geekhack
geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: grazed on Fri, 27 March 2015, 16:37:03
-
Hi guys, I stumbled across this community while trying to research the model in the title. I figured I'd return the favor by posting quite the deal and pictures of what I got in the mail!
I happened upon this ebay auction: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Unitech-Classic-K258-PS2-Wired-Keyboard-brand-new-/251876823366?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3aa5075146
Figured for $20, it was worth a shot for original white ALPS new in box. Sure enough, it arrived brand new, still wrapped in original packaging! Even the box was in immaculate condition. I'm pretty sure the seller has no idea what they're actually worth (he somehow mislabed the board as rubber dome on the auction?). :)
Here's an album of images that I took: http://imgur.com/a/9TxZy
Here's what it sounds like (though my phone doesn't really do it justice, it's very clicky clacky): https://clyp.it/wsilvcri
-
Thanks! I just ordered one.
-
Glad I could help!
OT: Is there anywhere that sells keycaps for these boards (original white ALPS)? Everything I find is seemingly conflicting.
-
Glad I could help!
OT: Is there anywhere that sells keycaps for these boards (original white ALPS)? Everything I find is seemingly conflicting.
Heh, that's the problem. Alps is so disparate, that it's hard to find common ground.
There is an interest check for a set of Alps modifiers here (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=68887.0), but the stabilized keys may not work with your keyboard. Can you pull a cap off one of the longer keys (Left Shift maybe?) to let me see what type of stabilizers it uses?
-
Is this Clickey?
-
Glad I could help!
OT: Is there anywhere that sells keycaps for these boards (original white ALPS)? Everything I find is seemingly conflicting.
Heh, that's the problem. Alps is so disparate, that it's hard to find common ground.
There is an interest check for a set of Alps modifiers here (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=68887.0), but the stabilized keys may not work with your keyboard. Can you pull a cap off one of the longer keys (Left Shift maybe?) to let me see what type of stabilizers it uses?
I swapped the delete and numlock key earlier just by popping them off with my fingers, but the larger ones don't seem to be so easy. I'll have to see if I have forceps laying around later, I'm currently at work. I'll update the thread tonight.
Is this Clickey?
Extremely. It's louder than my previous CM Storm with blue switches by a good amount.
-
Looks like they're sold out now. That was quick.
-
This is a great find, white Alps in good condition are fantastic switches, and the price is amazing! I would HIGHLY recommend getting one of these, if I didn't have several White Alps boards already, I'd definitely have gotten one!
Trust me, once you try these, you'll never go back to your Cherry MX Blues :) .
Also do NOT use forceps to pull caps. Alps mount caps are sometimes quite hard to remove and if they snap off, there is pretty much no salvation. Better to get a cap puller for $2.
-
Also do NOT use forceps to pull caps. Alps mount caps are sometimes quite hard to remove and if they snap off, there is pretty much no salvation. Better to get a cap puller for $2.
Well I'm glad you posted this before I got home and attempted it, thank you! I'll order a puller ASAP.
Looks like they're sold out now. That was quick.
They're back in stock now. I have a feeling they might get hip to something being amiss though and eventually pull the auction at that price since so many were purchased in the last hour or so.
-
They're back in stock now. I have a feeling they might get hip to something being amiss though and eventually pull the auction at that price since so many were purchased in the last hour or so.
That in mind, I would be afraid of them not honoring the sale because they know they can probably get more for them. If that's the case, everyone who that happens to should drop a big fat negative on them. With that seller having such low feedback, their eBay career would be over pretty fast.
Edit: And as I say that, I received a shipment notification email. Looks like they're going to follow through. I'm looking forward to getting this. I plan to use it when I work from home since the wife will be at work and the kid at daycare.
-
This looks great, I ordered one and will post pictures once it arrives. Thanks for posting about it!
-
I actually just ordered one too hope it get here soon and I've never tried alps switches so I really wanted to try them out
-
Unfortunately, it looks like the seller got wise and bumped the price to $100. :(
It was fun while it lasted, looks like a lot of you guys took advantage of the deal though (30+ sold!), so there's that!
-
Unfortunately, it looks like the seller got wise and bumped the price to $100.
The seller might have done this to stop orders because of a backlog because the price is back down to $26 shipped. It's strange because apparently there were on sale for $24 for a bit.
-
I see the price was $19 and is up to $26--it's a good deal. I ordered one; my first Alps keyboard.
-
I just ordered one as well. I tried last night but saw the $100 price and left immediately. Thought I missed it!
-
At $100 a KB, I'd not have ordered one either; but at $26, it's a deal. From 3/28 to 3/30 they increased the price from $19.99 to $23.99, then to $25.99. I don't deny them the few extra dollars. I ordered mine earlier today; and received a message that the keyboard has shipped via a FedEx service. I should have mine my by April 7, according to their e-mail. I've never used an Alps keyboard, this will be interesting for me.
