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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: themadreason on Mon, 14 November 2011, 18:22:28

Title: Model M/Unicomp Question
Post by: themadreason on Mon, 14 November 2011, 18:22:28
I am restoring a 122 key 1st gen model M.  I got some parts from unicomp to replace the switch ASM membrane with a new one from a PC/5250, so I can interface it with a windows 7 friendly microcontroller.  The bolt mode is done.  The keyboard has fresh springs.  The new ASM USB membrane is in place.

Now I need to interface my membrane finger tab with my microcontroller.  My plan is to get the bottom half of a keyboard shell from Unicomp, cut out the press fit connector, and glue it into the old Model M shell.

Is the press fit connector a single piece with the keyboard, or can I buy it separately?  I need to know how to ask Jim Ownes for this part.

"Damnnit Jim, I am a comp sci major, not an electronics repairman!"

Can I get the press fit connector separately, or is it one big lump of plastic with the bottom half of a Unicomp shell?

Some pics would be awesome, so I can think about fabricating my own connector.  

I also have the old microcontroller, mainframe terminal plug, and membranes if anyone wants them.  Whoever calls dibbs and pays me postage can have them.  I have no idea if they work or not.  I had no way to plug in the "RJ45" connector to test it out before I tore the old keyboard down.  The old PCB looks good, but I am no expert.  I may have scratched a membrane when I was slicing off rivets, but it is not on top of a circuit trace.
Title: Model M/Unicomp Question
Post by: shrap on Tue, 15 November 2011, 12:59:45
You may want to post this in the modifications forum.
Title: Model M/Unicomp Question
Post by: themadreason on Tue, 15 November 2011, 13:18:53
Yeah, I just noticed that....  I will repost this.  My mistake.