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geekhack Community => Keyboards => Topic started by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 07:58:46

Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 07:58:46
I just received a shipment of 5 of my currently FAVE IBM keyboard.   I'm also awaiting delivery of 2 IBM Model F AT 84 key units, but until they arrive, I feel that the Space Saving Mini is KING of the heap.  

The box arrived yesterday afternoon via UPS and of course the box was damaged and one of the keyboards was sticking out of the box.    Nice....  But I can't really blame UPS since the keyboards were shipped with just 2 pieces of bubble wrap separating all 5 of the boards.  

One was busted up.  Cracked frame, scuffed up case, broken keys etc..  Luckily the other 4 arrived intact.   Has anyone else bought from surplus warehouses before?   Do Model M keyboards usually ship with an SDL cable??  Because I received ZERO cords for the 5 boards.  

Group shot:

(http://fototime.com/6F24A08B296D02C/standard.jpg)

Busted keys and broken frame on what "was" a very nice board:

(http://fototime.com/DB865F7B6EF49F5/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/7BB3A38690B8421/standard.jpg)

Some shots of three of the boards.   Supposedly these were cleaned and refurbished, but not to my standards.   But I guess they're nicer than what I've picked up on ebay.  

(http://fototime.com/96FA4902C445E20/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/7529754135542BC/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/E8BDBE09C02673B/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/B42FC27C3ED2689/standard.jpg)

Now here is an interesting board with a different layout.   I'm not sure what the different keys are for?  Any help/info would be greatly appreciated.   On this board, shift + help activates the numpad.   I also have no idea what the extra FN keys are for?   Noob question again, but is there a way to find out how those keys are mapped??

(http://fototime.com/B5E4367CF4079DB/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/D80A9D0F5D121A0/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/F5BC7E27FE58C16/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/9EBD7A75D3135CE/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/BB7EF38806AAC19/standard.jpg)

I have a few more of these coming in this week, including a formerly NIB unit and a German layout 85 key and finally an Industrial.  

Anyone else have any unusual Space Saving models??  I'd love to see what's out there.  

Thx,

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: platon on Wed, 07 April 2010, 08:25:01
wow, you are a rich man my friend! where did you get all these minis from again? And you found an industrial mini?

A week ago i received my NIB space saver from ebay and i fell in love with it instantly. I am not stopping at owning only one of these :).

From what i understand these kbs do not come with an sdl cable, but some ebay sellers include one out of courtesy.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 07 April 2010, 08:30:30
Concerning the SDL cables, there are a certain amount of Model Ms (Space Saving, Regular, whatever) that were Field Replacement Units (FRUs).  These did not come with a cable.  The FRU would be sent to the client or replaced by a technician for the client, and the existing cable would be used since they are detachable.  While this might be one reason for MIA cables, it could also be that they were lost or not shipped by a negligent seller.  You can get replacements from Unicomp, IIRC.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 08:41:31
Quote from: itlnstln;170286
Concerning the SDL cables, there are a certain amount of Model Ms (Space Saving, Regular, whatever) that were Field Replacement Units (FRUs).  These did not come with a cable.  The FRU would be sent to the client or replaced by a technician for the client, and the existing cable would be used since they are detachable.  While this might be one reason for MIA cables, it could also be that they were lost or not shipped by a negligent seller.  You can get replacements from Unicomp, IIRC.



But the Unicomp ones don't say "IBM" on them ...

I found a seller on Ebay with new cables.   On their website, they sell them for $10/ea + shipping.   I just bought a bunch, no big deal.

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 08:42:41
Quote from: platon;170284
wow, you are a rich man my friend! where did you get all these minis from again? And you found an industrial mini?

A week ago i received my NIB space saver from ebay and i fell in love with it instantly. I am not stopping at owning only one of these :).

From what i understand these kbs do not come with an sdl cable, but some ebay sellers include one out of courtesy.



NIB huh???  Are you going to mod it??   I highly recommend the nuts/bolts mod.   Just be sure to read Rip's directions and not just look at the pictures LOL.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: platon on Wed, 07 April 2010, 08:48:05
Quote from: skcheng;170291
NIB huh???  Are you going to mod it??   I highly recommend the nuts/bolts mod.   Just be sure to read Rip's directions and not just look at the pictures LOL.


No modding yet, It is still so virgin :) But it is gonna lose its nib status fast cause i use it at home daily. Maybe ill open it up in a few months!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: keyb_gr on Wed, 07 April 2010, 09:15:40
Quote from: skcheng;170277
Now here is an interesting board with a different layout.   I'm not sure what the different keys are for?

That's a terminal board. If you can't get it to work properly, consider modding it with the controller board and keys from the busted board.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: didjamatic on Wed, 07 April 2010, 09:34:42
Nice score of minis!  If that seller doesn't refund you some dough, you need to go Epic Beard Man on him.

(http://imaletyoufinish.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/old-zangief.gif)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Mental Hobbit on Wed, 07 April 2010, 10:13:13
Did the description say they come with cables, or were cables on the photos? That's something I always check on Model M auctions, as SDL cables are a lot more difficult to get in Europe than the keyboards.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 12:08:27
Quote from: platon;170284
wow, you are a rich man my friend! where did you get all these minis from again? And you found an industrial mini?

A week ago i received my NIB space saver from ebay and i fell in love with it instantly. I am not stopping at owning only one of these :).

From what i understand these kbs do not come with an sdl cable, but some ebay sellers include one out of courtesy.



I'm not exactly rich, but I do have my collecting obsessions  :-))

I love functional art including exotic pool cues, knives, flashlights, rare and exotic lps, yo-yo's.  So this is actually an inexpensive hobby for me.   I'm not Webwit though......can't afford flashy aluminum keycaps!!

I found these keyboards at a Computer surplus store.   They are in good shape, so I'll probably call to see if they have more.   Weren't cheap.....

I checked and they have hundreds of SDL cables.   I think it's not that big of a deal to supply some cables considering I purchased 5 keyboards.  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 12:09:55
Quote from: keyb_gr;170296
That's a terminal board. If you can't get it to work properly, consider modding it with the controller board and keys from the busted board.


Everything seems to work from what I can tell??   I don't really use the function keys, so I think I'll just keep it the way it is.    Weird how there's an Enter button on the right by the space bar.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 12:10:53
Quote from: didjamatic;170306
Nice score of minis!  If that seller doesn't refund you some dough, you need to go Epic Beard Man on him.

Show Image
(http://imaletyoufinish.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/old-zangief.gif)


They've been nice to deal with so far today.   Just filled out the RMA info.  

Epic Beard Man huh??

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 12:12:05
Quote from: Mental Hobbit;170316
Did the description say they come with cables, or were cables on the photos? That's something I always check on Model M auctions, as SDL cables are a lot more difficult to get in Europe than the keyboards.


The description did not say that they come with cables.  But then again, there was no description.   Just a model no. and availability.    No worries since I already purchased 5 new cables at $10/ea from an Electronics supplier.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 07 April 2010, 12:34:27
Did IBM consider the cable to be part of the PC, then?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 07 April 2010, 12:35:52
Quote
Now here is an interesting board with a different layout. I'm not sure what the different keys are for? Any help/info would be greatly appreciated. On this board, shift + help activates the numpad. I also have no idea what the extra FN keys are for? Noob question again, but is there a way to find out how those keys are mapped??

The keycaps are from a 3151 terminal keyboard. I think IBM may have made space saving versions of the 3151, but a) 3151s were PS/2 incompatible, and used permanently attached RJ-11 cables and b) the keycaps on yours are inconsistent... for example, only every second or third F key is a terminal one. Any of the terminal space saving keyboards I've seen didn't have the numpad emulator, and the part number is that of a normal, run of the mill space saver, so the final diagnosis is...

Whoever sold it had a space saver with missing caps. He had a 3151 keyboard which he couldn't sell because it wasn't PS/2 compatible. He killed two birds with one stone. In terms of internals, or extra key functions, there's nothing interesting at all about your keyboard.

Quote
Anyone else have any unusual Space Saving models?? I'd love to see what's out there.

There's the almost mythical Industrial Grey one which some folks around here have. There's also the UNIC046 with the strange US ISO layout that seems to have been very popular in Japan for some reason...
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:21:12
Quote from: ch_123;170382
The keycaps are from a 3151 terminal keyboard. I think IBM may have made space saving versions of the 3151, but a) 3151s were PS/2 incompatible, and used permanently attached RJ-11 cables and b) the keycaps on yours are inconsistent... for example, only every second or third F key is a terminal one. Any of the terminal space saving keyboards I've seen didn't have the numpad emulator, and the part number is that of a normal, run of the mill space saver, so the final diagnosis is...

Whoever sold it had a space saver with missing caps. He had a 3151 keyboard which he couldn't sell because it wasn't PS/2 compatible. He killed two birds with one stone. In terms of internals, or extra key functions, there's nothing interesting at all about your keyboard.

Cool.  Thanks for the info.  The odd thing is that out of the 5 keyboards I received that one looked the newest as if it had hardly been used if ever.   The others at least show signs of wear.    But if there's nothing special with layout and the keyboard, I'll simply swap in a brand new set of keys for the standard layout.  

There's the almost mythical Industrial Grey one which some folks around here have. There's also the UNIC046 with the strange US ISO layout that seems to have been very popular in Japan for some reason...


I have one of those coming my way along with an 85 key German layout Space Saving keyboard with the vertical enter.    I'll post pics as soon as I get them in.

Thanks for the help!!

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:23:23
Quote from: ripster;170379
The Ms never came with the cables in the box.  Although interestingly enough there is a space in the foam packaging were one fits.

Congrats on the Minis.  The King of Keyboards!



Thanks Rip.   So I don't feel so bad that my boards came sans cables??   No big deal......I just thought they forgot.    Price on the cables.......$26/ea??
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:25:05
You can make your own if you're a resourceful person with the right crimp tool. AMP SDL connectors - the exact same parts originally used by IBM - can be bought from Tyco Electronics.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:28:39
Keep in mind, however, that the crimp tool costs eleven hundred dollars (http://octopart.com/58194-1-tyco+electronics-829277).
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:32:21
I got one from the US for about €10 inc. shipping once.

Quote
I have one of those coming my way along with an 85 key German layout Space Saving keyboard with the vertical enter.