-
Yes considering free shipping in the US, this is definitely a deal. The cheapest shipping I think I have seen for a keyboard was $12 for a noppoo choc mini. So I would say this keyboard is worth $8-$15 :D
-
Damn, shipping to Germany is 40$ ...
-
Lots of people's first Alps board I see, should be really nice for those that prefer heavier, highly clicky and tactile switches. Let us know what you think of them, guys! :)
-
Lots of people's first Alps board I see, should be really nice for those that prefer heavier, highly clicky and tactile switches. Let us know what you think of them, guys! :)
I'd love to try those switches. Still fighting over it in my head whether to go for it or not.
-
Lots of people's first Alps board I see, should be really nice for those that prefer heavier, highly clicky and tactile switches. Let us know what you think of them, guys! :)
I'd love to try those switches. Still fighting over it in my head whether to go for it or not.
The only question should be, one or two?
-
Why would I buy two?
-
The only question should be, one or two?
[/quote]
I laughed because I've been thinking the same thought! One or two?
-
Why would I buy two?
For twice the reasons you would buy one, of course.
-
Thanks, grazed, I just got one. I'm an ALPS virgin, so it's nice to start with one of their better variants—and what a price for NIB!
It's great when someone spots an opportunity like this, where there's (probably) enough for everyone.
-
Just ordered one for 26.
-
Just ordered one as well.
I've been looking for an ALPS board for ages.
Thanks for this link!
-
Just snagged one for $26!! Says there are 2 left! Now I'll finally have mx, topre, and alps boards!
-
Also just nabbed one. Thanks for the heads up!
-
Getting ready for the K258. I'll use a Ziotek, which is a sizable adapter, so I added a USB jumper, all are left-over from my Model M days. The adapter takes up too much space regardless of where I connect it, back of my PC or USB hub. I know this is not new to GH; but it's been a slow day, so I decided to take a photo and post this.
By the way, I checked ebay, the inexpensive K258 KBs have sold out. I'm sure the seller can credit the OP for this.
-
By the way, I checked ebay, the inexpensive K258 KBs have sold out. I'm sure the seller can credit the OP for this.
Haha, for sure! Apparently there were 59, and they sold out in what, four days? At $20-26 a pop, that's a pretty nice haul :) .
Again let us know what you think of the board, guys! Post a review or something when you get them :) .
-
Any reason for using USB vs PS2 if you've got the PS2 connection? My desktop has a PS2 port which is great, as it will free up a USB port.
-
I don't have a PS2 input on my PC. it's either USB or nada.
I'll be sure to comment on the keyboard after giving it an initial run through. It'd be nice to have a feedback thread for this KB.
-
If you have a PS2 port, go nuts. Those of us who use laptops need to be more creative.
Speaking of, I need to buy that adapter and extension cable.
-
I don't have a PS2 input on my PC. it's either USB or nada.
I'll be sure to comment on the keyboard after giving it an initial run through. It'd be nice to have a feedback thread for this KB.
Ok! That's kind of what I figured! Ordered after midnight last night and it's already shipped!
-
Ok! That's kind of what I figured! Ordered after midnight last night and it's already shipped!
[/quote]
I have to credit the seller for super-fast shipping: mine went out about three hours after I placed my order. Yeah, a PS2 port would be nice to have.
-
Picked one up as well. Going to be nice to have a nice alps board.
-
Is anyone here familiar with these switches? Like are they really Alps, or an Alps imitation? And are they good Alps or just OK ones?
-
i'm also curious about the keycaps as alps replacements are hard to find. guess i can find out for myself soon enough...
-
i'm also curious about the keycaps as alps replacements are hard to find. guess i can find out for myself soon enough...
I'm not sure whether these are good or bad ALPS switches (never used an ALPS board), but they're apparently original whites, so they're not of the fake variety.
The vendor paperwork that I've found referenced MS DOS and Windows 3.1 as current operating systems, so these things were made pre '95, which should further put them into original ALPS territory.
-
"Original" White Alps would be SKCM White, which is the best variety of White Alps switch. I've found these to be excellent when in good condition.
-
Thanks for the heads up!
Currently there's no more boards. Hope more are added later so I can snag one.
-
I should've bought two.
-
I should've bought two.
The seller should've probably charged more. Based on the reaction here and quick sale, they could probably easily have gotten $40-plus, especially since the boards are brand new. With FedEx shipping being at least $8-10 a pop, plus eBay and PayPal fees, they're not making more than a couple dollars on each unit sold. Hopefully they acquired their stock for free or close to it.
