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  • Author Author: tariq.ahmad
  • Date Created: Date Created
  • Last Updated Last Updated:
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Updating a Fujitsu N860-2500-T111 Keyboard to Work with a PS2 Standard -- Episode 609

In this video, Andy takes on the challenge of modifying a rare Fujitsu keyboard to work with IBM PC-compatible machines for retrocomputing YouTube creator LGR. To overcome the rollover issues, he replaces the keyboard controller with a Raspberry Pi Pico and writes software that implements the PS/2 protocol. If you like clicky mechanical keyboards, then this is the build for you!

Watch the Video:

Bonus Content:

Bill of Material:

Product Name Manufacturer Quantity Buy Kit
Raspberry Pi Pico, Microcontroller Board, RP2040, 32 bit, 2MB Flash, ARM Cortex-M0+ RASPBERRY-PI 1 Buy Now
RIBBON CABLE, 50 CORE, 28AWG, PER M PRO POWER 1 Buy Now
Computer Cable, Extension, Mini-DIN Plug, PS/2, Mini-DIN Socket, PS/2, 9.8ft, 3m, Ivory VIDEK 1 Buy Now
 

Additional Parts:

4-channel I2C-safe Bi-directional Logic Level Converter - BSS138 (https://www.adafruit.com/product/757)
Monoprice PS/2 Keyboard/Mouse to USB Converter Adapter, Black (110934) 
8-Pin DIN Female Adapter Socket Connector 

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  • in reply to DrGab

    If you get it working let me know, I have some ideas on how to use these for some interesting experiments.

  • Hallo!!!!
    I am attempting to revive an old scanning electron microscope. Specifically, it's a Jeol JSM6400. This piece of scientific equipment resembles a dinosaur, with its control system run by an 8086 CPU. The keyboard used to communicate with the ancient CPU is missing. It's supposed to be a Fujitsu N860-2880-T111. It bears a striking resemblance to yours, and I'm hopeful it uses the same protocol. I would be immensely grateful if it were possible to obtain the electronics of your old keyboard to reverse engineer the protocol. Please tell me you didn't discard it!!! Any assistance in this endeavor would be highly appreciated! I'm willing to compensate generously, perhaps with Swiss chocolate. Smile I am documenting my trials and errors on Instagram under the account @garagemicroscopy and on my bolg www.semgarage.com

    P.S. Although communication with the instrument is possible via RS232, I'm eager to restore the original tactile experience of operating the microscope!

  • Nice mod.

    I like to see old device made usable again.