Deskthority forum user [lowpoly] recently posted a writeup on his complete overhaul of an Apple M0110* mechanical keyboard.* Any one familiar with the satisfying clack of a good mechanical key under their fingers can appreciate the effort put into this project.
[lowpoly] removed the keyboard’s PCB, rewired the key matrix adding diodes, built in a teensy USB board, broke apart the mechanical switches and fit replacement springs and finally applied a generous portion of retr0bright to all of the aging plastic. Since the teensy has no mounting holes [lowpoly] had to create a mounting assembly out of some spare plastic. A usb mini cable is even fitted into the original RJ-11 connector.* To compensate for the lack of PCB the key assembly was fitting with some rubber washers. To top off the whole thing some nice new rubber feet were taped to the underside of the M0110.
[lowpoly] reports that with the foam, new springs, and lack of PCB the keyboard is much quieter and easy to use.* The end result is a slick retro looking modern keyboard. If you’ll excuse us we have to go rooting through some old storage bins to find our own ancient keyboards.
We have seen our share of vintage keyboard hacks which can be useful, impressive and sometimes just odd. This build keeps it down to a nice simple, functional, useful retrofit. Nice work!
Filed under: classic hacks, how-to, peripherals hacks
