Datalux SpaceSaver
| Branding | Datalux |
|---|---|
| Layouts | ANSI-derived custom |
| Keyswitches | MEI, Cherry ML |
| Interface |
Current models are USB Previous models were AT/XT switchable and PS/2 |
| Price |
$130 basic $195 with GlidePoint (2012) |
The Datalux SpaceSaver is a long-standing family of compact keyboards by Datalux. Three form factors are available: desk model, tray model, and panel model; each form factor supports an optional Cirque GlidePoint trackpad in place of the central navigation cluster. All three variants conserve width by placing the function keys, navigation cluster and number pad behind the alphanumeric area in four rows: the keyboards trade width for depth. Keycap spacing is standard 0.750″ (19.05 mm), but row spacing is reduced to 0.625″ (0.588 mm) to compensate for having nine rows instead of the usual six.
All three types use flat profile keycaps; the tray and panel versions are completely flat, while the desk model has an ergonomic ramped backplane that elevates the rear half of the keyboard in line with its space-saving arrangement.
Datalux SpaceSaver keyboards have been made with both MEI and Cherry ML switches. There is a general preference of the ML switches over the MEI switches in terms of feel.
On XT/AT switchable models, the keyboard protocol was selected using a jumper under the 1 key.[1] Current models are USB.
Models
Model codes are five characters, with the following possible meanings:
- SIGUC
- S
- Subfamily — M (desk), T (tray), ? (panel; not sold via the Datalux website)
- I
- Interface — U (USB), O or I (non-USB; the letters do not correspond to PS/2 vs XT/AT)
- G
- GlidePoint — P (has GlidePoint), R or D (has navigation cluster, actual meaning unknown)
- U
- Always a 'U' — meaning unknown
- C
- Colour — W (white), C (charcoal); 'B' is assumed to be "black", but it's not adequately clear from photos on the Web whether this is true
Known models
The following table lists all models currently on sale or researched. The list is not exhaustive.
| Subfamily | Model | Central area | Colour | Connector | Current |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Desk | MUPUC | GlidePoint | Charcoal | USB | Yes |
| Desk | MUPUW | GlidePoint | White | USB | Yes |
| Desk | MURUC | Navigation cluster | Charcoal | USB | Yes |
| Desk | MURUW | Navigation cluster | White | USB | Yes |
| Tray | TUPUC | GlidePoint | Charcoal | USB | Yes |
| Tray | TUPUW | GlidePoint | White | USB | Yes |
| Tray | TURUC | Navigation cluster | Charcoal | USB | Yes |
| Tray | TURUW | Navigation cluster | White | USB | Yes |
| Desk | MORUW | Navigation cluster | White | PS/2 | No |
| Desk | MORUC | Navigation cluster | Charcoal | PS/2 | No |
| Tray | TIDUB | Navigation cluster | Black? | 5-pin DIN (XT/AT?) | No |
| Tray | TORUC | Navigation cluster | Charcoal | PS/2 | No |
| Tray | TORUB | Navigation cluster | Black? | XT/AT | No |
Pictures
- Datalux SpaceSaver desk model
Front view.
Raised enter key.
Curved case design.
White MEI switch.
Horizontal comparison with standard key size.
Vertical comparison with standard key size.
