geekhack

geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: BlackWidowMan777 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 06:43:04

Title: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 06:43:04
Just checked out Unicomp's facebook page and it does seem pretty definite that they are indeed working on a space saving buckling spring keyboard.  :D

[attachimg=1]

Some of the guys over at DT are also drawing up their own proposals for an SSK prototype as we speak and have already submitted some early designs to Unicomp:

[attach=2]
[attach=3]

I could easily see this as being my favorite keyboard of all time. They have done a really nice job of modernizing the look of the original SSK.

I do wonder how receptive Unicomp would be to outside ideas, especially to a change to their precious logo?

http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/a-proposal-for-a-new-ssk-t6977.html

This is welcoming news after the disappointments of late, but whether it will be released before 2016 is another story...

Edit: as pointed out by CPT, Mkawa has been working on GH's own community driven SSK Revival Project (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=33430.0) since last year, and has been conjointly (with DT) assisting Unicomp's engineers.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: metalliqaz on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:17:19
I'll believe it when I see it.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: AKIMbO on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:26:41
If Unicomp comes out with a space saving BS board I will eat a shoe. 
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:28:11
If Unicomp comes out with a space saving BS board I will eat a shoe. 

quoted for future reference
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:31:12
Still waiting for the Red alert set from them
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:37:51
"Engineers are working to develop one"

Which means ETA will be like 5 years or so...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: dante on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:41:13
Would *love* to hear a pod cast Unicomp interview.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:49:51
They've also promised us things like a Red Alert keycap set that we've yet to see come to fruition. Getting all excited over this would be seriously premature in my opinion. Remember when people were saying SSKs and Model Fs for they're big product announcement on Black Friday and it was white keycaps? I think fohat.digs said it best when he said Unicomp is a good company, they just don't have enough R&D funds.

And like Murium points out (http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/a-proposal-for-a-new-ssk-t6977-180.html#p139415), their latest product release was huge font on keycaps. I think we have a better chance with the SSKR project than Unicomp releasing a new SSK.

Not saying new SSKs wouldn't be cool, just think that with what I've seen with my time here, they're slow to react to what the community perceives as something in high demand. A Facebook post and two threads =/= new SSKs.

But I hope I'm seriously wrong and they prove me wrong.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 07:59:06
"Engineers are working to develop one"

Which means ETA will be like 5 years or so...

Yes, very cautious wording. Not quite developing...just 'working to develop'.

They've also promised us things like a Red Alert keycap set that we've yet to see come to fruition. Getting all excited over this would be seriously premature in my opinion. Remember when people were saying SSKs and Model Fs for they're big product announcement on Black Friday and it was white keycaps? I think fohat.digs said it best when he said Unicomp is a good company, they just don't have enough R&D funds.

And like Murium points out (http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/a-proposal-for-a-new-ssk-t6977-180.html#p139415), their latest product release was huge font on keycaps. I think we have a better chance with the SSKR project than Unicomp releasing a new SSK.

Not saying new SSKs wouldn't be cool, just think that with what I've seen with my time here, they're slow to react to what the community perceives as something in high demand. A Facebook post and two threads =/= new SSKs.

But I hope I'm seriously wrong and they prove me wrong.

I hope they prove everyone wrong too! I'm very impressed with Mkawa's revival project. So it may be a race between Unicomp and a GH's own community run project? Or could GH and DT work together in assisting Unicomp?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 19 December 2013, 08:02:40
I hope they prove everyone wrong too! I'm very impressed with Mkawa's revival project. So it may be a race between Unicomp and a GH's own community run project? Or could GH and DT work together in assisting Unicomp?

From what I understand, GH/mkawa and DT are already working with Unicomp. Whether that translates to an actual keyboard product release or not, I'm not sure.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 19 December 2013, 08:03:33
"Engineers are working to develop one"

Which means ETA will be like 5 years or so...

like so many other 'projects' from companies....engineers are always working on 'something'
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 08:18:13
"Engineers are working to develop one"

Which means ETA will be like 5 years or so...

like so many other 'projects' from companies....engineers are always working on 'something'

These are probably their engineers

(http://fc09.deviantart.net/fs71/f/2013/202/6/9/pardner_by_humble_pai-d6ef7we.png)
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 08:27:02
I hope they prove everyone wrong too! I'm very impressed with Mkawa's revival project. So it may be a race between Unicomp and a GH's own community run project? Or could GH and DT work together in assisting Unicomp?

From what I understand, GH/mkawa and DT are already working with Unicomp. Whether that translates to an actual keyboard product release or not, I'm not sure.

I see...and now I understand all those rumors of a hostile takeover of Unicomp that were circulating around the Black Friday release  :)

Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Wildcard on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:03:38
They have their top men on it

Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: jkercado on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:10:09
MEGAFREAKINGWANT!!!!
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Elrick on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:18:51
If Unicomp comes out with a space saving BS board I will eat a shoe. 

quoted for future reference

I really want to see an SSK built and distributed BUT I would rather see AKIMbO go munch on a rancid pair of Size 15's for good measure  :thumb: .  That would be epic.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:20:59
The new keyboard is great and all..

Buhhhh........... The whole point of the SSK is the coveted "retro" look...

Hopefully they wouldn't ONLY sell the new one...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:23:43
The new keyboard is great and all..

Buhhhh........... The whole point of the SSK is the coveted "retro" look...

Hopefully they wouldn't ONLY sell the new one...

Umm... isn't the point of a "Space-Saving" keyboard to, idk, save space???

And regardless of whatever style these will (eventually) be made in, if it's a TKL BS board, I'll want one.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: kyb on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:24:49
The new keyboard is great and all..

Buhhhh........... The whole point of the SSK is the coveted "retro" look...

Hopefully they wouldn't ONLY sell the new one...

Yeah, I hope that too. I want a M SSK clone and not that hyper curved thing from OPs post :)
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:25:56
The new keyboard is great and all..

Buhhhh........... The whole point of the SSK is the coveted "retro" look...

Hopefully they wouldn't ONLY sell the new one...

Umm... isn't the point of a "Space-Saving" keyboard to, idk, save space???

And regardless of whatever style these will (eventually) be made in, if it's a TKL BS board, I'll want one.

I have plenty of tkls...

I only want the Bspring ssk because "It's the SSK"..  Historical !!

I probably will never ever use it.. it will be sealed in a box.. forever..
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: AKIMbO on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:27:08
Hers a quote from me....engineers are currently working on how to fit a shoe in my mouth. TIL when you put "engineers are currently working" in a sentence....it means it isn't happening.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: kmiller8 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:28:08
I don't think you know what the word verified means...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:33:06
I don't think you know what the word verified means...

HAHA..

He's trying to ease his mind in preparation to consume "shoe"...

Akimbo, it's happening... you spoke too soon...  Man up time....(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion/d5f02ecd.gif)

Eating a whole size 15 is unreasonable..

You may decide which size shoe...

