IBM P70/P75 keyboard

IBM P70/P75 keyboard
Layouts	JIS, ISO, ANSI
Keyswitches	Alps plate spring

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Variants[edit | edit source]

Part	EC	FRU	Layout	Confirmed dates
23F3216	C27215	65X1604	German ISO	90/01
23F3212	C27695	65X1601	Danish ISO	90/02
65F0045	C27700	65F0063	JIS	90/07

Description[edit | edit source]

The P70/P75 keyboard was part of the IBM P70 portable 386 computer, also known as the IBM Model 8573-121. The keyboard would connect to the portable 386 via the tiltable top part which also serves as a large keyboard "stand". To save weight of the unit as a whole, the P70/P75 keyboard was constructed accordingly.

The Alps SKCP series switches are PCB mounted in a snap-in case that is made of thin plastic compared to other IBM keyboards of that time, presumably also to save weight and space. The keyboard speaks the PS/2 protocol but uses a proprietary connector.<ref>Sandy55 — Details about the connector used by the host computer</ref><ref>Imgur — Pictures of the male part of the custom connector</ref> The keycaps are dye sublimation / PBT.

Disassembly instructions[edit | edit source]

When attempting to open the P70/P75 keyboard one should follow the instructions on this link.

Proceed with caution to avoid breaking the case since it can be quite strenuous to open the plastic latches, particularly the ones under the function row that latch to a metal bar running all across the keyboard and are not easily accessible.