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If you're willing to pay through the nose you can keep an eye on ebay for an IBM Model M15. Just be aware that these cost $500+.

You're talking about a Model M15. And yes, you're not the only one who would like one of those. You can try ebay, but expect to pay $800+ - they are rare and highly sought after.

If this guy would do the F internals with the M15 form factor, I'd be completely sold.

My impression is that http://clickykeyboards.com/ would have taken them off your hands and listed them as well.

Real shame that ...

There seem to be an adapter
http://www.clickykeyboards.com...

Sounds like these people are in a time warp. They obviously are not high-performance hardware users or they would be familiar with keyboards that use Cherry switches.

Who says we aren't? I am. But I've never used a keyboard that feels and types as well as a Model M. For me at least, I'm able to type significantly faster on one than I am on any other keyboard I've ever tried. I've got 2 of them, they cost me about $8 each, including one of these Airline Reservation Versions.

As a Unix/Linux admin, typing is my bread and butter, so I'm going to continue using the best tool for the job. For me, that's a Model M keyboard. I don't care how much it pissess off the Windows admins in my office, with their cheap-ass Dell keyboards.

Which reminds me, one of the things I don't see anyone mentioning about those cheap keyboards these days is that there is NO plastic around the keys by which to grab the keyboard to pick it up. Any time I am stuck using one and I have to pick up the keyboard, I end up mashing a bunch of keys and screwing up whatever is on the screen because there's only a tiny area above the INS/Home/Pgup keys to grab it by. Crappy typing notwithstanding, even just that issue drives me up the wall!

IBM also made an ergonomic buckling spring keyboard: the model M15 -

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/12675/subcatid/0/id/125888

Why won't anyone make a copy of that? (nudge-nudge Unicomp!)

There is a special USB converter available that can handle the current:

http://www.clickykeyboards.com...

Yep, I know. But the results on both WIndows and Macs are, at best: mixed. Unicomp's USB versions are identical from a mechanical perspective, and are already set up with the USB port from the factory. They even have Mac-specific versions (if you're so inclined) with the appropriate key layout and labels.

Vintage IBM ps/2 keyboards pull up to 100x more current compared to modern keyboards. There is a special USB converter available that can handle the current:

http://www.clickykeyboards.com...

press superkey. type "terminal" press enter.

Keyboard-free.

My keyboards don't have those (used to be) OS-specific keys on them.

Yes, they're still around and yes, they are still very popular.

To connect a PS/2 model to USB, an adapter that does signal conversion works best: http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/124184. I've been using these with three Model M's for years. I wish all of my equipment was as rugged as these keyboards. My favorite "Space Saver" Model M (no numeric keypad) has outlived many computers and will probably outlive me.

About six months ago I replaced my motherboard. The only hard requirement I had was that it have a ps2 port for my Model M. It did limit my choices but there are still plenty of motherboards that offer a ps2 port. In three years though, when I'm looking at upgrading, I suspect I'll also be looking at a unicomp keyboard or a USB adapter, though I've read the USB adapters are sort of hit and miss.

As for the AT/PS2 issue, an adapter should be fine: http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/495548

The original NeXT keyboard was a bit clicky but not as clicky as an IBM Model-M. The ADB NeXT keyboards though were squishy, not clicky. Layout ergonomically they were a bit better but they felt much worse. I much prefer the IBM M15: http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/12675

I love the "old" clicky keyboards. They feel much better on the fingers and the tactile freedback is wonderful. You can still buy them from UNICOMP who bought out the IBM keyboard factory upgraded with USB: http://pckeyboard.com/page/category/UKBD

You can also pick them up on 2nd hand on eBay from these resellers: http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

When I buy a laptop they're all equal EXCEPT FOR THE KEYBOARDS. Some are better than others, but none compare to this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Model_M_keyboard Know people who type whole novels on their iPhone, but is it really the best way to do it?

Try here and here for your keyboard needs. I've bought new keyboards from pckeyboard; they don't feel exactly like an old Model M, but they're in the same ballpark.

that's what these are for: http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/11298 (top left).

