Editing Apple Keyboard (M0116)

{{Infobox computer peripheral
| name         = Apple Keyboard
| image        = [[File:Apple (Standard) Keyboard M0116.jpg|250px]]
| caption      = Apple Keyboard M0116 with Alps SKCM Orange switches
| manufacturer = Apple Computer, Inc.
| type         = Computer keyboard
| release date = March 2, 1987
| discontinued = 1990
| price        = US$129 (retail)
| interface    = [[Apple Desktop Bus]]
| compatible   = All ADB-equipped Macs, Apple IIGS, NeXT (limited)
| dimensions   = 442 mm W × 140 mm D × 44 mm H (rear)
| weight       = 1.25 kg (2.75 lbs)
| predecessor  = [[Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard]] (A9M0330)
| successor    = [[Apple Keyboard II]] (M0487)
| model        = M0116 (ANSI), M0118 (ISO)
}}

The '''Apple Keyboard''', also known as the '''Apple Standard Keyboard''' (Model M0116), was the first Macintosh keyboard to officially use the "Apple Keyboard" designation. Introduced on March 2, 1987, alongside the [[Macintosh II]] and [[Macintosh SE]], it represented a significant upgrade from the lighter [[Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard]] with its more robust construction and professional appearance. The keyboard featured mechanical Alps SKCM switches and dual ADB ports, establishing design principles that would influence Apple keyboards throughout the late 1980s. Production continued until 1990 when it was replaced by the [[Apple Keyboard II]].

== Design Philosophy ==

The Apple Keyboard embodied the transition from Apple's consumer-focused compact computers to professional workstations. The Macintosh II and SE were sold without keyboards, allowing customers to choose between this standard model or the larger [[Apple Extended Keyboard]]. The M0116's substantial construction, with its thick internal steel plate and wider frame bezels, visually communicated the power and capability of Apple's new modular computer systems.

The keyboard maintained the 81-key layout introduced with the Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard for the Apple IIGS, including the unconventional placement of certain keys that would later be revised in subsequent models. This layout represented a transitional period in Apple keyboard design, combining elements from both Apple II and Macintosh lineages.

== Model Variants ==

=== M0116 (ANSI Layout) ===
The standard M0116 featured the ANSI layout common in North America:
* 81 keys total
* Backward L-shaped Return key
* Single-row arrow key arrangement
* Control key positioned left of 'A'
* Tilde/grave key left of spacebar

=== M0118 (ISO Layout) ===
The M0118 variant accommodated international markets:
* Vertical Return key configuration
* Additional key between left Shift and Z
* Caps Lock in standard position (unlike M0116)
* Support for language-specific keycap legends

=== M0117 Designation ===
Some keyboards bore serial numbers ending in "M0117", suggesting either:
* A planned but unreleased variant
* Internal designation for specific manufacturing batches
* Regional variants with modified layouts

=== Regional Variants ===
Documented international versions include:
* '''M0118 Finnish/Swedish:''' Nordic characters on keycaps
* '''M0117AB Arabic:''' Dual Arabic/Latin legends
* '''M0118 Japanese:''' JIS layout compatibility

== Switch Technology ==

=== Alps SKCM Switches ===
The keyboard utilized Alps Electric mechanical switches, with two primary variants:

'''Alps SKCM Orange:'''
* Tactile, non-clicky operation
* Actuation force: 70g ± 10g
* Total travel: 3.5mm
* Actuation point: 2.0mm
* Darker orange slider color
* Production period: 1987-1988

'''Alps SKCM Salmon:'''
* Tactile, non-clicky operation
* Actuation force: 70g ± 10g
* Total travel: 3.5mm
* Actuation point: 2.0mm
* Pink-salmon slider color
* Production period: 1988-1990

'''Alps SKCL Lock (Caps Lock):'''
* Mechanical latching mechanism
* Physical lock-down when activated
* Cream or white-colored housing
* Distinct from standard switches

=== Switch Characteristics ===
Both Orange and Salmon variants provided:
* Smooth tactile feedback
* Minimal switch wobble
* Consistent actuation across all keys
* Durability rated for 10 million actuations
* Superior feel compared to contemporary rubber dome designs

Enthusiasts debate the differences between Orange and Salmon switches, with many attributing perceived variations to age and condition rather than inherent design differences. Orange Alps switches have achieved legendary status among mechanical keyboard enthusiasts, often rated as one of the finest tactile switches ever produced.

