IBM Model M Space Saver 87 key idea

[TheRavenDog]

Inspired by the success of my IBM Model M 104 modification (see below), I had an idea for an IBM Model M Space Saver 87 keyboard. Here's the idea:

- Start with a IBM Model M Space Saver 84 keyboard
- Separate the barrel assembly from the the back-plate.
- Take a Unicomp Classic 104 (USB or PS/2) and separate the barrel assembly from the back plate
- Cut the number pad off of the Unicomp 104 barrel assembly. Now we have a 87 key barrel assembly.
- Use the back-plate from the 84 space saver
- Use the membrane from the 104 Unicomp classic
- Use the cut-down barrel assembly from the Unicomp classic
- Now comes the tricky part: fold number pad section of the membrane under the back-plate.
- Use the Unicomp USB or PS/2 controller.

If the number-pad-membrane-folding doesn't work, I might try cutting the membrane directly and connecting the row and column lines to the controller with wires.

I'm not quite sure how I can reliably connect wires to the membrane. Any ideas?

What do you all think? Is this crazy? Would people want a 87 key IBM Space Saver?

The IBM Frankenboard Model M:

[0100010]

Folding the membrane would work.  Would imagine you would need to remove the tabs between the Alt / Ctrl keys on the top of the SSK case.

I would never sacrifice an 84 key SSK to get an 87 key SSK though; just too much wrong with destroying an original SSK.

I would cut down a 104 key Unicomp to an 87 key config though.  Just trim and "weld" the case, cut the plate and fold the membrane.

[SmallFry]

Get a different case first! Its a pretty square label one!

[samwisekoi]

I would never sacrifice an 84 key SSK to get an 87 key SSK though; just too much wrong with destroying an original SSK.

I would cut down a 104 key Unicomp to an 87 key config though.  Just trim and "weld" the case, cut the plate and fold the membrane.

Agree re cutting an original SSK!

But with would it be possible to do a double fold to create a 60% keyboard?

 - Ron | samwisekoi

]

[REVENGE]

Sounds plausible, I would fiddle with the membrane first as a feasibility study.

[The_Beast]

I would never sacrifice an 84 key SSK to get an 87 key SSK though; just too much wrong with destroying an original SSK.

I would cut down a 104 key Unicomp to an 87 key config though.  Just trim and "weld" the case, cut the plate and fold the membrane.

Agree re cutting an original SSK!

But with would it be possible to do a double fold to create a 60% keyboard?

 - Ron | samwisekoi

]

I hope so. I have a fullsized Model M waiting at home waiting to become a 60% over my winter break