[comp.periphs] Stand-alone Keypad for IBM-PC?

zaphod@madnix.UUCP (Ron Bean) (01/29/89)

   Does anyone know of a stand-alone numeric keypad (for data
entry) that can co-exist with the standard IBMPC-clone keyboard?
In addition to the digits 0-9, I need a BKSP key and maybe a
dozen others that I can remap with a keyboard macro program (I've
been using DKEY, which won't remap the BKSP key). It might also
help if it had a CTRL key. FN keys would be nice but not
mandatory. I'm pretty sure I saw something like this advertised
some time ago, but I don't remember where.
 
   I've been using the right side of a standard 101-key keyboard,
using the PgUp/PgDn/etc and arrow keys for the macros because
they're right next to the keypad (the function keys are spread
across the top of the keyboard, and the left side is under a ledge
so we can set papers over it while keying data on the right). It
must be useable with minimal training, so I cut up a post-it(TM)
note to relabel the keycaps. The problem is that they would like
to use it for other things from time to time, without the macros,
and they want to see the normal keycaps (I told them they might
do just as well to buy a second keyboard, but they'd rather have
just the keypad).
 
   One possible solution would be to put the new key labels on
the inside of a keyboard protector such as the "SafeSkin" that's
advertised in all the mags. Can they be removed & replaced
easily? What about those generic ones that they use on the cash
registers at fast-food places? Where can I get one of those?
 
Please reply via email to:
zaphod@madnix.UUCP
{harvard|rutgers|ucbvax}!uwvax!astroac!nicmad!madnix!zaphod
 

alz@tc.fluke.COM (Al Weiss) (02/02/89)

In article <432@madnix.UUCP> zaphod@madnix.UUCP (Ron Bean) writes:
>
>   Does anyone know of a stand-alone numeric keypad (for data
>entry) that can co-exist with the standard IBMPC-clone keyboard?

I have a small one from Keytronic (Spokane WA) with 23 keys and about 16
"second" functions.  Unfortunately there isn't a model number label on it.
But they should know what you are talking about if you call.  It has a jumper
inside to select AT or PC operation.  I paid $99 for it about 3 years ago.

I have info on another called Touchstone2 from Touchstone Technology of
Rochester NY.  It has 35 keys with 28 "second" functions and sold for $200 3
years ago.  It was for the PC.  

Both of these are like wedges in that they plug into the computer's keyboard
jack and the keyboard (if you use it) plugs into the keypad.  Both products
probably have evolved further in 3 years so who knows what's out there now.

Al