== Physical Specifications ==

=== Dimensions and Weight ===
* '''Width:''' 442mm (17.4 inches)
* '''Depth:''' 140mm (5.5 inches)
* '''Height (front):''' 30mm (1.2 inches)
* '''Height (rear):''' 44mm (1.7 inches)
* '''Weight:''' 1.25kg (2.75 lbs)
* '''Typing angle:''' 7 degrees (fixed)

=== Construction ===
* '''Case material:''' ABS plastic, Platinum gray (Pantone 423C)
* '''Internal plate:''' 1.5mm steel, powder-coated
* '''Keycaps:''' PBT plastic, dye-sublimated legends
* '''Spacebar:''' ABS plastic (exception to PBT)
* '''Cable:''' Coiled ADB cable, 1.2m extended

=== Layout Peculiarities ===
The M0116 featured several non-standard key placements:
* '''Control key:''' Left of 'A' (Apple II legacy position)
* '''Caps Lock:''' Bottom left corner
* '''Tilde/Grave:''' Left of spacebar
* '''Arrow keys:''' Single row (← → ↓ ↑ order)
* '''Escape key:''' Present (first on Mac keyboard)

== Technical Specifications ==

=== Electrical Characteristics ===
* '''Interface:''' Apple Desktop Bus (ADB)
* '''Power consumption:''' 25mA typical, 50mA maximum
* '''Operating voltage:''' 4.75V - 5.25V
* '''Data rate:''' 10 kbit/s (ADB maximum)

=== ADB Implementation ===
* '''Device type:''' Keyboard
* '''Default address:''' $2
* '''Handler ID:''' $01 (Standard Keyboard Protocol)
* '''Polling rate:''' 100 Hz maximum
* '''Key rollover:''' 2-key guaranteed

=== Connector Configuration ===
Two 4-pin mini-DIN ADB ports:
* '''Left port:''' Typically for upstream connection
* '''Right port:''' Typically for mouse connection
* '''Bidirectional:''' Either port could serve either function
* '''Daisy-chain capable:''' Multiple devices supported

=== Protocol Details ===
'''Register 0 (Key events):'''
* 2 bytes returned per poll
* Each byte: 7-bit keycode + 1-bit up/down flag
* Power key uses both bytes when pressed

'''Register 2 (LED control):'''
* Bit 0: Num Lock LED (not present)
* Bit 1: Caps Lock LED (mechanical)
* Bit 2: Scroll Lock LED (not present)

'''Register 3 (Device info):'''
* Handler ID: $01 or $02
* Device address: $2 (default)

== Keycap Specifications ==

=== Material and Manufacturing ===
* '''Material:''' PBT plastic (except spacebar)
* '''Legend application:''' Dye sublimation
* '''Profile''' Apple Standard (similar to Cherry profile)
* '''Thickness''' 1.5mm average
* '''Texture''' Smooth matte finish

=== Typography ===
* '''Font''' Univers 57 Condensed
* '''Style''' Italic for special keys
* '''Position''' Bottom-left corner of keycap
* '''Color''' Dark gray on beige keys

=== Stabilizers ===
* '''Type''' Wire stabilizers (Alps-specific)
* '''Keys with stabilizers'''
  * Spacebar (6.25 units)
  * Return key
  * Shift keys (both)
  * Caps Lock

== Manufacturing Details ==

=== Production Facilities ===
Manufacturing locations determined by serial number prefixes:

'''Taiwan:'''
* Primary production facility
* Majority of units produced
* Higher build quality consistency

'''Singapore:'''
* Secondary production facility
* Limited production runs
* Minor assembly variations

'''Ireland:'''
* Final assembly for European market
* Quality control and testing
* Regional customization

=== Serial Number Format ===
Format: PPYWW######M0116
* PP: Production facility code
* Y: Year code (7=1987, 8=1988, 9=1989, 0=1990)
* WW: Week of manufacture (01-52)
* ######: Sequential unit number

=== Quality Control ===
Each keyboard underwent:
* Key switch testing (all keys)
* ADB communication verification
* Physical inspection
* Burn-in period (select units)

== Internal Design ==

=== PCB Layout ===
* '''PCB material:''' FR-4 fiberglass
* '''Layers''' Single-sided with jumper wires
* '''Controller''' Custom Apple ADB controller IC
* '''Supporting ICs''' 74-series logic gates

=== Assembly Process ===
# Steel plate preparation and coating
# Switch installation into plate
# PCB mounting to switch pins
# Wave soldering of all connections
# Cable attachment and strain relief
# Case assembly with self-tapping screws
# Quality control testing
# Packaging with protective materials

=== Component Suppliers ===
* '''Switches''' Alps Electric Co., Japan
* '''Keycaps''' Signature Plastics (suspected)
* '''PCB''' Various Taiwan manufacturers
* '''Controller IC''' Custom Apple silicon
* '''Cable''' Coiled by various suppliers

== Software Compatibility ==

=== System Software ===
* '''Minimum''' System 3.2 (ADB support)
* '''Maximum''' Mac OS 9.2.2
* '''Optimal''' System 6.0.x through Mac OS 8.6

