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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: urbancamo on Mon, 18 March 2013, 18:29:39

Title: My ideal keyboard - haven't found it yet!
Post by: urbancamo on Mon, 18 March 2013, 18:29:39

Long time lurker, loving every minute I spend on geekhack  :D
My interest in keyboards has taken me through quite a few options but two of my favourites remain the original IBM AT keyboard and the DEC LK421.

(http://www.wickensonline.co.uk/public-gallery/LK421/p1060680.jpg)
(http://www.wickensonline.co.uk/public-gallery/LK421/p1060688.jpg)

What I like about this keyboard: the control key is in the right place (next to the 'A' key) and, with the USA layout, it's got full size shift keys. Unfortunately it only works with older DEC kit!
During my day job I use a SunRay thin client so keyboards requiring any kind of software support are probably a no-no. I'm currently using a Noppoo Chocolate mini which has great Cherry browns but I'd prefer it in the 10 key less variant - I make good use of PgUp/PgDn/Home/End etc.

My unicorn keyboard has the following attributes:

• Mechanical keys (ALPS, Cherry or Capacitance all good)
• At least 10 function keys on the left hand size
• Function keys programmable from the keyboard and stored in keyboard memory
• Ten key less (those left-hand function keys make a standard keyboard too long for a right-hand mouse user)
• Control key in the right place (nice to have)

So, for example - Sun keyboards are out (too long, membrane keys, left-hand function keys are not programmable).
I'd settle for a keyboard that required software to program as long as it could then store the settings in the keyboard.
Or alternatively standard function keys F1-F10/F11/F12 on the left hand side.

Can anyone come up with any suggestions? I've not found such a beast yet.

Cheers! Mark.

Title: Re: My ideal keyboard - haven't found it yet!
Post by: IvanIvanovich on Mon, 18 March 2013, 19:43:04

There are not many options... perhaps the KMAC mini is your dream board, it is a kit keyboard and thus is highly customizable. Sadly it is very hard to get without the right keyboard connections, or you might get lucky to get one used if you have a deep pocket.
(http://www.kbdmania.net/xe/files/attach/images/30354/092/899/003/42113582a2c49a95361f75c5bcfe1513.jpg)