Fixed My TT030 Keyboard

[atarifan49]

I was amazed for once to be able to go to Radio Shack and find a part to fix my TT030 keyboard. For a long time I had two keyboards, a TT030 and Mega, that had the retaining clip broken off the connector. So I had to deal with tucking the cable under the corner of the TT to keep it plugged in. For about $6 I was able to buy some RJ25 connectors (6 pin versions of RJ11 telephone line connector). I was able to cut the old one off and crimp on a new one and it works perfectly. Nice to have a repair job work out.

 

Glenn

[Gunstar]

That's sweet Glenn! Glad you got it working. I never even had a keyboard for my Mega STE, and they are so expensive I just modded my STF keyboard with a RJ11 cable running out the back to connect it to my Mega STE. I'm putting that keyboard into my "new" STE right now so I can use it with my Mega STE the same way...it's a LOT cheaper than forking over $100+ for a Mega/TT keyboard!

[atarifan49]

You understand why they are so expensive? Bruce of B&C told me that its due to the fact that there are so few remaining. For him to sell a keyboard means he has one less complete TT030 system he can sell. I guess Atari just didn't make enough spare keyboards.

 

I got lucky some years ago and ran across a MegaST keyboard in a thrift shop. I grabbed it so I could have a backup keyboard. It too had a bad RJ25 connector that I was able to replace. But the keys on it are having debounce issues. Some keys I have to wiggle to try and breakup corrosion build up. Not good!

 

A good alternative seems to be the Eiffel enhancement to use a PC keyboard and mouse - page 1 and page 2.

 

Glenn

[Gunstar]

That Eiffel enhancement does look pretty cool, thanks for the links, I *may* use it one day, but actually I'm quite happy with my arrangement as it is, using an ST computer. 1) it matches the Mega STE color/style/design. 2) the keys are all the same, I don't have to learn keyboard "equivalents." 3) I can still use the ST for 100% compatibility, all I have to do is plug in the monitor. 4) I can still use regular joystick and matching Atari mouse controllers through it (what do you do for joystick control with the eiffel?). 5) It's a HELL of a lot easier to modify the ST&keyboard than build that Eiffel interface, which still has the above shortcomings I listed.

 

Besides, I'm hoping I can one day find a Mega/STE/TT keyboard in the wild myself, if not the entire system (TT), for dirt cheap like you did!

Edited February 10, 2008 by Gunstar

[Gunstar]

But the keys on it are having debounce issues. Some keys I have to wiggle to try and breakup corrosion build up. Not good!

 

Glenn

 

Surely you can open it up and clean/repair it? I'd at least try myself.

[atarifan49]

But the keys on it are having debounce issues. Some keys I have to wiggle to try and breakup corrosion build up. Not good!

 

Glenn

 

Surely you can open it up and clean/repair it? I'd at least try myself.

 

It probably needs that. Have any suggestions on a possible fluid to use for cleaning?

[Gunstar]

I generally start with plain old rubbing alchohol and a soft bristled toothbrush. I've also come to rely on another product in my refurbishing efforts; 'LA's Totally AWESOME' all-purpose concentrated cleaner/degreaser&spot remover. Found at Dollar General and stores. I'm sure it's available elsewhere, but that's where I buy it. It comes in cylindrical plastic bottles that are slightly opaque like Milk containers, with red lettering.

Edited February 16, 2008 by Gunstar

[Caterpiggle]

Hello Gunstar ,

 

Is possible for you to take a picture inside external keyboard ? Not the green board, black plastic cover. That is mainly that I need to show my friend.