Using external keyboard to laptop

[shrooms]

I have an extra keyboard laying around and for home use, I'd rather use it. The KB cable is not USB, so I think I need an adapter like this. http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110693518253&ssPageName=ADME:X:AAQ:US:1123

By using this adapter and then connecting to the laptop USB, would it power the KB and therefore work with the lap top? If not, what do I need to make it work....if it's possible?

Thanks

 

[PandaBear]

Quote:
Only suits PS/2 keyboard with both U(USB)+P(PS2) chip inside


You might want to check your keyboard first. Seems like it is just a 1-1 wire connector rather than a signal chip.

Like those USB/PS2 hybrid mouse, the chip internally would switch to different protocol rather than having a converter from one protocol to the other. The USB/PS2 adapter wouldn't work with every PS2 mouse under the sun.

 

[greenaccord02]

http://cgi.ebay.com/Tripp-Lite-USB-PS-2-...=item2310dd9379

This one is good. Don't go too cheap, it'll just be a pain in the [censored]. I've used these on several hundred different, unique setups (in fact, I'm typing this through one now) and have never had a problem.

 

[dishdude]

Unless there is something special about this old keyboard, you are better off just buying a new USB unit.

 

[greenaccord02]

The very best keyboards ever made were PS/2. I'm typing right now on an old SGI keyboard, and my other machine uses an IBM Model M (and I have three spares). At work, I use an old Dell AT-101W. Keyboards are one thing that they really don't make like they used to.

 

[PandaBear]

True, I'm using a Keytronic that isn't even the best and they feel a lot better than those laptop style junk they sell these days.

 

[OVERKILL]

I'm using a 5 year old Microsoft Natural. I think I have a SUN one here somewhere. Would love to have an SGI one! :drool:

 

[greenaccord02]

Yeah, the SGI one is my favorite. I was going to take it to work, but I'd rather have it here at home where I can actually enjoy it.

 

[shrooms]

Originally Posted By: dishdude
Unless there is something special about this old keyboard, you are better off just buying a new USB unit.


Nothing special. Thought I'd get a cheap adapter and utilize the KB.

I'm better off with a new KB.