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'Why I Use the IBM Model M Keyboard That's Older Than I Am' (yeokhengmeng.com)
Slashdot reader yeokm1 recently installed Linux on a 1993 PC. But in a new blog post he lists every keyboard he's owned over the last 12 years -- to explain why he's now typing on a 5.3-pound Model M keyboard from 1987 that's older than he is, "with its legendary buckling-spring switch."
It'll probably last me the decades to the day that keyboards should become obsolete... It is sad that with all the advancements in computing, the one piece of equipment that we use the most to interact with our computers has regressed technologically in the name of costs. We don't usually expect to be using 30-year-old hardware on a daily productive basis but the IBM Model M keyboard is that exception.
Today, I don't really care about fancy features like great aesthetics, RGB backlights, media keys and extra USB ports. I just need something that gives me great tactile feedback, be durable, enable me to easily swap keys to fit my Programmer Dvorak layout. The Model M fits my needs perfectly.
"Really can use this as a weapon," the blog post jokes. There's even a video "to show clicky sound difference" between two different versions of the Model M -- and in true geek fashion, he even removes the casing screws to see whether the inside had rivets or bolts.
The original submission drew a tip from long-time Slashdot reader Spazmania based on his own experiences with the Model M. "The thing I most like? There are little plastic caps on the keys. When they get dirty I can pop them off and run them through the dishwasher."
Any other Slashdot readers want to share their own experiences with Model M keyboards?
Today, I don't really care about fancy features like great aesthetics, RGB backlights, media keys and extra USB ports. I just need something that gives me great tactile feedback, be durable, enable me to easily swap keys to fit my Programmer Dvorak layout. The Model M fits my needs perfectly.
"Really can use this as a weapon," the blog post jokes. There's even a video "to show clicky sound difference" between two different versions of the Model M -- and in true geek fashion, he even removes the casing screws to see whether the inside had rivets or bolts.
The original submission drew a tip from long-time Slashdot reader Spazmania based on his own experiences with the Model M. "The thing I most like? There are little plastic caps on the keys. When they get dirty I can pop them off and run them through the dishwasher."
Any other Slashdot readers want to share their own experiences with Model M keyboards?
I have two in use right now, at home and at work, and a couple of spares, all made between 1988 and 1991. No other keyboard feels quite like this, and I plan to keep using them as long as I am typing.
I work as IT staff at a university, and it's always fun to see students come into my office and notice my keyboard. "Why are you using such an ancient keyboard?" they usually ask. And I just say that they don't make them how they used to. Occasionally another fan of Model Ms comes in and I get a fist-bump or a "Sweet! Model M!" from them.
Then I think and realize that these college students are all significantly younger than the keyboard. I'm getting old!
It makes that sweet, sweet noise. It's the Stradivarius of keyboards.
I still have an M13, the model with the Trackpoint in the middle of the keyboard. When doing work that isn't on my laptop, that's the one I tend to prefer. Makes it easier to avoid moving your hands to use the mouse when necessary.
I hate with the darkest and deepest of hatred the users of all these super clicky keyboards.
I don't have an actual Model M, but I have the clone made by Unicomp, both at home and at work. Nothing else will do!
Having an actual Model M is pointless unless you want to feel superior to other mechanical keyboardists.
My keyboard is a ~$40 no-name with 'blue' keys. It works just fine. It has a white backlight for dungeon coding sessions.
Wait till he tries a Model F with those *original* buckling springs... (there is a revival project getting close to shipping, see https://www.modelfkeyboards.co...
If you want similar quality but new try them.
This if you are hardcore enough: https://www.daskeyboard.com/daskeyboard-4-ultimate/
The old IBM Model E (PC, PC/XT) and Model F (PC/AT & PS/2) were fantastic keyboards - I still have a couple of Model Fs (25+ years old) that I use periodically with nary a problem.
When I say that I would like them with a modern layout, I'm really talking about the Logitech "Wave" and Microsoft "Natural Ergonomic" Keyboards - they work with my old, arthritic hands better than a flat, traditional layout. I would be willing to pay $1,000+ for one of these keyboards with the Buckling Spring although WITH the capacitive sensors of the Models E & F rather than the mechanical switches of the M. The capacitive sensors just never wear out.
If you do find an old IBM keyboard, you should only try to use a Model F or M, the Model E does not have the bi-directional communications capability of the later keyboards but has the same connector as the PC/AT Model F. While the Model E keyboard uses the same pin functions, electrically they are a bit different and you could burn out a device (ie the USB adapter noted in the next paragraph) that is plugged into it if the device can't handle both.