-
I gather the seller wanted to get rid of the keyboards. From what I've read about the K258, Unitech has discontinued the keyboard. The majority of their KBs are targeted for point-of-sale with a slot for swiping credit-cards. I would think they are built for longevity. We shall see.
-
I gather the seller wanted to get rid of the keyboards. From what I've read about the K258, Unitech has discontinued the keyboard. The majority of their KBs are targeted for point-of-sale with a slot for swiping credit-cards. I would think they are built for longevity. We shall see.
Worst case, it's a crap board and we all paid $26 for a full set of white Alps switches to use on some DIY project.
-
I gather the seller wanted to get rid of the keyboards. From what I've read about the K258, Unitech has discontinued the keyboard. The majority of their KBs are targeted for point-of-sale with a slot for swiping credit-cards. I would think they are built for longevity. We shall see.
Worst case, it's a crap board and we all paid $26 for a full set of white Alps switches to use on some DIY project.
Good point; and a worthy end-use. I'm really curious to see how the keyboard performs. Alps and Unitech are new to me.
-
He has 1 last board for sale, made a new auction for it: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Unitech-Classic-K258-PS2-Wired-Keyboard-brand-new-/251900959161?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3aa67799b9
-
Grazed, now that you've had the keyboard for short while, what do you think of it?
-
He has 1 last board for sale, made a new auction for it: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Unitech-Classic-K258-PS2-Wired-Keyboard-brand-new-/251900959161?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3aa67799b9
And it was quickly gone. Mine should be arriving tomorrow, along with USB adapter and extension cable.
-
Grazed, now that you've had the keyboard for short while, what do you think of it?
I should have done that earlier I suppose, I've been busy the last few days. Sorry guys!
The Feel:
Pros:
Typing on it is great, IMO (I'm sort of directly comparing this to blue switches in a CM Storm). The keys aren't as stiff as I thought they would be, and they seem to actuate earlier (seems like 2/5th~ the way down?). The sound is definitely more satisfying than blues, there's a LOT more bass to the clicky clacky. The downside I suppose to that is that the thing is much louder. It can easily be heard a room over if you're a heavy handed typist.
Gaming on it also feels good. The keys have enough resistance to them that you don't accidentally register WASD presses by resting your fingers on the keys, and the travel time to actuate is low enough that twitch reflexes are executed plenty fast enough, at least for me.
Mixed Bag:
Stabilizers. They're FANTASTIC on the space bar and the other large keys (you can use the absolute edge of the space bar and have it feel like you're pressing down in the middle), except for one key, the enter key. I don't know if it's because of the shape or the way they placed the switch, but it feels a bit off compared to the rest of the board. It's not stiff, it's not necessarily bad, it just feels different! The feedback when the switch goes off feels to be muffled, and it bottoms out a bit easier than the other keys.
Build Quality:
The Good:
The build quality is good. It's heavy, feels like a good 3 pounds, there's definitely a sizable metal plate in there. The plastic used for the frame is thick, feels like it's made out of the same stuff that the SNES was, if any of you owned that in your childhood. That said, if you pick it up and twist, it still has some flex to it. It doesn't detract from how sturdy it feels, you definitely get the impression that this board can take a beating.
Mixed Bag:
Key consistency was a little weird for a few keys. Some weren't as "crunchy" as others, probably from aging. They all felt the same though, and you wouldn't be able to tell if you had headphones on or something, it was strictly an audible difference, not a tactile one.
This can apparently be fixed in all of 2 minutes by popping off the cap and then popping off the top of the switch and adjusting the spring:
Whether or not I'm going to do it for all of 3 keys, I don't know. All of the keys seem to be normalizing after some use anyway, so it's becoming harder and harder to tell the difference.
Conclusion:
I'm very happy with it, probably the best $20 I have ever spent on a computer peripheral. I adore the ALPS feel compared to Cherry for some reason, it just make typing a bit more enjoyable, and prevents heavy handed mistakes in gaming, for me.
I wish I would have purchased more of them!
-
Thanks for the update. Sounds like you made a great buy. This will be my first keyboard with Alps switches. If they're a bit beefier than MX Blue switches, it may have the resistance I prefer.
I think a few of us regret not getting two--it's a backup thing, I suppose. Mine is due to be delivered on Monday. Thanks for the response, grazed. Enjoy your Unitech.
-
Nice review, Grazed! Glad you like the switches :) . If you or anyone needs some help with any switches that feel wrong, let me know :) . And yeah, the Alps actuation point is a little higher up than that of Cherries.
-
Thanks for the review grazed :)
Really looking forward to this new experience.
-
Grazed, thanks for including the video link. I found it informative, never having worked on Alps switches.
Question for you: If you've had any of your K258 key caps off, what color Alps switches are on the keyboard?