But you must eat one...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:35:19
I don't think you know what the word verified means...

HAHA..

He's trying to ease his mind in preparation to consume "shoe"...

Akimbo, it's happening... you spoke too soon...  Man up time....
Show Image
(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion/d5f02ecd.gif)


Eating a whole size 15 is unreasonable..

You may decide which size shoe...

But you must eat one...

My suggestion: go deep-fried...

(http://www.nike78.co.uk/uploads/MATT-BUCKNALL-3.jpg)
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:37:45
I don't think you know what the word verified means...

HAHA..

He's trying to ease his mind in preparation to consume "shoe"...

Akimbo, it's happening... you spoke too soon...  Man up time....
Show Image
(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion/d5f02ecd.gif)


Eating a whole size 15 is unreasonable..

You may decide which size shoe...

But you must eat one...

My suggestion: go deep-fried...

Show Image
(http://www.nike78.co.uk/uploads/MATT-BUCKNALL-3.jpg)


There's like a million ways Akimbo can get out of this really.. LOL..
 
Material of the shoe was not specified, size not specified,

He could eat a shoe made of fruit rollups.. (http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion_custom/th_aji.gif)
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:58:20
I don't think you know what the word verified means...

HAHA..

He's trying to ease his mind in preparation to consume "shoe"...

Akimbo, it's happening... you spoke too soon...  Man up time....
Show Image
(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion/d5f02ecd.gif)


Eating a whole size 15 is unreasonable..

You may decide which size shoe...

But you must eat one...

My suggestion: go deep-fried...

Show Image
(http://www.nike78.co.uk/uploads/MATT-BUCKNALL-3.jpg)


There's like a million ways Akimbo can get out of this really.. LOL..
 
Material of the shoe was not specified, size not specified,

He could eat a shoe made of fruit rollups..
Show Image
(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion_custom/th_aji.gif)


Well, we could do a poll on whose shoe it is  and how it should be cooked. I like a lightly fried well-worn leather sandal in tempura batter. But it must go on Youtube for science, posterity and unforeseen medical reasons  ;D
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Thu, 19 December 2013, 09:59:41
I don't think you know what the word verified means...

HAHA..

He's trying to ease his mind in preparation to consume "shoe"...

Akimbo, it's happening... you spoke too soon...  Man up time....
Show Image
(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion/d5f02ecd.gif)


Eating a whole size 15 is unreasonable..

You may decide which size shoe...

But you must eat one...

My suggestion: go deep-fried...

Show Image
(http://www.nike78.co.uk/uploads/MATT-BUCKNALL-3.jpg)


There's like a million ways Akimbo can get out of this really.. LOL..
 
Material of the shoe was not specified, size not specified,

He could eat a shoe made of fruit rollups..
Show Image
(http://www.cute-factor.com/images/smilies/onion_custom/th_aji.gif)


Well, we could do a poll on whose shoe it is  and how it should be cooked. I like a lightly fried well-worn leather sandal in tempura batter. But it must go on Youtube for science, posterity and unforeseen medical reasons  ;D

IF we could post polls.... :(
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Computer-Lab in Basement on Thu, 19 December 2013, 10:01:13
IF we could post polls.... :(

We can in the "Classifieds" section. Put up a "WTB Shoe" thread and post the poll there. :P
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Wildcard on Thu, 19 December 2013, 10:02:24
Deep fried shoelaces are a southern tradition perhaps?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: AKIMbO on Thu, 19 December 2013, 12:09:29
It's bs...I'm telling you there will be no unicomp ssk. I'm so confident i can say i will eat a shoe.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Thu, 19 December 2013, 14:19:16
It's bs...I'm telling you there will be no unicomp ssk. I'm so confident i can say i will eat a shoe.


ok.. that's double confirmed on the Shoe..

You've signed in 2 places..

Anyone here a notary?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Lu_e on Thu, 19 December 2013, 15:46:35
That's the same thing they've been saying for a while, nothing new
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 18:44:35
Their latest accomplishment was white caps on a black board.

So im gonna to decline to believe that a SSK will be provided
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: demik on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:33:02
i wonder if it's going to be shipped with red alert...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Photoelectric on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:38:01
You don't understand--they are just building up the hype for their SSK release.  They are doing it thoroughly and gradually, being very safe about it--one announcement every few months to a year.  In another few years, the hype-building process will be complete, and they will be ready to release the keyboard.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:42:09
In this thread: Photoelectric is a verifed Unicomp hypeman. :P
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: audioave10 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:45:03
I want this to be true... :'(
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:48:19
If GH is assisting DT and Unicomp, and wcass (originally from DT) was helping Mkawa on SSKR then where are they on DT now?

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

May just explain why SSKR is now simmering on the back-burner....

Sorry...just another conspiracy theory  :p
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:52:47
I heard that mkawa was AFK because he was negotiating a hostile takeover of Unicomp in person.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Pacifist on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:53:10
If GH is assisting DT and Unicomp, and wcass (originally from DT) was helping Mkawa on SSKR then where are they on DT now?

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

May just explain why SSKR is now simmering on the back-burner....

Sorry...just another conspiracy theory  :p

maybe they knew about the ssk and wanted to make some and then found out about dt
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 20:59:23
If GH is assisting DT and Unicomp, and wcass (originally from DT) was helping Mkawa on SSKR then where are they on DT now?

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

May just explain why SSKR is now simmering on the back-burner....

Sorry...just another conspiracy theory  :p

maybe they knew about the ssk and wanted to make some and then found out about dt

maybe they knew about the ssk and wanted to make some but Unicomp said you need a better case so they went to DT with the internals already tested to get the case done
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: dorkvader on Thu, 19 December 2013, 21:29:03
OK I've been putting off buying an SSK for a long while now (never really saw the point, especialy with cheam Ms all around)

But I'm willing to go against my better nature.

I pledge, that if unicomp comes out with an SSK, I will buy one.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: demik on Thu, 19 December 2013, 21:31:38
so akimbo will eat his shoe, and dork will go against his better nature.

make this happen unicomp. for the love of everything keyboard related, make this happen ;_;
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 22:10:56
How does one eat a shoe?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: bueller on Thu, 19 December 2013, 22:11:36
How does one eat a shoe?

Lots of tomato sauce.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: HolidaySHRIMP on Thu, 19 December 2013, 22:40:05
I hate seeing these posts. Makes me have hope. There is no hope.

I'd resurrect my dead grandmother and punch her in the face for an SSK BS 87 key with potential for reprogrammable. *creaming pants*
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Thu, 19 December 2013, 22:49:32
How does one eat a shoe?

Lots of tomato sauce.

You speaking from experience?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: rowdy on Fri, 20 December 2013, 00:03:13
If GH is assisting DT and Unicomp, and wcass (originally from DT) was helping Mkawa on SSKR then where are they on DT now?

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

May just explain why SSKR is now simmering on the back-burner....