The website is currently down due to Sandy, but go buy the one on this page and use it with your M. I no longer have an M - it died due to coffee spill - but that adapter worked perfectly. I keep it around just in case I ever pass by another M and can't resist myself.

Just FYI - the model M13 (with trackpoint) came in black with black keycaps - http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/9244

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

They sell the one I am using right now. I have no such problem.

A Model F keyboard with a custom USB converter.

zOMG teH markit anserz
http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

Unicomp is not a replacement for the original Model M - their quality is lower.

That said, you can still buy the real Model M. But, since they don't make them anymore, they are irreplaceable in a sense.

You're mistaken. The IBM PC and the IBM PC XT used the same keyboard. It's known as a model F keyboard.

Here's a picture of the original 5150 PC keyboard, from Wiki:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:IBM_5150_Keyboard.jpg

Here's the picture of my 5160 PC keyboard, which is exactly the same:
http://i52.tinypic.com/24cf8ft.jpg

For further proof, look here:
http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11066/subcatid/0/id/350492

That's a US layout rather than the UK layour I have, but it's the same basic model. The IBM PC and PC XT had the same keyboards. It was only the PC AT of 1984 that saw a change (and the PCjr).

You need a USB to PS/2 adapter that provides enough power to run the beast, about an eighth of a watt. Some cheap USB adapters are unable to source that much current since a typical modern keyboard only takes a milliwatt or two.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/124184

They have more information, and apparently sell one for about $20 that is known to work. Also on that page are links to projects in case you want to integrate the USB control or learn to reprogram the microcontroller inside the keyboard to speak USB.

Ergonomic Model Ms exist, but are incredibly hard to find. You may want to ask around, though. An old workplace of mine had one sitting around in the storage.

Think about the 80s generation growing up with computers and especially their experience with IBM Model M Clicky keyboards (still available here and here!).

So many people already feel so sentimental of our clicky keyboards that we're buying them up on ebay and stock piling a couple "just in case".

So, yeah, you better believe 20, 30, 40 years from now people will look at certain iconic computer products and think real nostalgically about them. They already do and like a good wine age makes them only more desirable.

I find a properly equipped Model M with the built in nipple mouse to be far more usable. The best keyboard for general web browsing, IMO.

Garage sales and flea markets. The ones I have are old hand-me-downs. Oddly enough I'm using one on a bleeding edge gaming system right now (with a "big old keyboard port" (forgot the name) to PS/2 adapter), while I decide which wireless keyboard/mouse combo to buy.

I found this place that specializes in buckling spring keyboards but they're not cheap:

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

I actually don't mind a good membrane keyboard, these days as long as you avoid the dirt cheap and/or slim ones you usually won't end up with one that feels like you're typing on rotten fruit.

I can't believe that they overlooked the best computer input device ever made. At home I used one made in 1989 (I've had it since 1991). At work, I use the "Quiet Touch" version from 1993. I especially like that model, as it shows I care for my coworkers. It's still 150% louder than any other keyboard, but it rocks just like a normal Model M. All other keyboards are useless junk compared to the Model M. There's no comparison whatsoever.

BTW, if you want to use a Model M with a computer that has no ps/2 port, Clicky Keyboards sells an adapter that works great. I own three of them and haven't had any issues (even with KVMs).

-B

Here ya go.
http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/124184
I personally have 2 of these for my IBM Ms, and they both work flawlessly.

A new in the box late 90s Model M can be had for $70

May I ask where?

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

Of course, I bought my 2 Model M's used for $5 each at a local used computer store. Just had to clean them up.

For the one I use at work, I did buy the $15 USB adapter for it as the generic adapter I tried didn't work. Thankfully my home computer still has a PS2 port.

IBM did produce a split version of the Model M for a while -- had a big rotater knob to control the angle of the wedges. If you want to try it, it was known as the Model M15, and originally brought out in 1994, under the "Options" line:

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/12675

I use a "plain" Model M, simply because I learned to type on typewriters, and I find the split angling to be almost too awkward to use.

But do yourself a favor and try one out. If you type for a living, I think you'll thank me. (however, getting an M15 may be difficult).