Again, thank you for the tip on where to get this keyboard and your recent overview. Greatly appreciated.
-
Grazed, thanks for including the video link. I found it informative, never having worked on Alps switches.
Question for you: If you've had any of your K258 key caps off, what color Alps switches are on the keyboard?
Again, thank you for the tip on where to get this keyboard and your recent overview. Greatly appreciated.
No problem! I swapped the delete and num lock keys shortly after I got it and remapped it via software. I didn't take a picture of it (should have, it came up a few times elsewhere!), but here's a post from 2009 that shows the switch: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=5815.0
It's actually the thread that introduced me to this community after a long while of googling for information on the board. :)
-
Mine is scheduled to be here tomorrow. I can't wait. Sadly I forgot to order my ps2-usb adapter, so I'll have to wait a while longer to actually use it.
-
Mine is scheduled to be here tomorrow. I can't wait. Sadly I forgot to order my ps2-usb adapter, so I'll have to wait a while longer to actually use it.
Mine KB was scheduled to come in on Monday, but it's coming in tomorrow! I'll have to do a mini review this weekend.
-
As someone who presses spacebar with their right thumb, that layout is b0rked.
-
got mine today. it's pretty neat, but the 1.25u alt key where the windows key normally is bugs me. keep hitting space when i mean to hit alt. 1.5u ctrl and alt would be much preferred. i like the low pitch thunk the keys give off.
the caps definitely aren't doubleshot but i'm not entirely sure what they are. i can feel the legends on them. material feels like ABS to me but i'm hardly an expert.
-
got mine today. it's pretty neat, but the 1.25u alt key where the windows key normally is bugs me. keep hitting space when i mean to hit alt. 1.5u ctrl and alt would be much preferred. i like the low pitch thunk the keys give off.
the caps definitely aren't doubleshot but i'm not entirely sure what they are. i can feel the legends on them. material feels like ABS to me but i'm hardly an expert.
Is the lettering raised or the opposite?
-
feels very slightly raised.
-
Probably dyesubbed. One of my old boards also has raised dyesubbed lettering.
-
Rec'd the keyboard this morning and used it for about 30 minutes: the keyboard works fine, but it's not for me. I'm addicted to Topre key switches.
-
I just got mine in the mail this morning!
[attach=1]
The keys really do feel like slightly stiffer MX blues with a lower-tone click. I really like this layout, as well. It's very similar to a Cherry 1800 layout. I might try this on my desk for a while instead of my full-size Ducky Shine III, just because two full-size boards on my desk at once can make things seem pretty cramped.
I do notice a bit more wobble in the keys compared to my MX boards, although I'm not sure whether that's the Alps switches or the caps causing it. It's nothing major but it is noticeable.
Speaking of keycaps, these seem to be ABS, a bit on the thin side, but not the thinnest I've seen.
[attach=5]
The legends appear to be laser-etched and filled. Here are some pseudo-macro shots I made with a machinist's loupe and my Moto X camera:
[attach=2] [attach=3] [attach=4]
The ISO layout is funky, as ISO layouts are. although I have to say I prefer the smaller backspace to make room for the slash rather than the smaller left shift on some layouts. Maybe that's because I use backspace less often. I guess I make fewer mistakes than I make capital letters.
All in all, not a bad way to spend $26.
-
Just got delivered and am typing this with it, I really like the initial feel of the switches, a little louder and heavier than my MX Blue keyboard and about as tactile. However, as this is my first iso board I keep missing the backspace, otherwise I think the size and key layout (besides being iso) are ideal. I will type on it all weekend and post a review. Otherwise again a great find and thanks for letting everyone know grazed!
-
I do notice a bit more wobble in the keys compared to my MX boards, although I'm not sure whether that's the Alps switches or the caps causing it. It's nothing major but it is noticeable.
Don't worry, it's not the caps; that's normal for Alps switches :) . Compared to Cherries, they definitely wobble more.
The legends appear to be laser-etched and filled. Here are some pseudo-macro shots I made with a machinist's loupe and my Moto X camera:
(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
They're definitely lasered, but unless it's an optical illusion, they don't look filled-in to me Oo . They look just like AT101W caps, in fact.
-
I do notice a bit more wobble in the keys compared to my MX boards, although I'm not sure whether that's the Alps switches or the caps causing it. It's nothing major but it is noticeable.
Don't worry, it's not the caps; that's normal for Alps switches :) . Compared to Cherries, they definitely wobble more.
The legends appear to be laser-etched and filled. Here are some pseudo-macro shots I made with a machinist's loupe and my Moto X camera:
(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
They're definitely lasered, but unless it's an optical illusion, they don't look filled-in to me Oo . They look just like AT101W caps, in fact.
So the color is just the burn from the laser. Makes sense.
