Model M keyboard with USB converter: working all except for the LEDs... Why?

[RoflCopter4]

I got my first Model M keyboard just a few days ago - model number 1390131. It is in fantastic shape, it looks like it's never been used. I know for a fact that it has been used, but either the previous owner either cleaned it up extremely well or it was only used very sporadically. Regardless, I love it.

I am using a USB converter I bought on eBay, link below. It works, for the most part, just fine. I have not noticed any dropping out or anything otherwise strange happen, with one exception. For some reason the LEDs do not light up. I am fairly certain the LEDs are not broken. The seller assured me they worked for him, for whatever that's worth, and they do light up for a second or so when the computer is posting during bootup. They just don't seem to come on afterwards.

I've already discussed this with the seller of the converter and he basically suggested that the voltage might be cutting out to the point where the LEDs cannot light up. The cable I was supplied with is very long so that is definitely a possibility. It just seems strange that the infamously power hungry keyboard would have enough power to operate but three tiny LEDs don't. I bought a Blue Cube converter to see if that makes any difference which is still in the mail. If that fails I will probably purchase a different cable. Nonetheless, I'm curious: has this happened to any of you before? How did you solve it? Am I potentially damaging the keyboard by using it if it is'nt getting enough power?

Link:

http://www.ebay.ca/itm/280839328798

[MGH]

I recommend this PS2 to USB converter:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/270962163563

I haven't had any issues with it plus it also converts PS2 mice.

[kaotikb]

My board from 89 does the same thing while the one from 91 works perfectly.

[JimByr]

Some converters work, other don't.

> http://www.ebay.ca/itm/280839328798
I've seen the LED issue with every Model M that I've tried this converter with.

It doesn't hurt anything but you need to find a different converter.

[aref]

I recommend this PS2 to USB converter:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/270962163563

I haven't had any issues with it plus it also converts PS2 mice.

When I was using Model M KBs exclusively, I, too, found the PS2 to USB convertor had no issues; however, I did note an occasional glitch when using USB fitted cables. Amazon also carries the converter. This is the one that worked great for me: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000BSJFJS/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1

[RoflCopter4]

I did buy one of those Blue Cube adapters from eBay. Hopefully it does the trick. I guess I really just don't understand why the keyboard works but the lights don't. It just strikes me as strange. Why do they light up when the computer boots but never after that?

[dorkvader]

yeah I noticed this issue with the ID innovations. No idea why. It's still my favourite one.

I don't use or need lock lights so I don't mind.

[Melchior]

It could be the AT commands arn't being received by the board correctly?

Also possibly the sourced voltage from the translator isn't high enough - but more likely the translator didn't bother sending the command to turn the LEDs on/off.

Its basically emulating the state (Num-Lock/Caps-Lock) internally (in the translator chip)...

[Hypersphere]

Two converters have worked for me. The "blue cube" and the Adesso.