Sorry...just another conspiracy theory  :p

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

joined 17 Sept 2013

2013

2  0  1  3

3

Half-Life 3 is CONFIRMED!!1!1one!11
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 01:52:54
If GH is assisting DT and Unicomp, and wcass (originally from DT) was helping Mkawa on SSKR then where are they on DT now?

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

May just explain why SSKR is now simmering on the back-burner....

Sorry...just another conspiracy theory  :p

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

joined 17 Sept 2013

2013

2  0  1  3

3

Half-Life 3 is CONFIRMED!!1!1one!11

OMG HL3 confirmed

100% LEGIT
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 02:43:19
If GH is assisting DT and Unicomp, and wcass (originally from DT) was helping Mkawa on SSKR then where are they on DT now?

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

May just explain why SSKR is now simmering on the back-burner....

Sorry...just another conspiracy theory  :p

M'er on DT: joined 17 Sept 2013 with a ready made plan to resurrect SSK?

joined 17 Sept 2013

2013

2  0  1  3

3

Half-Life 3 is CONFIRMED!!1!1one!11

OMG HL3 confirmed

100% LEGIT
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: fohat.digs on Fri, 20 December 2013, 07:04:57

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???


M Forever is a single entity with a passion for Model Ms.

He has his own project going to resurrect the SSK that has nothing to do with Mkawa or Unicomp.

The question that nobody can answer is where the market really is. While we watch singles (dozens over the course of years) of SSKs selling on ebay for very high prices, the tooling and manufacturing costs literally require the sale of thousands to justify production.

My guess is that while there are some dozens or hundreds of people who desperately want an SSK and are willing to pay top dollar, but are there thousands? I don't know, and neither does anyone else, even at a <$200 or even <$100 price point.

Obviously things like different colors, native USB, and Windows keys would broaden the market, but would it be enough?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: dante on Fri, 20 December 2013, 07:12:04
If the demand isn't high enough it could be created; but you're going to need a company that does active marketing - think CES - so someone like Matias, CM Storm, or Ducky could easily make this happen.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Fri, 20 December 2013, 07:20:53
If the demand isn't high enough it could be created; but you're going to need a company that does active marketing - think CES - so someone like Matias, CM Storm, or Ducky could easily make this happen.

You would have to get the gamers and high schoolers interested in buckling springs and/or revive the memories of the midlifers for nostalgia purposes.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: osi on Fri, 20 December 2013, 07:28:43
You don't understand--they are just building up the hype for their SSK release.  They are doing it thoroughly and gradually, being very safe about it--one announcement every few months to a year.  In another few years, the hype-building process will be complete, and they will be ready to release the keyboard.

The slow clap of marketing
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 08:05:24
You don't understand--they are just building up the hype for their SSK release.  They are doing it thoroughly and gradually, being very safe about it--one announcement every few months to a year.  In another few years, the hype-building process will be complete, and they will be ready to release the keyboard.

The slow clap of marketing

They will wait 5 years before they release it
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: sprk on Fri, 20 December 2013, 08:24:55
Hers a quote from me....engineers are currently working on how to fit a shoe in my mouth. TIL when you put "engineers are currently working" in a sentence....it means it isn't happening.

I can confirm this. I'm a software engineer and every time I answer "development is working on it" it really means no one wants to do it so it went to the bottom of the backlog.  :cool: :cool: :cool:
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 08:26:42
Hers a quote from me....engineers are currently working on how to fit a shoe in my mouth. TIL when you put "engineers are currently working" in a sentence....it means it isn't happening.

I can confirm this. I'm a software engineer and every time I answer "development is working on it" it really means no one wants to do it so it went to the bottom of the backlog.  :cool: :cool: :cool:

I knew it :P
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 08:46:26

And who is M'er Forever? M'er == M'kawa & wcass???


M Forever is a single entity with a passion for Model Ms.

He has his own project going to resurrect the SSK that has nothing to do with Mkawa or Unicomp.

The question that nobody can answer is where the market really is. While we watch singles (dozens over the course of years) of SSKs selling on ebay for very high prices, the tooling and manufacturing costs literally require the sale of thousands to justify production.

My guess is that while there are some dozens or hundreds of people who desperately want an SSK and are willing to pay top dollar, but are there thousands? I don't know, and neither does anyone else, even at a <$200 or even <$100 price point.

Obviously things like different colors, native USB, and Windows keys would broaden the market, but would it be enough?

I doubt anyone would have known that the model M would be such a dominant force back in its heyday. But it is now of historical record that the model m has withstood the test of time better than most if not all of its contemporaries and even today's pretenders.

Thus, it is precisely now, in this climate, that Unicomp must signal its intentions. We are just at the cusp of a whole slew of backlit tenkeyless mechanical keyboards coming forth. But they are too exorbitantly priced to be as ubiquitous as the model m was in its day – which was very expensive in the late 80s-90s, but so too were the computers it came bundled with.

So if the SSK  is to be a player today, it must position itself as the successor of the venerable model m that offers all of the benefits of what the bulk of people want now (ie. Backlit, tkl, nkro) with the promise that its longevity and hence value over time are assured.

Never before have humans in total been so desk bound and with the rise of RSI the benefits of mechanical keyboards is as relevant as it ever will be.

Before long, and if an SSK is on the market, people will JUMP at the opportunity to find a single solution without the necessity to trial the various flavours of cherry mx as the buckling spring undeniably offers a superior typing experience. Cherry has to their own detriment not come up with one perfect switch. Unicomp on the other hand is sitting on a gold mine.

So the question is price, namely $250. Enthusiasts will happily fork out far more for topre and double for customs that feature the same old cherry mx in the same old variations.

Gamers are young but certainly not stupid and are becoming more and more educated. They will be happy with something classy that does whatever the K90s could do but be guaranteed they could still use it in perfect nick when they mature.

I can really see that this whole thing could turn full circle and the buckling spring, fashioned after the SSK but feeling more like a Model F, will again be the go to board even in the corporate world where the really big bucks will be. Perhaps Dell or even IBM may be interested? 
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Lastpilot on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:16:15
Dat curve :[ I hope they make a flat version!
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: kmiller8 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:18:22
Some of the guys over at DT are also drawing up their own proposals for an SSK prototype as we speak and have already submitted some early designs to Unicomp

Dat curve :[ I hope they make a flat version!

It's just a concept.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: kmiller8 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:21:18
Also this BlackWidowMan777 kid is really stupid. You're drumming up hype for something that doesn't exist.

It's literally a vague facebook post and some mockups done by a couple of fanboys.

This is not "verified"

This is literally nothing...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:30:10
If the demand isn't high enough it could be created; but you're going to need a company that does active marketing - think CES - so someone like Matias, CM Storm, or Ducky could easily make this happen.

+1

Matias sounds good to me. But is he married to his ALPS? I think Unicomp have in the past been reticent to step out of their comfort zone for fear that they would be too expensive for mass retails stores like Frys to stock them. But is this concern still a reality?

