help connecting this to usb
Posted by SmartLumens@reddit | vintagecomputing | View on Reddit | 15 comments
Posted by SmartLumens@reddit | vintagecomputing | View on Reddit | 15 comments
gnntech@reddit
If this is a standard AT-compatible keyboard, you will need to go from AT -> ATX (PS/2) -> USB.
If this is a XT-compatible keyboard, you will have to go from XT -> AT -> ATX (PS/2) -> USB.
If it's something non-standard (like a terminal), probably still possible but you will need to create something custom.
tes_kitty@reddit
It's very likely an AT keyboard or has a PC/AT switch at the bottom since this keyboard has F11 and F12. The PC keyboard only had F1-F10.
tomxp411@reddit
Yep. Easy rule of thumb is that if it has F12, it's AT.
Now someone will show me an XT only keyboard with F11 and F12, but all the XT keyboards I've ever seen with F12 have a switch to change between XT and AT mode.
tes_kitty@reddit
For a very long time, every 3rd party AT keyboard had that switch somewhere on the bottom. Sometimes large and easy to find and sometimes (like on my keyboard here) a small hole on the bottom that exposes part of the keyboard PCB with a little DIP switch you need a toothpick for.
tomxp411@reddit
Yep. I've had a few XT/AT keyboards over time, and when I first upgraded from an XT to my first 286, it was nice to be able to just flip that switch.
My favorite keyboard of that era was the Northgate Omnikey 101. It had f-keys on the left side, like an original PC keyboard, and I really enjoyed using it. I don't remember why I finally upgraded... it probably had something to do with having multiple computers and my first ATX computer requiring a PS/2 connector. (Yes, adapters were a thing, but I was also keeping the old computer in service as a CD burning station.)
Low-Charge-8554@reddit
AT -> ATX(PS/2) ->USB straight adapters will not work. PS/2 keyboards needed to be labeled and built as being able to use either PS/2 or USB. You cannot use a PS/2 only keyboard with a USB adapter. Same with mice.
gnntech@reddit
You absolutely can. I have (and use) splitter cables that allow you to connect a PS/2 keyboard and mouse to a single USB port.
Low-Charge-8554@reddit
Yes, you are correct. I said "straight" adapter, which is one of these https://www.amazon.com/Adapter-RLECS-Female-Converter-Keyboard/dp/B09YH6BL37, not cables with electronics in them.
redditshreadit@reddit
AT to PS/2 is a simple connector adapter.
XT to AT is a signal converter.
gnntech@reddit
Correct
wootybooty@reddit
This is why I couldn’t take a Sun keyboard and find an adaptor to convert it, well without spending close to $100
Low-Charge-8554@reddit
Quite expensive adapter: https://www.amazon.com/Retro-Fuzion-USB-Keyboard-Converter/dp/B0DKCVMPSF
https://www.tindie.com/products/tinkerboy/ibm-model-fm-xtat-keyboard-to-usb-converter/
rpocc@reddit
I assume that there should be an open source project for Arduino Pro Micro or ESP32, utilizing their class-compliant keyboard mode and USART for connecting the keyboard. Will be happy to get a cool link for that. If there isn’t maybe it’s the right time to make it because this could fit just into a small, dongle-sized enclosure.
Imaginary-Scale9514@reddit
Put it back with the machine it came from and sell both to someone who will use them. Build a custom keyboard instead.
QPC414@reddit
Looks like a lugable keyboard.
Too bad the badge on the upper right corner only says Personal Computer.