Oh, interesting. I would like to see an actual proper European layout space saver Model M... Looking forward to pics.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:32:52
Quote from: kishy;170421
Keep in mind, however, that the crimp tool costs eleven hundred dollars (http://octopart.com/58194-1-tyco+electronics-829277).

I wonder if you can use something like a CAT5 crimper.  I don't have an M near me to get a better look at the connector, unfortunately.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:40:02
Quote from: kishy;170419
You can make your own if you're a resourceful person with the right crimp tool. AMP SDL connectors - the exact same parts originally used by IBM - can be bought from Tyco Electronics.

It's much simpler (and cheaper) to buy an SDL->PS/2 cable than to find the parts and tools for making your own. Anyone that stocks the 6-conductor version seems to only sell them in quantity, and IIRC the price on the crimp tool was [strike]several hundred[/strike] over a thousand bucks if you can find one for sale.

I'm still kicking myself for not bidding on the SDL crimper that ending up going for ten bucks on eBay last year:

http://geekhack.org/showpost.php?p=108489&postcount=14
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:42:42
RJ45 is no good in this case. Same principle at heart but won't fit.

I'd really like to set up shop assembling Model M cables. They'd go for cost + $5, nothing extravagant, but if the initial investment is too big it doesn't make sense.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Wed, 07 April 2010, 13:44:26
Quote from: kishy;170419
You can make your own if you're a resourceful person with the right crimp tool. AMP SDL connectors - the exact same parts originally used by IBM - can be bought from Tyco Electronics.


It's much simpler (and cheaper) to buy an SDL->PS/2 cable than to find the parts and tools for making your own. Anyone that stocks the 6-conductor version seems to only sell them in quantity, and IIRC the price on the crimp tool was [strike]several hundred[/strike] over a thousand bucks if you can find one for sale.

I'm still kicking myself for not bidding on the SDL crimper that ending up going for ten buck on eBay last year:

http://geekhack.org/showpost.php?p=108489&postcount=14
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 07 April 2010, 22:56:07
I spent the better part of today during work and after cleaning up one of the boards which I'll be parting with in the next few days.  

Outer casing cleaned and scrubbed with Goo Gone and Simple Green.  And stains buffed out and polished.   Frame cleaned with brushes, Q-tips and some Armor-All.   Keys cleaned in my heated ultrasonic with a Fixodent tablet and hand scrubbed with Simple Green.    I like 2 piece caps, but I don't really like taking them apart to dry.   Bit of a pain in the ass.   Keycaps look like new.  

Some pics:

(http://fototime.com/4331A2311EB7CB4/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/1FF8749D57E890A/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/172DBE8216CEB22/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/981140894451A3A/standard.jpg)

I don't know whether I prefer the ivory framed version or the black framed version??    Both are nice and I'm glad that I have a few of each  ;-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Thu, 08 April 2010, 09:30:01
All done.  Ain't she purty......

20 yrs worth of build-up glue (someone glued this board down with double stick tape and other nonsense).   Keys all have full texture and clearly legible dye.  Really GREAT keys on these old IBM keyboards.  

(http://fototime.com/ACF0731EAB5F5FD/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/A4C09C2B66D701B/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/3E1AF2E92914D4F/standard.jpg)

And the ready to go out and party body stocking shot.  Thanks for the tip Welly.  

(http://fototime.com/9E120651908548E/standard.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: didjamatic on Thu, 08 April 2010, 09:31:25
Nice clean job.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Thu, 08 April 2010, 10:02:54
Quote from: didjamatic;170613
Nice clean job.



Thanks Didj!!   Could have been yours .....  :-)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 08 April 2010, 15:57:47
So what's going to happen to that awesome clean board? You're going to sell it to me, right?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Shadin on Thu, 08 April 2010, 17:12:33
Any clues to what surplus company you're using?  I haven't had any lucking finding even one 84-key yet.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Thu, 08 April 2010, 21:39:21
I thought I'd get in on the Space Saver love fest...


(http://www.soybomb.com/ratpfink/keyboards/SpaceSavers.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Thu, 08 April 2010, 21:42:02
Thanks for posting!!   I really dig the camo board.  I'll have a few more to post in a couple of days.   I'm waiting on my 86 key German layout board to arrive.  

Have you done the nuts/bolts mod on any of them??  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Thu, 08 April 2010, 21:43:59
Quote from: ricercar;170704
So what's going to happen to that awesome clean board? You're going to sell it to me, right?



Hey Ricer.   I have 2 spoken for already.   I share......

You don't have one of these???  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Thu, 08 April 2010, 21:45:41
Quote from: Shadin;170722
Any clues to what surplus company you're using?  I haven't had any lucking finding even one 84-key yet.



Well......I basically punched in some model numbers on Google and then started making phone calls.    Is that a good enough clue.   And they weren't exactly cheap, but at least I have enough for myself now and then some :-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Thu, 08 April 2010, 21:49:41
Quote from: ripster;170781
Hey Pfink, how did you do that IBM label on the black one?


I bought some IBM ThinkPad labels on eBay and cut off the "ThinkPad".

http://cgi.ebay.com/IBM-Thinkpad-Sticker-Badge-Logo-Label-C3_W0QQitemZ180474582929QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item2a051f9791
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 08 April 2010, 21:51:22
Quote from: skcheng;170779
Hey Ricer.   I have 2 spoken for already.   I share......

You don't have one of these???  

skc


I have no space saver yet. I'd like to speak for one. Especially with white insides; I've never seen that before.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Thu, 08 April 2010, 21:51:43
Quote from: skcheng;170778
Thanks for posting!!   I really dig the camo board.  I'll have a few more to post in a couple of days.   I'm waiting on my 86 key German layout board to arrive.  

Have you done the nuts/bolts mod on any of them??  


Not yet. That's on the "to do" list along with the USB mod.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: maxlugar on Fri, 09 April 2010, 02:16:30
Quote from: ripster;170379


Congrats on the Minis.  The King of Keyboards!


Agreed.  They are indeed The King of Mini Model M Keyboards.

(You know, that those cost engineered, technologically superior buckling springs over membrane key switches).

No dedicated number pad and such sharp, precise, tactile key presses. I mean can it get any better than that?  Plus those membrane direct contact switches are so awesome! No key bounce or chatter and outstanding NKRO.

But best of all, they are so cool and modern looking - not the slightest hint of "Vintage" with those Model M Minis, no siree.

Maybe I'll wait until a sealed NIB Mini is offered for sale...I'll bet one of those is worth a lot more than those crappy Vintage 84-key PC AT Model F capacitive switch keyboards.  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 09 April 2010, 03:35:45
Oh, interesting. I would like to see an actual proper European layout space saver Model M... Looking forward to pics.[/QUOTE]


I'll post pics as soon as I receive them.  I have three coming in.....all NIB.   Can't wait to see them.....I just expedited shipping on them.  

Do you have links to any IBM German keyboards??   And the only link I could find to an 85 Key Space Saving keyboard was on ClickyKeyboards.com.  

This one:

86-Key Space Saver (http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/9242/subcatid/0/id/183757)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 09 April 2010, 03:38:56
Quote from: maxlugar;170806
Agreed.  They are indeed The King of Mini Model M Keyboards.

(You know, that those cost engineered, technologically superior buckling springs over membrane key switches).

No dedicated number pad and such sharp, precise, tactile key presses. I mean can it get any better than that?  Plus those membrane direct contact switches are so awesome! No key bounce or chatter and outstanding NKRO.

But best of all, they are so cool and modern looking - not the slightest hint of "Vintage" with those Model M Minis, no siree.

Maybe I'll wait until a sealed NIB Mini is offered for sale...I'll bet one of those is worth a lot more than those crappy Vintage 84-key PC AT Model F capacitive switch keyboards.  :)




There's one on ebay right now.   I'm gonna bet that it's an '88 Model 1392934with a black frame and a somewhat dirty looking SDL cable.   And I'm gonna guess that it will sell for just over $200  :-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 09 April 2010, 03:43:06
Quote from: pfink;170777
I thought I'd get in on the Space Saver love fest...


Show Image
(http://www.soybomb.com/ratpfink/keyboards/SpaceSavers.jpg)




Have you found your various Space Savers to vary much in quality/feel.   I don't see much difference in mine.   Just great quality control all across the board.   I have two gray label  (much easier than black lettering on white label)  1392934 boards with beige frames, but one has 2 piece keycaps and the other has 1 piece keycaps.     And all of them seem to have broken rivets in the same place.  

I haven't taken apart my formerly NIB 1392934 (with a black frame) but seemingly most of these have held up really quite well considering their age.   You have 6 of these, so I'm assuming you like them??  :-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 09 April 2010, 09:21:47
Group buy anyone??   I think I'd like one in neon green  :-))

Space Saver T-Shirt (http://www.zazzle.com/space_saver_tshirt-235413329668433084)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kriminal on Fri, 09 April 2010, 10:02:14
Quote from: skcheng;170860
Group buy anyone??   I think I'd like one in neon green  :-))

Space Saver T-Shirt (http://www.zazzle.com/space_saver_tshirt-235413329668433084)


i would like one of your M' mini's :-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 09 April 2010, 11:16:38
I wouldn't buy that shirt on the strength of those reasons alone (stolen pic and "space saver").
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: didjamatic on Fri, 09 April 2010, 11:22:03
I don't know.  One of my favorite Star Wars collectibles is a set of nesting dolls my parents got for me in China, one of them features a storm trooper holding a light saber.  Obviously it was a knockoff and incorrect, but a favorite nonetheless.

Funny about that shirt, I thought it was missing the right shift key in the tshirt graphic until you just posted the original photo and I can see they are caps.  And it has a "clear" key on the left, is that a terminal board?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 09 April 2010, 11:30:21
Quote from: ripster;170891
Nice T-shirt.
Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=6118&stc=1&d=1260063385)


******* stole my pic.
Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=4284&stc=1&d=1252177110)


And it's "Space Saving".  Grumble.  Lot of idiots on the internet.



I was wondering where I got Space Saver from and actually it's from your list based on current faves???   Hmmmm...
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 09 April 2010, 12:21:55
Quote from: ripster;170904
Don't sweat the Space Saver thing.  No biggie.

But that dude stealing my pic!  Sometimes you have to take a STAND!

Get OFF My Internet!
Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=9009&stc=1&d=1270831345)


The pic is from the "International Mini Mod (http://geekhack.org/showpost.php?p=115208&postcount=6)" btw.  One of the advantages of the nut/bolt mod is all the dinking around you can do.