You will need a PC connector to USB adapter. These can still be found (10 years ago, you could get them for basically nothing and often came with keyboards) but they may not provide full functionality (ie controlling lights on the keyboard). If you get one and it doesn't seem to work right, then look for another manufacturer's product. On this point, I have not been able to find a PC/AT to USB adapter for years. I have one that is wonky and that has lead me to wire the PC/AT DIN socket to a PS/2 connector and use a PS/2 to USB adapter.
Finally, IBM considered the best keyboard ever made to be the Model G which was designed for the Displaywriter around 1988. It was not compatible with the Model F but had what IBM considered the closest to perfect touch (along with an operating life that was basically forever without any maintenance).
Mimetics Inc. Twitter
I know, it's a travesty. And I'm a criminal for doing it, too.
I attended Clarkson University in the early 90s which was awash with IBM hardware. Students were "given" (we purchased them through tuition) PS/2s, and the labs all over campus were full of IBM RS/6000s. Model Ms were everywhere. Literally. When I left Clarkson, I had a few of them, brand new, still in their boxes. I kept them for a long time, and even tried making them work properly with those awful 6-pin-to-USB adapters. But at the time (this would be late 90s), those adapters were trash and didn't work... well.
My mistake: I chucked the keyboards. Off to the local electronics recycling center. I think I got rid of 5 of them, if I'm not mistaken. And yes, I should be punished for my crime.
Today, I use the modern version of the M, built by Unicomp with full USB functionality. They're not *perfect* copies of the original M, but they're damned close. And they still annoy my co-workers. ;-)
Jason Van Patten
My 1985 122 key Model F weighs more than eight pounds. So there!
I like the compact size of the Thinkpad keyboard, and the overall feel of it. I have ended up using standalone thinkpad keyboards for years now, and am currently using https://www3.lenovo.com/us/en/accessories-and-monitors/keyboards-and-mice/keyboards/KEYBOARD-US-English/p/0B47190. It doesn't have that "click" feel, but works very well, and is portable enough to bring with me wherever I go.
It's durable.
It's heavy so it doesn't slide around my desk.
You probably spend more time touching it than you do your spouse. Do you want it to be cheap crap?
-Styopa
Surely the point of the keymap is that you touch type.
When the early membrane keyboards came out, I got one because my Model M was driving everyone in my house crazy at night. No other keyboard have felt the same but no other keyboard can drive people to want to bash my head in.
If you can't beat a spammer to death with it I won't type on it. Model M FTW.
I don't like the old IBM keyboards because they are so loud and the force to type is too high. But I do love the construction, quality, removable keycaps, non-yellowing plastic, and replaceable cords.
Nowadays I am stuck having to use a "split" keyboard with raised front due to CTS and RSI. I am constantly amazed at how much difference it makes. If I am forced to use a traditional keyboard (like on a laptop or someone else's desktop), I am in pain in just 10 minutes or less... sometimes lasting hours afterwards.
I use a positively ancient Apple Extended II for many of exactly the same reasons. I could agree more that these positively old keyboards are in so many ways completely superior to current keyboard technology.
Solid well built devices that are a joy to use, who knew that such things matter....
Nothing beats buckling spring. It's all I've used for 30 years or so. I used to have to use one with a ps/2 to USB adapter. I bought one of the first ones that was native USB.
Sure, they're loud. They're heavy. You can't really take them apart easily to clean. But they are the best keyboard for your fingers and wrists. They are worth the extra cost.
I did not have the pleasure to use the model M until I went to the university in 1989. Before that only model Fs. Not bad, but cramped... After I tested the Model M, I was hooked!. So, as soon as I could, I bought two.
I have two (2) Model M Keyboards from 1988.
Used them through and through (even flew one to Spain while doing my Masters, when every pound counted!). I find the sound helps me concentrate, and if the rate of typing is fast, is a good signal for my coworkers to not bother me.
But in 2009, I bought a Mac. I needed an USB Keyboard with a "Windows Key" to replicate Apple's "Command" Key (Flower). (until then I was able to use ctrl+esc to get by).
I went to a Keyboard I repurposed from an HP C9000 PA-RISC Workstation, which kinda-sorta kept my nerd creed...
Is decent (but a piece of crap in comparison to the M), and at least the Extra Key DOES NOT HAVE a Windows logo.
