68kMLA Classic Interface

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Anyone have a 128k/512k/Plus with separate keyboard/keypad?
Posted by: Tashtari on 2024-06-08 07:18:22
I find myself in need of someone to perform a couple of small experiments for me...

Experiment 1:
  • Open Key Caps or something else with a text box that supports arrow keys
  • Hold down the shift key
  • Hold down the keypad +/left-arrow key until it starts repeatedly inserting + signs
  • While still holding the +/left-arrow key, release the shift key
  • Does the + continue to repeat, or does the insertion point start moving backwards?
Experiment 2:
  • Open Key Caps or something else with a text box that supports arrow keys
  • Type some junk data in
  • Hold down the keypad +/left-arrow key until the insertion point starts moving backwards
  • While still holding the +/left-arrow key, hold down the shift key
  • Does the insertion point continue moving backwards, or does it start inserting + signs?

By way of background, I'm working on a small project - a converter to allow use of a PS/2 keyboard with a 128k/512k/Plus - and understanding this corner case will help me duplicate the existing functionality faithfully. Thanks in advance!
Posted by: LaPorta on 2024-06-08 07:25:17
If I’ve got some time, I’ve got two pairs of those detached keyboards. Is there any reason to believe that they may function differently between models?
Posted by: Tashtari on 2024-06-08 07:26:32
If I’ve got some time, I’ve got two pairs of those detached keyboards. Is there any reason to believe that they may function differently between models?
Not that I'm aware of. I'd be happy with the results from whichever one you have to hand.
Posted by: LaPorta on 2024-06-08 07:30:58
Sorry, I meant models as in computers…like, would a Plus ROM treat them differently than 128j.
Posted by: Tashtari on 2024-06-08 07:41:05
Sorry, I meant models as in computers…like, would a Plus ROM treat them differently than 128j.
Ah, I see. It's possible... it's even possible that it would change depending on the OS, I suppose I'm just hoping it doesn't.
Posted by: Scott Baret on 2024-06-08 08:32:02
If it helps, I seem to remember reading something once about the keyboard having a new layout around the time the Plus came out within the system software--something about the calculator DA in particular changing in System 3.x along the way. Are these computers running the same version of the system?
Posted by: Tashtari on 2024-06-08 12:36:41
Got my answers from @Scott Squires - thanks!
Posted by: Scott Squires on 2024-06-08 12:40:42
To document the results: I tested on a Plus with an M0110 (keyboard without keypad) and the M0120 keypad. I used System 6.0.7 and Teach Text. In experiment 1, it continues inserting + symbols. In experiment 2, the cursor continues moving left.
Posted by: LaPorta on 2024-06-08 16:23:45
If it helps, I seem to remember reading something once about the keyboard having a new layout around the time the Plus came out within the system software--something about the calculator DA in particular changing in System 3.x along the way. Are these computers running the same version of the system?

The calculator layout didn’t match the physical layout on the keyboard. This was then rectified.
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