They could also try other avenues of marketing such as TV infomercials which would be a perfect medium for Mr. Matias.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: dante on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:44:09
Sadly Unicomp's owners are probably approaching retirement age and are only trying to stay open long enough to squirrel some nuts away.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: fohat.digs on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:44:34
what the bulk of people want now (ie. Backlit, tkl, nkro) with the promise that its longevity and hence value over time are assured.

I agree with most of what you said, but backlit? That might well be a nightmare in manufacturing, and I would not want it personally. Translucent barrel frame with lighting integral to the membranes? I suspect that it would make the product look like a gimmick rather than a solid machine.

It seems to me that people want native USB, NKRO, and more color selections.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Hellmark on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:48:24
You could have light pipes to help get the light in.

Still, I don't believe it. As said before, this sort of response is doublespeak for "We don't want to say no, but we're not planning on it".  I mean, Unicomp hasn't come up with anything genuinely new in years. Their big thing this year was a crappy color scheme. I've waited for years for them to make ****ing black key caps as an option for their black keyboards (you know, since a lot of people like monochrome keyboards), but they haven't even attempted that.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:49:09
You could have light pipes to help get the light in.

Light pipes?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Hellmark on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:54:16
Things for redirecting light. Fiber optic cable is a flexible example. Most of the time when you have LEDs on a device, they'll have something over the LED to serve a this purpose.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 09:59:33
what the bulk of people want now (ie. Backlit, tkl, nkro) with the promise that its longevity and hence value over time are assured.

I agree with most of what you said, but backlit? That might well be a nightmare in manufacturing, and I would not want it personally. Translucent barrel frame with lighting integral to the membranes? I suspect that it would make the product look like a gimmick rather than a solid machine.

It seems to me that people want native USB, NKRO, and more color selections.

Well polls (tbh, one poll on GH) have shown that tenkeyless is the preferred form factor. I don't know what would have been the outcome with a poll on back lighting, but it is something that is nice to have as an option that can be turned off and on just like your house lights (not trying to be facetious, but not everyone is going to be seated in an IT department will loads of overhead lighting at all times). I defer to your greater knowledge as to the potentially prohibitive manufacturing costs and difficulties but I read in the DT thread the M'er has some ideas of his own on back lighting...?

A lot of people at home who would be potential customers such as gamers, professional people and average computer users may be able to touch type the alphanumerical keys but most wouldn't be able to navigate F11, DEL, CTR, ALT in the dark. My room lights are fully on but I can't see the keys at all because the keyboard tray I'm using is shielded from the light. I got the impression that M'er wanted to offer a single solution, with the only problem being catering for those who want audible feedback and those who don't. Perhaps the quiet click version could be backlit only?

edit: I agree lighting may detract from the classic and timeless look but if done tastefully perhaps not. For instance, are there any keyboards with lights only on the nav + arrow clusters and/or function row? This is where they are needed for browsing the web etc. Lighting on wasd may look gimmicky so therein lies the conundrum with lighting as gamers seem to like it. Again after a while most gamers, even the most hardcore, become aware that they are annoying others with loud keyboards at night so if the quiet click version had 'tasteful' lighting it might appeal to both gamers and non-gamers. The traditional loud click version could do without any lighting whatsoever.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Hellmark on Fri, 20 December 2013, 10:48:33
Those polls are of keyboard enthusiasts, which isn't really the mainstream. If TKL was the preferred form factor for the masses, why do more and more laptops have number pads now?
Title: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 10:58:52
Those polls are of keyboard enthusiasts, which isn't really the mainstream. If TKL was the preferred form factor for the masses, why do more and more laptops have number pads now?

Good question. I have no idea. There are some people who only use laptops for their home computer and so would want a bigger screen. There may be a turn around from small laptops back to big ones since people can get tablets for on the go surfing and emailing.

I've often observed how vendors always bring out the full-sized versions of new keyboards first. Is this to capture the larger market which is after 104-keys or are they afraid if they didn't everyone would only buy the TKLs and leave them with a bunch of unsold 104s. If 104s were the most popular, wouldn't they bring out the TKLs first?

Edit: I'm not sure but I think Matias sells more mini quiet pros than quiet pros and the bw tournament editions are forever out of stock.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Wildcard on Fri, 20 December 2013, 11:06:26
Also this BlackWidowMan777 kid is really stupid. You're drumming up hype for something that doesn't exist.

It's literally a vague facebook post and some mockups done by a couple of fanboys.

This is not "verified"

This is literally nothing...

I agree the title isn't the best. But a little harsh there. I hadn't seen those mock-ups until I found this thread, so thank you BlackWidowMan777 for that.

Maybe a possible modern SSK needs more hype. If more people keep asking Unicomp for it, it might become more of a possibility. If anything the community get's more interested and we'll make it a reality if Unicomp won't.
Title: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 11:09:24
Also this BlackWidowMan777 kid is really stupid. You're drumming up hype for something that doesn't exist.

It's literally a vague facebook post and some mockups done by a couple of fanboys.

This is not "verified"

This is literally nothing...

I agree the title isn't the best. But a little harsh there. I hadn't seen those mock-ups until I found this thread, so thank you BlackWidowMan777 for that.

Maybe a possible modern SSK needs more hype. If more people keep asking Unicomp for it, it might become more of a possibility. If anything the community get's more interested and we'll make it a reality if Unicomp won't.

He's prolly a das stooge. But it may very well be in the works. It came out of the horse's mouth. I didn't notice such a vehement reaction in the matias 60% thread.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: SpAmRaY on Fri, 20 December 2013, 11:12:59
Also this BlackWidowMan777 kid is really stupid. You're drumming up hype for something that doesn't exist.

It's literally a vague facebook post and some mockups done by a couple of fanboys.

This is not "verified"

This is literally nothing...

I agree the title isn't the best. But a little harsh there. I hadn't seen those mock-ups until I found this thread, so thank you BlackWidowMan777 for that.

Maybe a possible modern SSK needs more hype. If more people keep asking Unicomp for it, it might become more of a possibility. If anything the community get's more interested and we'll make it a reality if Unicomp won't.

He's prolly a das stooge. But it may very well be in the works. It came out of the horse's mouth. I didn't notice such a vehement reaction in the matias 60% thread.

That's because if Matias says he is doing something he will...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: fohat.digs on Fri, 20 December 2013, 11:40:31
why do more and more laptops have number pads now?
Good question. I have no idea.

Many people work with numbers quite a lot, and a straight row of numbers above the letters is impossibly cumbersome.

If I were designing my perfect keyboard from scratch, the numpad would be where the numbers were, and that area at the top of the letters would be for something else, such as function keys.

I was delighted to find a laptop with a numpad. I just hate that one of my other most-used keys, Delete, is always hard to find on a laptop.

Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Lastpilot on Fri, 20 December 2013, 12:24:06
Nice vaporware bro.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Hellmark on Fri, 20 December 2013, 14:13:04
He's prolly a das stooge. But it may very well be in the works. It came out of the horse's mouth. I didn't notice such a vehement reaction in the matias 60% thread.
That's because if Matias says he is doing something he will...

Unicomp really hasn't done anything new in well over a decade. Their responses to people asking about SSKs have had people thinking they would make one since the '90s.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Wildcard on Fri, 20 December 2013, 14:53:55
He's prolly a das stooge. But it may very well be in the works. It came out of the horse's mouth. I didn't notice such a vehement reaction in the matias 60% thread.
That's because if Matias says he is doing something he will...

Unicomp really hasn't done anything new in well over a decade. Their responses to people asking about SSKs have had people thinking they would make one since the '90s.

Or Unicomp has finally mastered their ability in trolling the geekhack community...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BucklingSpring on Fri, 20 December 2013, 17:28:43
Or Unicomp has finally mastered their ability in trolling the geekhack community...

The recent Unicomp stunt is going to be hard to beat. I even TMed the expression "Don't make a Unicomp of yourself"  after their last "we got something new" move.

Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: terran5992 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 21:44:32
Or Unicomp has finally mastered their ability in trolling the geekhack community...

The recent Unicomp stunt is going to be hard to beat. I even TMed the expression "Don't make a Unicomp of yourself"  after their last "we got something new" move.

We all got our hopes up during the new release . Only to be trolled by them
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 23:20:16
Also this BlackWidowMan777 kid is really stupid. You're drumming up hype for something that doesn't exist.

It's literally a vague facebook post and some mockups done by a couple of fanboys.

This is not "verified"

This is literally nothing...

Who are these two fanboys you speak of?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: demik on Fri, 20 December 2013, 23:23:38
Also this BlackWidowMan777 kid is really stupid. You're drumming up hype for something that doesn't exist.

It's literally a vague facebook post and some mockups done by a couple of fanboys.

This is not "verified"

This is literally nothing...

Who are these two fanboys you speak of?

http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/a-proposal-for-a-new-ssk-t6977.html


i mean you DID start the thread and put the link.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Fri, 20 December 2013, 23:24:43
Also this BlackWidowMan777 kid is really stupid. You're drumming up hype for something that doesn't exist.

It's literally a vague facebook post and some mockups done by a couple of fanboys.

This is not "verified"

This is literally nothing...

Who are these two fanboys you speak of?

http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/a-proposal-for-a-new-ssk-t6977.html

And the other one?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: demik on Fri, 20 December 2013, 23:27:16
ah, you're that type of person.

noted.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 21 December 2013, 01:43:11
If these did eventuate, I wonder if the price of SSK on eBay would drop.

Marginally, perhaps, as people would always prefer to own the original.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Photoelectric on Sat, 21 December 2013, 01:45:59
A good fraction would probably love to get it in a brand new condition, however, for less than $300 a keyboard.  No need to bolt-mod or retro-bright, or deal with scuffs, etc.  Brand new buckling spring switches too.  I'd say a good amount of people would go for the new version to get their buckling spring fix in a compact case.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 21 December 2013, 01:50:50
A good fraction would probably love to get it in a brand new condition, however, for less than $300 a keyboard.  No need to bolt-mod or retro-bright, or deal with scuffs, etc.  Brand new buckling spring switches too.  I'd say a good amount of people would go for the new version to get their buckling spring fix in a compact case.

Although anecdotal evidence suggests that the new Unicomp full sized keyboards are not as good as a well looked after Model M.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Sat, 21 December 2013, 02:00:54
Why are you guys getting all hostile about this..

It'll come out when it comes out.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: vivalarevolución on Sat, 21 December 2013, 07:57:26
If Unicomp comes out with a space saving BS board I will eat a shoe.

Here are some options:

https://www.google.com/search?q=edible+shoe&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS507US507&espv=210&es_sm=119&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=A521UqPeJcepyAGVt4GgCQ&ved=0CC4QsAQ&biw=1092&bih=619

Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: AKIMbO on Sat, 21 December 2013, 08:20:49
If Unicomp comes out with a space saving BS board I will eat a shoe.

Here are some options:

https://www.google.com/search?q=edible+shoe&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS507US507&espv=210&es_sm=119&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=A521UqPeJcepyAGVt4GgCQ&ved=0CC4QsAQ&biw=1092&bih=619

Om nom nom nom
Title: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Sat, 21 December 2013, 08:39:08
If Unicomp comes out with a space saving BS board I will eat a shoe.

Here are some options:

https://www.google.com/search?q=edible+shoe&rlz=1C5CHFA_enUS507US507&espv=210&es_sm=119&tbm=isch&tbo=u&source=univ&sa=X&ei=A521UqPeJcepyAGVt4GgCQ&ved=0CC4QsAQ&biw=1092&bih=619

Om nom nom nom

Noooo!

Akimbo said he would eat a shoe not an edible shoe.

I need TP. 


Anyway,

[attachimg=1]
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: fohat.digs on Sat, 21 December 2013, 09:02:43
A good fraction would probably love to get it in a brand new condition, however, for less than $300 a keyboard.  No need to bolt-mod or retro-bright, or deal with scuffs, etc.  Brand new buckling spring switches too.  I'd say a good amount of people would go for the new version to get their buckling spring fix in a compact case.

Personally, I think that the 2 biggest drivers might be Windows keys and native USB.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Wildcard on Sat, 21 December 2013, 12:16:06
A good fraction would probably love to get it in a brand new condition, however, for less than $300 a keyboard.  No need to bolt-mod or retro-bright, or deal with scuffs, etc.  Brand new buckling spring switches too.  I'd say a good amount of people would go for the new version to get their buckling spring fix in a compact case.

Personally, I think that the 2 biggest drivers might be Windows keys and native USB.

And don't forget the buckling spring :)
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 21 December 2013, 17:28:45
A good fraction would probably love to get it in a brand new condition, however, for less than $300 a keyboard.  No need to bolt-mod or retro-bright, or deal with scuffs, etc.  Brand new buckling spring switches too.  I'd say a good amount of people would go for the new version to get their buckling spring fix in a compact case.

Personally, I think that the 2 biggest drivers might be Windows keys and native USB.


Are SSK SDL?

With orihalcon cable does it really make any difference?

Yes, Windows key would be nice, and Menu key would be perfect (for Windows users LOL - Command and Option keys for Mac users ftw).
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: fohat.digs on Sat, 21 December 2013, 22:27:20

With orihalcon cable does it really make any difference?


Orihalcon cables are great but that would be an additional $30

If somebody is building something new, it should be USB for the 21st century.

When I plug an Apple keyboard into Windows 7, it recognizes Apple Command and Options as Windows and Alt. Does it not work going the other way?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 22 December 2013, 03:36:19

With orihalcon cable does it really make any difference?


Orihalcon cables are great but that would be an additional $30

If somebody is building something new, it should be USB for the 21st century.

