I have a Micro Innovations PDA keyboard model TKB160P that was designed for a Palm m125/m130/m500/m515 and I'd like to add it to a small homebuilt computer. Despite the huge Palm connector on the outside, I opened it up and there's only 3 wires connected to the keyboard - Vcc, Gnd and PE3 (serial data?). I can interface to the computer either over a serial TTL connection or PS/2.
A quick Google search didn't reveal any interesting links to this particular keyboard. Has anyone used this keyboard before? Links?
Hack Micro PDA keyboard
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joevennix
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Before you do anything, check if it operates at TTL (<5 VDC), or standard RS232 (<9 to 15? VDC). If it uses TTL, you'll have to put it through a converter, you can find one easily by searching for 'MAX232 Circuit.'
Okay. If you do get it connected to your computer over the serial port, I know you'll at least be able to get input through a terminal program such as HyperTerminal. I bet there are some premade drivers out there that will allow you to use it as a standard keyboard.
Another option would be to use something like this. It is a small circuit based around a PIC that converts the RS232 signals to PS/2 signals. Note that this is made for a certain type of keyboard produced for Jornada PDA's, so some the code is pointed at special keys pertaining to Jornada functions. You may have to modify it to suit you likings.
Okay. If you do get it connected to your computer over the serial port, I know you'll at least be able to get input through a terminal program such as HyperTerminal. I bet there are some premade drivers out there that will allow you to use it as a standard keyboard.
Another option would be to use something like this. It is a small circuit based around a PIC that converts the RS232 signals to PS/2 signals. Note that this is made for a certain type of keyboard produced for Jornada PDA's, so some the code is pointed at special keys pertaining to Jornada functions. You may have to modify it to suit you likings.
