OK, this one is bound to get a few responses:
List the best keyboards you have ever used. You might like the feel, number of
function keys, layout (let's not forget Dvorak or more esoteric designs) or
pure keyboard<->computer love (you might really get off on Vaxen).
My list is something like:
1. IBM Model M (original buckle-spring technology, still standing the test of
time)
2. Unicomp PC 5250 (two rows of function keys at the top upto F24 and a set of
10 on the left, can be bought new and 'broken in')
3. DEC LK421 (not-often-seen cut-size Unix programmers DEC keyboard)
4. Wyse WY-40 (very nice positive feel with sturdy base)
5. Early Chiconi PC keyboards (hopelessly rattly and cheap but engaging
'click' and quick to type on none-the-less)
6. My college used to have a computer room full of terminals, possibly Adds,
which had a very nice short travel and positive click keyboard).
7. ZX81 (simply because it was my first computer).
8. Cherry high end keyboards.
9. DEC keyboards with a 'Do' and 'Help' key.
10. SUN keyboards with 'Cut', 'Copy' and 'Paste' keys.
I'm a great fan of dedicated keys, and function keys on the left. Whoever
decided to put the out of reach at the top of the keyboard needs their head
examining!
There must have been some stonking keyboards attached to more vintage
hardware. I'd love to know about them (if that doesn't sound a bit weird!).
Mark.
--
Mark Wickens
Rhodium Consulting Ltd
Received on Thu Aug 26 2004 - 03:05:22 BST