Plausibility of soldering PS/2 cable directly onto a Model M

[GlennL42]

Hi guys. So I’ve picked up a Model M 1391401 recently without its cable and the frustration of unable to use it is getting on my nerve, I planned on getting a cable for it but the price of even the most rudimentary SDL cable are ridiculously expensive, even without factoring in the shipping cost it entails. So naturally I look around for some cheaper alternative and read from somewhere where someone actually recommend removing (de-soldering) the original SDL port and solder in a PS/2 cable directly onto the controller itself (can’t remember where I read it though), the pin out for both connectors seems to suggest this is actually plausible, but so far I haven’t seen anyone actually doing it, let alone posting the end result of this conversion. So, my question is whether this is an actual solution to my current conundrum or is it just bogus? And is there any hazard involving in this particular conversion? Really wished this would work out as I really don’t want to spend a small fortune just to get a cable for my Model M.

Thx in advance guys

[Tactile]

There's no reason not to. You could solder the cable wires to the  left over holes after removing the SDL receptacle. I've not done it because I had no need but it should be a very easy mod.

OTOH, someone here will probably offer an SDL cable to you for cheap or free. I have no spares but lots of people here do.

[tp4tissue]

You can, but make sure to insulate and tie the wire internally so nothing crosses.

[kmnov2017]

Did you manage to do this in the end ? If yes, post a pic.

[fohat.digs]

If you live in the US a replacement cable should be relatively easy, but/and if can spend ~$37 you should contact Orihalcon for one of his great USB converter cables.

[rowdy]

I have done both - soldered a replacement cable (sourced from an old rubber dome keyboard) on, and also purchased one of Orihalcon's cables.

Both keyboards and cables still work fine, several years later.

[Leslieann]

Not just ps2 cables, people have wired bluecubes (ps2 to usb) converters inside as well.