Mystery switches on an NTC KB-6251

[yrzero]

Hello all, I have come to request some assistance in identifying the key switches on my NTC KB-6251EM.

I acquired the keyboard from my Dad, who purchased it in 1992. I spent the afternoon giving it a good clean, but I cannot for the life of me work out what these switches are. They are quiet (no click) and not especially tactile, if that helps at all. Also, the post surround is covered in metal with an 'M' logo embossed on them. The logo looks like this -->   ,\\

Any information about the switches (or the keyboard in general for that matter) would be much appreciated!

[Computer-Lab in Basement]

Interesting... they look like they're Cherry MX compatible.

I hope someone else around here knows what they are, cuz now I'm curious too...

[trentva]

looks cool

[yrzero]

Interesting... they look like they're Cherry MX compatible.

My first thought was that they may be an MX White knock-off of some description, but I can't really tell. The only other keyboards I've seen of this model have ALPS white switches, so these had me even more intrigued!

[Xerces]

Cauliflower switches? jk. Actually, I'm trying to found out too. I got a Chicony KB-5191 with the same type of switches, but I can't find any info on them. Are these MX knock-offs? Typing on the sort of feels like browns.

[rootwyrm]

That's interesting.. the "M" logo is actually a very old and reliable manufacturer whose name escapes me at this moment. The confusing part is that they should be White Alps and the Chicony should be SMK (which is Cherry compatible) or SMK knockoff (also Cherry compatible.) And the SMK's are tactiles, definitely, with pronounced clicking. Not as loud as Cherry blues either.

Not seeing a photo of the switch; can you attach one?

[absyrd]

Look like ALPS clones based upon the housing and shape. Open up a switch?

[Ascaii]

They are lemon colored mitsumi switches. If you want more info on them, I sold Haata a board with these a long time ago.

Misumi switches are available in different colors, ive had lemon, mint green, and pink mitsumi switches.

[rootwyrm]

They are lemon colored mitsumi switches. If you want more info on them, I sold Haata a board with these a long time ago.

Misumi switches are available in different colors, ive had lemon, mint green, and pink mitsumi switches.

AHHA! Thank you, Ascaii! Mitsumi, yes! I should remember that - for over a decade I insisted on Mitsumi floppy drives. I should have remembered. (Also had a Mitsumi board, did not like.. too light. Think it was pink but don't hold me to it.)

[Findecanor]

There were also mechanical Mitsumi switches with a square mount, like their cheaper semi-mechanical "rubber arc" switches.

[Ascaii]

Findecandor, these are mechanical.  Most mitsumi branded boards tend to be rubber domes...I have only found mechanical mitsumis in chicony boards and industrial/editing applications.

[Xerces]

They are lemon colored mitsumi switches. If you want more info on them, I sold Haata a board with these a long time ago.

Misumi switches are available in different colors, ive had lemon, mint green, and pink mitsumi switches.

Thanks for the info.

[Magna224]

Mitsumis feel similar to black ALPS to me. I have a tenkey with them.