Here's a device from clickykeyboards.com that converts the PS/2 cable to USB. This is not a cheapo PS/2 to USB converter, this thing runs about $20, but is well worth it. I have been using my Model M for years, and ran into the first computers without PS/2 ports about 4 years ago. I struggled with the converters that were available, I got slow key repeats, slow typing, and the occasional wrong character. This thing is perfect, my Model M performance is great with USB now.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.home/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/131781

My only regret is the cost, I'd like to buy 3 or 4 more...

This USB=>PS/2 adapter will work with a Unicomp Model "M". I wish Unicomp would come out with a native USB Linux layout...

Just a few clarifications and personal experiences: First, Unicomp has been doing this for a good decade now, and are more of a direct descendant than "Model M-Inspired". Unicomp bought Lexmark's keyboard business which was bought from IBM. Lexmark's keyboard design was nearly identical to the IBM design, but with drainage channels and a tighter spring (sounds more like a "clink" than the Model M's "twang", but IMHO has the same feel). Unicomp left that design essentially unchanged, until adding optional changes like USB, the windows keys, smaller outer bezel, etc.

I have both a Model M (1391401) and a Unicomp Customizer (UNI0P46), and I love them both. However, I've had problems with the Model M going AT-PS/2-USB or just AT-PS/2 in some cases, so it sits in the closet, ready to return to action if needed. My main workstation has the Unicomp, with this adapter on recommendation by Clicky Keyboards. They no longer sell that model, but recommend this instead. Your average retail PS/2 to USB adapter will most likely not handle the draw from one of these keyboards, so you're better off ordering one of these directly.

Just a few clarifications and personal experiences: First, Unicomp has been doing this for a good decade now, and are more of a direct descendant than "Model M-Inspired". Unicomp bought Lexmark's keyboard business which was bought from IBM. Lexmark's keyboard design was nearly identical to the IBM design, but with drainage channels and a tighter spring (sounds more like a "clink" than the Model M's "twang", but IMHO has the same feel). Unicomp left that design essentially unchanged, until adding optional changes like USB, the windows keys, smaller outer bezel, etc.

I have both a Model M (1391401) and a Unicomp Customizer (UNI0P46), and I love them both. However, I've had problems with the Model M going AT-PS/2-USB or just AT-PS/2 in some cases, so it sits in the closet, ready to return to action if needed. My main workstation has the Unicomp, with this adapter on recommendation by Clicky Keyboards. They no longer sell that model, but recommend this instead. Your average retail PS/2 to USB adapter will most likely not handle the draw from one of these keyboards, so you're better off ordering one of these directly.

Occasionally clickykeyboards.com will have an 84 key Model M Space Saver in stock. Not today sadly.

You can also buy the real thing from Clickykeyboards. They sell never-opened IBM M model keyboards for roughly the same amount as Unicomp. I'm using a 1995 Model M from them now, and I absolutely love it.

You can also buy the real thing from Clickykeyboards. They sell never-opened IBM M model keyboards for roughly the same amount as Unicomp. I'm using a 1995 Model M from them now, and I absolutely love it.

I see you've never had to enter a long series of numbers into a database. Entering numbers from the number row above the letters is slow, cumbersome, and error-prone.

I don't do enough data-entry to warrant a numeric keypad. Even if I did, I wouldn't want it glued to the right side of my keyboard, forcing me to reach 3 inches further every time I use the mouse.

The numeric keypad on standard keyboards is literally placed in the worst possible place for anyone except an accountant who doesn't use a mouse -- not surprising since most early computer users were accountants who didn't use a mouse.

For very little money, you can buy a detached numeric keypad which can be shoved out of the way whenever you're not using it. Speaking for myself, I prefer original IBM "Space Saver" keyboards. These are geniune Model M's with no numeric keypad -- they look like this. A few years back, I bought 5 of them for $200, so I'm pretty much set for life.

Another source for Model M's:
http://www.clickykeyboards.com/

And for Northgate Omnikey's
http://www.northgate-keyboard-repair.com/

So sayeth the Internet.

