Up for buy it now is a new INTERNAL USB Soarer's Keyboard Converter (solderless install) for the following keyboard models:
IBM model M terminal keyboards and Model F terminal keyboards that originally had 5 pin DIN connectors or RJ45 connectors (looks like ethernet).
THESE WILL NOT WORK for Model F AT and Model F XT keyboards as they use a different pinout on the cable side.
This adapter goes inside of the keyboard and you will need is a MICRO USB B to USB A cable to run outside of the keyboard and that will replace the original cable leaving the keyboard. You will receive everything pictured in the first auction picture only.
Each kit includes pre-programmed/pre-wired Arduino and adhesive velcro. Installation simply involves detaching the original cable from the controller PCB, installing this in it's place,, and then routing a USB Micro cable (not included) to the outside of the keyboard. The velcro or other method of anchoring the components inside may be used.
In addition to USB Conversion, Soarer's converter adds the ability to remap keys, add macros, add additional function layers, and be able to toggle different layouts by pressing a single key.
Soarer's Converter also preserves key rollover over to USB, so if your keyboard is NKRO capable, it will maintain NKRO over USB. Key rollover simply means the minimum number of keys that can be held down simultaneously and still have each key sensed by the computer.
Model M's are 2KRO and Model F's are NKRO.
Here's a simplified explanation of Soarer's Converter's main features:
Remapping - Assign any key to any other key, including ones that aren't on the keyboard, like media volume controls or the "Apple/Command/Windows" key on older keyboards like model M's.
Macros - A single key press can "play back" a series of key presses. For example, you could set F12 to send Control-Alt-Delete or set one key to represent an entire shortcut like Alt-C for "copy" when doing copying and pasting. If there's a certain combination move in gaming, you could set one key to perform the entire combination.
Function Layers - Changes the behavior of other keys when the function key is held down. Think of this like adding extra "Shift" keys to add more functions to existing keys.
IfSelect - Press a key once and it permanently changes the function of any number of keys until that same key is pressed again. Think of this like "Num Lock" which completely changes what the number pad does. This is also useful if you are using multiple different operating systems or applications that you want different layouts from time to time. Pressing one key could change the function of "ALT" to the "Apple/Command/Windows" key. It also will allow you to have several different layouts programmed for different applications. You can even program in completely different keyboard layouts like Dvorak or Colemak and toggle between them with a single key press.
For more information on Soarer's Converter, please see check out the forum here: Soarer’s Converter thread on Geekhack
I've written some basic instructions for configuring the Soarer's Converter under Windows OS, which is still a work in progress. Be sure to read at these instructions BEFORE PURCHASE to see if it looks like something that you will be able to do: Simplified Soarer’s Converter Instructions. Instructions for programming with other operating systems can be found on the Soarer's Converter thread on Geekhack. Configuration is usually not needed for regular conversion to USB with key rollover preservation without the extra features like remapping, macros, etc.
Other than the provided documentation, I can't provide a lot of tech support when it comes to configuring the converter, so again, make sure you check out the configuration instructions to see if it looks doable prior to purchase.
Shipping will be FREE to the USA. International shipping cost is determined by ebay's shipping calculator based on location and does not include any international taxes imposed by the buyer's country (if charged, these taxes are to be paid by the buyer upon receipt). Thanks for looking and please ask any questions you may have!
If you are interested in a different keyboard connector type, check out my other Soarer’s Converter listings below:
PS/2 to USB Soarer’s Converter
IBM Model M SDL to USB Soarer’s Converter
IBM Model F 122 Key Terminal to USB Soarer’s Converter
180 Degree 5 Pin DIN AT XT to USB Soarer’s Converter
Model M Terminal RJ45 to USB Soarer’s Converter
USB FEMALE to USB Male Soarer’s Converter - FOR PS/2 COMPATIBLE USB KEYBOARDS ONLY