Model M keyboard

"Model M" redirects here. For the 1900s automobile, see Cadillac Model M.
Model M
An IBM Model M manufactured in the early 1990s
Part no.Various
BrandingIBM, Lexmark, Unicomp, others
ManufacturerIBM, Lexmark International, Maxi Switch, Unicomp
Product familyIBM Model M
Layouts101/102/104 ANSI, 102/103/105/122 ISO
KeyswitchesBuckling-spring, Dome-switch keyboard
KeycapsDye-sublimated (white/grey keycaps) or pad-printed (black) PBT
InterfacePS/2, AT, Terminal, USB
Weight2.0–2.5 kg
Introduced1985
IBM Model M (1986)
The sound of an IBM Model M from 1986, with the characteristic buckling spring sound.
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IBM Model M13 (1999)
The sound of an IBM Model M13 from 1999—quieter, with less spring noise.
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IBM Model F (1984)
A 1984 IBM Model F, for comparison with the Model M. Although it too uses buckling springs, its sound is significantly sharper and more metallic due to the spring plates directly contacting the PCB.
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Unicomp Model M with removed "z" key. The buckling spring is visible.

Model M keyboards are a group of computer keyboards designed and manufactured by IBM starting in 1985, and later by Lexmark International, Maxi Switch, and Unicomp. The keyboard's different variations have their own distinct characteristics, with the vast majority having a buckling-spring key design and uniform profile, swappable keycaps. Model M keyboards are notable among computer enthusiasts and frequent typists due to their durability, typing-feel consistency, and their tactile and auditory feedback.[1]

The popularity of the IBM PC and its successors made the Model M's design influential: Almost all later general-purpose computer keyboards mimicked its key layout and other aspects of its ergonomics. The layout was standardized by ISO in 1994 and ANSI in 1998, with minor additions—most notably the Windows key and Menu key.

The Model M is regarded as a classic and durable piece of hardware.[2][3][4][5] Although the computers and computer peripherals produced concurrently with them are considered obsolete, many Model M keyboards are still in use due to their physical durability and the continued validity of their ANSI 101-key and ISO 102-key layouts, through the use of a PS/2-female-to-USB-male adapter with a built-in interface converter.[6][7] Since their original popularity, new generations have discovered their unique functionality and aesthetics.[8]

It is estimated[2] that during the IBM and Lexmark years, over 10 million Model Ms were shipped. Their mass-market success ended in the 1990s amid an industry-wide switchover to lower-cost rubber dome over membrane keyboards. IBM stopped producing the Model M keyboard in 1996.[9]

  1. ^ Wilkinson-Weber, Clare M.; DeNicola, Alicia Ory (2020-05-26). Critical Craft: Technology, Globalization, and Capitalism. Routledge. ISBN 978-1-000-18177-7.
  2. ^ a b Robertson, Adi (2014-10-07). "King of click: the story of the greatest keyboard ever made". The Verge. Retrieved 2018-09-23.
  3. ^ Fitzpatrick, Jason (2008-10-06). "The Best Keyboard You've Ever Typed On". Lifehacker. Retrieved 2013-12-01.
  4. ^ Edwards, Benj (2008-07-08). "Inside the World's Greatest Keyboard". PC World. Archived from the original on 2013-12-03. Retrieved 2013-12-01.
  5. ^ Edwards, Benj (2008-07-12). "The world's best keyboard, and why it's so great". UK: PC Advisor. Archived from the original on 2015-01-26. Retrieved 2013-12-01.
  6. ^ "IBM USB upgrade". zevv.nl. Archived from the original on 2018-01-20. Retrieved 2018-02-13.
  7. ^ "IBM Model M PS/2 keyboard to USB conversion". dntruong's Arduino blog. 2017-12-28. Retrieved 2018-02-13.
  8. ^ Kaste, Martin (January 30, 2009). "Old-School Keyboard Makes Comeback of Sorts". National Public Radio. Retrieved 2009-02-02..
  9. ^ Wayner, Peter (2022-07-11). "12 examples of old tech that never dies". InfoWorld. Retrieved 2022-08-08.