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Hmm. I thought Unicomp made keyboards similar to the IBM Model M

Posted By: Charlene on 2008-02-26
In Reply to: that's mine too - mdlfcrs

That was the old clackity clack buckling spring keyboard.  You get a real IBM keyboard on ebay or clickykeyboards fairly cheap.  The key markings are part of the key itself and never wear out.  They are exceptionally NOISY though and you need a special USB converter to make it work with a USB connection.  The Omni is a mechanical keyswitch which I think is even better than the buckling spring,  just like the poster who posted about it.  Those key markings never wear out either.  Mechanical keyboards have a wonderful touch but they don't make very many any more.  Too expensive to produce and instead we have the $10-20 dollar rubber dome "quiet" keyboards that feel like typing on a wet sponge.   Some people though like that wet sponge feel but I think they are slower keyboards and harder to type on.  Just a preference even though they are noiser.  And for some it does not matter how spongy or squashy the keys are as long as the keyboard is quiet they are happy.  Different strokes I guess. 


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That does look just like it. There are some keyboards I would love to try, especially the ones made
by Kinesis, but they are so darn expensive!  Then if you can't adapt to it, your stuck having spent all that money.  I wish they had demo models that you could try out before buying.  Thanks for the link!!
I agree. Just thought someone might have been similar situation before. nm
:+
Don't understand why not. I thought I've seen other posts similar to this before. I'm not t

cause any problems, but as I work for DSG, so I'm naturally curious. As I said, I liked working with them both. Is it a secret?


 


Unicomp
Unicomp, Inc. of Lexington, KY does not manufacture "clones" of the IBM Model M. They manufacture the IBM Model M. Look on the bottom of your 'real' IBM keyboard. If it says "Made in the USA" on it, it was made at the same factory with the same machinery that Unicomp makes their keyboards with now. The Customizer 101 in Pearl White is the exact same keyboard, and Unicomp's other products utilize the same keyswitch design. Your "clone" might feel different from your old IBM because it is brand new, and the buttons haven't been pushed as many times.
Anyone know what OEM means? Looking at keyboards to buy & there are some MS 4000 keyboards advertise
anyone have a clue?
Whoops and I meant to say that Unicomp look like a great keyboard.
I am glad to see there are companies still making good quality keyboards and making them with a USB connection.  You cannot go wrong with a buckling spring or mechanical click keyboard (if you can tolerate the noise) for quality.  The keys stay snappy and the marking stays on.  You pay a little more but personally I would rather pay 2 or 3 times as much for a great keyboard than to keep buying a new one every year.  As I understand the plastic one that you buy at office depot that are Logitech or Microsoft cost about 5 dollars to manufacture.  No wonder they wear out.
These keyboards are designed after the original IBM keyboards that
have the "clicky, audible sound" when pressing the keys - not the hushed, soft, nonexistent touch & feel of the newer keyboards.
Think it depends on what you've learned on & "typed" on as to your preference regarding touch, sound feedback, etc.
When my original IBM keyboard was going on the blitz(1995),I searched far & wide for a company to repair such and/or replace it. This company has repaired such - several times. This company does offer clones of the original IBM that are very comparable to the original. They also have other keyboards available made by their company, but I have no personal knowledge as to their touch, etc.
As a side note, this company will repair most model keyboards for a very nomimal fee if you have a favorite you don't want to part with - ask for Jim Owens - he's a doll-babe !!
I know this company makes several of their own keyboards, but what I believe mdlfcrs is referring to is not known to the newer transcriptionists. In other words, the keyboard she/he and I are talking about is not ergonomic, soft-touch or mushy feeling. It goes back to the days of the typewriter - you heard it, you felt the keys - a totally different feeling compared to most "computer keyboards" -
Which model
did you purchase? Did you get them at the Bose site? If so, they told me there is a 30-day time period in which you can return them if you are not satisfied. They are just too pricey if they don't get the job done!
Maybe it is just the particular model/brand
I have had I believe three Fantoms now (first one so heavy so bought second one years later, then ran over big screw and broke the bar on the bottom of the second one). I have the HEPA filters and have never had to do anything with them - not even change them as mine have a button that is suppose to pop up to tell you when it needs to be replaced. I have probably owned these over the past 10 years or more.

You are right, emptying the cannister can be a little messy - I do what you do and go outside, use a plastic grocery bag to empty it in (or better yet have husband do it) as I, too, have severe allergies.

If I had to choose though, I would still go bagless as I hated changing and buying the bags and once they got about half full you didn't get the suction like you do with an empty bag/cannister.

