Editing Apple Design Keyboard (section)

== Manufacturing Variants ==

=== Variant 1: NMB Thailand ===

'''Production years:''' 1994-1998
* '''Identification:''' 8 case screws, bright yellow rubber domes
* '''Switch type:''' NMB dome with slider
* '''Keycap mount:''' Proprietary NMB slider design
* '''PCB:''' Membrane assembly with metal backing plate
* '''Cable:''' Fixed, exits through molded channel
* '''Build quality:''' Generally considered superior

=== Variant 2: Alps Mexico ===

'''Production years:''' 1994-1997
* '''Identification:''' 3 case screws, clear rubber domes
* '''Switch type:''' Alps Type 2 membrane dome
* '''Keycap mount:''' Alps-compatible slider
* '''PCB:''' Self-contained membrane module
* '''Keycaps:''' Pad printed ABS, prone to wear
* '''Assembly:''' Melted plastic rivet technique for plate retention

=== Variant 3: Alps Czech Republic ===

'''Production years:''' 1995-1998
* '''Identification:''' 3 case screws, PBT keycaps
* '''Switch type:''' Alps Type 2 membrane dome
* '''Keycap mount:''' Alps-compatible slider
* '''Keycaps:''' Dye sublimated PBT (highly desirable)
* '''Build quality:''' Excellent keycap durability
[[File:AppleDesign Keyboard (Alps,WO) -- serial.jpg|alt=AppleDesign Keyboard Variant 4|thumb|222x222px|AppleDesign Keyboard Variant 4]]

=== Variant 4: China Production ===

'''Production years:''' 1996-1998
* '''Identification:''' Various screw configurations
* '''Switch type:''' Generic rubber dome
* '''Quality:''' Variable, generally inferior
* '''Controller:''' Often marked "©APPLE, Inc."
* '''Issues:''' Higher failure rates reported