geekhack

geekhack Marketplace => Interest Checks => Topic started by: fricked on Wed, 23 September 2020, 16:58:16

Title: [IC] IBM M2F Conversion Kit
Post by: fricked on Wed, 23 September 2020, 16:58:16
This is an interest check for an IBM Model M to F conversion kit.

The purpose of this mod: to replicate the superior Model F internals in the superior layout and availability of the Model M.

The kit would include:
-   (110x) Model F flipper (reproduction; not an original IBM part)
-   (110x) Model F spring (reproduction; not an original IBM part)
-   (1x) M2F PCB
-   (1x) QMK xwhatsit Controller

The process would be fairly straight-forward, though bolt/screw mod experience would be a plus:
1: acquire an IBM Enhanced Keyboard (Model M with the standard 101-105 key layout)
2: disassemble the keyboard including the inner assembly (chopping off remaining rivets)
3: cut away a couple nubs on the underside of the M barrel plate to make room for some of the flippers (no big deal, it will still look and function the same and can always be reverted to an M)
4: put the new springs on the new flippers, put these in the barrel plate, and replace the membrane with the new PCB
5: reassemble the keyboardassembly; bolt/screw mod is necessary, I recommend bolt mod
6: attach the controller to the PCB (will probably need some basic soldering) and screw it into the back plate


The kit would be for the standard layout Model M (101-105 key) only; I will be happy to do a 122-key and SSK version if this project is a success.


Price would be $80 USD + plus shipping & applicable taxes/duties.


Discord server: will make one if there is interest

If you are potentially interested in buying a kit, please fill out this quick survey: https://forms.gle/oz6EXbdKAtyEKZAu7
This is important; I need to know there is enough interest before this project can become a reality.

Original thread is over on Deskthority: https://deskthority.net/viewtopic.php?f=7&t=24559
Title: Re: [IC] IBM M2F Conversion Kit
Post by: hvontres on Wed, 23 September 2020, 21:25:22
You might want to contact the guys over at modelfkeyboards about getting larger quantities of their flippers made for this project : https://www.modelfkeyboards.com/product/flipperspring/ (https://www.modelfkeyboards.com/product/flipperspring/)
Title: Re: [IC] IBM M2F Conversion Kit
Post by: apastuszak on Sun, 14 August 2022, 20:51:10
So, are you planning to sell the kits for $80, or will you be doing the conversion for $80?
Title: For 122 key (terminal version) model M?
Post by: dreieck on Tue, 04 October 2022, 08:45:45
This is an interest check for an IBM Model M to F conversion kit.
[...]
If you are potentially interested in buying a kit, please fill out this quick survey: https://forms.gle/oz6EXbdKAtyEKZAu7

Interested, survey filled out.

The kit would include:
  • (110x) Model F flipper (reproduction; not an original IBM part)
  • (110x) Model F spring (reproduction; not an original IBM part)
  • (1x) M2F PCB
  • (1x) QMK xwhatsit Controller

How easy would it be to mod a 122 key Model M (terminal version)?