Simple Questions, Simple Answers (FAQ in the OP)

[cryptokey]

I'm trying to decide between which Model M to get for my first one.  Would anybody be able to help me decide which one would be best out of these?

Here are the listings for Canada in my price range:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/IBM-MODEL-M-KEYBOARD-VINTAGE-1988-BLACK-LOGO-ps-2-/361434588081?hash=item54272e23b1:g:-fcAAOSweuxWSPts&clk_rvr_id=936303064253&afsrc=1&rmvSB=true

[CPTBadAss]

bump

Seriously? You didn't get an answer in 30 minutes so you bumped which is against the rules of this thread? Have a little patience.

I'm trying to decide between which Model M to get for my first one.  Would anybody be able to help me decide which one would be best out of these?

Here are the listings for Canada in my price range:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/IBM-MODEL-M-KEYBOARD-VINTAGE-1988-BLACK-LOGO-ps-2-/361434588081?hash=item54272e23b1:g:-fcAAOSweuxWSPts&clk_rvr_id=936303064253&afsrc=1&rmvSB=true

You have one keyboard that you can afford? Just pick up a 1391401. They're all pretty much the same anyways.

[cryptokey]

bump

Seriously? You didn't get an answer in 30 minutes so you bumped which is against the rules of this thread? Have a little patience.

I'm trying to decide between which Model M to get for my first one.  Would anybody be able to help me decide which one would be best out of these?

Here are the listings for Canada in my price range:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/IBM-MODEL-M-KEYBOARD-VINTAGE-1988-BLACK-LOGO-ps-2-/361434588081?hash=item54272e23b1:g:-fcAAOSweuxWSPts&clk_rvr_id=936303064253&afsrc=1&rmvSB=true

You have one keyboard that you can afford? Just pick up a 1391401. They're all pretty much the same anyways.

My apologies, I should have read the rules first.  Won't happen again.

[Dernubenfrieken]

bump

Seriously? You didn't get an answer in 30 minutes so you bumped which is against the rules of this thread? Have a little patience.

I'm trying to decide between which Model M to get for my first one.  Would anybody be able to help me decide which one would be best out of these?

Here are the listings for Canada in my price range:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/IBM-MODEL-M-KEYBOARD-VINTAGE-1988-BLACK-LOGO-ps-2-/361434588081?hash=item54272e23b1:g:-fcAAOSweuxWSPts&clk_rvr_id=936303064253&afsrc=1&rmvSB=true

You have one keyboard that you can afford? Just pick up a 1391401. They're all pretty much the same anyways.

My apologies, I should have read the rules first.  Won't happen again.

Also if you want an immediate response, the IRC chat might be helpful.

[fohat.digs]

I'm trying to decide between which Model M to get for my first one.  Would anybody be able to help me decide which one would be best out of these?

I don't know what Unicomp charges for shipping to Canada, but a new Unicomp with USB and warranty is my recommendation for your first M.

Move into the hobbyist realm after you discover that you like them.

Otherwise, this is a great deal, too, depending on shipping:

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=77273.0

[alienman82]

removed.

[Blaise170]

How do the weight of alps blues compare to alps white?

I don't think the weighting is to different but the smoothness if Blues make them feel lighter.

[cryptokey]

Would it be possible to get a variable-weighted Topre Realforce board then swap the springs for 55g springs?  If so, would I be able to buy replacement springs anywhere or am I limited to using a donor board? 

[HoffmanMyster]

Would it be possible to get a variable-weighted Topre Realforce board then swap the springs for 55g springs?  If so, would I be able to buy replacement springs anywhere or am I limited to using a donor board?

The domes are what give it the weight, not the springs.  So you'd be swapping domes.  But no, you cannot buy domes (or springs for that matter, so don't lose them) anywhere.  You'll need a donor board for any sort of swap.

[cryptokey]

Would it be possible to get a variable-weighted Topre Realforce board then swap the springs for 55g springs?  If so, would I be able to buy replacement springs anywhere or am I limited to using a donor board?

The domes are what give it the weight, not the springs.  So you'd be swapping domes.  But no, you cannot buy domes (or springs for that matter, so don't lose them) anywhere.  You'll need a donor board for any sort of swap.

Thanks!  As you can tell, I'm very new to Topre.

[HoffmanMyster]

Would it be possible to get a variable-weighted Topre Realforce board then swap the springs for 55g springs?  If so, would I be able to buy replacement springs anywhere or am I limited to using a donor board?

The domes are what give it the weight, not the springs.  So you'd be swapping domes.  But no, you cannot buy domes (or springs for that matter, so don't lose them) anywhere.  You'll need a donor board for any sort of swap.