I just checked again and you're right.   He DID steal your pic......I thought you were just kidding, but now I see that you weren't.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: phototristan on Sat, 10 April 2010, 12:41:02
Are blue label ones worse than black label ones at all? Just curious.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: armenws on Sat, 10 April 2010, 20:54:41
my favorite (and currently in-use) keyboard too.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: maxlugar on Sun, 11 April 2010, 01:43:39
Quote from: ripster;171319
We need a secret handshake for IBM mini owners.



No you don't. I understand you people have the ability to identify others of your kind at first glance.  (the wink and licking of the lips are a dead giveaway)  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 11 April 2010, 08:15:12
Quote from: armenws;171313
my favorite (and currently in-use) keyboard too.



What model/year do you have??   Gray label or Blue??
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 11 April 2010, 08:16:51
Quote from: ripster;171319
We need a secret handshake for IBM mini owners.

> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344">[/youtube]



I love it!!!  That's just great!!   I'm really loving my white/beige semi Otaku Mini.   Still haven't memorized all of the keys yet LOL.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 11 April 2010, 08:19:02
Quote from: maxlugar;171354
No you don't. I understand you people have the ability to identify others of your kind at first glance.  (the wink and licking of the lips are a dead giveaway)  :)



Alright Max!!  We need a strong convert from a highly esteemed Geekhacker such as yourself.   PM sent.   ;-)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: maxlugar on Sun, 11 April 2010, 11:19:53
Quote from: ripster;171404
Max, time to come to the dark side...

Ebay listing from Comptek2wk ending in 20 minutes (http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180489869699&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT), sitting at $172.

Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=9055&stc=1&d=1270997403)


LOL, I thought Model F land was the dark side.

I missed out on the NIB Mini.  However, SKCheng has made me a generous offer that I can't possibly refuse.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Rajagra on Sun, 11 April 2010, 12:36:13
Quote from: ripster;170904
But that dude stealing my pic!  Sometimes you have to take a STAND!


Stealing someone else's picture is not only unethical, it's lazy.

On an entirely unrelated topic I think I'd like to make a tie showing the HHKB using a pic I [strike]ripped[/strike] found on my hard disk.
Quote from: ripster;171319
We need a secret handshake for IBM mini owners.

"Geekness confirmed."

(Just watch the secret handshake scene. No need to view the Denise Richards catfight/shower scene.)

Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: nowsharing on Sun, 11 April 2010, 14:07:24
Two of my space saving Ms are terminal


My other SS isn't, but it is yogurt proof.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kriminal on Sun, 11 April 2010, 14:33:36
um skcheng can you make me an offer i cant refuse? :-)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 11 April 2010, 15:32:37
Quote from: nowsharing;171441
Two of my space saving Ms are terminal


My other SS isn't, but it is yogurt proof.


Can you do me a huge favor??   Can you disassemble the terminal Space Saving keyboard and let me know whether the PS-2 board will fit in the same way??  I have a busted up Space Saving keyboard and I'd like to simply swap out the circuit board if that will work.   Keep the rest for spare parts.   If not, I'll go ahead and create another Franken Nuts/Bolts board.  

Thx,

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 11 April 2010, 15:43:40
Quote from: kriminal;171446
um skcheng can you make me an offer i cant refuse? :-)


Uhh.....I have a couple of people in front of you and I felt a need to convert Max Lugar away from the Dark Side.   We'll see what I have left  ;-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: jvhaarst on Sun, 11 April 2010, 16:14:41
Quote from: skcheng;171456
Can you do me a huge favor??   Can you disassemble the terminal Space Saving keyboard and let me know whether the PS-2 board will fit in the same way??  I have a busted up Space Saving keyboard and I'd like to simply swap out the circuit board if that will work.   Keep the rest for spare parts.   If not, I'll go ahead and create another Franken Nuts/Bolts board.  

Thx,

skc


I have a SS, that I converted from terminal by simply swapping out the PCB from a normal Model M.
So it should work, just a couple of minutes work.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Sun, 11 April 2010, 19:08:00
Quote from: nowsharing;171441
Two of my space saving Ms are terminal


Do terminal Space Savers have different model numbers than PS/2 models?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 11 April 2010, 19:32:12
Quote from: jvhaarst;171465
I have a SS, that I converted from terminal by simply swapping out the PCB from a normal Model M.
So it should work, just a couple of minutes work.


But does the numpad work??   That's good to know since that means that a Space Saving PCB will swap into a terminal unit.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 14 April 2010, 00:07:06
Introducing the newest member of my collection:

IBM Das Miniraumsparen,

Cool 18 yr. old box, new SDL cable and minty fresh German Space Saving Mini

(http://fototime.com/13A26270465FB7C/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/219CFAB4275A536/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/7F94E99F3299585/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/B2080E2EB7BC350/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/2873A1D6202FBE8/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/2312BE3DC00C45C/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/AF7A6219C960140/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/676573ED8D1E2AE/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/5656ED429FB2CB7/standard.jpg)

I took German for 4 yrs. in high school.   Lets see if I can remember any of it.  Cool keyboard!!   Interesting 85 key layout.  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 14 April 2010, 00:55:00
This one wasn't a big seller.   ;-)))

(http://fototime.com/1089B72BFAA6BE3/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/953900F9412E842/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/C93EA4BD98BA549/standard.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 14 April 2010, 03:46:03
Quote from: skcheng;172002
Introducing the newest member of my collection:

IBM Das Miniraumsparen,

Cool 18 yr. old box, new SDL cable and minty fresh German Space Saving Mini


I took German for 4 yrs. in high school.   Lets see if I can remember any of it.  Cool keyboard!!   Interesting 85 key layout.  

skc


Do you have a pic of the label?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: eunjea on Wed, 14 April 2010, 04:48:23
(http://kbdholic.net/img/ss/img_5868.jpg)

(http://kbdholic.net/img/ss/img_5873.jpg)

(http://kbdholic.net/img/ss/img_5880.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 14 April 2010, 05:45:20
Nice =D
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 14 April 2010, 06:29:51
Quote from: ch_123;172014
Do you have a pic of the label?


I took a flash shot of the label and it didn't come out nice.  I'll retake it as soon as I get a chance to post a pic.   What do you think of the layout??  Does anyone else have a German layout Model M?  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Half-Saint on Wed, 14 April 2010, 07:58:35
Does the guy you bought those SDL cables from have any left?

Oh and you are completely crazy! :) Are you planning to run out of money any time soon? I'd like to get one of those Model M Minis but can't because you buy them all! :D

Cheers
SainT
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 14 April 2010, 08:28:00
Quote from: skcheng;172034
I took a flash shot of the label and it didn't come out nice.  I'll retake it as soon as I get a chance to post a pic.   What do you think of the layout??  Does anyone else have a German layout Model M?  

skc


The 102-key 1391403 is quite common, but I've never seen a European layout spacesaver. There was an ISO spacesaver made by Unicomp. but it was a weird ISO version of the US layout. As far as I knew, IBM only made Canadian French and Latin Spanish ones.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 14 April 2010, 08:34:09
Quote from: Half-Saint;172068
Does the guy you bought those SDL cables from have any left?

Oh and you are completely crazy! :) Are you planning to run out of money any time soon? I'd like to get one of those Model M Minis but can't because you buy them all! :D

Cheers
SainT


Unicomp has a limited supply left.   Used ones are all over the place, but after cleaning one, I've decided I'd rather spend $15 for a new one.   Do you need one??  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 14 April 2010, 08:35:12
Quote from: ch_123;172071
The 102-key 1391403 is quite common, but I've never seen a European layout spacesaver. There was an ISO spacesaver made by Unicomp. but it was a weird ISO version of the US layout. As far as I knew, IBM only made Canadian French and Latin Spanish ones.


My unit was made by Lexmark.  It's a '92 or '93 model if I recall correctly  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 14 April 2010, 08:38:44
Mhmm, I suspected that only the Lexington plant made the spacesavers, this seems to confirm this.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 14 April 2010, 08:48:10
Quote from: ch_123;172076
Mhmm, I suspected that only the Lexington plant made the spacesavers, this seems to confirm this.


You mean the international Space Saving models??  I'm pretty sure my earlier boards were manufactured by IBM.  Then there must have been a transition period in the early '90s with these boards.   And I find it variable whether one piece or two piece keycaps were used.  I suspect that the two piece variety was/is more common.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 14 April 2010, 09:20:12
I mean all of them.

Lexington = the plant owned by IBM, then Lexmark, then Unicomp.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: eunjea on Wed, 14 April 2010, 20:21:07
Quote from: webwit;172101
This (http://www.kbdmania.net/xe/photo/1465897) is where your keyboards go.


Come on webwit. I have ONLY 3. ;-)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: eunjea on Wed, 14 April 2010, 20:54:20
Quote from: webwit;172260
That's what I'm saying. You're probably buying more right now! :)


(http://www.kbdmania.net/xe/files/attach/images/30354/628/231/001/ibm.jpg)

Yeah, Soon I'll post photo like this with SS only.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 14 April 2010, 21:00:46
Quote from: webwit;172263
I like the Model M Terminal Space Saver you got there. Still don't have one. I hope you got the one with buckling springs and not the rubber dome version.


I don't know if it was established if such a board even exists (just the rubber dome one). If so let's get a part number!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: eunjea on Wed, 14 April 2010, 21:01:26
Quote from: ripster;172266
What's with the front middle one?


This one?

(http://www.kbdmania.net/xe/files/attach/images/42106/434/217/001/img_4102.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: eunjea on Wed, 14 April 2010, 21:28:38
Quote from: ripster;172272
Nice XT but I meant the mini in front with what looks like scratches all over it.


Oh, it's just packing seal. :-)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: AvroArrow on Thu, 15 April 2010, 02:30:23
skcheng, is that S27-PD or LunaSol27 in your keyboard cleaning pic?  I've got a LS27 myself... now I just need the Model M Mini to go with it.  :)  After getting my Filco tenkeyless w/blue cherries about a month ago, I know I want a M Mini next.  

Man... you guys in the US have it easy.  I'm in the 3rd largest city in Canada and I can't even find a regular 101-key model M.... or even a Dell AT101... without resorting to eBay and their outrageous shipping fees.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Half-Saint on Thu, 15 April 2010, 02:42:35
Quote from: skcheng;172074
Unicomp has a limited supply left.   Used ones are all over the place, but after cleaning one, I've decided I'd rather spend $15 for a new one.   Do you need one??  

skc


It took me a while to figure you're talking about cables :) Yes, I actually need one.

