Tuesday 17 May 2016

TI-99/4A USB Keyboard kit

Seems a long time since I first did a TI-99/4A USB keyboard. I haven't built many of those since then, but I have now been asked for a conversion kit.
The original version was using on of my early USB keyboard controllers, the V1.3 board, the first fully service mount version.
The connector is only 15 pin, so I can now use on of my smaller USB keyboard controller boards.
The controller sticks to the underside of the case, connecting to the original keyboard cable. There is a lot of space in the bottom of the case to fit a Raspberry Pi or other small computer, should you wish.
The original power LED was part of the power supply board, so this is replaced with a new LED cable.
I've also updated the firmware to add more key options, based on the FCTN key. With function pressed down, the top row act as F1-F10, =/+ as delete and the keys with symbols marked on the front will generate those.
The TI-99/4A USB keyboard conversion kit includes the controller board, mounting pillars, power LED and USB cable.
You can order a kit from available from my Tindie store.


2023 Update

USB Keyboard Controller Kits are available from my Sell My Retro store (no longer including the LED)