I am not familiar with the type you have where you have to clean the filter. Ugh.
I have an older model sm
Can't use it while I'm typing. If I crank the massage action up so that my back feels good, then there is too much vibration and I literally cannot focus on the monitor. I am not sure if the newer models are like this or not.
There's a quota of so many per each model for that
x
Well...get a late model

I would go to the different stores and website to find one that is new but last years model if you don't want Vista.  They are starting to be preinstalled. 


Personally, I love my Gateway and they have all american customer service and tech support.   It is nice to call and talk to someone that can understand me the first time! They have been very prompt and understand that my system is important for work.  I have only had one minor issue which was probably me and not the computer. 


Actually, I don't know if your model of footpedal is going to work or not.

Link to foot pedal setup.


http://www.nch.com.au/scribe/pedalsetup.html


Link to pedal info


http://www.nch.com.au/scribe/pedals.html


Link to support article that Olympus RS23 and RS24 pedals do NOT work with Express Scribe.  It says nothing about RS25.  Contact Express Scribe to see if it will work or not.


http://www.nch.com.au/scribe/support.html#AAA


IBM model M-15 split ergonomic
I bought one of these keyboards from www.clickykeyboards.com

Fully adjustable for any typing angles like Goldtouch, but much better key feel.

Priceless keyboard that I hope to use for next 20 years.
I can't remember the exact model, but.....
We go the one that would go into a waterbed frame (as that is what we have), but it wil also go onto a regular frame. We also got a king size(it is great. We also chose the dual chamber model (I don't think it is any more expensive) so that I can set my number and my husband can set his. We have a friend who only got the single chamber and when his wife gets in or out of bed the number isn't the same any more. So I would highly recommend the dual chamber if you share a bed. As far as the exact model number I can't remember...but with it having to fit into the waterbed frame and wanting a King there was only 1 model number to choose from and I think it was the 5000. Good luck...you will absolutely love this bed!
A4tech anti-RSI model KB(s)-8
I've tried all the expensive ergonomic keyboards mentioned here in the past and never found one I liked. Back in the day, Keytronics made a great keyboard (some 15 or 20 years ago) but they aren't the same now. I've been using this A4tech anti-RSI KB(S)-8 for a couple of years and it is fantastic. I heard about it on another board and thought, how can it be that great when it's only $20? But it really is the best keyboard I've owned in 20 years. Plus you can program some of the keys to open programs or perform tasks, even keystrokes. The keyboard comes with a wrist rest, which is completely useless to me, but it comes off easily so that's not a problem.
Thanks. I was looking at the Infinity USB VE-INUSB model
Just trying to convince myself that was what I should get.  It's nice to know I'm not the only one around on a Saturday night!  Thanks again.
Go online and put in your make and model.....
xx
I believe your foot pedal has to be a DVI model
x
Which model? Not all have lock keys. sm
I have a Logitech cordless that doesn't have lock keys. Did you try to Google your model to see if somebody else has had the same problem?
I was thinking along that line when there's no role model
Rich kids are raised by nannies, butlers, au pairs, tutors. Parents are hardly there to give them morals.  They learn from the streets and the streets are pretty skanky these days.
You're welcome. You can find Model M's on eBay

I think I'd go with clickykeyboards.com for their trustworthiness and service and all.  You can get some in the $35-40 range there.  (Check to be sure if it has a ps/2 connector, unless you have an AT/5-pin inlet on your computer.  You can buy an AT to ps/2 adaptor from them or at most office supply stores fairly easily, though.)


I think you'll be pleased.  Much as I liked my NMB, I wouldn't ever buy even a vintage/used one of those since I just don't think that model and brand has much longevity, apparently. 


http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/9246


http://www.clickykeyboards.com/index.cfm/fa/categories.main/parentcat/9246/endrw/12


 


Belkin Ergonomic, Model # F8E208

If you Google it, you will come up with tons of places to buy it from.  I bought mine at Target for 30 bucks, well worth it and more.


does anyone know how to hook a Lanier model LX231(sm)
with the LX-231 adapter to the power supply and flat modem box?  I'm confused as to where all the cords go.  On the adapter there are three cords.  One says station (that I assume goes to the actual transcription box with the key pad on it), another cord that goes to the power supply and another that says it goes to the telephone line.  I'm not sure where all the cords go in relation to the modem.  Can anyone steer me in the right direction? TIA
What model is the unit? I used one a long time ago..sm
However, the doctors called into it to dictate. There was a hard drive with it that was connected to phone line. I would log in on the machine and pick up the jobs to transcribe. Is it similar to that? Or is this something else? There is also a Philips call-in station that hooks to phone line, but that's only for the docs to call and dictate.