Cheers
SainT
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Nonmouse on Thu, 15 April 2010, 14:51:36
Quote from: ripster;170891
Nice T-shirt.


******* stole my pic.


And it's "Space Saving".  Grumble.  Lot of idiots on the internet.


Apparently he didn't appreciate (http://www.zazzle.com/space_saver_tshirt-235413329668433084) my leaving a comment along the lines of "Nice pic. Too bad it's stolen from here.  Just because something's posted on the interwebs doesn't mean it's public domain..."  (With a link to the original picture.)
Quote
Subject Matter
If anyone has any questions about the subject matter for this t-shirt, please contact me via email or message as provided by the Zazzle store. Anonymous comments leave me no method to respond to your questions.

[/color]
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Nonmouse on Thu, 15 April 2010, 15:54:39
There's also the "report violation" link, and Zazzle's copyright (http://zazzle.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/87/kw/copyright/r_id/166) policy...
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: clickclack on Thu, 15 April 2010, 16:16:21
Quote from: ripster;172475
Haha!  
I'm gonna track him down and start ordering a dozen pizzas a day delivered to him every week from different places.
And then there's always the trick of posting his email address on the websites that the Nigerians harvest from.
And finally there's the...
GEEKHACK CURSE!


Brilliant!

Quote from: Nonmouse;172477
There's also the "report violation" link, and Zazzle's copyright (http://zazzle.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/87/kw/copyright/r_id/166) policy...


Excellent!

Sorry to hear about this ripster, that is WAY NOT OK! I just checked it out, its very upsetting to see something like that happen. I hope you can get it resolved, shall we point out his error in his comment section????

On another note more related to this topic, I have yet to get a space saving keyboard. But I am more interested in one now, hmm... I guess I should pick one up soon-ish =P
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 15 April 2010, 18:16:09
Nice Car Talk reference and pic of Hahvahd Squah, ripster.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 15 April 2010, 18:39:04
Quote from: ripster;172485
You find the most intellectual of prostitutes hanging around that street corner BTW.

Well, YOU can find them. Some of us don't need to pay for sex.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 15 April 2010, 18:43:12
Win.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 15 April 2010, 18:51:06
Do you start gang wars with the MIT kids?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Thu, 15 April 2010, 18:52:53
Cardullos has bacon peanut brittle.  Mmmm....
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 15 April 2010, 19:57:45
Quote from: ripster;172551
I pay to discuss Proust.  It's a Harvard thing.

So your brass monkey post was fake? Or do you claim to be a multiple-school ivy league alumnus?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 16 April 2010, 07:23:20
Do you mind if she plays with my joystick?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 16 April 2010, 21:12:59
I was asking a gender neutral question, not making an assertion ... *******.*

(YOU are the one bringing gender into it. What's sexism got to do with being a big fat liar? It's not as if I said "We know ripster's a liar because the avatar is female." Which I'd never ever say. Wouldn't want Google to catch that sentence and think ripster's a liar.)








*to be imagined in the voice of the Rockeater in Galaxina: "Bar eaters eat bars. Rock eaters eat rocks. *******."
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Sat, 17 April 2010, 01:54:24
i know. Dartmouth flushed my attempt at early admission.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 20 April 2010, 07:15:37
Quote from: AvroArrow;172354
skcheng, is that S27-PD or LunaSol27 in your keyboard cleaning pic?  I've got a LS27 myself... now I just need the Model M Mini to go with it.  :)  After getting my Filco tenkeyless w/blue cherries about a month ago, I know I want a M Mini next.  

Man... you guys in the US have it easy.  I'm in the 3rd largest city in Canada and I can't even find a regular 101-key model M.... or even a Dell AT101... without resorting to eBay and their outrageous shipping fees.



Good eye.   It's a Lunasol LS27.  I also have the Lunasol LS20 which is one of my favorite EDCs.    McGizmo lights are truly awesome lights.   Expensive though  ;-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 20 April 2010, 14:08:28
Back on topic for a little bit.   I got this unit all cleaned up and ready for shipping.   This one is going out to Greece.  

New IBM SDL cable.  And some nifty colored keycaps.  

(http://fototime.com/BEF75ECAD91605C/standard.jpg)

And some various shots to show condition of the board.  It's amazing how nice these look after a quick shower.  

(http://fototime.com/EABD50554979BBF/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/56AA28E2DB21FC9/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/A86D980567AFD5C/standard.jpg)

New keycaps printed by Chuck over at Unicomp.   Brand NEW keys.  

(http://fototime.com/32A7B4E9C67A642/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/FDD03558D387A10/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/4CEB25F5E6DA301/standard.jpg)

I hope the new owner approves!!!  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: didjamatic on Tue, 20 April 2010, 14:25:58
Holy SMOKES that's a clean Mini, and killer caps to boot!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Tue, 20 April 2010, 17:23:05
Quote from: skcheng;173831
New IBM SDL cable.  And some nifty colored keycaps.  

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/BEF75ECAD91605C/standard.jpg)


Did you dye those keys?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: bigpook on Tue, 20 April 2010, 17:27:37
Looks great but I notice there are about 8 rivets missing on the right side. I wonder if it affects the feel of the keyboard.
Could you do a nut/bolt mod on just the rivets that are missing?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 21 April 2010, 07:39:20
Quote from: pfink;173915
Did you dye those keys?



Hey fellow Space Saving Mini lover.......those are brand new printed colored keys.   Did you see my photo with the multiple colors???    Tell me what you'd like to have and drop me a PM.   I'll take care of you  :-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 21 April 2010, 07:43:08
Quote from: bigpook;173916
Looks great but I notice there are about 8 rivets missing on the right side. I wonder if it affects the feel of the keyboard.
Could you do a nut/bolt mod on just the rivets that are missing?



I typed on that keyboard all day yesterday and it works fine.  Feels great with that crisp spring feel.    I'm neurotic and I would rather mod the entire board given a choice.   But I'm sure that I could just place a few nuts/bolts on the missing rivets.  

My formerly NIB unit is missing the EXACT same rivets.  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: bigpook on Wed, 21 April 2010, 09:59:13
Still though, even with 8 missing, all on one side, it still types fine.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 21 April 2010, 11:53:28
I have a theory, but I can't piece together a way to explain it with any degree of clarity.

Overall concept: leverage.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Half-Saint on Thu, 22 April 2010, 01:29:48
pfink: is that black Mini stock or painted? :)

Cheers
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Thu, 22 April 2010, 06:25:06
Quote from: Half-Saint;174318
pfink: is that black Mini stock or painted? :)

Cheers


 
I'm pretty sure that the black Mini is painted.   I'm going to follow his lead.  I'm dropping off a case at my local body shop for some automotive paint.   Just need to decide on a color.  

But I think the camouflage unit is stock  ;-)))   Pfink is considering selling it to me.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: iMav on Thu, 22 April 2010, 09:01:15
Quote from: ripster;170379
The Ms never came with the cables in the box.  Although interestingly enough there is a space in the foam packaging were one fits.

Congrats on the Minis.  The King of Keyboards!
The only new one I ever purchased came with the cable in the box...direct from the manufacturer.  So, that's not technically accurate.  ;)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Thu, 22 April 2010, 10:56:43
Quote from: Half-Saint;174318
pfink: is that black Mini stock or painted? :)


Painted with spray vinyl dye, the keys are from an M13.

http://geekhack.org/showwiki.php?title=Island:6759
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Thu, 22 April 2010, 23:02:10
I'm not certain what it is about a Space Saving Model M, but it's an instant favorite in this collection. If you're on the fence, get one.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 23 April 2010, 07:28:10
Quote from: ricercar;174746
I'm not certain what it is about a Space Saving Model M, but it's an instant favorite in this collection. If you're on the fence, get one.
  • It's got unadulterated simplicity--I never realized until it was in front of me that the SPace Saving Model M has no LEDs. I'm constantly aware of the missing Numpad--for its absence, not its functionality.

  • Couldn't resist a mini with a $79 BIN, even though it's not one of the elite Geekhack-approved sellers. Mine came to $100 with ship, well below average in the current market.

  • It's CLEAN. Seller didn't do anything about dust bunnies, but the caps are pristine. White. Unworn. Precise lettering. Yum.

  • Although the eBay photo shows all key caps, the F4 arrived without its 2-piece top. Trying to decide how I'm going to respond to the seller about that. With an extra F4 one-piece on hand, I'm not all that upset, but I have to  hammer the seller on principle.




Very cool!!!   How many rivets came broken off on your unit??   And how crisp are the springs?   Is your SDL cable in nice shape or disgusting??  

That's great that you enjoy the keyboard.   It's still my favorite out of the 30+ keyboards I've picked up in the last month.  

PM and I'll drop a 2-piece F4 button in the mail to you as soon as I get some mailer envelopes.  

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 23 April 2010, 07:29:38
Quote from: iMav;174405
The only new one I ever purchased came with the cable in the box...direct from the manufacturer.  So, that's not technically accurate.  ;)



I can confirm that my NIB Space Saving Mini came with a nice fresh IBM SDL cable.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 23 April 2010, 09:41:21
Quote from: ripster;174861
Haha!  But where did you get it?


From Lexington Kentucky :)

I just got in a really cool Lexmark branded French layout board.   I'll post pics if I get the chance today.  Purty!!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 23 April 2010, 10:21:49
Mine was the Baton Rouge place, refreshcomputer (http://myworld.ebay.com/refreshcomputer/). I have been monitoring them since they have had a number of Data911 backlit keyboards (TG3 OEMs for Data911 and Deck).

EDIT: PM Sent with thanks, skcheng!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 23 April 2010, 10:54:14
Webwit will be in tears.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 23 April 2010, 11:15:05
I'll give USPS a call today on the Northgate; they were supposed to get back to me already (right).  I know one thing, though, it's still in the Netherlands; they never shipped it back to me.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 00:00:28
Another Mini ready for travel to a new home.    I've learned that I can buff out scuffs with acrylic polish and various rag wheels.   Keys are 1-piece (which I prefer) and cleaned twice in my heated ultrasonic unit using the ol' denture tablet technique.   Case buffed, and cleaned with Orange Solvent and Armor All.  

