Apple Numeric Keypad II
| Apple Numeric Keypad II | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| Apple Numeric Keypad II (Model A2M0056) | |
| Manufacturer | The Keyboard Company / Apple Computer, Inc. |
| Type | Numeric keypad |
| Discontinued | 1983 |
| Price | US$75 |
| Interface | Parallel (16-pin DIP header) |
| Compatible | Apple II, Apple II Plus |
| Dimensions | ~150 mm × 100 mm × 35 mm |
| Weight | ~200 g |
| Predecessor | None |
| Successor | Apple Numeric Keypad IIe |
| Model | A2M0056 |
The Apple Numeric Keypad II (model A2M0056) was Apple's first external keypad, designed to add numeric input capability to the Apple II and Apple II Plus computers. The keypad was originally created by Michael Muller at The Keyboard Company in 1977 at Steve Jobs' request. Apple acquired The Keyboard Company in 1980, which became Apple's Accessory Products Division.
Background
[edit | edit source]The Apple II keyboard lacked a dedicated numeric keypad, making data entry for spreadsheet applications like VisiCalc cumbersome. The Numeric Keypad II addressed this limitation with a standalone unit that connected internally to the Apple II motherboard.
Design
[edit | edit source]Physical Construction
[edit | edit source]The keypad uses a compact ABS plastic case in Apple II beige coloring:
- Rounded clamshell case design
- Fixed typing angle
- Apple logo on upper surface
- Internal ribbon cable for connection
Layout
[edit | edit source]The keypad provides standard numeric entry keys:
- 0-9 number keys
- Decimal point
- Mathematical operators (+, -, *, /)
- Enter key
The layout predates the IBM PC numeric keypad arrangement that later became standard.
Switches
[edit | edit source]Early units used Alps integrated dome switches. The Keyboard Company's original design employed mechanical switches available at the time.
Connection
[edit | edit source]The Numeric Keypad II connects via a 16-pin DIP header ribbon cable to an internal connector on the Apple II motherboard. This differs from later accessories that used external ports.
Installation requires opening the Apple II case to route the ribbon cable.
Specifications
[edit | edit source]| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Model number | A2M0056 |
| Keys | ~18 |
| Interface | 16-pin DIP header (internal) |
| Case material | ABS plastic |
| Case color | Beige (Apple II matching) |
| Compatible systems | Apple II, Apple II Plus |
History
[edit | edit source]The Keyboard Company
[edit | edit source]The Keyboard Company was founded by Michael Muller to produce custom keyboard solutions. In 1977, Steve Jobs commissioned a numeric keypad for the Apple II. The design proved successful enough that Apple acquired the company in 1980.
After acquisition, The Keyboard Company became Apple's Accessory Products Division, responsible for keyboards, keypads, and other input devices.
Transition to IIe
[edit | edit source]When the Apple IIe launched in 1983, Apple released the updated Apple Numeric Keypad IIe (A2M2003) with external connection capability. The original Numeric Keypad II was discontinued.
Maintenance
[edit | edit source]Cleaning
[edit | edit source]- Remove keycaps carefully
- Clean switch wells with compressed air
- Clean keycaps with mild soap and water
- Do not submerge PCB or use excessive liquid
Cable Care
[edit | edit source]The internal ribbon cable is delicate. Avoid sharp bends during installation. Damaged cables cause intermittent operation or complete failure.
Collecting
[edit | edit source]Rarity
[edit | edit source]The Numeric Keypad II is relatively uncommon due to:
- Limited production period (1980-1983)
- Internal installation requirement limiting appeal
- Replacement by the more accessible IIe version
Condition Assessment
[edit | edit source]- Mint: Complete, original packaging, untested/unused
- Excellent: Clean, fully functional, complete cable
- Good: Functional, minor wear
- Fair: Functional but cosmetic issues
- Poor: Non-functional or missing cable
Identification
[edit | edit source]- Verify A2M0056 model number
- Confirm 16-pin ribbon cable (not DB-15)
- Check case color matches Apple II beige
See Also
[edit | edit source]References
[edit | edit source]- Wikipedia — Apple keyboards
- The Keyboard Company history