When I plug an Apple keyboard into Windows 7, it recognizes Apple Command and Options as Windows and Alt. Does it not work going the other way?


Cable: fair enough.

Working the other way: yes, i've done both.  On Mac I use System Preferences to swap Win and Alt around - works fine!
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: ValerieV on Mon, 23 December 2013, 08:06:43
I don't know how long it would take an "engineer" to come up with a space saving keyboard. It has already been invented. if they really want to make a statement, they would make an 87 key layout that is bluetooth as well.  :thumb:
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: jkercado on Mon, 23 December 2013, 08:40:09
You could have light pipes to help get the light in.

Still, I don't believe it. As said before, this sort of response is doublespeak for "We don't want to say no, but we're not planning on it".  I mean, Unicomp hasn't come up with anything genuinely new in years. Their big thing this year was a crappy color scheme. I've waited for years for them to make ****ing black key caps as an option for their black keyboards (you know, since a lot of people like monochrome keyboards), but they haven't even attempted that.

They could easily do some anthracite gray keys with black lettering. They would look kickass in both black and white keyboards.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: rowdy on Sat, 28 December 2013, 04:00:30
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52772.msg1174190#msg1174190
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Sat, 28 December 2013, 05:00:35
https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52772.msg1174190#msg1174190

 :eek:

Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: AKIMbO on Sat, 28 December 2013, 08:09:39
Om nom nom nom shoes
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: ideus on Sat, 28 December 2013, 08:17:18
Just checked out Unicomp's facebook page and it does seem pretty definite that they are indeed working on a space saving buckling spring keyboard.  :D

(Attachment Link)

Some of the guys over at DT are also drawing up their own proposals for an SSK prototype as we speak and have already submitted some early designs to Unicomp:

(Attachment Link)
(Attachment Link)

I could easily see this as being my favorite keyboard of all time. They have done a really nice job of modernizing the look of the original SSK.

I do wonder how receptive Unicomp would be to outside ideas, especially to a change to their precious logo?

http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/a-proposal-for-a-new-ssk-t6977.html (http://deskthority.net/keyboards-f2/a-proposal-for-a-new-ssk-t6977.html)

This is welcoming news after the disappointments of late, but whether it will be released before 2016 is another story...

Edit: as pointed out by CPT, Mkawa has been working on GH's own community driven SSK Revival Project (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=33430.0) since last year, and has been conjointly (with DT) assisting Unicomp's engineers.


If this was not insanely expensive, I'd like to buy one, just to try the acclaimed buckling spring switch.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: vivalarevolución on Sat, 28 December 2013, 10:10:50
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52772.msg1174190#msg1174190

Here is the text of that link:

I tested the membrane through notepad and everything seems to be working fine. On my first bolt mod I ran into the issue of over tightening and switches not working and remember panicking a bit.

I called Unicomp this afternoon and it went a bit like this: (not exact wording but close)
Me: Im rebuilding an ibm model m model 1391472 and am looking for a replacement frame. Will the 84-key frame you have work with my board?
CSR: We don't have 84-key frames.
Me: I was sure I saw them listed on your site.
CSR: No you didn't. We don't carry those. Only 101 and 104.
Me: If I were to cut down the 101 would it possibly fit?
CSR: That I do not know. I can tell you that we are currently developing our own 84-key that you can get a hold of sometime middle of next year.
Me: Excellent. Thank you very much.
-End call-

From there I went to the site and put in my order for the FR84 Frame that was listed, Cable, and the replacement pivots and springs, some extras of those. See if Mr. CSR or the site is lying/uninformed.

Now the waiting game.

Thanks again for your informative replies. They're really helping my confidence in saving this thing as well as learning some new things.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: ideus on Sat, 28 December 2013, 11:01:24
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52772.msg1174190#msg1174190 (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52772.msg1174190#msg1174190)

Here is the text of that link:

I tested the membrane through notepad and everything seems to be working fine. On my first bolt mod I ran into the issue of over tightening and switches not working and remember panicking a bit.

I called Unicomp this afternoon and it went a bit like this: (not exact wording but close)
Me: Im rebuilding an ibm model m model 1391472 and am looking for a replacement frame. Will the 84-key frame you have work with my board?
CSR: We don't have 84-key frames.
Me: I was sure I saw them listed on your site.
CSR: No you didn't. We don't carry those. Only 101 and 104.
Me: If I were to cut down the 101 would it possibly fit?
CSR: That I do not know. I can tell you that we are currently developing our own 84-key that you can get a hold of sometime middle of next year.
Me: Excellent. Thank you very much.
-End call-

From there I went to the site and put in my order for the FR84 Frame that was listed, Cable, and the replacement pivots and springs, some extras of those. See if Mr. CSR or the site is lying/uninformed.

Now the waiting game.

Thanks again for your informative replies. They're really helping my confidence in saving this thing as well as learning some new things.


Interesting. Well at least the CSR states clearly they are building their own 84.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: RESPRiT on Sat, 28 December 2013, 11:27:12
http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=52772.msg1174190#msg1174190

Here is the text of that link:

I tested the membrane through notepad and everything seems to be working fine. On my first bolt mod I ran into the issue of over tightening and switches not working and remember panicking a bit.

I called Unicomp this afternoon and it went a bit like this: (not exact wording but close)
Me: Im rebuilding an ibm model m model 1391472 and am looking for a replacement frame. Will the 84-key frame you have work with my board?
CSR: We don't have 84-key frames.
Me: I was sure I saw them listed on your site.
CSR: No you didn't. We don't carry those. Only 101 and 104.
Me: If I were to cut down the 101 would it possibly fit?
CSR: That I do not know. I can tell you that we are currently developing our own 84-key that you can get a hold of sometime middle of next year.
Me: Excellent. Thank you very much.
-End call-

From there I went to the site and put in my order for the FR84 Frame that was listed, Cable, and the replacement pivots and springs, some extras of those. See if Mr. CSR or the site is lying/uninformed.

Now the waiting game.

Thanks again for your informative replies. They're really helping my confidence in saving this thing as well as learning some new things.

I found that conversation a bit humorous haha :) My wallet is ready for a Unicomp TKL, let's hope things pan out!
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlueMica on Sat, 28 December 2013, 15:56:57
They should just chop off 3 inches off the keyboard and traces instead of trying to redesign the whole keyboard. The SSK used to run for about 60 to 90, now at regularly over 100 dollars; I would consider a Unicomp, if it had USB and 6KRO.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Sat, 28 December 2013, 16:08:58
what the bulk of people want now (ie. Backlit, tkl, nkro) with the promise that its longevity and hence value over time are assured.

I agree with most of what you said, but backlit? That might well be a nightmare in manufacturing, and I would not want it personally. Translucent barrel frame with lighting integral to the membranes? I suspect that it would make the product look like a gimmick rather than a solid machine.

It seems to me that people want native USB, NKRO, and more color selections.