Thanks!  As you can tell, I'm very new to Topre.

Not a problem, that is the point of this thread after all.    It's not very intuitive unless you already know it, especially since MX/others weights are determined by springs.

[swimmingbird]

Where's the best place to get boards with OG Cherry doubleshots? I know that some of the SKU codes indicate doubleshot keycaps but I'm not sure how to effectively search for them on ebay

[trenzafeeds]

Where's the best place to get boards with OG Cherry doubleshots? I know that some of the SKU codes indicate doubleshot keycaps but I'm not sure how to effectively search for them on ebay

I would also be interested in the answer to this question. I usually search around on great finds a lot, as well as DT (they tend to have many more vintage boards for sale).

[Firebolt1914]

Are gaterons wobblier than cherry? I haven't used either in a while, so I don't think I can judge either of the two properly

[ideus]

Are gaterons wobblier than cherry? I haven't used either in a while, so I don't think I can judge either of the two properly

They feel the same, in my experience.

[E3E]

Are gaterons wobblier than cherry? I haven't used either in a while, so I don't think I can judge either of the two properly

They feel the same, in my experience.

I concur. If there is a difference, it's not a practical one.

[jonathanyu]

is there any ps/2 to usb converter other the otd one work with otd pcb?

[alienman82]

removed.

[Melvang]

Has there been any custom boards made with 4 layer boards?  For some reason, I have a design goal of minimum vias on my boards.

[trenzafeeds]

Are gaterons wobblier than cherry? I haven't used either in a while, so I don't think I can judge either of the two properly

Zealios are a bit more wobbly, normal gaterons are not.

[jdcarpe]

Where's the best place to get boards with OG Cherry doubleshots? I know that some of the SKU codes indicate doubleshot keycaps but I'm not sure how to effectively search for them on ebay

Look for an H immediately after the model number, e.g. G80-3000HRBUS

[tofgerl]

I have a switch on a homemade board which I've assembled, but not used much since I (STILL) don't have the stabilizers.

The switch doesn't activate when I press the button normally, only when I first press it all the way down, THEN push really hard. Does that sound like something that can be fixed without soldering, or should I replace the switch right away?

[Dernubenfrieken]

Looking to clean some vintage cruciform alp switches, what would be a good cleaner to use for that purpose? Got denture clean, oxiclean, simply clean, dish soap and various other household cleaners.

[swimmingbird]

Where's the best place to get boards with OG Cherry doubleshots? I know that some of the SKU codes indicate doubleshot keycaps but I'm not sure how to effectively search for them on ebay

Look for an H immediately after the model number, e.g. G80-3000HRBUS

Thanks man!

[myotherteeshirt]

I took apart a Razer BW, and after desoldering cleaned the bottom with 96% isopropyl alcohol: used a brush to get it on and dabbed dry with a cloth, and now the back of the pcb is all sticky. It is matte compared to the glossy front.

Do some PCBs have a coating that don't play well with ipa?

Also, the board seems to be soldered on to the plate - any harm in attempting to separate them?

[Blaise170]

The sticky residue is probably leftover flux from the assembly process. The connection to the plate is probably a grounding point, though it might just be a way to keep them together. Either way, it's safe to take apart but if you want to solder then back together you'll probably need a larger radius solder.

[CPTBadAss]

I have a switch on a homemade board which I've assembled, but not used much since I (STILL) don't have the stabilizers.

The switch doesn't activate when I press the button normally, only when I first press it all the way down, THEN push really hard. Does that sound like something that can be fixed without soldering, or should I replace the switch right away?

I'd just replace the switch.

Looking to clean some vintage cruciform alp switches, what would be a good cleaner to use for that purpose? Got denture clean, oxiclean, simply clean, dish soap and various other household cleaners.

I'd use Isopropyl alcohol first.

How do the weight of alps blues compare to alps white?

I don't think the weighting is to different but the smoothness if Blues make them feel lighter.

I'd agree with this. I think it's like Model F and M where the weights are about the same but somehow, the F feels lighter.

Where's the best place to get boards with OG Cherry doubleshots? I know that some of the SKU codes indicate doubleshot keycaps but I'm not sure how to effectively search for them on ebay

I would also be interested in the answer to this question. I usually search around on great finds a lot, as well as DT (they tend to have many more vintage boards for sale).

https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=40501.0#post_TT

is there any ps/2 to usb converter other the otd one work with otd pcb?

Is that the one with the Teensy in the acrylic block? I think that's the only thing I've ever heard of that works with OTD boards but I don't know for sure.

