Proper PS/2 to USB conversion?

[blakespot]

If one grabs a Model M with a PS/2 connector for use on a USB machine, what is the proper drill there? I've got a number of tiny converter dongles lying around the house, but are they the way to go? Does it require more electronics to get it done in a way that won't show ghosting, repeats, etc?

Thanks.




bp

[fohat.digs]

I have never had any trouble with the cheap converters, but a lot of people here have complained about them either not working at all, or working improperly.

Just try what you have, and see. A Model M draws quite a bit of power, and you might try a powered USB hub if you have one.

Otherwise, every rig is different, and trial and error will tell you where you stand.

PS - I don't game so my needs are simple.

[0100010]

Probably the easiest is to get a protocol adapter, such as : http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/124184

They come in either just the adapter or also in a short cable format.

Could also perform any number of USB conversions too - but those would be probaby more costly and require work; nothing wrong with tinkering if you're interested though...

[tobydeemer]

I have had good luck with the blue cube mentioned above for my Model M's. I need to get a Belkin adapter for my WGI AT101, as it is more finicky. With cheaper adapters, I've had issues only when I try to remap keys in Linux. For instance, my cheap microcenter adapter works 98%- it loses repeate function when I map Left Ctrl to my caps lock. That's it.

However, there is also this seller on ebay, who IIRC is a member here (not sure of name), that makes custom cables for this application. They're a little more expensive than an adapter, but look far classier to be honest. (Which might not matter depending on desk setup, etc.) Anyway, here's the link:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/USB-to-SDL-6-Pin-6ft-IBM-Lexmark-Unicomp-Model-M-Clicky-Keyboard-Cable-NEW-/270955553909?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f1635a475

(Oh also, this is only for the Model M's with the removable PS/2 cable....)

[fohat.digs]

Oh, I forgot.

I have 2 of orihalcon's cables and they work great for me.

[hasu]

With cheaper adapters, I've had issues only when I try to remap keys in Linux. For instance, my cheap microcenter adapter works 98%- it loses repeate function when I map Left Ctrl to my caps lock. That's it.

Exactly same here. Both of my two cheap converter have that problem and seem to have some trick on CapsLock.

[urbanus]

Probably the easiest is to get a protocol adapter, such as : http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/124184

They come in either just the adapter or also in a short cable format.

Could also perform any number of USB conversions too - but those would be probaby more costly and require work; nothing wrong with tinkering if you're interested though...

Agreed -- I got a couple of those so-called "blue cube" adapters, but I got them from eBay instead because it was cheaper (sorry clickykeyboards.com dudes).

As for the keyboard mod: I wouldn't go down that path personally because I think it would affect the value of the board.  Also it would remove some of the old-style charm. 

[TheProfosist]

Get a belkin or rosewill ps2 kwyboard and mouse to useb the kind with the box in the middle.