Zenith 163-73
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| Part number | 163-73 |
|---|---|
| FCC ID | IFO-557KBD17 |
| Branding | Zenith Data Systems |
| Manufacturer | Alps Electric? |
| Features | Keystroke buzzer (switchable) |
| Keyswitches |
Alps SKCL Yellow Alps SKCL Grey (spacebar) |
| Switch mount | Plate mount |
| Keycaps | Dye sublimated PBT |
| Interface | XT, AT 5 Pin DIN |
| Introduced | 1989? |
Description[edit | edit source]
The Zenith 163-73 is an XT/AT compatible keyboard sold by Zenith Data Systems using linear variants of the Alps SKCL/SKCM series of plate mounted switches.
Comparison with Zenith ZKB-2[edit | edit source]
It is very similar in appearance to the earlier Zenith ZKB-2, sharing case shape and key layout.
Differences from the ZKB-2 include:
- Dye sublimated PBT keycaps
- Blue and green ZDS badge
- Plastic back cover
- XT/AT switch opening in back cover.
- Only available with Alps SKCL Yellow switches
Keystroke Buzzer[edit | edit source]
Like the ZKB-2, the 163-73 has a piezo keystroke buzzer which emits a short beep/chirp with every keystroke. This feature can be toggled on or off by pressing Alt + ~ (tilde).
Lock Lights[edit | edit source]
The AT/XT switch features 2 AT modes for changing the color of the in-key lock lights: 'AT/RD' for red and 'AT/GR' for green.
Switches[edit | edit source]
Linear Alps SKCL Yellow switches are used for all keys except the space bar which uses the Alps SKCL Grey linear switch.
Layout[edit | edit source]
The layout is based on the standard 101 key ANSI layout with a few variances. The "Enter" key resembles a square "J" occupying the normal enter position and 1u directly above. The "]}" key is elongated to 1.5u and the "\|" key is relocated as a 1u key to the right of a shortened 1.75u right shift. The Ctrl and Alt keys are 1.75u. The altered keys are highlighted below.