USB, gimmick

NKRO, gimmick

Colors, M0re gimmick
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Aer Fixus on Sat, 28 December 2013, 21:51:07
what the bulk of people want now (ie. Backlit, tkl, nkro) with the promise that its longevity and hence value over time are assured.

I agree with most of what you said, but backlit? That might well be a nightmare in manufacturing, and I would not want it personally. Translucent barrel frame with lighting integral to the membranes? I suspect that it would make the product look like a gimmick rather than a solid machine.

It seems to me that people want native USB, NKRO, and more color selections.

USB, gimmick

NKRO, gimmick

Colors, M0re gimmick

USB: not a gimmick. PS2 is being phased out, so having some sort of USB support is important.
NRKO: full NKRO is a bit of a gimmick for most people, but a more optimized layout for gaming (more than 2KRO) would be amazing for those who want it.
Colors: sure. Gimmick.

Remember, though: gimmicks sell. Sometimes. If advertised properly...
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: dorkvader on Sat, 28 December 2013, 22:49:21
NRKO: full NKRO is a bit of a gimmick for most people, but a more optimized layout for gaming (more than 2KRO) would be amazing for those who want it.
Colors: sure. Gimmick.

Remember, though: gimmicks sell. Sometimes. If advertised properly...
Even a gaming optimized membrane circuit is 2KRO for a membrane KB like this.

In theory they could redesign a very complicated membrane with a very expensive connector and put the diodes on the PCB for higher key rollover I guess but I don't see it happening. I'll stick to model F for gaming.
They could easily do some anthracite gray keys with black lettering. They would look kickass in both black and white keyboards.
"easy" for most companies is like pulling teeth with unicomp. "new" grey / black dyesubs new product for unicomp 2016 (or never) I predict.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: do_Og@n on Sat, 28 December 2013, 23:11:15
I'm with everybody else on this one....I'll believe it when I see it.

Thought just came to mind....HHKB design with Buckling Spring!  :eek:
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: rowdy on Sun, 29 December 2013, 00:52:59
I'm with everybody else on this one....I'll believe it when I see it.

Thought just came to mind....HHKB design with Buckling Spring!  :eek:

Ergo Dox with buckling spring? :eek:
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Sun, 29 December 2013, 01:03:52
I'm with everybody else on this one....I'll believe it when I see it.

Thought just came to mind....HHKB design with Buckling Spring!  :eek:

Ergo Dox with buckling spring? :eek:

maybe if they had an Ergo Buckling spring.. I mean a "lighter" one..

It seems that many people are using a w-rest with the Egdx, while buckling spring due to the heaviness benefits from quick strike technique through hover-wrist stance
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Aer Fixus on Sun, 29 December 2013, 01:12:26
maybe if they had an Ergo Buckling spring.. I mean a "lighter" one..

It seems that many people are using a w-rest with the Egdx, while buckling spring due to the heaviness benefits from quick strike technique through hover-wrist stance
Let's stick to getting it into the ErgoDox layout first...

Maybe Model F barrels with M hammers and a custom membrane?
The proof of concept for both the membrane (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40111.0) and the barrel layouts (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=51767.0) are both completed. It wouldn't be too far of a stretch to mold the Model F barrels so we don't need to cannibalize existing boards for them.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Sun, 29 December 2013, 01:50:43
For those new to the Unicomp saga, here are a series of threads that will show just how long Unicomp has been dangling the SSK carrot in front of GHers - even iMav was as excited as we, though admittedly a long time ago...

For those old-timers who are weary with getting their hopes up only to be constantly dashed time and time again, bear with us please.

With Mkawa's SSKR Revival Project and M'er Forever's SSK plans over at DT, there may just be sufficient impetus to pull Unicomp out of the quagmire of stagnation and into a bright new age. If enough of the initial batch of SSKs are produced, and if they do sell, then successive batches may see additional features added as Unicomp experiences a resurgence in the market 20 years after taking over from Lexmark.

I'm with everybody else on this one....I'll believe it when I see it.

Thought just came to mind....HHKB design with Buckling Spring!  :eek:

Looks like iMav already had that very same dream some time ago  :)

Quote from: Mikecase00;2478
What's to redesign?  The ModelM Mini layout was already the best small keyboard design ever.  It had beefy construction, fit in server racks, buckling springs, what's to improve?
The Model M mini is a great "spacesaver" keyboard.  Full-sized keyboard minus that horrid numpad.  However, it is not exactly a keyboard you'd easily be able to carry back and forth in your laptop bag.

The MightyMouse (see Unicomp's online store) is a perfect size for carting back and forth...but uses membrane keyswitches.  What I'd like to see is a HHKB layout with buckling springs and an optional trackpoint.  That would totally rock.  (don't think we'll get that...but I can dream)

Going back through the time machine of geekhack I now see that Unicomp did in fact have the means to re-build ssk's using old parts; the last one they made was for iMav:

Spoke with Jim Owens from Unicomp the other day.  Wanted to know if they had the parts to assemble another 84-key Model M spacesaver for me.  It turns out, they used their last available parts to make the one I now own.  So, I have the very last Model M mini ever made!   8)

Unfortunately, the reason why Unicomp could not continue fixing up peoples' SSK's is that their tooling broke. So once they ran out of old parts that was it:

This is dumb.. Unicomp is making a new one soon-ish.. 

why bother.

You can only "collect" something until you're DEAD...  what was the point of that collection if it was for BNIB as in "something" you can't use...  :))

No. Unicomp isn't. They have no intention of ever doing a SSK case, because the tooling is broke. They can't make a SSK membrane. They don't make SSK barrels or plates afaik. There's a reason the SSKRew exist. If you can cite an official Unicomp rep saying they are planning to manufacture a SSK, then I'll consider your statement.

Cheers,

So, I wonder why there was this strange 84-key frame available until only just recently, and what was it used for...and how was it made? We do seem to be going in circles with Unicomp. All I know is, if not for Mkawa's (and other's) persistence and powers of persuasion, the SSK or mini buckling spring keyboard may forever remain a thing of the past.

But maybe...just maybe, a brand new SSK with brand new tooling and molds will come out, and in 2014!

Can you hear the crank of new tooling and new molds being produced in creaky old Unicomp?

2014: Unicomp SSK 20th Anniversary Special Edition!

Edit: Unicomp was founded in 1996 so this 2014 would be their 18th not 20th anniversary.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: MKULTRA on Sun, 29 December 2013, 02:14:58
For those new to the Unicomp saga, here are a series of threads that will show just how long Unicomp has been dangling the SSK carrot in front of GHers - even iMav was as excited as we, though admittedly a long time ago...

For those old-timers who are weary with getting their hopes up only to be constantly dashed time and time again, bear with us please.

With Mkawa's SSKR Revival Project and M'er Forever's SSK plans over at DT, there may just be sufficient impetus to pull Unicomp out of the quagmire of stagnation and into a bright new age. If enough of the initial batch of SSKs are produced, and if they do sell, then successive batches may see additional features added as Unicomp experiences a resurgence in the market 20 years after taking over from Lexmark.