I think it turned out pretty nice.  Plenty of missing rivets on this one, but I know the new owner plans on performing the nuts/bolts mod.  Still, the keyboard feels great and types just fine.  

Can anyone guess the titanium flashlight??

Pics:

(http://fototime.com/AE65F941C01486B/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/D8A145C685A0E2E/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/0971672D6064025/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/C5390105F004C06/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/62FB3AB63E50DEB/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/A56F9BC01F771B4/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/7AAFE565E5C7231/standard.jpg)
Title: Frenchy
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 00:09:25
Lexmark branded French Layout Space Saving Mini.   NIB!!!   And with a new SDL cable that does NOT say IBM on it.   Pretty board!!   Pics:

(http://fototime.com/8674371FD82BA8C/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/6E00117C7D95FBD/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/3B1FBE35ED1CB74/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/1DE200894094655/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/1870E82D129B208/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/06A4ED485305232/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/4A72FF4AB2DE559/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/D7F0AFDA370EE95/standard.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 06:45:38
Quote from: webwit;175386
Great board you got there. I don't think I've ever seen a Lexmark branded Space Saving keyboard. Or a French one ;) Strange to see the old label on it. I'd keep it NIB if I were you.


Hey Webby,

I have three Lexmark branded Minis.   All three are of the 85 key variety.   I'm keeping my German IBM unit and this French unit NIB.    Too many other toys to play with.....

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 06:59:25
Quote from: webwit;175390
What's the third one? British or another French one?


I had both of the other units converted to US layout 85 Key Space Savers.   But the original keys are new and unused and it's a simple conversion back to the German and French layouts.  

I'll post pics when I receive them next week.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 07:17:07
The worst part is all of the parts/keyboards that were thrown away.   I was told personally that hundreds of the AT style black coiled SDL cables were tossed.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Sat, 24 April 2010, 07:19:05
It's a rather unassuming looking place. (http://maps.google.com/maps?f=q&source=s_q&hl=en&geocode=&q=510+Henry+Clay+Boulevard++Lexington,+Kentucky+40505&sll=37.0625,-95.677068&sspn=58.816238,135.263672&ie=UTF8&hq=&hnear=510+Henry+Clay+Blvd,+Lexington-Fayette,+Fayette,+Kentucky+40505&ll=38.035024,-84.464334&spn=0.003625,0.008256&t=h&z=18&iwloc=A&layer=c&cbll=38.035707,-84.466246&panoid=FMbGEKR1tuPXwVe2UB8Rpw&cbp=12,148.15,,0,10.9)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kriminal on Sat, 24 April 2010, 08:15:12
hahahahaha its a cottage
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 10:11:58
Quote from: ripster;175412
Well, the obvious question is whether Unicomp has more Lexmark/Unicomp minis?

What did Chuck say?


I would think that he has more......just needs the time to dig them up.  He has some other cool goodies though  :-))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: bigpook on Sat, 24 April 2010, 10:13:31
I remember asking Chuck a year or so ago about the mini's. IIRC, they were no longer available and they had no way of making them.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 10:21:35
I think it's more of a "lookee what I found" deal.   Chuck is the BEST.   He has total patience for me and my crazy requests.   For example, black on black printed keys.  Can't wait to get them in.   hehehehehe
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 10:34:57
SKCheng sent me some of these blue keys and although a little flimsy they are pretty cool.
(http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/pckeyboards_2097_1364885)[/QUOTE]

I like that board.  Very cool!!!  I personally prefer the one piece caps.  They feel different than the two piece caps.  I'm going to try modifying some caps with some polyvinyl siloxane impression material.   Should provide a nice soft, damp feel.  

The two piece caps are a pain in the ass.  And some of them are loose and come apart.   Minor quibble, but still a quibble since I've been cleaning a TON of these caps lately.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Sat, 24 April 2010, 10:58:34
I would call Unicomp more often (re: such and such little piece of keyboard, etc) but I suspect the long-distance-toll-free calls cost them more than could be construed as fair.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Sat, 24 April 2010, 15:42:47
Quote from: webwit;175431
File a complaint.



Hey, it's uncle Frank.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 16:01:32
I miss the Sopranos.   Heck, the Bada Bing is only 10 minutes away from me.   So instead of the Sopranos, I'm forced to settle with Glee  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sat, 24 April 2010, 16:09:55
Quote from: ripster;175536
I'm a Gleek!
Show Image
(http://www.zingpromotions.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Gleek-Sweepstakes-Blog.png)


At least when Leah is on.  My wife is beginning to suspect something.



Leah Michelle graduated from Tenafly High School.  So yeah, she's big around these parts.   My assistant just sent in an audition for a role on the show.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Sat, 24 April 2010, 16:17:28
Quote from: ripster;175536
At least when Leah is on.  My wife is beginning to suspect something.

Bah. Don't worry until Zoey suspects something.

sk:
is that titanium flashlight one of those with an integrated laser pointer?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: phototristan on Mon, 26 April 2010, 20:40:41
Quote from: bigpook;174096
Still though, even with 8 missing, all on one side, it still types fine.


If there are rivets missing, is it good to put clue over them or something or is it best to leave as is?

I'm not clear on what negative effects missing rivets have on the performance of the board?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Mon, 26 April 2010, 20:45:46
Quote from: phototristan;176379
If there are rivets missing, is it good to put clue over them or something or is it best to leave as is?

I'm not clear on what negative effects missing rivets have on the performance of the board?


A few missing has no discernable difference unless you're a very, very special type of crazy.

Half a board missing, well, then the hammers won't be staying in place properly, springs won't buckle properly...it effectively becomes useless.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Mon, 26 April 2010, 22:21:19
Quote from: kishy;176382
A few missing has no discernable difference unless you're a very, very special type of crazy.

Half a board missing, well, then the hammers won't be staying in place properly, springs won't buckle properly...it effectively becomes useless.



I've come to the conclusion that most Geekhackers (especially the longtime members) are a very, very special type of crazy  :-)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Mon, 26 April 2010, 22:28:01
Quote from: ricercar;175542
Bah. Don't worry until Zoey suspects something.

sk:
is that titanium flashlight one of those with an integrated laser pointer?



No true flashlight geek would own a flashlight with a built in laser pointer  :)

The light in the Lexmark French Layout board is a Ti Nautilus by Endeavor.  Great light for diving or EDC or whatever.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: phototristan on Tue, 27 April 2010, 00:25:08
They relisted it but it looks like another one. My guess is he/she bought more than one and now can't decide which one to sell.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110525202429
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Tue, 27 April 2010, 04:38:12
Quote from: skcheng;176419
I've come to the conclusion that most Geekhackers (especially the longtime members) are a very, very special type of crazy  :-)


Oh I'm well aware lol
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: aegrotatio on Fri, 30 April 2010, 10:13:48
Quote from: itlnstln;170286
Concerning the SDL cables, there are a certain amount of Model Ms (Space Saving, Regular, whatever) that were Field Replacement Units (FRUs).  These did not come with a cable.  The FRU would be sent to the client or replaced by a technician for the client, and the existing cable would be used since they are detachable.  While this might be one reason for MIA cables, it could also be that they were lost or not shipped by a negligent seller.  You can get replacements from Unicomp, IIRC.

Jameco blew out these space savers around ten years ago.  I bought three, and I think they were $15 each.  I don't seem to have as many cables as I have keyboards.  I believe one is an FRU and the rest were new old stock.  All were built in the same year, 1993, at plant "F7" if I'm reading this label correctly.

Unfortunately I'm no collector so I threw out the boxes.  I'm typing on one of them now, actually.  I plan to use all three of them until I die.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: aegrotatio on Sat, 01 May 2010, 19:39:06
Quote from: ripster;177534
Lol, $15 each.  

I wonder how much Comptek2wk paid for his?  He is selling them for $200-$225 every two weeks. (http://cgi.ebay.com/IBM-Model-M-Space-Saver-Clicky-Keyboard-NIB-/180495742132?cmd=ViewItem&pt=PCA_Mice_Trackballs&hash=item2a066274b4)  I don't think he got them from Jameco though.  I have a 1991 from him and the last one sold was a 1992.

It was unusual.  Jameco had them for so long they were listed in the printed catalog.  I panicked and bought three which I suspect were the last three.  Also, I wasn't aware that the space savers were made before 1992.  Very interesting.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: quadibloc on Sun, 02 May 2010, 11:00:43
Quote from: skcheng;170417
Thanks Rip.   So I don't feel so bad that my boards came sans cables??   No big deal......I just thought they forgot.    Price on the cables.......$26/ea??
Unicomp has them for a price of $15:

http://pckeyboards.stores.yahoo.net/cabdetmin.html
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 02 May 2010, 11:14:33
Quote from: quadibloc;178142
Unicomp has them for a price of $15:

http://pckeyboards.stores.yahoo.net/cabdetmin.html


Yes, I picked up a bunch and now I have plenty of extras.   Life is too short to deal with a nasty, dirty old coiled cable.

Unicomp also has straight, black SDL to PS2 cables for $10/ea.  I picked up some of those too.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: aegrotatio on Mon, 03 May 2010, 22:15:38
Quote from: skcheng;178146
Yes, I picked up a bunch and now I have plenty of extras.   Life is too short to deal with a nasty, dirty old coiled cable.

Unicomp also has straight, black SDL to PS2 cables for $10/ea.  I picked up some of those too.


At the time I had a feeling these were refurbished units that were returned because some of the keys didn't work.  You see, at the time these were made, computers had Num Lock enabled on startup by default.  The keyboard doesn't have any LEDs, so I thought those people just assumed the keyboards were faulty because some of the keys sent numbers instead of letters.

Indeed when I plugged them in the first time I thought the same thing.  Nowadays any self-respecting PC BIOS lets you disable Num Lock on power-up.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 04 May 2010, 08:23:15
Quote from: webwit;178737
Hey now. Look what skcheng sent me..just like that, as a present. A red, printed IBM Space Saving key cap set! Very cool, thanks a lot! As you can see, there are certain advantages to having a dentist in the house.




I figured you would appreciate it.   And I figured you didn't have any printed colored keysets for the Space Saving Mini.  

Just remember to brush and floss your keyboard every night  :))

Enjoy!!

skc

ps:   I'm building an all black/red Space Saving Mini with a black straight SDL cable and a combo of black/red keys that will be dubbed Hellboy.  Pics soon!!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 04 May 2010, 09:11:17
Quote from: ripster;178774
Skcheng is da bombe.  He sent me a care package too (mine had a yo-yo - he likes me better :biggrin1:).


