WTB: IBM Model M 'clicky' keyboard

FWIW, they're all the old big round AT plug or ps/2 connectors. I'm using a ziotek ps2/usb adapter, it's the only one I've been able to get to work with my M13 black IBM keyboards made by Maxi Switch and a much older beige IBM M keyboard. I was originally told that I would need an 'active' connector, but I never found one. This one works in both usb2 and usb3 motherboard connectors. I have no idea where to find them anymore, but here's a pic:
Ziotek usb2 ps2.jpg


They aren't even pictured on Ziotek's website. I got mine on Amazon. The last time someone wanted it, I found one on ebay for them, but there's none there at the moment, and I don't know the product number; the white oval sticker on it fell off a long time ago, so right now, mine are both bare of any identification other than the usb 'zio' logo.

Maybe just avoid the whole ps/2 to usb nonsense and just buy a brand new usb version from Unicomp? https://www.pckeyboard.com/page/SFNT They also still make a compact M keyboard if you don't need the keypad.
Unless you're absolutely set on having the IBM logo on the keyboard.
Also, be careful of the cords; my old M keyboard needed a new cable and I had to send it to Unicomp for repair, as the outer rubber layer had hardened and was peeling off. The 1997 M13 cords are still intact, though.

edit; oh yeah, that adapter works well with the Trackpoint mouse which is embedded in the M13 keyboards. They come in beige as well as black with the trackpoint.
 
Spilled stew all over mine drunk about 10 years ago....

Twas a sad, sad day.

GL OP!
 
FWIW, they're all the old big round AT plug or ps/2 connectors. I'm using a ziotek ps2/usb adapter, it's the only one I've been able to get to work with my M13 black IBM keyboards made by Maxi Switch and a much older beige IBM M keyboard. I was originally told that I would need an 'active' connector, but I never found one. This one works in both usb2 and usb3 motherboard connectors. I have no idea where to find them anymore, but here's a pic:
View attachment 157006

They aren't even pictured on Ziotek's website. I got mine on Amazon. The last time someone wanted it, I found one on ebay for them, but there's none there at the moment, and I don't know the product number; the white oval sticker on it fell off a long time ago, so right now, mine are both bare of any identification other than the usb 'zio' logo.

Maybe just avoid the whole ps/2 to usb nonsense and just buy a brand new usb version from Unicomp? https://www.pckeyboard.com/page/SFNT They also still make a compact M keyboard if you don't need the keypad.
Unless you're absolutely set on having the IBM logo on the keyboard.
Also, be careful of the cords; my old M keyboard needed a new cable and I had to send it to Unicomp for repair, as the outer rubber layer had hardened and was peeling off. The 1997 M13 cords are still intact, though.

edit; oh yeah, that adapter works well with the Trackpoint mouse which is embedded in the M13 keyboards. They come in beige as well as black with the trackpoint.
Thanks for the info.
 
Budget? I've been using these since they came out and usually know where a few good deals are.
 
I guess it all depends on what you are willing to pay for one. I thought Ebay at least gives you some choices if no one here offers one up.
 
As for Ebay. Much depends on part number. The early Model-M (#s 1390120 and 1390131) with square aluminum badge are most sought after thus command higher prices.

My 131 is used mostly for my retro gaming rig - short metal AT to PS/2 adapter. It also works with my Dell T3500 workstation's PS/2 port in Windows 10. Always wondered about AT to USB adapter.
 
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Posted to your wall bird222. These keyboards are heavy so your geographic location might become important for shipping.
 
Posted to your wall bird222. These keyboards are heavy so your geographic location might become important for shipping.

I've shipped heavy keyboards before. The cheapest way may be to use a USPS Large Flat Rate boardgame box depending on distance. My local post office sometimes carries them, but you can always order them for free delivered to your door on the USPS website.
 
I've shipped heavy keyboards before. The cheapest way may be to use a USPS Large Flat Rate boardgame box depending on distance. My local post office sometimes carries them, but you can always order them for free delivered to your door on the USPS website.

Good to know. I've got to admit that I'm a bit nervous about the 3" thick box when a Model M is 2" thick, but the shipping rate is about 2/3rds of what guesstimate I'd done based on double-boxing and using ground USPS.

We'll see how it goes. This was the 2nd Model M, one I was cleaning and I said I'd send pictures when done.
 
Good to know. I've got to admit that I'm a bit nervous about the 3" thick box when a Model M is 2" thick, but the shipping rate is about 2/3rds of what guesstimate I'd done based on double-boxing and using ground USPS.

We'll see how it goes. This was the 2nd Model M, one I was cleaning and I said I'd send pictures when done.
I've received several keyboards packed this way. As long as there is plenty of bubblewrap around the board, it arrives in good shape. (y)
 
Here's the 1988 1391401 Model M I have, cleaned up now. I didn't realize how much HardForum liked mechanical keyboard porn so I'm sharing its pics here too.

She types perfectly, even if there's a few scars.

https://imgur.com/a/HpZhVfE - full album

IMG_1173.JPG
 
I thought I had a couple of these, but only found one in a parts bin - model is 1390131 with a 'date' of 29JUL86. Missing a couple keycaps as well. It has an AT cable with a ps/2 adapter.

I'll have to see if it still works.... heavy as hell. I had no idea these were worth decent money.
 
I thought I had a couple of these, but only found one in a parts bin - model is 1390131 with a 'date' of 29JUL86. Missing a couple keycaps as well. It has an AT cable with a ps/2 adapter.

I'll have to see if it still works.... heavy as hell. I had no idea these were worth decent money.
I'd almost bet money that it would still work. :) And you can get replacement keycaps from unicomp. :) That would be a really nice one! I'm even interested even though I have over a dozen of these things already. :D
 
There was a video that I found a while ago that explained the different Model M versions. Has anyone actually seen it or have a link?
 
I have an old Dell branded PS/2 AT101W. Used Alps switches. Rescued it from a dumpster and it still worked fine.
 
make an offer :p i'll sell mine!! i probbaly have another one lay around somewhere in the office
 
1993 52G9658
 

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