Are gaterons wobblier than cherry? I haven't used either in a while, so I don't think I can judge either of the two properly

In my experience they feel the same.

Has there been any custom boards made with 4 layer boards?  For some reason, I have a design goal of minimum vias on my boards.

I don't think so. Not sure what the advantage is to having more layers.

[cryptokey]

So my WASD Code's micro usb port randomly stopped working - no impact to it or nothing (my third problem with the WASD Code and I never break electronics).  Would it be possible to take this opportunity to solder in a mini usb port onto the pcb or can I only replace/resolder the micro usb port?

[jdcarpe]

So my WASD Code's micro usb port randomly stopped working - no impact to it or nothing (my third problem with the WASD Code and I never break electronics).  Would it be possible to take this opportunity to solder in a mini usb port onto the pcb or can I only replace/resolder the micro usb port?

The footprint isn't the same, so you would only be able to replace it with another micro. Honestly, with that many problems, can you not still return it under warranty?

[cryptokey]

So my WASD Code's micro usb port randomly stopped working - no impact to it or nothing (my third problem with the WASD Code and I never break electronics).  Would it be possible to take this opportunity to solder in a mini usb port onto the pcb or can I only replace/resolder the micro usb port?

The footprint isn't the same, so you would only be able to replace it with another micro. Honestly, with that many problems, can you not still return it under warranty?

Thanks for the info.  I originally returned it for a refund but instead they repaired it and sent it back... I'm thinking I'll contact them again about it and make sure I get my money back.

[jonathanyu]

is there any ps/2 to usb converter other the otd one work with otd pcb?

Is that the one with the Teensy in the acrylic block? I think that's the only thing I've ever heard of that works with OTD boards but I don't know for sure.

yeah, that's the one I am talking about.. maybe I will buy few different ps/2 usb converter to try them one by one

[hwood34]

is there any ps/2 to usb converter other the otd one work with otd pcb?

Is that the one with the Teensy in the acrylic block? I think that's the only thing I've ever heard of that works with OTD boards but I don't know for sure.

yeah, that's the one I am talking about.. maybe I will buy few different ps/2 usb converter to try them one by one

are you talking about the converter from kbdmod?

[n__dles]

Is there a noticeable quality difference between the Unicomp Classic and Ultra Classic? I heard that the Classic's mould has a lot of wear, so it's better to get the Ultra Classic for that reason alone.

[Melvang]

Is there anywhere I can look at the schematic for the LED circuit on the phantom?

Using a similar type of circuit, would it be possible to run 152 LEDs with a similar circuit?

Or, will I need another connection to USB/another power source?

[jonathanyu]

is there any ps/2 to usb converter other the otd one work with otd pcb?

Is that the one with the Teensy in the acrylic block? I think that's the only thing I've ever heard of that works with OTD boards but I don't know for sure.

yeah, that's the one I am talking about.. maybe I will buy few different ps/2 usb converter to try them one by one

are you talking about the converter from kbdmod?

yeah, that's the one I am talking about..wasn't aware it's actually from kbdmod before

[Blaise170]

Are 22mm x 18mm keys 1.25u or 1.5u? Where could I find R4 MX replacements for whichever it is?

[user 18]

Are 22mm x 18mm keys 1.25u or 1.5u? Where could I find R4 MX replacements for whichever it is?

Those keys are 1.25u x 1u. http://pimpmykeyboard.com/ sells individual keys, I believe, although none of their profiles are particularly close to OEM profile (stock keycaps).

[element72]

Is there a way I can purchase this keyboard or something very similar: https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=634

I prefer direct access to the arrow keys and I want the keyboard to be this compact. It is so hard to find a keyboard design like this. Maybe it's possible to program one like this? Could the pok3r be programmed like this and are the keys close enough for making similar arrow keys?

[tofgerl]

How is it possible that an alu 60% case for pok3r-compatible keyboards is 99 USD, when the actual pok3r with Alu casing is 120? I mean, I'd rather buy a Pok3r and a cheap 20$ plastic case, and have an extra keyboard!

Are there cheaper alu cases? Like the original Pok3r ones?

[CPTBadAss]

1) How is it possible that an alu 60% case for pok3r-compatible keyboards is 99 USD, when the actual pok3r with Alu casing is 120? I mean, I'd rather buy a Pok3r and a cheap 20$ plastic case, and have an extra keyboard!

2) Are there cheaper alu cases? Like the original Pok3r ones?

1) It's just marketing and pricing schemes.

