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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Tarzan on Mon, 18 March 2013, 20:01:21

Title: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: Tarzan on Mon, 18 March 2013, 20:01:21

Ran across this Model M look-alike, the keycaps seem identical to the one I have, but the mechanism under the keycap looks completely different.  Is this just an adapter allowing the keyboard to use standard Model M keycaps on a rubber dome keyboard?

[attach=1]

Seller says it's a 1989 model, I didn't think they started making these in membrane versions until later in the 90's. 

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: joules on Mon, 18 March 2013, 22:59:05

More photos?

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: bazemk1979 on Mon, 18 March 2013, 23:02:23

weren't those switches called space invaders?

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: Parak on Mon, 18 March 2013, 23:46:04

Fujitsu peerless

Title: Re: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: SmallFry on Tue, 19 March 2013, 00:17:57

Quote from: Parak on Mon, 18 March 2013, 23:46:04

Fujitsu peerless

Yuuuuup.

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: Tarzan on Tue, 19 March 2013, 07:54:49

Thanks for all replies!  Sounds like an interesting board, and the asking price is decent ($29.99 + $13.00 shipping) but I think I'm going to pass.  Too many other switch types to try, not to mention sitting in my home office...    :rolleyes:

Pics:

[attachimg=1]
[attachimg=2][attach=3][attach=1][attach=2][attach=4]

On Ebay, if anyone's interested.  Seller says it's relatively rare, as it's branded as a Grid Desk unit, Grid being mostly known for their high-end executive laptops (80's vintage).  Looks very clean, wish I'd run across this one before buying four different Alps boards! 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/200906950960?ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1423.l2649

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: SmallFry on Tue, 19 March 2013, 08:03:37

They're really nasty switches, IMO.

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: Tarzan on Tue, 19 March 2013, 08:19:00

Yep, these look like Fujitsu switches (from Ripster's Vintage Switch guide):

[attachimg=1]

Also: "From Webwit: "The good. The bad. The Fujitsu Peerless! The only mechanical switch designed to feel like a rubber dome. Nice click though.""

Heh!   :))

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: poxeclipse on Tue, 19 March 2013, 09:23:23

I got three Fujitsu with Peerless, one is modified. Here are the other two.
The keycaps can be used as covers for IBM two-piece caps, with some cleaning inside.

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: tricheboars on Tue, 19 March 2013, 14:15:55

what does this switch feel like? is it tough like the buck?

Title: Re: IBM Model M clone - rubber dome?
Post by: poxeclipse on Tue, 19 March 2013, 20:43:29

Quote from: tricheboars on Tue, 19 March 2013, 14:15:55

what does this switch feel like? is it tough like the buck?

Much softer than BS, with actuation under 45g. Very light and nice to type, I guess the word is 'relaxing'. For someone coming from IBM Model M or F, it is a pleasant surprise, for the layout is identical to a 104 IBM, but the feel is soft.
For me, the problem was the large front bezel, which I cut to a smaller width. I'm using it now without the top shell case and with the base plate cut shorter, and it feels okay. But, keep in mind, that my daily driver is an F-122. It is a very good board for heavy typing work.
If one would classify the Model M as a 'manly' keyboard, than I would say Fujitsu peerless is an 'intelligent' keyboard: it let's you type, without bothering you with touch feel, bump, or click. It doesn't feel cheap at all, on the contrary, it has some elegance in it.
I understand why some people love it and others don't. I like it.