If I ever feel the need, and if they do something More interesting with the keyboard controller/software wise, I may get a Unicomp replica. But unicomp keyboards are boring. No backlight. No extra Keys for macros. The only interesting thing is the trackpoint/nipple mouse...
So, if I had to but a new keyboard, like *now*, I woild get something more modern, like a keyboard with Cherry MX switches, backlight (RGB not necesary), and macro recording functionality and extra keys...
Now, you are welcome to get on my lawn, ad admire my model Ms, type something on them, and marvel at the tactile and audible feedback...
*** Suerte a todos y Feliz dia!
There seems to be a false nostalgia per the Model M concerning it's durability. Heavy and stout do not equal infinite lifetime.
In the mid 1990s my first Model M flaked out on me so I would spend a bit of time at Weirdstuff Warehouse in Sunnyvale waiting on new old inventory to show up. I was literally buying them for $15 at that time.
Then one day I went in and they had a Model M and it was offered at an outrageous price, as I remember, at least compared to what I had previously paid. That's when I quit buying them at Weirdstuff. If I am going to pay a premium price I want a real assurance that it's gonna work out the door.
Ultimately I bought four more Model Ms. And of the five I own now only one works flawlessly.
Caution: Contents under pressure
They were very noisy, they had an ugly design, and they were prone to break. Key caps would come out easily and seemed to be printed cheaply. Back then we did not perceive those keyboards to be a premium product, rather the opposite.
I used to love the old Model M keyboards. For a long time, they really were better than all the rest -- other keyboards had a definite low point in the 80s and 90s.
I don't feel that way anymore, though. Keyboards -- even the fairly short-throw models -- are now very good and require much less effort to type than the Model M (and clones). After a lifetime of typing (I learned to type on a manual typewriter, no joke) I have come to recognize that a light touch is both better for my hands and makes me a faster typist. That pretty much rules out the Model M. Just the thought of typing on one of those old tanks today makes my hands hurt.
People who say "sheeple" have about as much sophistication as an AOL user, and in fact are probably actually AOL users.
I use a Razer Naga mouse with 12 buttons on the side where your thumb rests. I have them mapped to; cut/copy/paste, escape, delete compile, run, step in/out/over, and toggle breakpoint. Works fantastically for coding and debugging, 10/10, would recommend. I also have the two top buttons set for search/search again.
There's no good reason to use an original IBM Model M. They will either be beat to hell or insanely expensive if original unused.
The Unicomp models are made to the same specifications - Unicomp acquired the intellectual property. I've seen arguments that somehow the originals are "better", but never experienced that myself. You might make an argument about the very early capacitive design vs the vast majority that were made with dome switches. (The Unicomp design uses dome switches).
It's unlikely many of the capacitive keyboard still work. The electronics were troublesome.
The later design has the same key-tops, plungers and buckling springs, but pushes on a dome rather than operating a capacitive switch.
The Unicomp keyboards have modern features including USB connectivity and programmability.
The big deal about the Model M and Unicomps is the buckling-spring design. When the spring buckles, and you hear the "click", you know that the key-press has "registered", and can lift up on the key. This occurs before the key bottoms-out.
I've always taken my Unicomp with me, where it is tolerated. Fortunately, I work from home now, so it only bothers people on phone conferences... I worked a year at Sony in their PDIT department in a "bull pen" setup, and nobody complained, in fact, a couple of the developers went out and got Unicomp keyboards. Then I worked a year at Sony San Diego Studio, and the prima-donna in the next cubicle complained. I was given the choice of any MicroCrap keyboard I wanted. I suppose a factor was that the bull-pen arrangement puts people physically further apart than rows of cubicles.
They do ALL wear out. I've replaced my Unicomp a couple of times, and the springs are feeling weak, thanks for bringing this to mind, time to order a new one! (It's been MANY years, though.) I shall dig-out my compact spare first, though, to see if it has more pep in it's step. This one is at least 10 years old.
A good keyboard should be sturdy enough to beat a man to death with. And then use to write his obituary.
Have gnu, will travel.
I've been the EnduraPro Black Buckling Spring USB keyboard from PCKeyboard.com for years. I like that it has the pointing stick, like laptops. http://www.pckeyboard.com/page... https://www.pckeyboard.com/
I find the regression argument rather confusing since it is not hard to get good high quality keyboards today, they just happen to be expensive. Kinda like how the Model M was expensive in its day too. All that has happened is that now we have a wider range of price points and quality instead of everyone having to pay a premium price for 'the company is probably paying for it' hardware.
