gregr@tekid.UUCP (06/23/83)
For me the solution to the Apple ][+ keyboard is to buy the Videx
Keyboard Enhancer ][. This is a replacement for the keyboard encoder
board which costs about $100 mail order. It installs easily and
provides the following features (and works flawlessly),
1. Makes shift key functional. Provides shift-lock feature.
2. Allows entry of all 128 ASCII characters.
3. Provides auto repeat for all keys. Provides fast repeat by
depressing the original REPT key.
4. Provides 128 character type ahead buffer.
5. Provides fully redefinable keys or macros up to 510
characters in length definable from keyboard or autoloaded
from disk on boot.
6. Includes lower case rom if 40 col display is still being
used. (Anyone serious will have an 80 col display card).
7. Complete rom source code is supplied. The board contains a
6504 uP and 2716 EPROM.
The only disadvantages are that 40 col users need to patch their monitor
roms (easy for the knowledgable, unnecessary if you have an 80 col
board) and that older Apple software may not provide for direct entry of
lower case characters. This board is probably most suitable for
experienced Apple users who can deal with the older software and
can take advantage of the redefinable keyboard (the Dvorak keyboard is a
snap). One final bonus, the Videx company has absolutely outstanding
customer support. I own nearly all of their products and have received
knowledgable assistance even when asking very technical questions beyond
the reasonable limits of their responsiblity. I HAVE NO FINANCIAL
INTEREST IN THIS COMPANY NOR AM I ASSOCIATED WITH IT IN ANY WAY. This
"review" is provided for informational purposes for Apple users needing
relief from their keyboard woes.
One final opinion --very subjective-- I prefer my Apple keyboard to the
unmodified IBM keyboard because of the features listed above, having all
the ASCII keys concentrated in a small space, and the feel of the keys
and their placement. This is a very individual preference of course.