Buckling Spring Keyboards

[Haines Brown]

A quick glance at the "templates" you provide suggest to me the only
difference is the position of the keys, and if I understand keyboards,
that should make no difference. The lowered Esc key might have some
advantage if you use emacs. Unfortunately I can't answer your specific
question, but if the keys shown in the templace differ only in their
relative position, I can't imagine how that should be relevant except
in typing.  

You were vague about these old clicky key to which you have access,
and I wonder what they represent. Is it only a matter of swapping
keycaps and doing a little rewiring? I sure wouldn't pay a premium for
that. 

What seems a more conventional way to get an old keyboard with the
features you describe is to choose an IBM type M keyboard. They are
still available on eBay for $12 or less, but a while ago I got about
five for $5 each, and I've been using (and abusing) them for over 10
years. These keyboard came in several styles, but what is important is
that you get one with a PS/2 connector rather than the older tanks
with a serial connection.  

Many people feel the type M keyboard is the most reliable and
satisfactory one you can get. If you like the firm keys, the
feedback, and a very rugged board, you couldn't do better. 

-- 
 
       Haines Brown
         KB1GRM
         ET1(SS) U.S.S. Irex 482