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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: capSAR on Thu, 29 May 2014, 18:09:02

Title: 1980's Adesso MCK-142Pro Mechanical Keyboard
Post by: capSAR on Thu, 29 May 2014, 18:09:02

Hey guys! So at work, my elderly boss gave me this keyboard, the box is unopened (no tape on the outside), and there is still Styrofoam around the keyboard. The manual and floppy disk are also in the box. I have looked all over for how much this keyboard might be worth, but since it hasn't been around since the 80's, I didn't have much luck. If the keyboard isn't worth much, I'll just start using it, since I love the "clack-clack" and have never owned a mechanical keyboard. What are your experiences with the MCK-142Pro, and do you think it is valuable in new condition? Thanks guys!

Image: (http://i.imgur.com/E16DURZ.jpg?1)

Title: Re: 1980's Adesso MCK-142Pro Mechanical Keyboard
Post by: capSAR on Thu, 29 May 2014, 18:27:14

I realize that this might be in the wrong board ._. I'm sorry

Title: Re: 1980's Adesso MCK-142Pro Mechanical Keyboard
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 29 May 2014, 18:54:57

You should take a picture of the keyboard with a keycap pulled off. I'm not sure what switches are in it nor have I ever heard of it. I also doubt that it is super valuable. I'm guessing it's a variant of Alps.

I found this manual (http://www.manualslib.com/manual/206208/Adesso-Mck-142pro.html#manual) but it didn't tell me what switch is in it.

Edit: According to this DT sale thread (http://deskthority.net/marketplace-f11/ortek-mck-142pro-ibm-model-m-alcatel-mfii-chicony-kb-5582-t4799.html#p91544), it has Clicky White Alps (http://deskthority.net/wiki/Alps_SKCM_White) in it. White Alps aren't that sought after but the layout is odd which may change the value a bit. Personally, I wouldn't pay more than $40 for the board. Sorry, if it's NIB, it might be worth something else as well. I'm really not sure what now though.

Title: Re: 1980's Adesso MCK-142Pro Mechanical Keyboard
Post by: capSAR on Thu, 29 May 2014, 21:59:01

Thanks for the info! All I could dig up is an old amazon listing from '09. Had to throw out the batteries that were packaged inside, as they were completely destroyed. Once I find a way to take it apart I'll let you know the switches.

Title: Re: 1980's Adesso MCK-142Pro Mechanical Keyboard
Post by: PointyFox on Thu, 29 May 2014, 22:06:00

A similar used one recently went for almost $300 on eBay.  ;)

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ortek-Technology-Clicky-Style-Model-MCK-142Pro-Programmable-Keyboard-/151238844168?pt=US_Vintage_Computing_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2336899f08 (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Ortek-Technology-Clicky-Style-Model-MCK-142Pro-Programmable-Keyboard-/151238844168?pt=US_Vintage_Computing_Parts_Accessories&hash=item2336899f08)

Title: Re: 1980's Adesso MCK-142Pro Mechanical Keyboard
Post by: jacobolus on Thu, 29 May 2014, 22:33:02

Wow. I would have expected the price to top out at maybe $80.

I’d be surprised if it had something other than complicated white Alps switches.

Title: Re: 1980's Adesso MCK-142Pro Mechanical Keyboard
Post by: CPTBadAss on Thu, 29 May 2014, 22:34:05

Yeah I certainly wouldn't pay that much...I think jacoblus is right about the $80 mark.