This board converts either a PS/2 keyboard input or RS232 input into a ASCII keyboard interface. It has been tested with the Apple 1 and Apple II models, but other vintage computers that take a parallel ASCII keyboard interface should work. Apple IIe and later Apple computers will not work with this interface.

Features:

• Use a regular PS/2 keyboard on Apple II or other vintage computer that accepts ASCII keyboard input
• Upper and lower case support
• Support PS/2 numeric keypad (numeric mode only - cursor controls will not work)
• Use PC terminal program (hyperterm) running on modern PC, for vintage computer input device
• Echos PS/2 keyboard input to RS232 TX for input logging purposes
• cntrl-R - cntrl-S - cntrl-T reset sequence pre-programmed
• You can use terminal programs on a PC to send scripts of commands to target computer keyboard input interface. This is an easy way to load programs into vintage computers that otherwise must rely upon unreliable media, such as a cassette interface.
• Can be adapted to other vintage micro-computers by rewiring connection to target PC
• Operates from +5 volt supply (amperage requirements to be determined shortly)
• RS232 runs at 9600 baud
• Shift lock support - sending commands to change the LED status on the keyboard is trickier than one might imagine, but I finally have it working
• Arrow mapping to Apple esc-char cursor movement (Apple II specific)
• Cntl-Alt-Del reset support
• Easily jumperable keyboard 16 pin socket pinout - will allow apple 1 and other vintage computers with DIP16 header connections to use straight through ribbon cable connection
• Clear screen strobe support using cntrl-C cntrl-L contrl-R sequence (intended for apple 1)
• Optional automatic reset and clear screen after power up (version 2.2 and forward)
• Support for stretching strobe and holding strobe until acknowlegement (version 3.0 and forward)

Project page: http://www.willegal.net/appleii/appleii-kb-int.htm