I love my Model M keyboards. I used to love my Model M2 keyboards with Trackpoints... but their mouse buttons all wore out & broke down to the point of uselessness within 5-10 years, due to the poor design that attempted to simply graft them into the existing Model M shell (with new cutout to accommodate them below the spacebar).
Unicomp technically sells replacements, but you can't use their replacements without ALSO replacing the stick... and sadly, THEIR stick isn't quite the same as genuine Trackpoint (it flexes more, like a mini-joystick).
What I really want is a keyboard with silicone-lubricated buckling springs (like IBM originally manufactured for libraries... the University of Miami's library had dozens and dozens of them circa 1990), modern layout with Windows keys (and alternate keycaps for Macs, Linux, etc), a knob for volume control, additional keys to the left (like the original XT's function keys) with OLED or e-ink keycaps & open API, a thin vertical scroll wheel between G & H, a Trackpoint IV-like stick above the spacebar & centered between G & H, and three mouse buttons (like Thinkpads have) below the spacebar that use buttons that can be replaced by technically-savvy end users.
Why put the stick above the spacebar (or split the spacebar into two below the "B" key and put it between the two halves? IMHO, it's just a better place for the stick. Your thumb is stronger than a hyperextended index finger & can perform precise isometric movements more easily. Maybe as a compromise, give it two independent pointer sticks, and let users choose between 3 configurations... G/H/B stick for scrolling, B-spacebar stick for pointer-movement, reversed functions, or both for mouse-movement.
Also, n-key rollover, usb (with passive ps2 adapter capability), individually-addressable rgb led inside/behind each key, and a hatch to install a battery and bluetooth controller inside. Maybe optional flip-up feet to raise it high enough to sit over the keyboard on a large 15-17" laptop, and weights that can be removed for air travel.
Oh... and built-in Mattias halfkeyboard functionality. The patents have expired, so there's no reason to NOT make it a standard capability of every new high-end keyboard. Or better yet, just embed an Arduino Leonardo as the USB/PS2 keyboard controller & interface, so end users can implement it (or custom keymaps, or alternate functionality) themselves (making a mechanical device is hard... programming one is easy)
I don't know why people think the Model M is all that. I think the best overall keyboard, is the classic "clickly/chicklet" keyboard from IBM, the Model 8923. They're still highly sought after and last forever.
Real die-hard keyboard geeks tend to favor the IBM Model F that came with the original IBM PC, XT and AT systems. They're built like tanks compared with the flimsy plastic Model M, and the key action is better. However, they do require a converter to use on modern PCs, and the key layout is kind of funky and takes a bit of getting used to.
The other thing that has to be said is If you are willing to put in the time and money, today you can build a keyboard from readily available parts that (IMHO) beats the Model F, and you can customize it to fit your own preferences while you're at it. Here's my own personal example http://zobeid.zapto.org/misc/z...
There are IBM keyboards that are older than me, but they would originally have been attached to type 024 or 026 cardpunches or maybe a type 056 verifier. Not very useful now.
My former cubicle co(lleague/worker)s hated me typing on clicky keyboards since I type fast like a machine gun. Even my own bosses! They tell me to use quieter keyboarders, but then I told them I won't do well in my jobs. :(
Ant(Dude) @ Quality Foraged Links (AQFL.net) & The Ant Farm (antfarm.ma.cx / antfarm.home.dhs.org).
I don't use a Model M because they make that infernal racket, the actuation force is too high, and the key travel is too long.
If that's what you like, fine, but I hope I don't have to sit nearby.
Back in my university days, there was one bank of terminals (yes kids, multiple students shared one computer!) that were always in use because they had great Hall-effect keyboards--sadly I don't remember the make or model.
I have to make do with a KB-8923 from 1990. It's pretty good though, well ahead of any other I've tried. I suspect the unavailability of anything with PS/2 ports to plug it into will lead to its demise before it actually fails. Courage!
P.S. I would have posted earlier but needed two buddies to come round and help me turn it over to see the label.
Confucius say, "Find worm in apple - bad. Find half a worm - worse."
Interesting read at http://www.tavi.co.uk/ps2pages... with further references. Windows keys never missed without Windows. ;-}
Its sounds are the silver (machine gun rounds of) bullets to never have to share an (open-plan) office again.
Comment written on the highest-serial-number IBM Model M known to exist in my country's layout actually (if Wikipedia's got this correct)...