Can you do this yet:

> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385">[/youtube]

I can't be the ONLY yoyo Geek??  That's not me in the vid btw.....I just thought it was a cool trick :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 04 May 2010, 09:22:38
Doctor Popular

> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385">[/youtube]
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Tue, 04 May 2010, 09:23:50
Have anything with Tommy Smothers?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 04 May 2010, 09:28:40
Quote from: itlnstln;178786
Have anything with Tommy Smothers?


Yeah, but I like his dancing much more than the actual tricks:

> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385">[/youtube]
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 04 May 2010, 09:34:09
Quote from: webwit;178792
This has been a strange day. Did not expect deliveries yet, but received one IBM flowchart creator, one IBM Mini Red Printed set, one IBM Model M15 with matching numpad, and one Secret Special Research Item #6 (!)


It's Christmas in the Netherlands  :))

I'm sure the biggest score out of that bunch was the keyset though!!!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Half-Saint on Fri, 07 May 2010, 11:29:20
Just got this in the mail. Cost me an additional 15.66€ (import tax) but still a very good deal! I now finally know what a brand new model M feels and sounds like. Three times hurrah for skcheng and Unicomp! :)

-SainT

(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=9778&stc=1&d=1273249705)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 07 May 2010, 11:31:21
Very nice.  Lexmark branding, too.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Half-Saint on Fri, 07 May 2010, 11:40:01
I got it NIB. The original box was placed in a larger box and padded with bubble-wrap. It lost 4 rivets in transport but I don't think that's a big deal. Gonna keep it NIB probably.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Fri, 07 May 2010, 15:37:32
Quote from: Half-Saint;179839
Just got this in the mail. Cost me an additional 15.66€ (import tax) but still a very good deal! I now finally know what a brand new model M feels and sounds like. Three times hurrah for skcheng and Unicomp! :)

-SainT

Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=9778&stc=1&d=1273249705)



Nice!!!  Great board and the funky reverse L "Enter" key.   Sometimes there is nothing like NIB.   I have a few more to post pics of also at some point when I have time.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Fri, 07 May 2010, 15:46:15
I wonder if an Alt Car is anything like an Art Car?

(http://z.about.com/d/sanfrancisco/1/0/i/F/-/-/artcarsculpture.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: itlnstln on Fri, 07 May 2010, 16:19:32
Ha! When I was going to school in Austin, there was a car that looked like that, but it had toy dinosaurs glued to it.  Apparently, the girl's name that drove it was Dinah (Dinah-saur, get it?), and she had "fossil fuel" written on the gas tank.

I know, I know. "Cool story, bro."
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Fri, 07 May 2010, 18:18:29
This guy lives in my neighborhood.

(http://radioactiveliberty.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/obama-wind-up-car.jpg)

(http://akemi.typepad.com/photos/uncategorized/2008/08/12/dsc08634_5.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Fri, 07 May 2010, 19:00:04
Best use of a Firefly...or whatever that is, Geo Metro? that I've ever seen. Good stuff.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 09 May 2010, 08:31:43
More Space Saving Goodness!!!  

First I wanted to mention that straight (in white or black) SDL to PS/2 cables do indeed exist.  Very high quality and NO MORE coiled SDL cables sitting on the floor for me anymore.  And now I can finally do some cable management with my 6-8 various input devices LOL!!  

Cables.  I really should post a separate thread at some point about these.  I have all of the stock ones and some that I've swapped with great success.  My next goal is a straight USB cable for the model F.  Now that will be worth the effort.   My own personal Model F thread to follow soon.

Some cable love!!   Only $10 from one of my favorite keyboard crack dealers, Chucky over at Unicomp:

(http://fototime.com/BB4F8BB3C53E97C/standard.jpg)

Lookee what the nice UPS man brought me:

(http://fototime.com/7A75ED301572DDB/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/C46A23C29E186E7/standard.jpg)

Gotta love the boxes and original foam packaging.  Too bad everyone threw those away with their keyboard purchases.   Personally, I keep boxes, instructions, original packaging for everything.  

Both of these were converted over to US Layout.   I sprung for additional keysets so the original keys are still in place.  Easy conversion back to German and French layouts.   Chucky did some nice print on these US Layout keys.   Look at the blue sub print.   As Mike Tyson would say......NIIIIICE!!  

(http://fototime.com/4965F7105320710/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/1EF63A769118E0E/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/D3EF076DA6859FC/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/64BAA797300021D/standard.jpg)

And for ch_123:

(http://fototime.com/AA692C943CE7AB9/standard.jpg)


Anyone else have any cool Space Saving Minis to post here?   Stock, unusual keys, special layouts?   Modified Minis??   Spread the love!!!

A couple more to post when time permits!!

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: phototristan on Sun, 09 May 2010, 08:51:12
Can you post some pics of the black cables plugged into a Space Saver?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 09 May 2010, 08:52:16
Quote from: webwit;180342
Aah you got some of the CHEAP cables. No more budget for the hardcore, manly, coiled ones, huh?


Here are some of my "new" SDL to PS/2 and SDL to AT cables:

(http://fototime.com/2AEBC995D18509E/standard.jpg)

This doesn't include the 5 cables included in my NIB Space Saving Minis or the two dozen "used" cables I picked up over the last month.  

They're all getting swapped out for nice NEW shiny straight cables.   Did you know that Chucky has "white" straight cables??  That would be matchy matchy with our IBM boards.  

And admit it Webby, on at least one occasion you've tripped over one these "manly" coiled cables and nearly broken your neck.   Admit it!!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 09 May 2010, 08:57:26
Quote from: phototristan;180346
Can you post some pics of the black cables plugged into a Space Saver?



It just looks like a black cable plugged into a Mini.   Just call up Chuck at Unicomp and order one.   You'll love it.....promise.    The coiled cables are a PITA!!   If you don't like the straight cable, I'll buy it from you.  

Notice how the "used" coiled cables are always filthy on one side.  I spent like an hour cleaning one of those and told myself "never again".   I'm not the spoiled, rich NIB baby that Ripster is, but life is too short to deal with a nasty dirty cable.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 09 May 2010, 10:35:11
Quote from: webwit;180359
For a 5576-003 you have to get into Yahoo Auctions Japan (http://auctions.yahoo.co.jp/) and crescent-shop (http://www.crescent-shop.com/). Crescent-shop is the shopping service so you can buy products only available in Japan, and they will forward it to you. And they have an English interface into Yahoo Auctions. Not as rare as the M15, although there doesn't seem to be any around at the moment.


Very cool!!  I don't want the board as much as I want the numpad.  Thanks!!   See.....I reveal where you can get nifty straight SDL cables and you tell me where to find a buckling spring Numpad so that both of us can blow money on things we absolutely don't need  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 09 May 2010, 11:05:06
Quote from: webwit;180379
Then I better reveal that both buckling springs keypads I have only work with the accompanying keyboards (the 5576-003 and M15) attached to them. Special connector.


Thanks.  That's pretty useful information.....
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Mon, 10 May 2010, 04:08:38
I'm pretty sure they're the same size, and the camera angle is skewering that fact.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Mon, 10 May 2010, 06:57:31
Quote from: ch_123;180626
I'm pretty sure they're the same size, and the camera angle is skewering that fact.


Webby figured out a way to shrink his keyboards in order to save space.  Shrinky dinks style  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Rajagra on Mon, 10 May 2010, 07:08:07
Quote from: ricercar;180600
Which one is the Common size Mini?
Yes, I did a double take when I first saw that pic.
Things aren't always what they seem (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a91eiu_eer4).
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Mon, 10 May 2010, 18:18:40
Quote from: skcheng;180347
Did you know that Chucky has "white" straight cables??  That would be matchy matchy with our IBM boards.


A package from Unicomp arrived today. The white straight cables are flat:

(http://www.soybomb.com/ratpfink/keyboards/WhiteStraightCables.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Stevie Wonder on Mon, 10 May 2010, 18:32:40
White?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 18 May 2010, 08:35:47
Pics of a Terminal Space Saving Mini.   This one I've been playing with for the last week and it's finally time to ship it off like I've been promising.   Board purchased in spanking refurbished condition from Brian O'Neill.   For those interested, a standard Model M PC board was used omitting the LED terminals of course.   Keycaps from the Terminal M were replaced with standard Model M keys.   Works great!!  Terminal Space Savers are usually available for $50 or so.  Maybe another $20 for any Model M with some nice keycaps and you can build a working Terminal Space Saver.

(http://fototime.com/1CA4D1FB9E36CAC/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/D581416B3D44073/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/444BF35098DF6A2/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/FAAF6B4DB77985E/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/BB22B007D96389A/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/C94FCA61C2A4C45/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/DAF693D7B8DFDB3/standard.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Half-Saint on Tue, 18 May 2010, 08:41:08
Quote from: skcheng;183446
Pics of a Terminal Space Saving Mini.   This one I've been playing with for the last week and it's finally time to ship it off like I've been promising.   Board purchased in spanking refurbished condition from Brian O'Neill.   For those interested, a standard Model M PC board was used omitting the LED terminals of course.   Keycaps from the Terminal M were replaced with standard Model M keys.   Works great!!  Terminal Space Savers are usually available for $50 or so.  Maybe another $20 for any Model M with some nice keycaps and you can build a working Terminal Space Saver.


Are you saying that you can switch circuit boards to convert a Terminal Space Saver to a regular PS/2 Space Saver?

SainT
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Tue, 18 May 2010, 08:43:37
Quote from: Half-Saint;183447
Are you saying that you can switch circuit boards to convert a Terminal Space Saver to a regular PS/2 Space Saver?

SainT


Yes.  Everything works, but you lose the hidden numpad function.  It's a 2 minute swap on the PC board.  And if a ratty, broken regular Mini pops up, you can convert it over fully to a normal Space Saving Mini.   But I don't see too many "broken" Space Saving Minis out there.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Tue, 18 May 2010, 09:31:39
Quote from: pfink;180817
A package from Unicomp arrived today. The white straight cables are flat:

Show Image
(http://www.soybomb.com/ratpfink/keyboards/WhiteStraightCables.jpg)


They look like a Model M2 cable with an SDL connector thrown on the end.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Tue, 18 May 2010, 17:59:25
Is there any call for LED mod of a Mini? My Space Saving PCB has 4 contacts that are unused, obviously a match for normal Model M LEDs.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Tue, 18 May 2010, 18:08:58
If I may make a suggestion, use small round LEDs and mount them inside the appropriate lock keys (obviously make sure the LED connector is operational first).

