Compaq 166516-BB6 - anyone recognize these switches?

[Yirg]

I found this old keyboard at work and couldn't resist pulling a key cap to see the switch. This is what I found:



Does anyone recognize this switch? Is it considered any good?

[CPTBadAss]

It looks to be an Alps clone.  Some form of XM maybe. What does it feel like: Clicky or Tactile? In general, I really like Alps but the clones aren't usually my favorite.

[hoggy]

I'll guess it's a slider over rubber dome.  Take the keyboard apart a bit more and look for a rubber sheet with some 'domes' on it.

I could be wrong (wouldn't be the first time)...

[fohat.digs]

I think it is domes and plungers.

If it was switches, they would be separate units, not humps molded into the casing.

[Yirg]

Yes, I guess you guys are right. It does have a rubber dome:



What's the benefit (if any) of this design over simple membrane type?

[davkol]

I used to wonder why ordinary RD keyboards felt worse after cleaning... well, it was probably because cleaning removed lube from sliders. If you have separate sliders and keycaps, you don't have to worry about that.

[nappi11]

Yes it seems to be NMB Rubber dome with slider. Quite nice switches.

[hoggy]

Could be worse.  I asked pretty much the same question 3 years ago - turned out to be a fujitsu peerless.  I've tried giving the keyboard away several times.

At the end of the day, if you like the board, then you like the board.

[davkol]

At the end of the day, if you like the board, then you like the board.

If you join the tautology club, you join the tautology club.