I am 3 years old, and I am using an abacus which is older than your mom!
Where I worked long long ago we trashed all our old Model M keyboards. And I do mean trashed as in the can. My boss retrieved a few of them and took them home and that is something I regret not doing to this day. My wife went looking for some on eBay over a decade ago, but the best she could find were some Model KB's which, while good and is what I am using now, is not in the same league as the Model M. I have looked at and bought at least a dozen other keyboards over the years and use them on machines other than my primary computer, Fortunately, I have been retired now for over ten years and am not chained to the keyboard as in those past days.
The one on my 1987 Amiga A500. It's astonishingly good. I loved using the IBM Model M, but the A500 one is better. It was made by HI-TEK and I think gets called the Space Invader keyboard because of the shape of the plastic parts under the keys.
I really wish I could buy one like that for the PC.
I have two Model Ms. Actually one is an Unicomp Model M replicate, the other is an actual Model M, my (ex) GF gave me about two years ago. Her's is actually from one of her first IBMs (around mid-80s.) It still works as good as any. Why do I use MMs? Quality. Unlike many, many people and the entire culture. I don't see any reason to throw away something when a new model comes out after 3 months. With features barely more advanced. If it works and does what you want, why throw it away and pay another $500, 1000, or more for it? Just think of what else you could put that $500 into? Car, rent, utilities, or even a fine dinner (maybe :).
Keyboards are the link to my livelihood. A programmer, writer, web writer and the like I need a reliable and sturdy keyboard. My GFs is 33 years old and I still use it. For my other systems, I have a Unicomp that feels almost as good as this keyboard. eBay has MMs for around
$50 and if you can get the same quality from a used one and it last 5, 10, 15 or in this case 33 then you're getting your money's worth and it's actually cheaper in the long run.
I use EMACS/Org-mode for 99% of my writing as well. Which goes to show that you don't need the latest greatest to do your work or pay huge fees for something. I'd rather put those savings into something really something nice.
Think of it...
I did this in 1986 to the predecessor to the M, the keyboard for the PC/AT, with the 10 function keys on the left:
The keycaps were two parts. The upper parts were interchangeable with keycaps for the newer 3270 terminals. Every 3179 terminal came with a box containing an alternative set of keycaps with both normal and APL symbols. I salvaged a set from the trash and installed them on my PC/AT's keyboard.
Fortunately, with only two or three exceptions, the placement of the APL symbols for APL\PC matched what was on the keycaps. I took care of those inconsistencies with a fine point permanent marker.
Viola, no stickers needed.
We buy them at yardsales whenever we see them. I spilled coffee into the 1988 model (a special year for me) while it was running and ruined it, a real tragedy. I'm using a 1992 now (no difference that I can tell), but I'm being really careful about spills. Given the way the key undertops are fastened to the rest of the mechanism I had thought that it was proof against anything but a serious flood, but I was wrong. So I have spare keys now, anyway.
Hubby is using three, and we have a few spares. I hope. I don't want to find out that I'm wrong. It really gripes me that you can't get cheap USB adapters like the little green ones that go the other way.
Oh, I'm jealous... I just posted (somewhere above) my rant about the Windows key and the misplaced keys. And now I find someone who actually _has_ what I want.
Guess I've reached that point where the going gets tough... and the tough go shopping.
Make an account and call yourself Model_M_Overlord.
#DeleteFacebook
I never cared for either the Model M or the original IBM PC keyboard (similar feel, different layout). Too stiff and too loud for my taste. But if they work for you, use them; there is no reason to retire a piece of technology that works just because it's old.
When I decided to learn touch-typing, Dvorak seemed the natural choice, not due to speed but effort. I also played guitar, and the idea of my fingers moving 1 mile a day with Dvorak, versus the average 16 that a Qwerty typist churns through, seemed a no-brainer.
A hundred-some dollars later, I had a Northgate Omni Key Ultra with dip switches so it toggle to Dvorak mode, and had also sprung for the caps where keys had changed rows. Mavis Beacon and a month's time helped me learn the layout.
Don't have that keyboard anymore, but having known how to touch for nearly 30 years it's irrelevant, as all modern operating systems now support Dvorak as a "language". I do still have my clunky DAS Keyboard though, from back in the PC days, with no stencils on the keys. Between blank caps and the Dvorak layout, it was great security through obscurity.
Having switched to Apple in '09 with an MBP, I've gotten used to the tactile feel of that keyboard, and use a wireless Matias on my desktop rig when not on the laptop.