geekhack
geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: Stupidface on Fri, 18 September 2015, 01:19:13
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Hello Everyone,
Is there such a thing as an SDL plug "cap"?
[attachimg=1]
The reason I ask is because I have had problems in the past with the SDL "wings" (see above; perhaps they are formally known as "insertion tabs"?) breaking off. SDL-PS/2 cables are not inexpensive and I would love to have something I can put on the plug to protect the insertion tabs. Does anyone know of something I could purchase that would fit the bill?
Also, does anyone happen to know how many insertions the SDL port on a Model M is typically rated for?
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i think you are going to have to take extra care of the tabs, or make something yourself. I've love one myself, as someone who lugs my IBM around frequently. No idea on the plug rating.
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I have had a few custom SDL cables made and had the rubber boot put on. It does not cover the end but it reduces the exposure of the tabs.
[attach=1]
if you want to protect them you could try and buy the port for sdl and just use that...
http://uk.farnell.com/te-connectivity-amp/5-1761185-1/sdl-connector-receptacle-4-position/dp/1821864
thats not the right size port by the way, but they should have them
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I used to have a cable with one tab broken off and it still worked properly.
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Or, you could put a female PS/2 plug in it's place. I believe that is possible. Just replace the SDL female plug with that. Use a M/M PS/2 cable and you're good to go!
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I wonder if you put a thin layer of epoxy on, would that help to protect it and would it interfere with performance?
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I know exactly what you mean! The little tabs on ethernet cables are the same - pull a cable too hard and the tab will snap off. At least an SDL cable has more chance of staying in the socket than an ethernet cable does.
Anyone acquired a NIB Model M? Do the cables come with an SDL plug cover? Or plugged in to the keyboard already? Or just loose in the box?
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I have purchased some new SDL cables also that came in sealed bags, one was an extra long cable (the reason I got it) and there was no cap on that one.
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Anyone acquired a NIB Model M? Do the cables come with an SDL plug cover? Or plugged in to the keyboard already? Or just loose in the box?
Yes no no yes.
The cables are in the box, and sometimes react with the styrofoam and meld into a nasty mess. They are supposed to be in a plastic sleeve bag, but sometimes portions protrude. Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls make good cable storage containers.
The tabs are surprisingly resilient. I had one that I had somehow pulled one the wrong way and it was sticking out perpendicular to the body, but I gently pushed it back in and re-inserted it. It has held up properly since.
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Anyone acquired a NIB Model M? Do the cables come with an SDL plug cover? Or plugged in to the keyboard already? Or just loose in the box?
Yes no no yes.
The cables are in the box, and sometimes react with the styrofoam and meld into a nasty mess. They are supposed to be in a plastic sleeve bag, but sometimes portions protrude. Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls make good cable storage containers.
The tabs are surprisingly resilient. I had one that I had somehow pulled one the wrong way and it was sticking out perpendicular to the body, but I gently pushed it back in and re-inserted it. It has held up properly since.
Thanks :)
There's a NIB Lexmark Model M in member auction links (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=75428.0) at the moment, with pics on the eBay listing. Shows exactly what you have described.
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What about an RJ45 sleeve?
(http://image.dhgate.com/albu_377870351_00/1.0x0.jpg)
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What about an RJ45 sleeve?
The SDL tabs are on the sides. You would need one much wider and more rectangular than square.
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Hello Everyone,
Is there such a thing as an SDL plug "cap"?
(Attachment Link)
The reason I ask is because I have had problems in the past with the SDL "wings" (see above; perhaps they are formally known as "insertion tabs"?) breaking off. SDL-PS/2 cables are not inexpensive and I would love to have something I can put on the plug to protect the insertion tabs. Does anyone know of something I could purchase that would fit the bill?
Also, does anyone happen to know how many insertions the SDL port on a Model M is typically rated for?
One thing that works to protect the tabs is using a rubber band. Just wind it over the tabs. Simple.