-
Can we get dimensions? Thanks!
-
Just got my board today as well!
Feels quite nice to type on, definitely more wobbly switches compared to MX as others have said. For some reason the 1u backspace on this board doesn't bother me as much as the one on the Pure Pro did.
100% worth hehe :)
-
the 1u backspace is a minor annoyance. having my spacebar under the X key where i expect my alt... that makes me stabby. great keyboard otherwise though.
-
Oh, by the way, it's a minor thing, but these aren't ISO. They are ANSI with Asian ("Bigass") Enter. :)
-
I do notice a bit more wobble in the keys compared to my MX boards, although I'm not sure whether that's the Alps switches or the caps causing it. It's nothing major but it is noticeable.
Don't worry, it's not the caps; that's normal for Alps switches :) . Compared to Cherries, they definitely wobble more.
The legends appear to be laser-etched and filled. Here are some pseudo-macro shots I made with a machinist's loupe and my Moto X camera:
(Attachment Link) (Attachment Link) (Attachment Link)
They're definitely lasered, but unless it's an optical illusion, they don't look filled-in to me Oo . They look just like AT101W caps, in fact.
I just realized that you're the person in the repair video that I linked earlier in the thread. <.<
I dig your videos!
-
Oh, by the way, it's a minor thing, but these aren't ISO. They are ANSI with Asian ("Bigass") Enter. :)
No matter. It's about to be a pile of desoldered white Alps. After a few days' use, this thing is just too rickety for regular use.
-
Oh, by the way, it's a minor thing, but these aren't ISO. They are ANSI with Asian ("Bigass") Enter. :)
No matter. It's about to be a pile of desoldered white Alps. After a few days' use, this thing is just too rickety for regular use.
Something structurally wrong with your board? Maybe I'm just lucky, but the board I've been using and the board the lady friend has been using still feel the same from the day we got them (date from OP).
-
Oh, by the way, it's a minor thing, but these aren't ISO. They are ANSI with Asian ("Bigass") Enter. :)
No matter. It's about to be a pile of desoldered white Alps. After a few days' use, this thing is just too rickety for regular use.
Something structurally wrong with your board? Maybe I'm just lucky, but the board I've been using and the board the lady friend has been using still feel the same from the day we got them (date from OP).
It just overall doesn't feel very solid or firm. That, combined with the wonky layout (backspace, spacebar, right modifiers), make for an overall unpleasant experience.
All in all, I don't regret the purchase, especially for the price I paid. I just think these white Alps switches have more potential in some kind of custom project.
-
Got mine in today :)
Random info and question
It's about 15.5x6.5 inch
Came with plastic cover :thumb:
It's interesting about that languages it may have came in.
I had a question because on my newer motherboard (the ps/2 hookup where both mouse and keyboard are together, green and purple) the keyboard doesn't work. However in an older motherboard (mouse and keyboard hook up separate) it works. Is this a design issue?
Also I tried popping a keycap but it was so difficult to do so I stopped. I am coming from MX so maybe the pressure is different.
And what is a good way to get that awful postage off of the box :'( I had mild success.
Glad I bought it :thumb:
(http://s3.postimg.org/srtazsti7/IMG_2343.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/srtazsti7/)
(http://s3.postimg.org/xcfheqd7j/IMG_2344.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/xcfheqd7j/)
(http://s3.postimg.org/kicu7nae7/IMG_2345.jpg) (http://postimg.org/image/kicu7nae7/)
-
I just realized that you're the person in the repair video that I linked earlier in the thread. <.<
I dig your videos!
Correct ^^ . Cheers mate, glad you like the videos! I'll be posting another one soon, when I get back home from being back home! (:P)
Also I tried popping a keycap but it was so difficult to do so I stopped. I am coming from MX so maybe the pressure is different.
Cherry mount caps are fairly easy to pull compared to other types. Alps especially is a fairly stubborn mount and you will need a key cap puller to take them off. Do NOT attempt to take them off without using a tool made for it (check my Alps restoration video for a description on how to make a tool out of paper clips for this purpose) because if you try to pull them with pens or knives or pincers or other unspecialised tools they might snap off and at that point you're somewhat ****ed.
-
My roommates tell me that mine came in yesterday, but I'm on vacation 2000 miles away :(
Is it sad that I'm ready to cut my vacation short and head home just to check it out?
-
My roommates tell me that mine came in yesterday, but I'm on vacation 2000 miles away :(
Is it sad that I'm ready to cut my vacation short and head home just to check it out?
It's not THAT good of a board to cut a vacation short, in my opinion. Just have some fun on vacation. :p
-
My roommates tell me that mine came in yesterday, but I'm on vacation 2000 miles away :(
Is it sad that I'm ready to cut my vacation short and head home just to check it out?