I'm with everybody else on this one....I'll believe it when I see it.

Thought just came to mind....HHKB design with Buckling Spring!  :eek:

Looks like iMav already had that very same dream some time ago  :)

Quote from: Mikecase00;2478
What's to redesign?  The ModelM Mini layout was already the best small keyboard design ever.  It had beefy construction, fit in server racks, buckling springs, what's to improve?
The Model M mini is a great "spacesaver" keyboard.  Full-sized keyboard minus that horrid numpad.  However, it is not exactly a keyboard you'd easily be able to carry back and forth in your laptop bag.

The MightyMouse (see Unicomp's online store) is a perfect size for carting back and forth...but uses membrane keyswitches.  What I'd like to see is a HHKB layout with buckling springs and an optional trackpoint.  That would totally rock.  (don't think we'll get that...but I can dream)

Going back through the time machine of geekhack I now see that Unicomp did in fact have the means to re-build ssk's using old parts; the last one they made was for iMav:

Spoke with Jim Owens from Unicomp the other day.  Wanted to know if they had the parts to assemble another 84-key Model M spacesaver for me.  It turns out, they used their last available parts to make the one I now own.  So, I have the very last Model M mini ever made!   8)

Unfortunately, the reason why Unicomp could not continue fixing up peoples' SSK's is that their tooling broke. So once they ran out of old parts that was it:

This is dumb.. Unicomp is making a new one soon-ish.. 

why bother.

You can only "collect" something until you're DEAD...  what was the point of that collection if it was for BNIB as in "something" you can't use...  :))

No. Unicomp isn't. They have no intention of ever doing a SSK case, because the tooling is broke. They can't make a SSK membrane. They don't make SSK barrels or plates afaik. There's a reason the SSKRew exist. If you can cite an official Unicomp rep saying they are planning to manufacture a SSK, then I'll consider your statement.

Cheers,

So, I wonder why there was this strange 84-key frame available until only just recently, and what was it used for...and how was it made? We do seem to be going in circles with Unicomp. All I know is, if not for Mkawa's (and other's) persistence and powers of persuasion, the SSK or mini buckling spring keyboard may forever remain a thing of the past.

But maybe...just maybe, a brand new SSK with brand new tooling and molds will come out, and in 2014!

Can you hear the crank of new tooling and new molds being produced in creaky old Unicomp?

2014: Unicomp SSK 20th Anniversary Special Edition!

Edit: Unicomp was founded in 1996 so this 2014 would be their 18th not 20th anniversary.
The color of your text needs to change
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Air tree on Sun, 29 December 2013, 02:28:21
That blue text gave me a headache..
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Sun, 29 December 2013, 02:44:16

That blue text gave me a headache..

Sorry bout the colour. I'm colour-blind :)

What colour should I use?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: MKULTRA on Sun, 29 December 2013, 02:45:23

That blue text gave me a headache..

Sorry bout the colour. I'm colour-blind :)

What colour should I use?
****ing white?
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: yasuo on Sun, 29 December 2013, 02:46:32
Change your theme to white :))
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Sun, 29 December 2013, 02:51:40

Change your theme to white :))

Ok gimme five minutes
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: RESPRiT on Sun, 29 December 2013, 03:05:26

That blue text gave me a headache..

Sorry bout the colour. I'm colour-blind :)

What colour should I use?

I'm colorblind too and that blue is much harder to read than just white :P
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: berserkfan on Sun, 29 December 2013, 03:08:08
I very much doubt Akimbro is ever going to have to eat his shoe. The likelihood that Unicomp will ever produce something new, is pretty close to the likelihood that the US will quit invading and bombing other people's countries and close down their 700+ military bases overseas.

I strongly support Mkawa and anybody's SSK revival. A revival launched and organized by fans is much, much more likely to come true than anything from Unicomp. Remember, these guys actually think geriatric extra-large font keycaps is a Big Big Awesome Change.

The average Unicomp Engineer is probably in his 60s and merely trying to make enough money to put aside for retirement. So when he 'works on something', it's just a corporate statement made to pacify other people. It's not a scheduled product launch, it's a BS cover-all vague statement that says no without sounding like no.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Sun, 29 December 2013, 03:29:14
I very much doubt Akimbro is ever going to have to eat his shoe. The likelihood that Unicomp will ever produce something new, is pretty close to the likelihood that the US will quit invading and bombing other people's countries and close down their 700+ military bases overseas.

I strongly support Mkawa and anybody's SSK revival. A revival launched and organized by fans is much, much more likely to come true than anything from Unicomp. Remember, these guys actually think geriatric extra-large font keycaps is a Big Big Awesome Change.

The average Unicomp Engineer is probably in his 60s and merely trying to make enough money to put aside for retirement. So when he 'works on something', it's just a corporate statement made to pacify other people. It's not a scheduled product launch, it's a BS cover-all vague statement that says no without sounding like no.

Unicomp has obviously been dragging its feet in terms of innovation, however there must at some point be a passing of the torch, when the old generation passes its legacy to the new. Even though the founding members of Unicomp are most probably preparing for retirement, they may want to go out in style. And what better way to ensure the company's future than an SSK?

Even within the company, there have been calls for outside pressure:

Unicomp customization
Quote from: cactux;485166
As you may notice people love full customization ( different shells colors, multiple keycaps colors, etc). 
Is Unicomp willing to provide suche degree of custumisation to there customers. Also as you may know the ten key less boards are very popular ( The real space savers) are you going to offer that this kind of boards, like in the old IBM days?

I see there is a HUGE request for a tenkeyless keyboard.... please submit your request at http://support.pckeyboard.com (http://support.pckeyboard.com) !!!  pressure pressure pressure! ;)
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: MKULTRA on Sun, 29 December 2013, 05:23:53
Dude its never happening.  Sorry.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BlackWidowMan777 on Sun, 29 December 2013, 05:34:09
Dude its never happening.  Sorry.

No worries. If it does it does. If not - I'm not holding my breath  :))

I might get a Classic 104 Trackball though. That way I don't need to save space for my mouse.

Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: tp4tissue on Sun, 29 December 2013, 06:26:37
Dude its never happening.  Sorry.


if you're so confident in that, take the SSK shoe-challenge.. (http://a.deviantart.net/avatars/k/a/kaminaonionplz.gif?1)
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: BucklingSpring on Sun, 29 December 2013, 10:26:10
Would be nice to have a Unicomp rep to shim in.

There is so few Keyboard Forums. It wouldn't be that hard.
Title: Re: verified: Unicomp SSK in the works!
Post by: Aer Fixus on Sun, 29 December 2013, 12:54:00
Would be nice to have a Unicomp rep to shim in.

There is so few Keyboard Forums. It wouldn't be that hard.
The likelihood that there is a rep that browses all of the forums and knows about this one particular topic at this particular time where we want their input is unlikely.