For me, at least;

The IBM DisplayWriter http://www-03.ibm.com/ibm/history/exhibits/vintage/vintage_4506VV9006.htmlkeyboard; excellent click, long travel, just about the best ever. Too bad you could only run MS-DOS 2.1 from 8" floppies on it... And the keyboard was repairable, though I think the key modules were like $8 each in 1989. And you can still gethttp://cgi.ebay.com/Digital-2683239-IBM-Displaywriter-Keyboard-630X-91-XX24_W0QQitemZ190174698129QQcmdZViewItem one!

I like my Deck 82http://www.deckkeyboards.com/boards.php a lot. Nice keys, no click, but the lighting is superb. Save that skull-and-crossbones keycap!

And of course the IBM Model M Space Saverhttp://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/9242, which I carried with me from one site to another for 8 years or so, changing cables, and saving space in those damned rack-mount keyboard shelves with no room for anything else but an M and a trackball. grrr... I gave mine away, and I miss it...

More? I didn't name all the best did I?

harrr. My captcha is 'entered'. cute.

http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/11298

If memory serves, it is due to the voltages required by the Model M - and the voltages that are put out on certain newer motherboards.

I am too lazy to check to see if my memory is correct - but I think the site listed above says why...

The link was http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/items.main/parentcat/11298/subcatid/0/id/131781

As for me, I am keeping (and using) all of my Model M's till someone pries them from my cold dead fingers - and as they make nice bludgeoning weapons (and then can be cleaned in the dishwasher) they'll have quite a fight on their hands if they try to take 'em. ;-)

Be careful, very few PS/2->USB converters will work with a Model M. clickykeyboards.com sells one that works, however.

Well that's why you get a proper adapter. I believe the main problem with them is that the Model M uses an unusually large amount of power. Have you tried the officially supported one from clickykeyboards.net? Might need a converter instead of an adapter.

I would suspect components placed in the wash would be susceptible to long term rust problems. That is better than throwing it away because it is dirty. I personally have an old IBM Model M keyboard that can be disassembled. The plastic keycaps and outer casing is removable so I can wash that in water. The more delicate electronics I usually clean by hand with cotton swabs and other tools.

Here is a popular illustrated guide to cleaning a Model M. You can also buy one yourself from here. Although as a warning many Intel based motherboards have moved away from PS/2 ports so the days of the Model M may be numbered.

I thankfully did. I can attest that these are somewhat dishwasher safe, however with the rugged yet semi-modular design it isn't exactly necessary. With some patience and soap and water you can take it apart and get it fairly squeaky clean.

I also feel obligated to make a shout out to http://www.clickykeyboards.com/ I'm not affiliated with them or anything, but when I emailed to complain about ordering key caps for a couple of keys I'm missing because they require minimum orders they said to just mail them a self addressed envelope.

So if your considering buying what is hands down the best made, most rugged, best and loudest keyboard on the planet please consider them.

Again, the implication is that somehow the popular computer (e.g., a "PC") pre-dated the Apple's adoption of the standard whereas the exact opposite is true. It was only after the Macintosh adopted USB that the standard actually took off. Here is a link for a more accurate history of this transition: http://www-128.ibm.com/developerworks/power/librar y/pa-spec7.html

The author neglects to take into account that although there is only one overarching "USB Protocol" you still need to explain to your grandmother why she needs to use a cable with an "A" port instead of a "B" port or a mini USB 2.0 port, or the Canon USB port.... Still, I agree that this is a great deal better than we had prior to the adoption of USB.

The article itself was generally correct in its assessment of the impact of the USB port on industry. I just take issue with the rewriting of history as I (and I am sure, many of you) were there to witness it firsthand.

For guts, whatever. Give me a couple gigs ram, decent graphics card, and multicore processor (at least dual).

But for aesthetics, give me the classic steampunk keyboard mod featured in this slashdot post (except based on Model M Space Saver), and this 30 inch Apple cinema screen monitor. I'd apply a little black paint and gold leaf accents to the monitor to make it go with the keyboard.

The actual computer would have a black case, be as silent as possible, and be hidden beneath the desk.

Clickykeyboards.com sells them on a limited basis--I guess they salvage them from defunct Model Ms--at $1 per. Not too bad if you need a few, but I was hoping to find a better price, which I haven't. I'm short a couple arrow keys and an Escape key, IIRC. I'd have to dig the spares out to inventory and check.