If I was your roommate you would return to a nice rubber dome keyboard :P
-
So I got home from vacation today and tried the Unitek... No dice! Num lock light comes on, but none of the keystrokes register. I'm on Windows 8.1, is there anything I need to configure? All of my previous boards have been plug and play :(
Thanks.
-
Are you using a PS/2 port or a USB one? If the latter, are you using a simple adapter, or an active converter?
-
Are you using a PS/2 port or a USB one? If the latter, are you using a simple adapter, or an active converter?
PS/2!
-
active USB converter
-
Are you using a PS/2 port or a USB one? If the latter, are you using a simple adapter, or an active converter?
PS/2!
Have you tried an active USB converter? One or two of my PS/2 boards didn't want to run on my PS/2 either, I had to USB them.
-
A lot of times hotplugging PS/2 requires a reboot, even on newer computers. But if you use a PS/2 to USB converter, a reboot is not necessary.
-
A lot of times hotplugging PS/2 requires a reboot, even on newer computers. But if you use a PS/2 to USB converter, a reboot is not necessary.
i've also heard there's a possibility hotplugging PS/2 can blow out your motherboard. not sure if that still applies to modern machines, but better safe than sorry.
-
I just picked up my K-258 at our friends's in WA (it didn't make much sense to spend more on postage than the board), so I'm the last one to get mine.
I immediately noticed that it wasn't white, as the overexposed eBay photo:
(http://img.auctiva.com/imgdata/1/9/1/5/3/2/9/webimg/758946513_o.jpg)
...had made it seem. Rather, it's IBM beige/brown. So it looks more like a baby Model M, which is okay with me. It was just a bit surprising—at first I thought they'd sent me the wrong board.
The clear dust cover is a nice touch, as is the substantial M-style coiled cable. (I suppose this was made before cables started getting cheapened down along with everything else.)
Yup, genuine white ALPS all right (unless there are counterfeits that say "ALPS"?). As I mentioned, this is my first ALPS board ever, and getting a NIB pre-Windows one this cheap is a thrill. It's delightfully clicky... The switches feel very much like Cherry MX blues to me—just as crisp, and loud enough to look forward to using them to annoy my family. :?)
I swapped the delete and num lock keys shortly after I got it and remapped it via software...
Yeah, the layout is funny, isn't it? Can't blame njbair for thinking it was ISO; I've never seen one quite like it either.
I'm not crazy about the half-size Backspace. And yeah, it was quite odd putting Insert and Delete on the bottom row and pushing over the spacebar like that. I sympathize with metalliqaz ("As someone who presses spacebar with their right thumb, that layout is b0rked"), but apparently I tend to keep my hands more toward the KB's center, as I haven't missed the spacebar yet.
The big-ass Enter looks even more big-assed than usual on this little board. Humourously big-ass. Typing-wise, though, it doesn't bother me at all. (I never did get why BAEs turn some people off so much... The bottom half, where a regular-size Enter usually is, is the same shape as a regular-size Enter; it just has an extra piece above that, which you're free to ignore. Maybe I'm missing something.)
I'm typing this review on the Unitek (seemed appropriate), and it's taken me only a few minutes to adjust to it. Personally, I think it's good for our brains to cycle through some odd layouts. You not only get used to each layout, you develop the general skill of adapting to all odd layouts. With the right attitude, we're remarkably adaptable creatures—and new challenges are what enabled us to evolve that way.
So to sum up, despite the quirks, this was definitely worth the dough to me. Thanks again, grazed!
And what is a good way to get that awful postage off of the box...?
Funny—they reversed my box so it's plain on the outside and printed on the inside. Wonder why they started bothering? Maybe the P.O. complained about the printing?
A lot of times hotplugging PS/2 requires a reboot, even on newer computers. But if you use a PS/2 to USB converter, a reboot is not necessary.
i've also heard there's a possibility hotplugging PS/2 can blow out your motherboard. not sure if that still applies to modern machines...
It sure does! You should never hot-plug PS/2; it wasn't designed for that. I don't know about blowing out your mobo, but you can certainly blow out your PS/2 adapter (which is part of your mobo, and thus not replaceable). This is why USB was so cool when it came out—it could be hotplugged.
Once you connect your board to an active USB adapter, though, as far as your PC's concerned, it's a USB device—so hotplugging it then is no problem.
-
Yup, genuine white ALPS all right (unless there are counterfeits that say "ALPS"?).
Hahaha, would you believe it, there actually are xD . Some clones were built using stolen, discarded housings from genuine Alps switches. They still lack the Alps mould numbering, though, and the ones in your Unitek are definitely genuine :) . Glad you like it! :)
-
I think I may have initially been too hard on this board. I've been using it all day just to give it another chance and it's been pretty nice.
