Keyboard Electronics 101: Teensies and Related for Novices
Posted: 16 Apr 2014, 18:47
My keyboard odyssey has led me back in history (at least in the IBM lineage) from the Model M to the XT, and now I am hoping I might eventually be able to acquire a Kishsaver and/or beam spring keyboard. Inevitably, such a journey will require doing some modifications to the electronics of the keyboard, such as replacing the controller and/or installing a Teensie (along with its firmware and then reprogramming the keyboard).
Of course, I have read the threads about the amazing Soarer Converter and related matters, and I am in awe of Soarer and others who obviously have a deep understanding of keyboard electronics and programming along with the mechanical knowhow to undertake the necessary soldering and wiring.
All of this can be rather daunting for those who are contemplating for the first time such tasks as getting an XT or IBM terminal keyboard up and running with a contemporary computer.
I know what the experts are thinking: "It's not rocket science! You just have to connect 4 wires!" Nevertheless, it would be great if the experts could recommend to the novices a systematic process, e.g., the best posts to read, for acquiring the basics of keyboard electronics as they pertain to installing Teensies. It would be helpful to have clear descriptions (preferably with pictures) of basic soldering skills; which wires to connect from A to B; when a Teensie can be installed with the keyboard controller intact vs. when the controller should be replaced; pros and cons of using Teensie version 2.0, 2++ 2.0, 3.0, or 3.1; basic anatomical features such as headers, controllers, and PCBs; and various ways of installing a case-mounted connector (or an external switch box) after installing a Teensie.
Of course, ultimately one simply has to do it and learn from mistakes, but it could help to have a good guide to follow.
Thanks. I look forward to your helpful suggestions.
Of course, I have read the threads about the amazing Soarer Converter and related matters, and I am in awe of Soarer and others who obviously have a deep understanding of keyboard electronics and programming along with the mechanical knowhow to undertake the necessary soldering and wiring.
All of this can be rather daunting for those who are contemplating for the first time such tasks as getting an XT or IBM terminal keyboard up and running with a contemporary computer.
I know what the experts are thinking: "It's not rocket science! You just have to connect 4 wires!" Nevertheless, it would be great if the experts could recommend to the novices a systematic process, e.g., the best posts to read, for acquiring the basics of keyboard electronics as they pertain to installing Teensies. It would be helpful to have clear descriptions (preferably with pictures) of basic soldering skills; which wires to connect from A to B; when a Teensie can be installed with the keyboard controller intact vs. when the controller should be replaced; pros and cons of using Teensie version 2.0, 2++ 2.0, 3.0, or 3.1; basic anatomical features such as headers, controllers, and PCBs; and various ways of installing a case-mounted connector (or an external switch box) after installing a Teensie.
Of course, ultimately one simply has to do it and learn from mistakes, but it could help to have a good guide to follow.
Thanks. I look forward to your helpful suggestions.