Looking for new keyboard.

[doctlo-icfp]

I'm looking for a new keyboard, I'm hoping that someone can help me
out.

First I want one with the feel of a Model M.
Second I want it to have a modern layout to it. In particular I want
it to have a Windows key ( or some key free of standard functionality
that can be mapped to a Windows key ).
Third I want it to be spillproof. ( I'm not sure Model M feel and
spill proof can work together. )
Forth I want it to be moderately repairable, meaning I can get at the
works and wipe them with a damp cloth. if a spill is really bad I want
to be able to dry it off. Any suggestions?

Thanks
Thad.

 

[sandy58]

I'm looking for a new keyboard, I'm hoping that someone can help me
out.

First I want one with the feel of a Model M.
Second I want it to have a modern layout to it. In particular I want
it to have a Windows key ( or some key free of standard functionality
that can be mapped to a Windows key ).
Third I want it to be spillproof. ( I'm not sure Model M feel and
spill proof can work together. )
Forth I want it to be moderately repairable, meaning I can get at the
works and wipe them with a damp cloth. if a spill is really bad I want
to be able to dry it off. Any suggestions?

Thanks
Thad.

Print this out & present it to your local PC World. Jeez!! :-( What
planet are you from?????

 

[Guest]

First I want one with the feel of a Model M.

Nothing comes close, but Alps, Focus, and Fujitsu models made with
metal switches come closer than anything else.

Third I want it to be spillproof. ( I'm not sure Model M feel and
spill proof can work together. )

Model M keyboards aren't floodproof, but I believe they're almost
spillproof, at least if the liquid doesn't enter above the top row of
keys. Spillproof keyboards are generally made with a rubbery sheet
containing crushable dome switches, but they feel soft, almost the
opposite of the Model M. Metal switches are among the least resistant
to spills.

Forth I want it to be moderately repairable, meaning I can get at the
works and wipe them with a damp cloth. if a spill is really bad I want
to be able to dry it off.

Model Ms are hard to fix since they use a 2-layer membrane circuit
board set between a piece of hard plastic and a plate of steel.
Fortunately they tend to last a long time without maintenance because
the plastic keeps out dust and liquids. Membrane keyboards are the
easiest to clean -- usually just spraying distilled water or
electronic parts cleaner (90% pure alcohol) is enough, but the
membrane can easily be removed so the can be sprayed on the bottom and
the circuit board matrix also sprayed (don't rub -- the nickel traces
are not very rugged). Metal switches can be unsoldered and replaced,
but replacements can be hard to find. Some switches can be
disassembled for cleaning.