I'm trying to figure out why I disliked it so much at first. I think it was mostly about adapting to the odd layout. But I've also changed my ergonomic setup since then and I think that's a huge part of it. I had been having minor trouble with stiffness in my wrists so I moved everything back on my desk so that my entire arm from the elbow up can rest on the desk while I type. That has made a huge difference. But I think the key is that, with my forearms on the desk, I don't have to use the feet on my keyboards. Having the feet extended, I think, makes boards seem more rickety and rattly.
It's still not the most solid board, and I really don't like that 1U backspace, but I'm doing OK now for the most part. Maybe this Unitech won't end up in the scrap PCB pile after all.
-
Yup, genuine white ALPS all right (unless there are counterfeits that say "ALPS"?).
Hahaha, would you believe it, there actually are xD . Some clones were built using stolen, discarded housings from genuine Alps switches. They still lack the Alps mould numbering, though, and the ones in your Unitek are definitely genuine...
No kidding! Well, I see Unitek's still in business (http://us.ute.com/about_unitech.php?rbu=5)—having changed their name to Unitech (go figure)—and their About page sez:
Unitech has consistently upheld the core values in Honesty & Integrity, Collaboration, Excellence, and Profit sharing to serve its valuable partners around the world...
So, as corporations never lie, we can safely assume we have real ALPSes. LOL
I'm trying to figure out why I disliked it so much at first. I think it was mostly about adapting to the odd layout. But I've also changed my ergonomic setup since then and I think that's a huge part of it. I had been having minor trouble with stiffness in my wrists so I moved everything back on my desk so that my entire arm from the elbow up can rest on the desk while I type. That has made a huge difference. But I think the key is that, with my forearms on the desk, I don't have to use the feet on my keyboards...
Glad to hear about your progress. I'm not a doctor, but I think it's possible that many typing-related pains and other injuries are caused by doing too much work—esp. with smaller muscles—without warming up a bit first.
For what it's worth, as a musician, I've learned what a difference it makes to warm up before any serious playing. So before I start typing, I take a minute to warm up too. Briefly, here's what I do:
1. Hold my arms out horizontally, hands open, and gently stretch backwards.
2. Clasp my hands above my head, palms forward, and push upward.
3. Rotate my wrists a few times in either direction.
4. Put my fingertips together, then slowly and gently press them together.
5. Using the middle knuckle of one hand's index finger, stretch the other hand's thumb muscle by slowly rubbing it toward the wrist.
6. "Wring" my hands like I'm washing them, but with the object of them massaging each other. (Hard to describe, easy to do.)
It takes only a minute, but it feels good, and—for me, at least—it makes typing much more comfortable Here's a webpage (http://www.livestrong.com/article/130878-hand-warmup-exercises/) with some other pre-typing warmups, in case you're interested.
Another entirely possible cause of injury is that many of us type so damn much in one sitting! I have a free little timer app that I set to 30 minutes. Each time it goes off, I force myself to stand, stretch, and take a break, even if I'm right in the middle of something. It's not good for your body to sit for long periods; it can cause all kinds of other problems too. Plus, when you take a minute away from what you're working on, you often return to it a bit fresher, with new and better ideas.
(Sorry for the topic drift, BTW... It can happen when you get people together who like to type!)
-
Those are all good tips. More importantly, I recently re-started a workout routine. Got a gym buddy this time so hopefully we'll keep each other accountable.
-
A lot of times hotplugging PS/2 requires a reboot, even on newer computers. But if you use a PS/2 to USB converter, a reboot is not necessary.
This did it! Originally, I'd plugged it before booting up and it wouldn't see it, didn't even think to restart it :p
Thanks!!
-
I've found only one baffling thing about this little KB: When I type codes for extended ASCII characters (e.g. Alt+0151 for long dash), it gets about half of them wrong. Any idea why it'd do that?
-
Did we figure out what the printing method was used on the keycaps?
-
I've found only one baffling thing about this little KB: When I type codes for extended ASCII characters (e.g. Alt+0151 for long dash), it gets about half of them wrong. Any idea why it'd do that?
Does it produce normal scan codes for those keys?
-
Did we figure out what the printing method was used on the keycaps?
Looks like dye-sub to me. (With laser engraving, there are usually little stop/start marks in thick places like arrow heads, aren't there?) Very nicely done, too—fine detail, no bleeding. And it's brown rather than black, which is sweet.
Does it produce normal scan codes for those keys?
That'd be the thing to check, wouldn't it? However, it turns out that because the spacebar is farther left than usual, I was actually holding that, not left Alt, and looking only at the tenkey. Isn't it nice knowing what bubbleheads people can be so you can feel brilliant by comparison? No, don't thank me—I'm glad to provide that service, and do it regularly. :?P
-
Does it produce normal scan codes for those keys?
