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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: bettablue on Sat, 19 March 2011, 22:22:28

Title: IBM model AT keyboard
Post by: bettablue on Sat, 19 March 2011, 22:22:28

What if anything is it compatible for right now?  I have one that came with a 1984 IBM PC AT computer and was wondering what, if anything I can use it for.  I also have the computer it came with originally, a fairly good shape AT, but I don't know if I should keep the keyboard, sell the computer or keep them both together.  I am ultimately still looking for an IBM 5150 PC, and I know the keyboard is probably not compatible with that.  That's why I'm asking.

Title: IBM model AT keyboard
Post by: JohnElliott on Sun, 20 March 2011, 07:51:07

The AT Model F uses the same protocol as PS/2, so with a simple passive adaptor it ought to work on anything with a PS/2 socket.

It won't work on a 5150 or other XT without an active converter like the AT2XTKBD.

Title: IBM model AT keyboard
Post by: keyb_gr on Mon, 21 March 2011, 09:28:08

An AT keyboard is obviously scancode set 2 only, but that's not a big issue in practice (only a few UNIX machines insist on scancode set 3).

Title: IBM model AT keyboard
Post by: bettablue on Mon, 21 March 2011, 09:33:02

That is something.  Hopefully though, I'll get the PC to work and I can use the keyboard on that.