Most Model M are PS/2.What? I was under the impression that Model M's had AT connectors. The one I'd gotten had that, so I simply got a cheap AT to PS/2 adapter (about 4USD) and it works perfectly.
If the one you end up getting has a SDL connector, you can try one of these, which I was recommended: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/270955553909?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_sacat%3D0%26_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3D270955553909%26_rdc%3D1
If it has a non-removable cable, you could get a separate PS/2 to USB adaptor.
Some people say the build quality is worse than IBM, however some of the Model M keyboards aren't exactly in the best shape either.
Most Model M are PS/2.What? I was under the impression that Model M's had AT connectors. The one I'd gotten had that, so I simply got a cheap AT to PS/2 adapter (about 4USD) and it works perfectly.
If the one you end up getting has a SDL connector, you can try one of these, which I was recommended: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/270955553909?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_sacat%3D0%26_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3D270955553909%26_rdc%3D1
If it has a non-removable cable, you could get a separate PS/2 to USB adaptor.
Some people say the build quality is worse than IBM, however some of the Model M keyboards aren't exactly in the best shape either.
I'd take a dirty Model M with a few missing key caps over a brand new Unicomp any day, but that's me.
If the one you end up getting has a SDL connector, you can try one of these, which I was recommended: http://www.ebay.com.au/itm/270955553909?ru=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.com.au%2Fsch%2Fi.html%3F_sacat%3D0%26_from%3DR40%26_nkw%3D270955553909%26_rdc%3D1
What? I was under the impression that Model M's had AT connectors.
So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?
Are the Unicomps less durable because of different materials or thinner materials or both?
Are the Unicomps less durable because of different materials or thinner materials or both?
Unicomp Model Ms are modern Model M keyboards made in the same factory on the same equipment as Model Ms from decades ago.
There have been minor changes in the plastic composition of the cases, other little corners have been cut here and there, and most people agree that quality control has slipped from the IBM days, but they are true Model M buckling spring keyboards in every way. Period.
And they can be bought in different footprints, also in black, and with native USB cables. They are a good buy, do it.
Not quite the same design any more - they just altered the layout of the bottom row of keys.
it is just model m owners spreading the seeds of jealousy. model m boards are hard to get and expensive, or they are in terrible condition. unicomps are reasonably priced, available, and mainstream.
the model m is the hipster of keyboards (along with hhkb). they are cool because you cant buy one in a store NIB.
the true test would be to blindfold a unicomp nay-sayer and let him type on both. my guess is very few of us model m owners could tell the difference without our eyeballs.
I realize they are the same exact design made on the same exact machines, but it keeps getting repeated over and over and over that they aren't as good. So, the only thing that could possibly be different is the materials used. I was just curious. Never have used a Unicomp but I would guess that it's the same as my IBM models.
Edit: and I also realize that many people like to offer opinions when they have no personal experience. Just the experience of others that they repeat.
Model M's are out there
So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?
So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?
Or if you really want an IBM board that will out live you, customized to some degree, bolt modded, extra set of black keycaps pm me then.
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
the older boards often need some semi-skilled work to bring them into the 21st century. classic Ms might need a bolt mod and an active USB converter; terminals need a USB converter/remapper (like Soarer's converter - i prefer to put the adapter in the keyboard case) and maybe an ANSI conversion if ISO is not your thing.
So would you recommend staying away from the new unicomp keyboards if so why?
Or if you really want an IBM board that will out live you, customized to some degree, bolt modded, extra set of black keycaps pm me then.
Black keycaps?
Are they from Unicomp?
since we are kinda on the topic. Do the Unicomp caps work on any Model M?
since we are kinda on the topic. Do the Unicomp caps work on any Model M?
Check out this (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=45327.0) discussion.
Currently, the most consistently reliable source for IBM Model M keyboards is clickykeyboards.com.
Anyone know where i can get the IBM Model M SSK? They are impossible to come across now.
Anyone know where i can get the IBM Model M SSK? They are impossible to come across now.
ebay
$150-200
at least once a month
Anyone know where i can get the IBM Model M SSK? They are impossible to come across now.
ebay
$150-200
at least once a month
Yeah, fohat is right. Just do a search for ibm ssk and then hit the Sold Items filter to see what they have gone for. There has been at least 15 or more sell in the last 3 months. Many more have come up on the market recently than I have seen in the past couple of years.
Had good luck with these guys on ebay:
http://myworld.ebay.com/itblowoutllc?_trksid=p2047675.l2559
Model M buy it now $50.
The first one I got did not work, I called them, they sent me an RMA and make a swap. Best part, the keyboard was new in box when I opened it.
Using it right now in fact.
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.
What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.
What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?
I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMOShow Image(http://webwit.nl/input/ibm_industrial/xt/1.jpg)Show Image(http://www.danielbeaver.net/storage/projects/geekhackposts/model-f-spacebar-mod/ModelFAToverview.jpg)
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.
What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?
I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMOShow Image(http://webwit.nl/input/ibm_industrial/xt/1.jpg)Show Image(http://www.danielbeaver.net/storage/projects/geekhackposts/model-f-spacebar-mod/ModelFAToverview.jpg)
There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.
What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?
I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMOShow Image(http://webwit.nl/input/ibm_industrial/xt/1.jpg)Show Image(http://www.danielbeaver.net/storage/projects/geekhackposts/model-f-spacebar-mod/ModelFAToverview.jpg)
There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.
What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?
I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMOShow Image(http://webwit.nl/input/ibm_industrial/xt/1.jpg)Show Image(http://www.danielbeaver.net/storage/projects/geekhackposts/model-f-spacebar-mod/ModelFAToverview.jpg)
There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.
I know you guys are probably going to hate me for asking this, but if I get a USB adapter, will it work on a mac?
Why get a model M when you can get a model F?
Model M's are far more available and less expensive, but I'd definitely recommend an AT Model F over a Model M to anyone that can afford it and runs across one.
What's the difference between a Model M and a Model F?
I believe the Model F has the Function keys on the left of the board. Very cool layout IMOShow Image(http://webwit.nl/input/ibm_industrial/xt/1.jpg)Show Image(http://www.danielbeaver.net/storage/projects/geekhackposts/model-f-spacebar-mod/ModelFAToverview.jpg)
There are other differences in layout, but a big difference between the two is the switch design; Model M's use buckling spring over membrane, whereas Model F's use buckling spring over capacitive contacts. That said, there's a noticeable difference in feel between the two keyboards. Key strokes on a Model F feel lighter and more crisp to the touch when typing compared to Model M's. In fact, I've never read comments from anyone who has used both and prefers the typing experience of a Model M.
I know you guys are probably going to hate me for asking this, but if I get a USB adapter, will it work on a mac?
I'm waiting to find this out myself - a SDL to USB adaptor is in the mail. Then I can see if my second Model M works (on my Mac).
Following that I hope to get a PS/2 to USB adaptor so I can use my first Model M on my Mac and/or other computers.
I know you guys are probably going to hate me for asking this, but if I get a USB adapter, will it work on a mac?
I'm waiting to find this out myself - a SDL to USB adaptor is in the mail. Then I can see if my second Model M works (on my Mac).
Following that I hope to get a PS/2 to USB adaptor so I can use my first Model M on my Mac and/or other computers.
When you get your adapter, please let me know how everything works out.