2) Cheapest aluminum cases I've seen are the $60 ones that pexon had

Is there a way I can purchase this keyboard or something very similar: https://mechanicalkeyboards.com/shop/index.php?l=product_detail&p=634

I prefer direct access to the arrow keys and I want the keyboard to be this compact. It is so hard to find a keyboard design like this. Maybe it's possible to program one like this? Could the pok3r be programmed like this and are the keys close enough for making similar arrow keys?

Filco Minila might fit the bill. I don't think you can program the Pok3r to that extent. I don't think the Pok3r is fully programmable like a board with a Teensy and TMK is.

[swimmingbird]

2) Cheapest aluminum cases I've seen are the $60 ones that pexon had

Man I swear that is the actual Poker 3 case

[element72]

Filco Minila might fit the bill. I don't think you can program the Pok3r to that extent. I don't think the Pok3r is fully programmable like a board with a Teensy and TMK is.

Thanks for the suggestion, but the spacebar is too small. My thumb naturally rests aligned with and under the D key when playing an FPS game. I was hoping someone might give me some obscure keyboard designer, such as one made for and by the community. An example would be the hypermini-c400, but it's still pending on community interest, so it's not produced. I am still going through the 60% keyboard list that's posted on this thread. Would it be safe to say that if I don't see any other option in the list, then it is very unlikely I'll find what I am looking for? I also read somewhere that the pok3r is in fact fully programmable except for a couple keys, but that statement was from keyboard enthusiasts.

[CPTBadAss]

Filco Minila might fit the bill. I don't think you can program the Pok3r to that extent. I don't think the Pok3r is fully programmable like a board with a Teensy and TMK is.

Thanks for the suggestion, but the spacebar is too small. My thumb naturally rests aligned with and under the D key when playing an FPS game. I was hoping someone might give me some obscure keyboard designer, such as one made for and by the community. An example would be the hypermini-c400, but it's still pending on community interest, so it's not produced. I am still going through the 60% keyboard list that's posted on this thread. Would it be safe to say that if I don't see any other option in the list, then it is very unlikely I'll find what I am looking for? I also read somewhere that the pok3r is in fact fully programmable except for a couple keys, but that statement was from keyboard enthusiasts.

The layout you posted is really unpopular so not many stock keyboards are made with that layout. The Pok3r has  programmable layers but  you can't change the default base ANSI layout. If you have a custom controller, I could make my home row ;',./[]\456 if I wanted to.

I would highly suggest looking into making your own keyboard to suit your specific tastes and needs. Or just hunting for a Pure Pro in the Classifieds.

[tofgerl]

You can't change the default layout, but no one can stop you from using layer 2 AS your default layout

[element72]

The layout you posted is really unpopular so not many stock keyboards are made with that layout. The Pok3r has  programmable layers but  you can't change the default base ANSI layout. If you have a custom controller, I could make my home row ;',./[]\456 if I wanted to.

I would highly suggest looking into making your own keyboard to suit your specific tastes and needs. Or just hunting for a Pure Pro in the Classifieds.

Edit: Please bare with me as I have never programmed a mechanical keyboard before. I just want to clarify... regarding the pok3r keyboard, I will be able to setup the arrow keys as I wish by using either layer 2 ~ layer 4, correct?

[CPTBadAss]

Please bare with me as I have never programmed a mechanical keyboard before. I just want to clarify... I will be able to setup the arrow keys as I wish by using either layer 2 ~ layer 4, correct?

Yeah but it won't be as available as the Pure Pro arrow keys. It'd be on a secondary layer unless you use the secondary layer as your primary like tofgerl said. I'm pretty sure you can't program over what they specify in the manual either.

[element72]

You can't change the default layout, but no one can stop you from using layer 2 AS your default layout

Thanks for the reply. Sorry I was editing my post earlier lol.

[CPTBadAss]

You can't change the default layout, but no one can stop you from using layer 2 AS your default layout

Thanks for the reply. Sorry I was editing my post earlier lol.

It's still not as clean as having a completely programmable keyboard. See my post above.

[tofgerl]

Yeah, I started with a Pok3r, and am currently planning 6(!) homemade. 3 GH60 Satan, one FaceW and two Alps Party. I figure I'll keep three and give three away

Possibly I'll sell the Pok3r. Don't know...

[ideus]

You can't change the default layout, but no one can stop you from using layer 2 AS your default layout

Thanks for the reply. Sorry I was editing my post earlier lol.

It's still not as clean as having a completely programmable keyboard. See my post above.

Having the option to remap a second or third layer key assignments is not the same as having full keyboard programability. The confusion comes from manufacturers that use the term programmable keyboard to describe a keyboard featuring layer remapping capabilities. A programmable keyboard allows the user to define all key assignments with no restrictions.