=== Third-Party Support ===
* '''A/UX''' Full compatibility
* '''BeOS''' Supported with drivers
* '''Linux''' Kernel support for PowerPC Macs
* '''NetBSD''' Native ADB support

=== Special Key Functions ===
* '''Power key''' Direct system power control
* '''Command key''' System modifier
* '''Option key''' Alternate character access
* '''Control key''' Terminal emulation, shortcuts

== Maintenance & Repair ==

=== Disassembly Procedure ===

'''Required tools'''
* Phillips screwdriver #1
* Plastic spudger
* Isopropyl alcohol 90%+
* Cotton swabs

'''Steps'''
# Remove six screws from case bottom
# Carefully separate case halves
# Disconnect cable from PCB (if removable)
# Document wire colors and positions
# Remove PCB mounting screws
# Lift PCB and plate assembly

=== Switch Maintenance ===

'''Cleaning procedure'''
# Remove keycap with wire puller
# Apply drops of isopropyl alcohol
# Actuate switch repeatedly
# Allow to dry completely
# Test switch operation

'''Switch replacement'''
# Desolder defective switch
# Clean PCB pads thoroughly
# Install replacement Alps switch
# Ensure proper alignment
# Solder and test

=== Common Issues ===

{| class="wikitable" style="width:80%; text-align:center;"
|+'''Troubleshooting Guide'''
! Problem !! Cause !! Solution
|-
| Key not registering || Dirty switch contacts || Clean with isopropyl alcohol
|-
| Multiple keys failing || PCB trace damage || Repair traces with wire jumpers
|-
| ADB not recognized || Cable damage || Test continuity, replace cable
|-
| Intermittent operation || Cold solder joints || Reflow solder connections
|-
| Caps Lock stuck || Mechanical latch worn || Replace SKCL switch
|-
| Keys feel scratchy || Switch contamination || Disassemble and clean switches
|}

=== Restoration ===

'''Retrobrighting'''
* Suitable for yellowed cases
* Use hydrogen peroxide cream
* UV exposure or heat acceleration
* Monitor progress carefully

'''Switch restoration'''
* Ultrasonic cleaning of switch parts
* Replacement of worn springs
* Lubrication with appropriate grease

'''Keycap restoration'''
* Denture tablet cleaning
* Avoid harsh chemicals on legends
* Gentle brushing for stubborn stains

== Modern Usage ==

=== ADB to USB Conversion ===

'''Hardware adapters'''
* '''Griffin iMate''' Original commercial solution
* '''Wombat''' Modern bidirectional converter
* '''TMK converter''' Open-source DIY option
* '''Drakware''' Premium conversion cables

'''Compatibility considerations'''
* Power key may not function
* Some key combinations limited
* Latency varies by adapter
* Modern OS driver support varies

=== Collector Information ===

'''Value factors'''
* Switch type (Orange > Salmon)
* Condition of case and keycaps
* Presence of original cable
* Manufacturing date (earlier preferred)
* Complete documentation

'''Authentication'''
* Verify serial number format
* Check switch type matches era
* Confirm keycap profile and legends
* Inspect PCB date codes

'''Market values (2024)'''
* '''Good condition''' $150-250
* '''Excellent condition''' $250-400
* '''Mint/boxed''' $400-600
* '''Orange Alps premium''' +$50-100

== Legacy and Impact ==

The Apple Keyboard M0116 occupied a unique position in Apple's keyboard evolution. While its non-standard layout proved controversial and was quickly revised in later models, the build quality and switch technology represented a high point in Apple keyboard construction. The robust steel plate construction and mechanical Alps switches provided a typing experience that many enthusiasts still consider superior to modern offerings.

The keyboard's design influenced the industry standard for construction methods, with the plate-mounted switches becoming the preferred configuration for premium mechanical keyboards. The dual ADB ports pioneered the concept of keyboard-integrated USB hubs seen in many modern keyboards.

Despite its relatively short three-year production run, the M0116 achieved legendary status among collectors and mechanical keyboard enthusiasts. The Orange Alps switches in particular are highly sought after for custom keyboard builds, often commanding premium prices when harvested from donor boards.

== Production Statistics ==

While Apple never published official production numbers, analysis of serial numbers suggests:
* '''Total production:''' Approximately 500,000 units
* '''Peak production''' 1988
* '''Orange Alps units''' ~40% of production
* '''Salmon Alps units''' ~60% of production
* '''Survival rate''' Estimated 10-15% in working condition

== See Also ==
* [[Apple Desktop Bus]]
* [[Apple Extended Keyboard]]
* [[Apple Desktop Bus Keyboard]]
* [[Apple Keyboard II]]
* [[Macintosh II]]
* [[Macintosh SE]]

{{Navbox-AppleVintageAccessories}}

[[Category:Apple Vintage Accessories]]
[[Category:Apple Desktop Bus]]