Drill a hole in each lock key which perfectly fits the LEDs you use, fit LED into hole, put small amount of glue to hold in place. Run wires off side of board then behind deck to controller.

Much easier and cheaper to undo if you drill holes in the keys rather than case.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Rajagra on Tue, 18 May 2010, 18:41:37
Quote from: kishy;183808
Drill a hole in each lock key


Or don't...



A backlit effect is much classier IMO.
(Achieved here by using the "wrong" key in the CapsLock position on my 87U.)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Tue, 18 May 2010, 19:20:03
Quote from: ripster;183802
You first.

Confirmed Scroll Lock, and Caps Lock, but Num Lock is playing hard to get. Probably because of the embedded keypad.

Note: The Model M Space Saving pinout is NOT consistent with the Model M regular pinout I expected. More to come.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: armenws on Tue, 18 May 2010, 22:59:19
sweet.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ricercar on Wed, 19 May 2010, 13:36:28
LEDs next to the Caps Lock and Scroll Lock. Unfortunately Caps lock LED blinks for a while when first connected to blue cube; this didn't happen yesterday, and makes me uncomfortable, so the LED mod is probably short lived.

(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=10115&stc=1&d=1274293391)

(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=10116&stc=1&d=1274293391)

For my next trick, thinking about a model M13 Space Saving mini if I can get the cutaway G and H keys from Fentek or Unicomp...
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: MsKeyboard on Wed, 19 May 2010, 13:45:59
Ricercar,
Don't have any cut-aways.........sorry
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 19 May 2010, 13:50:32
Looking at my M13, you could completely get away with simply cutting out that area from a normal key with a Dremel or similar.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 19 May 2010, 20:07:13
German layout Lexmark headed to Germany.   Some Esc bling and a straight SDL to PS/2 cable included.  Pretty board!!

(http://fototime.com/C906259C68F503E/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/84D9D30018146C5/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/4788610E292E6FD/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/ACFF36F6F060F3D/standard.jpg)

Kybd No:  1397970

French board Kybd No:   1397971

Interesting layout.   Gotta love the Strg, Einfg, and Druck keys.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: 42.tar.gz on Wed, 26 May 2010, 09:44:11
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=10332&stc=1&d=1274884882)

Thanks a lot, skcheng! :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 26 May 2010, 10:23:21
Quote from: 42.tar.gz;187057
Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=10332&stc=1&d=1274884882)


Thanks a lot, skcheng! :)


That sure looks NICE sitting on your desk.  Not too many of those out there.   I don't even think Webwit has one  :))

And the Red Esc key looks great!!   Nice cord too!!   I bet the standard original coiled cable sits in the box.    I hope my packing got that board to you safely!!  

Enjoy and THANK YOU!!

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 26 May 2010, 10:41:38
Quote from: ripster;187080
Why does it say Lexmark?  Does Chuck have a box of cases he can sell?


Chuck just turned up a few more surprises.  Pics when I have time.   Just slammed with work this week.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Dirty Bint on Wed, 26 May 2010, 17:16:18
skcheng,

Would you happen to know if there was a UK layout model equivalent of the Lexmark Space Saver you shipped to Germany? You listed the German and French model numbers and I would be keen to know if there was a UK layout produced.

Rgds
Dirty Bint
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Wed, 26 May 2010, 17:33:13
Quote from: ripster;187080
Why does it say Lexmark?  Does Chuck have a box of cases he can sell?


I've never seen an IBM-brand 84/85-key with a European layout, they must not have been very popular in Europe... Skcheng's spacesavers were the first SSKs I've seen with a European layout.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Thu, 27 May 2010, 05:03:23
Those aren't really a UK layout.... more like an ISO US.
Title: Another one from Skcheng
Post by: phoenix on Mon, 31 May 2010, 14:32:44
I've received my Model M Mini from Skcheng for a while but thought I would wait till my custom keycaps arrive before I post a picture :)

(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=10472&stc=1&d=1275333699)

Thanks again, Skcheng!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Mental Hobbit on Mon, 31 May 2010, 15:57:07
Quote from: ripster;188508
P.S.  Don't take my dentist jokes personally.  I was picking on Dentists LONG before you registered.  Especially that ScarFace guy.


I haven't seen any complaints. Everybody hates dentists after all.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 10:56:35
Quote
Quote from: ripster;188508
Wish I lived near SKCheng.  He seems to be a real perfectionist.


Quote
P.S.  Don't take my dentist jokes personally.  I was picking on Dentists LONG before you registered.  Especially that ScarFace guy.



Perfectionist, huh  :))

I definitely beat to my own drum.   Recent filling that I did for a patient.  After decay excavation:

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/1F720D15B75709E/standard.jpg)


Pretty large hole, right??

Each cusp built up individually with opaque dentin shade, several enamel shades.  

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/7ECE714EA0C43F2/standard.jpg)


Some ochre staining and some white decalcification tints:

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/92A53F4F795C8E4/standard.jpg)


Some high value enamel shades and final contouring:

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/8CCB1A5709FEDFC/standard.jpg)


All work accomplished under 8-20x magnification.  Complete isolation with rubber dam.  

Intra-oral shots after final polish, removal of rubber dam.  

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/63086AF063A0DB4/standard.jpg)


Show Image
(http://fototime.com/6B4595542F77C09/standard.jpg)


Rip.....you would absolutely LOVE doing this kind of nit-picky tedious busywork.   And I get paid to do this LOL.  

And keep the dental jokes coming.   I love dental humour.   Have you ever seen this video??   One of my all time favorites:

> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385">[/youtube]
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 02 June 2010, 11:50:57
I am suddenly reminded of this...

> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385">[/embed][/youtube]

which is of course followed by this

> type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385">[/embed][/youtube]
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 11:58:31
Quote from: ripster;188896
Need more pics.

Just not of teeth.

I get grossed out easily.  Pass out at the sight of blood.  Makes a medical career unlikely.



No blood.  It's all about replacing missing tooth structure in form and function.  Took me over an hour to do that.  

You get over feeling queasy about the blood.  Just remember.....it's not yours  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Guardian on Wed, 02 June 2010, 12:14:27
heh, I find passing out from blood funny. I once found blood drops on the floor before realising it had come from me. Joys of a country upbringing, you can cut off a limb and finish the job before you see a doctor about it.

I suppose that precludes you from watching shows like Dexter then, Rip?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: maxlugar on Wed, 02 June 2010, 13:38:00
Quote from: ripster;188896
Need more pics.

Just not of teeth.

I get grossed out easily.  Pass out at the sight of blood.  Makes a medical career unlikely.


Come on, didn't you guys watch Nip/Tuck on FX, one of the best shows that used to be on TV.

I rather enjoy the sight of blood.  I would have to find other leisure time activities besides hunting if I was queasy about blood and guts.  There ain't no one else to field dress and butcher the carcass.

If had had taken a different career path, I would have made a damn good butcher.  (that college and grad school thing got in the way and diverted me from my true calling)

How 'bout posting some pics of a root canal gone horribly wrong or some other botched endodontic dental surgery.  I'll let you worry about how to relate those pics to keyboards.  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 13:56:06
Quote from: ripster;188901
Good point.  So far I've only passed out seeing MY blood.

Where are the Mini pics?


You mean like this:

(http://fototime.com/A62B3EC09D8BB44/standard.jpg)

Gorgeous raised IBM Logo:

(http://fototime.com/35208DFD75E7286/standard.jpg)

Laser aligned logo.....perfectly centered.  Eat your heart out Webwit  :)

(http://fototime.com/F70443D87B9BEB1/standard.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 02 June 2010, 13:57:19
I think I just died a little inside.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 13:58:44
Quote from: kishy;188920
I think I just died a little inside.


Cost.....$10  :))

There's a catch to all of this.....
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:02:19
Quote from: webwit;188923
Show us the bottom !

Show Image
(http://img.thesun.co.uk/multimedia/archive/00834/bottom682_834364a.jpg)


Fun spoiler  :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:03:09
Quote from: skcheng;188921
Cost.....$10  :))

There's a catch to all of this.....


The catch is...you actually are Brian O'Neil?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:17:17
Had a few hours free over the long wknd and I can't keep well enough alone.  With all of the hype regarding NIB Model M types, I would take a nuts/bolts modified board over any of them.  So here is my 85 --> 84 Key Mini Mod.  

Since I've always wanted to mod a NIB unit, I figured one of my Lexmark Minis would fit the bill.   And while I was at it, I figured I'd get rid of the redundant |\ key and replace it with a more standard left shift key.

Since I also had a bunch of XT and AT Model F parts laying around, I figured I would try to swap in some hammers/springs from one of those.  Bad idea......didn't work, but it was worth the shot.

Pre-operative photos:

(http://fototime.com/EBEEF3EC14758B7/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/AAD769F7DA5EBE8/standard.jpg)

Went through a LOT of hassle to get Model F, XT springs/hammers to fit:

(http://fototime.com/18741DDB750E8AD/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/FF5181FDAEAF80A/standard.jpg)

Put it all back together and it just didn't work.  Sucks!!  For a while there I had the magic feel of XT hammers/springs.   It's the spring rate that provides the unique feel/twang on those Model Fs.   When I had it all re-assembled, it sounded/felt just like an XT.  Too bad....

Back to the Model M springs/hammers.  And completely re-assembled.  I drilled holes in 28 positions.  

(http://fototime.com/144C4923B7EA3DE/standard.jpg)

My new daily driver:

(http://fototime.com/00EE9572A09C0F3/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/BB92FB46C951A3E/standard.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:19:01
Quote from: webwit;188927
Still waiting for mine (I ordered 5)..but Chuck only charged me $7.50 each. I bet he hates dentistry.


LOL.  But he told me that he tacked an extra $20 onto your shipping charges  :))
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:20:23
Quote from: kishy;188926
The catch is...you actually are Brian O'Neil?


Nah.....I prefer nuts/bolts over 5 minute epoxy.  