How are you using the Philips to get work from your friend, that's what I don't understand? Does the friend have the same system? Just trying to figure out the setup and how to be more helpful. I know I once tried to use the Philips call-in to re-record dictation from a microcassette and it wouldn't recognize it and just timed out. It would only accept an actual voice, and that was using landline phone, so I think they do have certain parameters set up. It might be that the Vonage isn't compatible. Maybe you could call a Philips tech support person and ask. There's a tech number in the manual and on their website.
she was america's next top model - a tyra banks show nm
nm
what model/make battery backup do you use for computer? nm
nm
i made $15/hr before and didn't stay long because i made so much more on production. sm
that was with full benes too. i wouldn't do it for less than $20, but i think even with $20, i'd want benes. are you in-house?
Got floor model of chair that was perfect fit. Final mark down was $40. Went got home saw original
:P
keyboards
I am constantaly having trouble with the letters being worn off -- have been through 4 keyboards in the past two years -- any suggestions, though I know where the keys are, it looks funny when they are blank.

Thanks.
Patti
keyboards
Jen, did you call about the keyboards? Anything I found said that Cirque is no longer in business, and when I went to the other site, found only the pads, not the keyboards. The original looks wonderful. If you find where it can be purchased, let us know.
Keyboards
Once upon a time, I used one of those split keyboards.  Considering buying one again.  Does anyone use one?  How does it compare over the longterm? 
Keyboards

It didn't take any time at all to get used to the GoldTouch in the tented position.  I bought mine off of ebay and am keeping my eyes open for another one, cheap, to have as a back-up. 


I have a COuntoured keyboard that I bought off Ebay. I have had it for a month or 2 but just havent had the time to work with it.  It seems kind of complicated to get set up.  The Goldtouch, I plugged into a USB port and off I went. 


I have seen and bid on all kinds of keyboards. They even have one handed one that resemble the top of a job stick.  One hand does it all.  And there are ones called Bats (I think) that are everything done by one hand.  I am trying to buy one of those kinda cheap. 


ALso, I have tried Dragon Naturally Speaking but the time to train it took too long.  It was quicker to type. 


 


Keyboards

I have no idea when I will be trying that out but can let you know.  If I lose your email I will post that I have tried it.  It looks to me like it is going to be like when you spell something out on the telephone.  So many clicks per number to get a certain letter. 


I have never had trouble buying anything off ebay.  I have seen new and used keyboards.  Mine have all been used but I always check the stats on the seller to see that history.  Also pay with PayPal so would have that as a recouse also if had problems.  And of course, I save all correspondence, etc, not just for ebay but any kind of cyber transcactions. 


Keyboards
Hi Anna, check out this website. http://office-ergo.com/12things2.htm I searched for Ergonomics on google, and came up with a ton of sites. Hope this helps.
Keyboards - sm
I am a keyboard snob.  I only use mechanical keyboards (which are usually older keyboards).  They have the "click" that comes from the spring action making connection.  My preferences are Magitronic, Keytronic,  or (best) NMB.  These keyboards have "sliders" that make typing a joy.  The older IBM M keyboard is also mechanical action, but I find the keys rather harder to type on.  I like a clicky, soft touch mechanical-action keyboard.  I usually buy them on ebay - some are rather expensive, some are cheap - all are old and all are mechanical action! 
keyboards
I had a Kensington keyboard that I bought I think at Comp USA, somewhere more than 3 years ago.  It was not really expensive, and didn't have a split keyboard, but had slanted keys, which I thought were quite a bit easier to use and I really liked it.  The letters didn't wear off, and it was working fine until I dumped a whole glass of diet orange pop on it about a month ago.  A whole glass, that is, except what went all over my desk and the wall.  I took it all apart, rinsed everything out, set it out in the sun to dry well, put all the little rubber dothingies back in place on each key, and have a keyboard that doesn't work anymore.  Sigh.  I would buy another one just like it, and hope to find one as soon as I can stop putting money in other things, like furnace repairs.
Keyboards
I have bought some of the best and the longest they last is 6 to 8 months witout starting to come off.  So I buy a new keyboard about every 12 to 15 months as it also looses its bounce.   Guess that comes with doing 45,000 to 50,000 lines per month but you would think that they would make them so that they last a little longer.
Keyboards
I have this problem as well and was told by Dell tech support that it is the grease on the fingers, i.e, lotion, eating while working etc that makes the letters wear off. I have gone through 6 keyboards in 2 years and now I put clear finger nail polish on the keys and this has worked thus far.  You must do this prior to using the new keyboard first, as in no greasy fingers. 
RE: Keyboards
I use the Microsoft Wireless Natural Multimedia Keyboard and it is wonderful. Love it. I don't use the shift key on the right either apparently.
Keyboards - sm
I have tried all three, and always go back to the Maxium. The Goldtouch was too loud and cumbersome. I could not get use to the Freestyle, but love the Maxium. If you decide on one, and I have the Goldtouch in my computer closet I would sell you...email if interested.
KEYBOARDS

I agree about what a difference the keyboard can make!!


