thanks for the info, though the problem is expensive shipping (always seem to get charged import duty nowadays which really jacks up the price) and US layout
Sun type 5 keyboards were great, a legend in their own lunchtime, proper switches and very solid, but only afaik with Sun proprietary connector, so no use with PCs. Type 6 much cheaper construction, diaphragm type, though available with usb. I like "proper" layout (ctrl next to A, Esc next to 1, back space above return) Sun will provide - suits me as unix user though obviously not for everyone. Caps lock and ctrl keys same size so can be swapped on all layouts though BS above return only possible with unix layout.
Yeah, I'm looking into restoring a small WYSE board, and it's got capslock and control in those "better" positions. I should have got my unicomp done that way, too. Just because the Sun keyboard has an oddball connector, doesn't mean I can't use it with a computer. You can do anything with a teensy these days.
I'm a little confused: if you're just replacing the typing area keys: aren't they all 1X1 in different rows? Other than the extra key, it's pretty similar to ANSI from that perspecive. Also, if you want, you can get a whole set of keycaps with entirely custom legends. He said he has ISO enter keycaps in, and I think he already had the shorter shifts, so even if you need those, they are available.
Still, even if you don't go with WASD, you can easily get a set of blank keycaps for the typing area. I prefer PBT. The only issue is that you'll have an extra key usually if you go with a set intended for ANSI.
The HHKB was supposedly based on the Sun Type 5.
Yeah, I heard that somewhere, too. Maybe I should cut one down like those kbdmania people are always doing.