Webby knows the catch.....and he's already let the duck out of the bag.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: kishy on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:22:36
I have a feeling that Unicomp is producing Industrial Grey housings...
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:23:16
Quote from: webwit;188927
Still waiting for mine (I ordered 5)..but Chuck only charged me $7.50 each. I bet he hates dentistry.


Hmm, Chuck charged me $7.00 each for 5. He must be just quoting prices off the top of his head as the orders come in.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:26:21
Quote from: skcheng;188930

Webby knows the catch.....and he's already let the duck out of the bag.


Yeah, let's call these "Semi-Industrial Minis"...

(http://www.soybomb.com/ratpfink/keyboards/Semi-Industrial1.jpg)

(http://www.soybomb.com/ratpfink/keyboards/Semi-Industrial2.jpg)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:27:36
Quote from: pfink;188932
Hmm, Chuck charged me $7.00 each for 5. He must be just quoting prices off the top of his head as the orders come in.


He just likes you more than me or Webby  :)

I'm sure he just makes up the pricing as he goes along.  Too funny!!
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: pfink on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:28:46
Quote from: kishy;188931
I have a feeling that Unicomp is producing Industrial Grey housings...


Close, but no cigar.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:29:21
Quote from: ripster;188933
Sorry, if it has Unicomp parts it's worthless to a true collector.

Leftover IBM/Lexmark stash.  Too bad Chuck threw most of this stuff into the dumpster several years back.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: Half-Saint on Wed, 02 June 2010, 14:54:55
Quote from: skcheng;188928

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/00EE9572A09C0F3/standard.jpg)


Hehe, I see you did the same as I did here (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?t=9794) :)
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 16:30:35
Quote from: ripster;188941
BTW I coulda saved you all that Model F hammer/spring swapping stuff.  I already had tried that with a Model F spring ClickClack (IIRC) sent me.

Too mushy, not crisp at all even when it does work.



The hardest part was trimming all of these pieces for the bottom row.  I sure felt like an idiot after bolting everything together just to find out that it doesn't work.  For about a minute, I considered taking a separating disc to an AT-F capacitor board and then I just had to stop myself.  So paths are just not worth travelling  :)

I like the feel of the XT spring/hammer on my Lexmark Mini.  Twangy and bouncy like......

"insert youtube video of choice"

skc
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Wed, 02 June 2010, 16:31:46
Quote from: Half-Saint;188946
Hehe, I see you did the same as I did here (http://geekhack.org/showthread.php?t=9794) :)

Yeah, I stole that idea from you  :)

I don't know.   I just can't seem to "like" the lavendar WASD keycaps.   I pulled them already.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: JBert on Wed, 02 June 2010, 16:52:33
Quote from: skcheng;188928
Went through a LOT of hassle to get Model F, XT springs/hammers to fit:

Show Image
(http://fototime.com/18741DDB750E8AD/standard.jpg)


Put it all back together and it just didn't work.  Sucks!!  For a while there I had the magic feel of XT hammers/springs.   It's the spring rate that provides the unique feel/twang on those Model Fs.   When I had it all re-assembled, it sounded/felt just like an XT.  Too bad....


Quote from: skcheng;188966
The hardest part was trimming all of these pieces for the bottom row.  I sure felt like an idiot after bolting everything together just to find out that it doesn't work.  For about a minute, I considered taking a separating disc to an AT-F capacitor board and then I just had to stop myself.  So paths are just not worth travelling  :)

I like the feel of the XT spring/hammer on my Lexmark Mini.  Twangy and bouncy like......

"insert youtube video of choice"

skc
Had you said earlier that you wanted to do such a mod, I could have warned you that it wouldn't work at all.
The hammers on the model F are made to change capacitance, they can never work in combination with a model M membrane. And most of all: (as Ripster said) the springs don't have enough force to actuate the membrane.

I wonder how msiegel's model F reverse-engineering project is going.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 06 June 2010, 10:40:38
Quote from: JBert;188972
Had you said earlier that you wanted to do such a mod, I could have warned you that it wouldn't work at all.
The hammers on the model F are made to change capacitance, they can never work in combination with a model M membrane. And most of all: (as Ripster said) the springs don't have enough force to actuate the membrane.

I wonder how msiegel's model F reverse-engineering project is going.




I should have asked first.   No big deal.   Once you have the Model M apart, it's pretty easy to swap spring/hammers.

So JBert, will it work if I swap in XT hammers onto my AT-F board??   They're slightly different and I wonder if it will improve actuation feel?
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 06 June 2010, 11:18:14
Quote from: ripster;190222
My conclusion after all my experiments was that the IBM engineers had tried already every combination under the sun.  The Buckling Spring is a sensitive beast.

The Wooden Model - "BigFoot" (http://geekhack.org/showwiki.php?title=Island:6490)
Show Image
(http://geekhack.org/attachment.php?attachmentid=3092&stc=1&d=1247158520)


I don't have an XT though.  The Model F AT layout is weird enough thank you.



The Model AT-F is just fine after some tweaking.  Just sent one of my tweaked AT-F units out to Didjamatic who called it a "speed demon" for typing fast.  

I just wonder if the XT-F  hammers will work in an AT-F??  They're a little different.   Eh.....I guess I'll just try it.  Max Lugar, Phoenix and others claim that the XT feels nicer than the AT.   And if that's the case, I would attribute the nicer feel to the spring/hammer assemblies.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: didjamatic on Sun, 06 June 2010, 11:21:17
I'm all ears.  This AT-F is fantastic!  It's reminds me of the key feel ♠in an old IBM terminal board I have (the one with the blue switch above the keyboard) which may motivate me to tear into that one and see what's inside.  But I haven't had that board out for a while.

Great keyboard and it is definitely a speed demon.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Sun, 06 June 2010, 11:38:41
Quote from: skcheng;190224
The Model AT-F is just fine after some tweaking.  Just sent one of my tweaked AT-F units out to Didjamatic who called it a "speed demon" for typing fast.  

I just wonder if the XT-F  hammers will work in an AT-F??  They're a little different.   Eh.....I guess I'll just try it.  Max Lugar, Phoenix and others claim that the XT feels nicer than the AT.   And if that's the case, I would attribute the nicer feel to the spring/hammer assemblies.


I'd say it's a combination of build quality and people getting lucky.. It seems to me very unlikely that they'd make any changes to the spring going from one model to another.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 06 June 2010, 11:47:50
Quote from: ch_123;190228
I'd say it's a combination of build quality and people getting lucky.. It seems to me very unlikely that they'd make any changes to the spring going from one model to another.


They're totally different.   I'll post pics of how the barrels/cylinders differ in their orientation pin, and just how the shape/contours of the XT hammers differ from the AT hammers.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Sun, 06 June 2010, 11:51:50
The important question here is - can they be swapped.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: phoenix on Sun, 06 June 2010, 12:03:43
Quote from: skcheng;190224
Max Lugar, Phoenix and others claim that the XT feels nicer than the AT.   And if that's the case, I would attribute the nicer feel to the spring/hammer assemblies.

Even though I said that, I also said "if I'm not imagining things" :) My fingers are definitely not sensitive enough to really tell. Besides the different hammers/cylinders, the XT has a metal bottom. Maybe that's another reason it feels and sounds a little different.

I also have a 5291 keyboard which looks like the XT with a big palm rest. Same cylinders as in the XT. All the springs are still shiny after all these years. The keys are lower-pitched and lighter than those on my AT and feel better, but my AT is much more used so it's not a good comparison.

Quote from: didjamatic;190225
It reminds me of the key feel in an old IBM terminal board I have (the one with the blue switch above the keyboard) which may motivate me to tear into that one and see what's inside.

Most probably the same kind of construction as the XT.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: ch_123 on Sun, 06 June 2010, 12:05:22
(http://geekhack.org/picture.php?albumid=11&pictureid=344)

3178 keyboard. From Webwit's description, they sound like they use the same internals as the XT.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: JBert on Sun, 06 June 2010, 16:11:41
Quote from: skcheng;190213
I should have asked first.   No big deal.   Once you have the Model M apart, it's pretty easy to swap spring/hammers.

So JBert, will it work if I swap in XT hammers onto my AT-F board??   They're slightly different and I wonder if it will improve actuation feel?
You could try.

One thing I noticed is that the back plates of a model F XT are harder to assemble as they need some force to be pushed together again. This in turn presses all the barrels down and makes sure they cannot budge.
When you check this on the AT model you'll see they have some give.

Ultimately, it is a thin line. The main differences between them are the layout and the sound.
Title: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: skcheng on Sun, 20 June 2010, 11:33:37
May '88  comptekw2k sourced board.   This board has the following:

1. 2-piece keycaps
2. Darker/bolder font of the earlier boards
3. Dark brown secondary print for the hidden numpad
4. No marks at all on this board including the rubber feet

(http://fototime.com/DDE0802634D1B57/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/120E4C023A09949/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/FC7E4E00100AD44/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/1A6D93A154D015D/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/B228C919426588F/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/74F3C448A67B20B/standard.jpg)

(http://fototime.com/5DC16058EDBEC33/standard.jpg)
Title: Re: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: OxC0FFEE on Sun, 19 May 2013, 11:29:37
I scoured the net and ebay for SSKs and came up dry. Does anyone here have a spare they could part with? Until recently I had not known the model M came in a mini variety and now I think I'm in love.
Title: Re: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: 4LI4Z on Sun, 19 May 2013, 11:49:36
Nice SSK, skcheng, looks like new!
OxC0FFEE you should better post that in the Classifieds.
Title: Re: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: jwaz on Sun, 19 May 2013, 11:52:16
Quote
IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
« on: April 07, 2010, 05:58:46 am »


He might not be on too much anymore ;) 
Title: Re: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: E TwentyNine on Sun, 19 May 2013, 12:06:34
Quote from: OxC0FFEE on Sun, 19 May 2013, 11:29:37
I scoured the net and ebay for SSKs and came up dry. Does anyone here have a spare they could part with? Until recently I had not known the model M came in a mini variety and now I think I'm in love.

There's one going for $190 in the classifieds right now (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=42773.0).
Title: Re: IBM Model M Space Saving Mini Love
Post by: E TwentyNine on Sun, 19 May 2013, 12:08:10
Quote from: 4LI4Z on Sun, 19 May 2013, 11:49:36
Nice SSK, skcheng, looks like new!
OxC0FFEE you should better post that in the Classifieds.

For a more recent thread on SSK's, try here (http://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=34712).