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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: TheInverseKey on Fri, 02 June 2017, 19:21:26

Title: IBM model lights flash then nothing
Post by: TheInverseKey on Fri, 02 June 2017, 19:21:26

Hi,

Just got my new model m and when I plug it into the ps2 port the lights flash and then there is no input.  None of the control light light up after.

Any help would be great.

Thanks

Title: Re: IBM model lights flash then nothing
Post by: Tactile on Fri, 02 June 2017, 20:32:22

PS/2 is not hot pluggable. Turn the machine off, plug in the kb, boot up the computer, then try the kb.

Title: Re: IBM model lights flash then nothing
Post by: TheInverseKey on Fri, 02 June 2017, 21:15:28

After some more testing I found that one of the ribbon cables wasn't making good contact after a bit of cleaning she is back!

 

Title: Re: IBM model lights flash then nothing
Post by: aptivaboy on Fri, 02 June 2017, 23:15:25

Awesome! Is this an authentic IBM Model M or a later Unicomp M? Regardless, also make sure that the PS2 to USB converter that you're probably using is correct for the Model M. various issues, like voltage differences, often result in the board not being recognized by modern PCs. I have four Model Ms of various makes (Unicomp, Lexmark and IBM) and they're still the best boards for raw typing that I've ever used. When I have my students (juniors and seniors) use my 1987 Model M in class they all state that it's the best board they've ever used.

Bob