That'd be the thing to check, wouldn't it? However, it turns out that because the spacebar is farther left than usual, I was actually holding that, not left Alt, and looking only at the tenkey. Isn't it nice knowing what bubbleheads people can be so you can feel brilliant by comparison? No, don't thank me—I'm glad to provide that service, and do it regularly. :?P
Thanks anyway, I could use the encouragement atm xD .
-
Did we figure out what the printing method was used on the keycaps?
Looks like dye-sub to me. (With laser engraving, there are usually little stop/start marks in thick places like arrow heads, aren't there?) Very nicely done, too—fine detail, no bleeding. And it's brown rather than black, which is sweet.
Nope, these are laser-engraved. But they are not infilled, just burnt brown by the laser. But they're pretty well done at that. If you just ever so lightly rub the keys, you can feel the raised bits on some of them. Also, here are some super-closeups I shot earlier in the thread: https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=70391.msg1704261#msg1704261
-
Nope, these are laser-engraved. But they are not infilled, just burnt brown by the laser. But they're pretty well done at that. If you just ever so lightly rub the keys, you can feel the raised bits on some of them. Also, here are some super-closeups I shot earlier in the thread...
This is one of the great subtleties of KB manufacture I'd like to comprehend. So generally, if you can see impressions where the characters are, they've been lasered? In your first photo, the "A" actually looks raised, not engraved—but maybe that's just an illusion of the light. And I don't see any relief whatsoever on Caps Lock. But I suppose you can assume that if some keys are obviously engraved, they must all be.
-
Nope, these are laser-engraved. But they are not infilled, just burnt brown by the laser. But they're pretty well done at that. If you just ever so lightly rub the keys, you can feel the raised bits on some of them. Also, here are some super-closeups I shot earlier in the thread...
This is one of the great subtleties of KB manufacture I'd like to comprehend. So generally, if you can see impressions where the characters are, they've been lasered? In your first photo, the "A" actually looks raised, not engraved—but maybe that's just an illusion of the light. And I don't see any relief whatsoever on Caps Lock. But I suppose you can assume that if some keys are obviously engraved, they must all be.
The raised parts are the result of "mushrooming" of the material as a result of the laser etching. Basically, if you can feel the legends with your fingers, it's probably lasered. I suppose it's possible to feel pad printing but that is also pretty easy to spot visually.
The DT Wiki has a good primer on keycap printing. (http://deskthority.net/wiki/Keycap_printing)
-
Well well... Isn't this one of the same little keyboards (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-White-Alps-Keyboard/111679137635) we bought for $20 a few weeks ago?:
[attach=1]
Free shipping though!
-
Well well... Isn't this one of the same little keyboards (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-White-Alps-Keyboard/111679137635) we bought for $20 a few weeks ago?:
(Attachment Link)
Free shipping though!
Make an offer for $20. See what happens.
-
Well well... Isn't this one of the same little keyboards (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-White-Alps-Keyboard/111679137635) we bought for $20 a few weeks ago?:
(Attachment Link)
Free shipping though!
Free shipping? It's a bargain.
-
Now that this thread is back from the dead, I just wanted to say that I've been using this board as my daily driver for almost 2 months! My roommates hate my HHKB and Poker 2 and asked for something with dedicated arrow keys (they can't comprehend Fn layers for some reason???). Really digging this board and can't wait to throw some mods on it from that GB!
-
Now that this thread is back from the dead, I just wanted to say that I've been using this board as my daily driver for almost 2 months! My roommates hate my HHKB and Poker 2 and asked for something with dedicated arrow keys (they can't comprehend Fn layers for some reason???). Really digging this board and can't wait to throw some mods on it from that GB!
Tbh I can see where your rommates are coming from :p . Cool that you like it! :)
-
Well well... Isn't this one of the same little keyboards (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-White-Alps-Keyboard/111679137635) we bought for $20 a few weeks ago?:
(Attachment Link)
Free shipping though!
Make an offer for $20. See what happens.
Yikes—somebody bought it (http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mini-White-Alps-Keyboard/111679137635). For $120. Are you thinking what I'm thinking—that maybe we should've picked up a few more of these...? :?O
-
Still trying to sell mine on the classifieds for $37 shipped, I need to list it on ebay or something.
The struggle is real.
-
Still trying to sell mine on the classifieds for $37 shipped, I need to list it on ebay or something.
The evidence seems to indicate that only on eBay will the value of such an esoteric item be truly appreciated.
-
It really is a neat little board. Probably the closest thing you'll find to a stock Alps 1800 layout. And some of the modifier caps have come in handy for me as placeholders on my Alps Infinity Hacker 60%, until Badwrench's teal blue modifiers arrive.