I came across this a little while back and picked it up because it looked interesting. It's the keyboard from an Informer 207/VT100 portable terminal like this one:
Label on the terminal the keyboard came from:
According to the seller the unit was severely damaged in shipping so he was selling off the pieces and I got the keyboard.
The case screws are under the rubber foot on the back:
What kind of switches? Stackpole (oh well).
ICs:
I went ahead and traced out the matrix and wired it up along with the piezo beeper to a Teensy 2.0:
The layout is unusual and, apart from the Stackpole switches, it's kind of fun.
This is the matrix I came up with if anyone is interested:
Informer 207/VT100 Keyboard
- OldIsNew
- Location: US
- DT Pro Member: 0248
As far as the Stackpole switches go, I did apply WD40 brand silicone lubricant (NOT regular WD40) around the sides of the sliders with a cotton swab.
It has definitely helped. Has anyone found other lubes useful for these switches or have any other tricks for improving the key feel? Suggestions such as lighting them on fire or smashing them with a hammer are generally not considered helpful, TYVM.
It has definitely helped. Has anyone found other lubes useful for these switches or have any other tricks for improving the key feel? Suggestions such as lighting them on fire or smashing them with a hammer are generally not considered helpful, TYVM.