I looked at the split keyboards, but my hands are kind of small so I went with a WAVE keyboard. 


It is made by Logitech and you can find it at Office Max and Staples.  It is wireles and came in a combo with a wirless mouse for about $75.  It has well paid for itself!! for me!


 


About trying out keyboards

About the keyboard advice previously given, when you try them out, can you tell you like them right away or do they all feel a bit awkward?  I'm just wondering how to know what I'll like best when picking one out.


Thanks for your ongoing help! 


Keyboards I tried out

I looked at keyboards yesterday and tried them (pretended to type) in the store.  The ones they had with each hand's keys father apart (which is what I thought would be best) were big, bulky, with keys that stuck up too high and just felt awkward.  The one that felt best was smaller ... more in order of a normal keyboard but curved a bit to accommodate more natural hand position.


Do you think this is an accurate assessment of what would work best for me, or would one get more used to the other type?  Are there split keyboards that don't seem so bulky and awkward from the start?


Thanks.  I really want a new keyboard, but I'm afraid I'll buy something I regret.  Just not sure how to tell what's best. 


keyboards
I've been an MT for over 20 years and my shoulders and arms are feeling starting to feel it. I've been using a MS ergo keyboard for years now, but would like to invest is a super good keyboard. Anyone have one you particularly like? Anyone try one of those keyboards where you type sideways? TIA
keyboards

I have narrowed my selection of new keyboards down to the Microoft Natural Wireless 7000 and the Logitech cordless.  I need speed and comfort. I will test drive each but until I do does anyone have any comments on either of these keyboards?  TIA


i own like 5 keyboards
--for some reason, I don't know! I only use one for work. I must be a pack rat. I don't know about the locked keys, my idea was that one key was stuck, but she said the number keys work. I don't know whats up with that unless you have another keyboard hooked up with something pressing down on those keys.
I don't know how it made such a small diff in your invoice... made a $100 diff in mine! (sm)

If it were only adding up to three bucks, I wouldn't sweat it. $100? Yeah, that's baseball registration for my son for this year. I am not giving tabs, returns, etc. away free when it adds up to that much difference!  Why should I charge less for a Return than I would for a"K"?


 


 


Ergonomics/keyboards

I started using a split keyboard years ago.  I love them.  The first one I had was PC Concepts, I believe.  When I finally wore that one out and went to get another, I couldn't find that brand.  I got Microsoft's keyboard next.  It's okay, although the #6 key is on the left, which I found to be true of all the split keyboards.  My PC Concepts KB had the #6 on the right, which made more sense to me.  I was never able to adjust to this, so I constructed a "bridge" for the #6 key.  I have never been able to find a split keyboard with the #6 on the right.  Does anyone know of one?


Also, I use my mouse too much and I'm starting to get pains.  Yea!!  So, I'm wondering, does anyone use a split keyboard with a built-in mousepad-thingy on the bottom of the keyboard?  I was thinking about trying one of these next, but I hate to spend the $ w/o getting some opinions first.  If you use one, what brand; do you like it; does it really work; any suggestions? 


Thanks!!


 


ergonomic keyboards

Not only is it impossible to use, the salesperson was  rude and difficult when I called for return instructions.  Also, there was a money back guarantee on the website, but in small print "if refurbished, we cannot refund your money."  And guess what, you don't know its refurbished until it arrives on your doorstep!!  Needless to say, 350 bucks flushed down the toilet. 


I recently ordered the "ergoflex" keyboard, and was wondering if anyone has tried this?  It lets you rest each arm as far away as possible, which is what I need.  I've been typing on two keyboards, one for the left, one for the right, and it just takes up too much space.  I'm hoping this will help.  To the poster below about keyboard testimonials, these could probably be secured to the end of your arm rests, and also on the web site they have separate arm rests that look real comfy you can adjust to your table top. 


http://www.ergonomicresource.com/ergoflex.html


This does not work on all keyboards, someone tried it and
x